Cat Food

Although a cat is an obligate carnivore, most cat foods contain meat and plant ingredients with vitamins, minerals and nutrients added. The food must include taurine or it may develop retinal degeneration and go blind.
The food usually comes in a dry(kibble) or wet version. Dry food can contain up to 10% of moisture. Depending on the food, it contains some level of carbohydrates which a cat has no need for because it produces glucose from protein. Dry food can be left out for longer periods than wet food. Some believe it aids in the control of dental calculus. Overall it is more convenient and cost effective than wet food.
Wet food contains up to 78% of moisture. Some believe the increased water content over dry food is beneficial in reducing constipation, obesity, renal failure and urinary tract disorders. Fish is a common ingredient of wet food but to much of it can cause yellow fat disease.
Other alternatives are prescription food to treat certain ailments and home made food. If using homemade food, it is important that the animal is getting the necessary nutrients which may have to come from supplements.
Another alternative is vegetarian or vegan food. Unfortunately, vegetables do not contain the nutrients that meat provides. Adding supplements to the vegan food may not be adequate and can cause urine acidity problems. There is a debate if a vegan diet is good for a cat.
Malnutrition can occur if the diet is not adequate. Excessive feeding of raw, freshwater fish can cause a thiamine deficiency. An exclusive liver diet can cause a Vitamin A toxicity. Many organic, natural or vegan diets may not have the correct balance of nutrients causing malnutrition and other diseases.
There are many brands of food on the market. The basic needs are:
- Protein from meat, fish or poultry.
- Taurine.
- Vitamins, minerals, enzymes and fatty acids.
- Water.
When reading the food label look for:
AAFCO compliance with requirements for complete and balanced. The criteria for complete and balanced is:
* The food must pass feeding tests for the life stage recommended on the label
* The composition of the food must meet or exceed nutrient levels established by AAFCO
* Preservatives, at the level included in commercial pet foods, have never been scientifically demonstrated to cause any problems in pets (or people) at less than 100 times the levels found in such foods. On the other hand, the current trend for many cat food manufacturers is toward using natural preservatives, such as vitamins C and E.
Protein source - chicken, lamb or beef rather than meat.
Protein source should be the first ingredient especially on canned food.
Expiration date for freshness.
Avoid foods with labels that have:
Words like by-products, meat and/or bone meal or animal digest.
Chemical preservatives like BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin or propyl gallate.
Corn meal as a filler.
Excessive carbohydrate fillers.
If unsure of a proper diet, consult with a veterinarian.

Cat Cough

Like humans, there are various reasons a cat might develop a cough. Coughing is a reflex when something is irritating the back of the throat, lungs or air passages. It is is important to determine the how serious the problem is.
Hairballs resulting from grooming are common. It will usually cough and/ or gag until it spits up the hairball. Hairballs can be treated with over the counter products.
Asthma, bronchitis and allergies can also cause a cough. Treating the cough with steroids or an inhaler can resolve the problem.
Bordetella caused by frequent boarding can be treated by vaccination. Cardiomyopathy prevents the heart from pumping properly causing fluid in the lungs and congestion can be a cause.
Heartworms and parasites can be a source. Using a heartworm preventative medication is recommended but test the animal first. If it is heartworm positive, the medication could kill it. For a parasite, a broad spectrum wormer should eliminate the parasite.
A persistent cough could mean a cold or flu is present. Over the counter cough suppressants can be used but check with a veterinarian for the brand and dosage. Some products contain ingredients harmful to animals.
If it is coughing and pawing at its mouth or shaking its head, an object may be stuck in the mouth or throat. Open its mouth carefully and remove the object if seen. Observe it for the next few days to ensure an infection does not develop. If the object cannot be located, see a veterinarian immediately.
Sometimes a its collar is too tight and can cause it to cough. The tip of a finger should slip between the collar and skin easily. If it squeezes into a tight spot, the collar could catch on something and cause coughing and/or choking. A breakaway or elastic collar can prevent this from happening.
Like a human, running to a doctor every time a cough develops is not necessary. If it persists for over 24 hours or there is wheezing, shortness of breath or bluish gums and tongue, a visit to the veterinarian is needed. It can be the sign of a more serious problem.

Chocolate and Cats

A cat likes to eat chocolate. It is tasty but it is not good to feed it to an animal. It can get very sick or even die depending how much is eaten.
Chocolate comes from the seed of the cacao tree and its usage dates back to 1100 BC. The cacao bean is native to Mexico, Central and South America. It originated being used as a beverage, usually with a bitter taste, and later evolved as a food ingredient. Today it is one of the most popular foods in the world.
There are several types: milk, dark and white. Milk is the most consumed especially during the holidays. Dark contains large amounts of antioxidants and is believed to have some health benefits. White has no cocoa solids which contain theobromine and can be consumed by animals.
Chocolate, other than white, contains theobromine which acts a diuretic and heart stimulant and provides some health benefits to humans. This compound can cause a cat's heart to race, beat irregularly or cause loss of body fluids. Un-sweetened baking chocolate contains the highest amount of this compound, dark the next highest and milk the least. It cannot clear theobromine from its system as fast as a human. Increasing levels can be fatal.
The food is high in calories and can contribute to obesity. An animal can lose its taste for normal food and develop dental problems. Increased urine production, diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, depression and muscle tremors are other effects of it eating this food.
There is no antidote if it is affected by eating chocolate. A veterinarian may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal or medications, use intubation and artificial ventilation and monitor its heart. The sooner it is treated, the better the chance of no permanent damage.
It is safer not to feed an animal food normally consumed by humans. Onions and garlic can destroy its red blood cells. Raisins and grapes can cause kidney problems. Tomatoes and raw potatoes can cause stomach problems. Best bet is to give a cat food that is meant for it.

Hypoallergenic Cat

If ones nose starts running, eyes water, throat feels like it is closing or hives develop when a cat is near, an allergy to it is the problem. Immunotherapy, a series of injections is one solution. Another is purchasing a hypoallergenic cat.
Allerca Lifestyle Pets sells hypoallergenic kittens for $5,950. The kitten is a short haired breed based on the British Shorthair. Although not guaranteed, the sex and coat color and pattern are optional. Currently, there is a two year wait but for an additional $1950, the waiting time can be reduced. Allerca offers a one year full refund guarantee.
Allergic reaction to a cat is caused by Fel d 1 glycoprotein which is secreted by the skin and saliva. In worst cases, it can cause asthma in allergy sufferers. Every time a it licks or rubs against something, Fel d 1 is deposited. The allergen builds up quickly existing every where it has been.
How does Allerca create a hypoallergenic cat? The company uses a form of selective breeding. It isolated the gene that produced Fel d 1 and accelerated the genetic divergence process thus minimizing or eliminating the gene. This did not cause any genetic problems with the animal.
There are some breeds that can lessen an allergic reaction. Different breeds have different levels of Fel d 1. Devon and Cornish Rex have a reduced number of hairs leaving less surface area to collect allergens. The Shpynx is almost completely hairless. The Russian Blue has a low level of this allergen. The Siberian has the least amount of this allergen of all breeds. Females have less of this allergen then males. Un-neutered males have more than neutered males.
Some of the ways to minimize the amount of allergens:
Spay or neuter.
Wash it periodically in plain water.
Flea control.
Install an air filtration system.
Ventilate the house.
Vacuum carpets with HEPA equipped vacuum cleaner.
Avoid wearing wool which attracts allergens.
Keep the litter box in a well ventilated area.
Use an enclosure to keep it outside sometimes.
The best way to treat this allergy is not to have a cat. Other alternatives are to suffer with the allergy and use over the counter medications to treat it. Get a series of injections to reduce the allergic symptoms. Contact Allerca and purchase a hypoallergenic cat.

Big Cat - Jaguar

The Jaguar, genus Panthera onca, is the largest, most powerful and only spotted feline to be found in the Americas. Except for an area southeast of Tucson, Arizona, it has migrated south to Central and South America. In Mexico, it is known as el tigre.
It is the same size as a leopard measuring 7 feet including the relatively short tail and can weigh over 200 pounds. It is clumsy looking with a large head, heavy body and big stomach but well muscled. Due to its body shape, it is adept at climbing, crawling and swimming. Having a powerful jaw, it can drag a 800 pound bull and pulverize the largest bones. It walks with a rolling gait and has the ability to roar.
The fur is yellowish to reddish-brown with deep black rosettes. There are additional spots within the rosette. Towards the tip of the tail, the markings are circular. The underbelly, throat, outer surface of the legs and and lower flanks are white. In rare cases, it can be all black but its spots are still visible. If all black, it can be known as a black panther but it is not a separate species.
While preferring to live in a rain forest, it can be found in forested and open terrain. It feeds on turtles, alligators, deer, tapirs, large rodents and fish. Using an ambush tactic, it is a solitary hunter which stalks its prey and makes a short leaping attack for the kill. After biting into the skull of its prey fatally damaging the brain, it will drag its kill to a secluded area to feed on. The hunting usually occurs around dusk or dawn. It rarely attacks humans.
There are eight variations of the animal depending on the location.
Peruvian - coastal Peru.
Mexican - western Mexico.
Central American - El Salvador to Columbia.
Arizonian - southern Arizona to Sonora, Mexico.
Texan - central Texas to southeastern Mexico.
Goldman - Yucatan Peninsula to Belize and Guatemala.
Venezuelan - Venezuela through the Amazon.
Pantanal - Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, Paraguay River into Paraguay and northeastern Argentina.
Due to geographical barriers, there is not much cross breeding among the different types.
Known to mate year round, cub population will increase when food is plentiful. The female provides all the parenting fearing adult male cannibalism. The cubs are born blind but gain sight within two weeks. They will live with the mother for up to two years. The lifespan in the wild is 12 to 15 years but it can live close to 23 years in captivity.
The world population has been declining due to loss of habitat, hurricanes and food availability. It has increased it consumption of cattle as a food source but is more susceptible to being shot by ranchers. It is considered an endangered species in the United Stares and is prohibited from being hunted in most countries in the Americas.
It has long been a symbol of power in South America. In Brazil, it is a national symbol where the people believe its fat is magical and gives them courage. It is also the national animal of Guyana and is featured on the Guyana's coat of arms. The name has been used by sports teams and represents a luxury automobile brand.

Big Cat - Leopard

The leopard of the genus Leo pardus is the smartest and one of the most dangerous of the big cats. It can live in the tropical rain forest and/or the drier open country of southeast Asia. It is smaller and not as fierce as the tiger and generally is found in Africa, southern India, Ceylon and Java.
It was once believed to be a hybrid of a panther and a lion but that has never been verified. The term panther can refer to a leopard, jaguar or cougar. It can be up to 41/2 feet long with a 3 foot tail. It fur is pale ochre to a reddish hue spotted with black rosettes. An all black leopard is also known as a black panther. The Persian is gray and the Java is reddish brown.
It is an excellent climber and swimmer. It can run over 36 miles per hour, leap over 20 feet horizontally and jump up to almost 10 feet vertically. It is a nocturnal hunter but may hunt during the day if the sky is overcast. Like most cats, daytime is reserved for resting and sleeping. The male tends to live alone unless mating which can occur through the year.
Being not as big as some of the other large predators like the lion or tiger, it must find ways to hunt for food or it can become a predators' meal. Hunting at different hours of the day or in areas not frequented by larger predators has been effective. If food is abundant, it can coexist with its predators.
It will feed on the langur monkey, deer, antelope, wart hog, impala, waterbuck, baboon, domestic dog, rodents and birds. It hunts alone at dusk by sight or smell. After stalking its prey, it will kill it by breaking the neck or severing the jugular vein with its teeth. It will bury some of its food or hide its food in a tree to avoid scavengers for a later time. It may attacked a human or domestic animal if there is not enough food available.
At one time, it was believed 27 subspecies existed but that has been reduced to nine based on DNA analysis.
African - found in Sub-Saharan Africa,
Amur - found in Russian Far East, Korean Peninsula and Northeast China.
Arabian - found in Arabian Peninsula.
Indian - found in the Indian Subcontinent.
Indo-Chinese - found in Mainland Southeast Asia.
Javan - found in Java and Indonesia.
North Chinese - found in Northern China.
Persian - found in Central Asia.
Sri Lankan - found in Sri Lanka.
The market value of its fur is high. Traps and baits using domestic animals are used to hunt and trap the leopard. It has been featured in art, mythology and folklore in ancient times. In Africa, it is used as a coat of arms or sports team emblem. The pumapard, a cross between a leopard and a puma, is the only known hybrid which was bred in the late 1890s. It is the most widely distributed big cat in Africa and Asia and can be best seen in national parks in those regions.

Big Cat - Lion

The lion is the second largest of the big cats of the genus Panthera leo. Also known as the "king of the jungle", it lived in southern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India. Today it is found mostly in east-central Africa.
The male lion is 6 1/2 t0 9 feet in length and weigh about 400 pounds. When the male reaches five years old, it develops a full mane. The fur color is yellowish gray with a black tuft on its tail. The life span of the lion averages 15 years.
It is a noisy animal using its larynx with a supple suspensory ligament of the tongue to frighten other animals. The sounds range from a slight moan to a mighty roar. It uses its teeth and retractable claws to kill its prey but can kill only with a swat of its paws. It has 30 teeth but none are flat so it swallows its food in large chunks. It can consume 50 pounds of meat at one time which can satisfy it for up to a week.
The lion is most active at night and hunts in packs. The male will roar driving the prey to the female lion. It only kills what it needs. A male can reach speeds up to 35 mph. It eats carrions, zebras, gnus and antelopes, giraffes and young elephants. Although it is not known to be a man-eater, if it gets a taste of human blood, it will lose its fear of man and become a menace.
It lives in a large social group called a pride. The pride is usually peaceful because the it sleeps around 20 hours a day. The female can bear cubs at any time of the year. Since the it does not stay in one location for a long time, the female moves the cubs from one location to another by carrying them one at a time in its mouth.
Believed to be a symbol of the sun, it was hunted for sport by royalty. It has been hunted and trapped over the years being a cherished trophy for a hunter. The population has diminished due to this practice and the reduction of animals it needs for food. It is relatively easy to keep in captivity and is a favorite attraction for zoos and circuses.

Big Cat - Snow Leopard

The snow leopard, genus Panthera uncia, is not a typical leopard nor does it live in snow regions. It roams the mountain ranges of Russia, Siberia and western China. It can also be found in Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
It is adapted to thin, cold air. In summer, it never goes below 6000 feet. Living in altitudes between 10,000 and 20,000 feet, it can always be found at the snow line in winter. It tends to lead a solitary life and is not too aggressive when defending its territory.
The total length of the animal is more than 7 feet including a 3 foot tail. It can weigh between 60 and 120 pounds. It has a smaller head, longer body and smaller legs than a leopard. Its fur is very thick and yellowish gray in color with a white underside. The body has indefinite black rosettes. The tail has black markings. The ears are dark at the base and light at the tip. It does not have the ability to roar.
Being most active at dawn and dusk, it is a night hunter. Prey is hunted and killed by ambush from above by leaping with a range of up to 46 feet. Feeding on mountain goats, gazelles, deer, wild boar, birds, rabbits and squirrels, it can kill an animal three times its size but prefers smaller prey. Since it will also attack domestic animals if available, herders will kill it to prevent attacks.
It mates in the winter. Cubs usually are born in April and are trained by the mother to hunt. The cubs will stay with the mother for a year when they become excellent hunters. In captivity, it can live up to 20 years but its normal lifespan is 15-18 years.
In heraldry, it is known as the ounce. It is the national symbol of the Tartars and Kazakhs, the official seal of the city of Almaty, on Tatarstan's and North Ossetia-Alania's coat of arms and the symbol for the Girl Scout Association of Kyrgyzstan.
The fur of the is highly desirable. It is usually caught in a trap baited by young sheep. Conservation agencies have classified it as an endangered species. There are 600 t0 700 snow leopards in zoos worldwide.

Big Cat - Cheetah

The cheetah, genus Acinonyx jubatus, is unique among the big cats. It is found in Africa, Iran, southern Russia and Afghanistan. It prefers to live in grasslands, prairies and savannahs where prey is abundant.
It is 7 feet in length including a 2 1/2 foot tail. It weighs from 100 to 150 pounds. Is head is small and round and its jaws are weaker than most big cats. It does not have retractable claws or climbing abilities.
Its fur is yellowish with black equally distributed spots. Its tail has rings, ears are short with light tips and two dark lines run down the side of the face to the mouth. On its neck is a small mane. It can purr but cannot roar.
Unlike most of the other big cats, it hunts during the early morning hours. It hunts by sight not scent. It cautiously approaches it prey by slithering on its belly and quickly leaps and bites the underside of the throat. If its prey escapes, it can reach speeds up to 70 mph to recapture it. It likes to eat gazelles, blackbucks, hares and guinea hens.
It is the fastest land animal on earth. Its large nostrils, enlarged heart and lungs give it the ability to increase its oxygen intake. It can run at high speeds for short distances. Although it is a fast animal, it cannot defend itself against other predators very well. It avoids fighting and will give up its kill if threatened. Because of its speed , it has no known predators. Its life span is up to twelve years in the wild, 20 years in captivity. The cubs have a high mortality rate due to genetic factors and vulnerability to lions and hyenas.
Since ancient Egypt, cheetahs have been kept as pets and trained to hunt. It also was once hunted for its fur. Today, it is considered a vulnerable and threatened species due to its shrinking habitat, prey and inbreeding. In India, it has become extinct primarily due to hunting. The Indian government is undertaking a program to import them from Africa to reestablish the population.

Cats of the Genus Felis

There are 36 species in the Felid family of cats. The felids fall into two subfamilies, the saber tooth, now extinct and the feline. The felines can be found in Eurasia, Africa and the Americas.
The felines have common traits. They stalk their prey and attack immobilizing them by breaking their backbone with their powerful neck and jaw muscles. Their teeth are designed to stab, bite and slice and their claws are retractable. They can achieve great speeds with their powerful legs. Their tail can be long or short, their fur is soft and they have excellent hearing and sight. They can be a solid color or spotted and can range in length from a foot to 12 feet including the tail.
Of the Felid family, there is the genus Felis of which there are 23 species. The first species is the European Wildcat, Felis silvestris. It resembles a domestic but it is bigger, has black stripes, larger head and teeth and a rounded tail. The base fur is gray with a reddish, yellowish or blackish hue. It is 4 feet in length. It is an excellent climber and can travel from tree branch to tree branch. It usually hunts alone or in pairs. It likes to feed on small mammals, birds, small deer and fish.
The next species is the African Wildcat, Felis lybica. It is also known as a Libyan or tawny. It is slightly larger than a domestic measuring 30 inches long including a 10 inch tail. It hunts at night and feeds on small mammals, birds and reptiles.
The third species is the Jungle, Felis chaus. It is 30 inches long and weighs 20 pounds. It is gray brown in color with light stripes and a black ringed tail. It usually hunts at night but will come out in the day. It is a very good climber and feeds on birds and small mammals.
The fourth species is the Leopard Cat, Felis bengalensis. It measures 32 inches long and has a soft, thick, reddish fur which is white near the stomach. The fur is covered with round spots or stripes. It lives in hilly areas and is a good climber. It feeds on birds and small mammals.
The Manul or Pallas', Felis manul, can be found in the steppes of Asia. It is orange-brown with white and black rings around the eyes. The forehead is gray with black spots and the chin is white. It has long , soft hair and the eyes are positioned high in the forehead. It feeds on rodents, partridges and reptiles.
The Serval, Felis serval, lives in the bush country of Africa never very far from water. It measures 5 1/2 feet in length including a short tail. It weighs 34 pounds and has a small head, large ears , slender legs and thick paws. The body has longitudinal rows and broken rings on the paws and tail. It feeds on francolins, small birds, guinea pigs and small antelope.
The Marbled, Felis marmorata, lives in wooded areas. The fur pattern,blackish spots and stripes sit on a yellowish background. It measures 3 feet in length with half being the tail. It hunts at night and feeds on small mammals and birds.
Temminck's Golden , Felis temminicki, is a 3 foot long wildcat. The fur is a uniform golden-brown with a muzzle of white, gray and black mixture. It feeds on rodents, fawns and birds. The African Golden, Felis aurata, is very similar but smaller.
The Fishing, Felis viverrina, is found near water. It measures 32 inches in length and weighs 17 pounds. Its coat is gray with black spots. It feeds on small mammals and birds.
The Ocelot, Felis pardalis, lives in forests and areas of thick vegetation. Its fur is short and smooth ranging from gray to a yellowish hue. It has gray-black oval shapes with black borders. Its paws and belly are white. It measures 4 1/2 feet in length including a 15 inch tail. It has great climbing ability and likes to sleep in trees during the day. It hunts at night and feeds on agoutis, small deer and opossums. The Margay, Felis wiedii, and the Tiger cat, Felis tigrina, are very similar to the Ocelot but smaller.
The Mountain, Felis jacobita, and Geoffrey's, Felis geoffroyi, are very similar animals found in South America. Their fur is brownish -gray with darker markings on their sides and rings on their tails. Measuring 30 inches in length, they feed on rodents, birds and small mammals.
The Kodkod, Felis guigna, lives in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. It is only 18 inches long and its fur is grayish-brown with rows of darker spots. The tail has black rings. It lives in woodlands and feeds on small mammals and rodents.
The Jaguarundi, Felis yagouaroundi, or otter cat ranges from southern Texas to South America. Measuring 4 feet in length and weighing 20 pounds, it is long and graceful with short legs. The fur is reddish-brown or gray. With its small ears and nose, it resembles a weasel. It is a good climber and hunts at night feeding on small birds, small mammals, frogs and fish.
The Pampas, Felis colocola, is the size of a domestic with a long tail. It is found in South America. The fur is gray with brown markings. It hunts at night for small birds, rodents and mammals.
The Puma, Felis concolor, also known as the cougar or mountain lion, is the largest member of the genus Felis. It can be found in pine woods, tropical forests, prairies and deserts throughout the Americas. It can reach lengths up to 8 feet and can weigh from 80 t0 260 pounds. The fur is sand-colored with the ears, tail tip and part of the muzzle being black. It is a great hunter and feeds on medium sized hoofed animals like deer but will attack almost anything that comes within its range.

Moods of a Cat

Do you know how to tell what kind of mood a cat is in? There are various ways to tell by observing its actions. It can think and make decisions like humans. Also like humans, it can have different personalities. It can display these different personality traits: jealousy, timidity, impudence, obedience, stubbornness, spitefulness, vileness, and tranquility. It has a very good memory and cruelty to it can influence its' behavior.
If its ears are flattened, it is annoyed or frightened. If it is lying down with its' eyes closed but moving its' tail is spying on something.
If its back is arched, ears flattened and eyes dilated it is ready to attack or bite. If it is slinking low to the ground with ears pined back and fur standing up it is stalking and could attack.
If it is flicking its' tail, it is excited. One flick means hello. Moving its' tail side to side, it is happy.
It can make several sounds. When it hisses, it is annoyed and may scratch or bite. A meow usually means it wants something. If it is content, it will usually purr but purring could also indicate pain. When it rubs against you and purrs that is the sign of affection. When it meets another cat, it can generate over 50 sounds form harsh to acute to communicate its feelings.
It can become jealous of other animals in a house and create mischief to express its displeasure. It does well in psychometric tests and is very observant. When it is being bad, there is usually a reason for its behavior.
Be observant of these moods to better respond to its needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2967714

Cat Folklore

There have been many tales and legends about cats that have existed through the years. Here are some that have been passed down.
Noah did not take any cats on the ark because they did not exist at that time. When the ark started to be overrun with mice and rats, a lion sneezed and out came two cats from its nose. They quickly destroyed most of the mice and rats.
The Chinese believe that a cat is a crossed between a lion (dignity) and a monkey(curiosity and playfulness).
An Italian legend says when Mary gave birth to Jesus, a mother cat had kittens in the manger. Many artists have shown this event in their paintings.
Japanese sailors believe that cats having combined colors of red, white and black can predict storms.
The Chinese and Japanese believe the cat was excluded from the zodiac because a cat did not weep when Buddha died and killed a rat against Buddha's orders.
Russians believe that the cat Ivanovitch reigned over the animals in the forest.
A Polish legend says when a litter of kittens was thrown into a river to drown, the willows join their branches together so the kittens could cling to them. The buds on the willows in springtime are like cat fur hence the name pussy willows.
In the Brittany region of France, it is said that every black cat has one white hair. Finding the white hair brings good luck.
A Great Britain folktale tells of a poor orphan who sends his cat on a journey on a ship. The cat returns with a fortune for the orphan. The orphan marries his master's daughter and becomes lord mayor of London.
In the Ozark mountains of Arkansas, a woman who receives a marriage proposal and cannot decide, takes three cat hairs from a cat's tail. She wraps the hairs in white paper and leaves them on her doorstep. The next morning, if the hairs form the letter "y", it is yes and if the hairs form the letter "n", it is no.
When a black cat crosses one's path it is bad luck in the United States, good luck in Great Britain.
Owning a black cat is good luck but meeting one is bad luck. Stroking a black cat three times will bring good luck.
A cat born in May is bad luck. If a cat leaves the home of an ill person, that person will die.
If a cat sneezes near a bride on her wedding day, the marriage will be a happy one. If a cat sneezes three times in a row, members of the family will catch colds.
Fishermen's wives believe their husbands will return safely if a cat is kept in the house.

Is This Really a Cat?

Did you know there are things that are not really cats but use the term. Like many words in the English language, this word has many meanings. In some instances, it is used as a nickname. Let me tell you about the different ways it is used..
Cat Ballou: A 1965 comedy western starring Jane Fonda, Lee Marvin, who won an Oscar for his role, Nat King Cole, Stubby Kaye, Michael Callan and Dwayne Hickman. Nat King Cole sang the theme throughout the movie.
Cat Stevens: A singer-songwriter of Greek, Cypriot and Swedish descent. His songs include" Moon Shadow","Peace Train" and" Oh Very Young" among many other singles and albums.
Catwoman: A DC comic strip heroine. The comic strip was made into a film starring Halle Berry chasing bad guys.
CAT: Short for Caterpillar, a world wide manufacturer of construction equipment. You usually see a CAT around a construction site.
CAT Scan: A medical imaging method to help diagnose tumors, fractures and infections in the body.
Cat's Paw: A tool a carpenter uses to pull nails. A knot used to connect a rope to an object. A Spanish instrument of torture. A mussel who's shell is shaped like a cat's paw. A brand of rubber heel made in Canada.
Harry the Cat: Left handed major league baseball pitcher Harry Brecheen who play from 1940 to 1953.
Catfish: A fish that has whiskers that resemble a cat.
Catfish Hunter: Right handed major league baseball player who played from 1965 to 1979.
Cat-o'-nine-tails: A whip with nine knotted cords.
Cattail: A plant that grows in wet areas.
Catsuit: A woman's one piece trouser suit.
Catgut: A cord made from the intestines of a sheep.
Cats'-eye: A thick piece of glass embedded in road's surface to reflect light.
Catcall: A derogatory statement.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof: A play by Tennessee Williams.
Cats: A musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on "An Old Possum Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot.
Cats in the Cradle: Song by Harry Chapin.
Cat in the Hat: Book by Dr. Seuss.
CAT Bus: Public Transportation System in Nevada.
There are more examples but these are the ones that come to mind. See if you can remember some others.

What is the Largest Breed of Cat?

The tiger is the largest breed of cat. It is a highly adaptable animal and lives in some of the more densely populated areas of the world. The Bengal is the most recognized in the world.
It is native to most of eastern and southern Asia. It is at the top of the food chain with no known predators. Being a carnivore, it feeds on meat from other animals. It can reach up to 13 feet in length and 660 months in weight. Unlike the lion, it is a solitary and territorial animal. The first tigers were known to have live 1.2 million years ago.
The most numerous species, the Bengal, is a rusty brown colored animal with black stripes and a white fringe around the face. The coloring provides camouflage for the animal in the wild. Because of its powerfully built legs and shoulders, it can pull down prey heavier than itself. It usually hunts at night and will attack most animals for food. It will always have good cover, be near water and have enough prey. When it is wounded or unable to catch its prey, it will attack humans for food, hence the name man eater.
There are eight species: Bengal, Indochinese, Malayan, Sumatran, Siberian, South China, Balinese(extinct) and Javan(extinct). The remaining six are considered endangered. Due to growing human populations in their former habitats, conflicts with humans have resulted in the killing many of them.
Another variation of the Bengal is the white tiger. Although rare in the wild, it has been successfully bred in zoos. It tends to be crossed eyed and its life span is less than its orange counterpart. It is a popular attraction at a zoo and was used in Siegfried and Roy's Las Vegas magic act until February, 2009.
The Animal Planet conducted a poll to determine the world's favorite animal. It was voted first by 1% more than the dog. There is an estimated 12,000 tigers in the United States kept as pets by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Only nineteen states ban private ownership of it. Like any wild animal, making it a pet can be dangerous especially when it reaches full size.
It is the national animal of many Asian countries. It is the mascot for many sports teams and companies. Many novels have been written about the animal. It is usually seen in most jungle movies. It remains as a symbol of a fierce but noble animal.

What is a Cat Registry?

Some people have a cat for a pet. It provides entertainment and companionship. Other people breed and exhibit them in show competition. A cat registry is an organization that maintains information to insure the authenticity of the breed and the guidelines for showing the animal. A registry keeps the pedigree, registered catteries, list of studbooks, breed description, standard of points and qualified show judges. The judging at a show is based on this information.
The first cat registry, National Cat Club, was established in England in 1887. Another registry, Cat Club, was established in 1898 but was replaced by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1903. Since cats could only be registered in one registry, the two merged to become the GCCF in 1910. In the U.S., the registry started out as the Chicago Cat Club in 1899. In 1906, the American Cat Association appeared and became the Cat Fanciers Association in 1908.
Cat registries are very independent. Many still do not allow a cat to be registered to more than one registry. The registries have their own rules, own shows and usually do not acknowledge each others' awards. Two organizations, Federation Internationale Feline and the World Cat Congress, are striving to coordinate the activities of all cat registries. There are some independent registries that do not participate because of breed restrictions.
There are usually five levels of registration. Full is a breed that competes for championship titles. Provisional until it can meet registry standards. Experimental for breeds in development. Exhibition a new breed shown to attract breeders. Registration where it can be registered but not exhibited. A registry can refuse to register it or expel it if it does not meet and maintain its' standards.
A number or code is established to identify a breed. Sometimes the number is common among registries and other times it is unique. When a new color is added through outcrossing, a new number is usually assigned.
Coordinating organizations are the World Cat Congress and the World Cat Federation. International registries are the Cat Fanciers Association, Federation Internationale Feline, The International Association and the American Cat Fanciers Association. The Felis Britannica and the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy are in the United Kingdom. The Cat Aficionado Association is in China.
Breeding and showing a cat is a lot of hard work and time. It takes time to raise and groom a cat to meet the standards required to compete. If you can bring home a champion, it is worth the effort.

Cat Allergy

Have you every been around a cat and started sneezing, eyes started itching or have had nasal congestion. These are some of the symptoms you may experience if you are allergic to a cat. Like most allergies, the condition is usually not life threatening but will cause some degree of discomfort.
Cat allergy in humans is a reaction to one of five allergens. The most common is glycoprotein (Fel d 1) produced by the sebaceous glands and found in the skin and saliva. The sebaceous glands produce oily matter to lubricate the skin and hair of animals. The protein is not known to provide any function but can cause a reaction in humans. It is a sticky substance and will cling to clothing and human hair. The symptoms humans can experience are red, itchy, watery eyes, nasal congestion, itchy nose, sneezing, difficulty breathing, feet swell,chronic sore throat and/or scratchy throat, coughing, wheezing, or itchy skin. The symptoms can be minimized by limited exposure, frequent hand washing, frequent vacuuming of rugs, drapes and upholstery and limiting the animal to certain parts of a house. Use or air filters and bathing and brushing a cat will also reduce the amount of allergens. Although these actions may not be 100% successful, they can make the condition tolerable.
Allergies are cumulative. If a human already suffers from allergies, this condition will only add to his or her misery. Some humans will become immune to the allergy over time. Humans with asthma or eczema need to be very careful if they experience a reaction.
Hay fever medication and over the counter antihistamines have negative effects on the allergy. Allergy shots can provide relief. Some companies have claimed to have produced a hypoallergenic breed to reduce the allergy but the results have been mixed. Breeds such as the Russian Blue and Siberian have been claimed to be naturally hypoallergenic. The LaPerm, Sphynx, Devon Rex and Cornish Rex which have less layers of hair have been known to produce a milder reaction in humans. It has also been found that females shed lower amounts of allergen then males. Neutered males shed lower amounts of allergen than a tom. Short hair is a better alternative than long hair.
Most owners who are susceptible to a the allergy will live with the discomfort and enjoy the pet. The owners will use sprays on the fur and incorporate the actions mentioned above. They will try different over the counter remedies to alleviate the symptoms. Like any allergy, there is no cure but there are many ways to minimize the discomfort before you have to give your pet away.

Treating Kidney Disease in Cats

As a cat ages, it is more susceptible to kidney disease. Chronic renal failure (CRF) is more common in cats over 15 years old. Since the disease is life threatening, early detection can stabilize the condition and provide for a good quality of life.
If the animal is experiencing weight loss, excessive thirst and urination, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty in urinating or a dull coat, the disease could be a cause of the problem. Other diseases such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes causing similar symptoms can mask this condition. A veterinarian can determine if it is present. If left untreated, the kidneys will completely shut down leading to death.
Once CRF is diagnosed, there is no cure but life can be extended with proper treatment. It is diagnosed by a blood panel measuring levels of critical components. A low phosphorus diet can help prevent or retard it. The diet should also consist of low protein content, low sodium content and high potassium content. The diet should not restrict essential nutrients to maintain the animal's health.
The low phosphorus content decreases kidney calcification called nephrocalcinosis. It is the deposit of calcium salts in the kidneys. When functioning nephrons drop below 25%, kidney failure occurs. Toxins build up in the blood and the kidneys are not able to filter the blood to eliminate the toxins. The kidneys besides eliminating waste in the blood, regulate the body's acidity, electrolyte levels, water balance, hormone production and vitamin D.
CRF can be treated by adding additional fluids to food or under the skin (SQ fluids), diet, medications (Epogen shots or oral medication) and appetite stimulants. Appetite stimulants are important because a poor appetite is a result of the disease. Adding tuna juice or liquid from canned food can help the feeding process. In some cases, force feeding with a syringe may be the only alternative. For these options to work, dehydration must not be present. This is also beneficial to an older healthy cat because it could prevent the disease. Hemodialysis and kidney transplants are rare and expensive.
The condition can cause an emotional experience for an owner. The pet will have it's good days and bad days. An owner must try to relax and not stress out. The pet will sense the owner's stress and this can have an effect on it's health. Like any serious condition, the life expectancy is unknown. Caring for and enjoying the cat is the best way to cope with the problem.
There are many foods on the market that are tailored to be used for CRF. Royal Canin and Wellness Core are two brands that offer a low phosphor food. Consult a veterinarian to determine what is best treatment.

How a Cat Uses It's Whiskers

Many people wonder why cats have whiskers. Unlike humans, they do not have to be trimmed. They may get wet or have food left on them. So why have them?
Whiskers also known as tactile hairs are sensory organs that become sensitive when something comes close. They help identify an object especially in the dark. By sensing changes in air currents with them, objects can detected and avoided.
There can be up to 12 long whiskers on the upper lip, shorter ones above the eyes and back of the forelegs. They are deep rooted in the face and up to three times thicker than normal body hair. The tips are sensitive to pressure. The ones on the lip will fan out enabling the cat to determine if it can fit through an opening. It can twist it's body through an opening because it has a collar bone. Even a blind cat can get around very easily by using them.
The ones on the forelegs can determine the size of an animal that has been captured. This helps keep control of the captured animal. A cat has is a natural hunter. It depends on it's ability to move undetected in the dark to capture it's prey. They help navigate as it is stalking it's prey.
A cat will use them to communicate. Depending on the mood, the position of them will change. If it is walking, they will be fully extended. They are held in tight when feeding, around another animal or angry. If it is content, they will be pushed forward and relaxed.
Some are straight and some are curly. Never cut or try to rearrange them. Some maybe lost when shedding but that is nothing to be concerned about. It takes several months for them to grow back. There is still enough left to navigate with until the new ones grow back.
Every feline has whiskers. Even on a lion or tiger, they perform the same functions in the animal. They are dependent on them for survival especially in the wild. They can be found in other animals and are usually used for sensing purposes.
So now you know that whiskers play an important role in everyday life. No human intervention is needed because a cat will maintain them. If there is a significant loss of them or they are damaged, go to a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian can determine why the loss or how to repair the damage.

Celebrity Cat Lovers

Did you know that many famous people are cat lovers? Many of the celebrities, past and present, own(ed) more than one cat. It is impossible to list all the celebrities but I will mention some of the better known personalities.
In the world of Hollywood, there are many actors and actresses: Ann-Margaret and Tuffy, Janet Leigh and Turkey, Warren Beatty and Cake, Halle Berry and Playdough, Katie Couric and Frank and Jay Leno and Chesseler. Van Heflin owned Mousetrap and Silkhat. Steve Martin and Dr. Carlton B. Forbes, James Dean and Marcus, Cameron Diaz and Little Man, Gary Oldman and Soymilk and Patrick Stewart and Bella.
Authors and poets: Charlotte Bronte and Tiger, Lord Byron and Beppo. Charles Dickens owned William and The Masters Cat. Edgar Allen Poe and Catarina, H G Wells and Mr. Peter Wells, Sir Walter Scott and Hinse, Alexander Dumas and Mysouff, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Calvin, Edward Lear and Foss and Tennessee Williams and Topaz. Ernest Hemingway had many cats including cats named Ava Gardner, Emily Dickenson and Pablo Picasso.
Artists: Andy Warhol owned Hester and Sam. Scott Adams owns Sarah and Freddy. Pablo Picasso owned two cats and Henri Matisse owned a black cat.
In the world of music: Snoop Dogg owns Frank Sinatra and Miles Davis. Eddie Van Halen and George, Jean Michel ,Jarre and Woody Allen. Freddie Mercury of the rock band Queen owned Tom, Jerry, Oscar, Tiffany, Deliah, Goliath, Miko, Romeo and Lily.
There are not many famous sports' cat lovers but Wilt Chamberlain owned two black cats, Zip and Zap.
Many world leaders own(ed) a cat(s) for a pet: George W. Bush and India, Bill Clinton and Socks, Queen Victoria and White Heather. Theodore Roosevelt owned Slippers and Tom Quartz. Abraham Lincoln and Tabby, Pope Leo XII and Micetto, John F. Kennedy and Tom Kitten and Abraham Lincoln and Tabby. Calvin Coolidge owned Blacky, Tiger and Timmy. Winston Churchill owned Jock, Tango, Bob, Nelson and Margate.
Other notable cat lovers: Nostradamus and Grimalkin and Dr. Albert Schweitzer and Sizi. Florence Nightingale owned Disraeli, Galdstone and Bismarck. Amy Carter, daughter of former President Jimmy Carter, owned Misty Malarky Ying Yang. Anne Frank and Tommy and Charles Lindburgh and Patsy.
Many famous people have enjoyed the companionship of a cat. A cat can be a companion for any person, famous or not. All cat lovers are very devoted to their cat(s) and take pride having a cat.

Symbols of Anarchy

There are many symbols of anarchism including cats that have been used over the years to identify and rally supporters for a cause. The cause is usually a protest or political movement against current conditions. With the increase in anti-globalization recently, the symbols of anarchy are starting to reappear.
The black cat was designed by Ralph Chaplin, a prominent figure of the IWW, also known as the Wobblies. The movement started in 1905 and continued through the early 1920's until it was suppressed by the Justice Department under J. Edgar Hoover. It signified wildcat strikes and radical unionism. The symbol has also been associated with witchcraft, bad omens and death.
The black flag has been a symbol of anarchy since the 1880s. It symbolizes defiance and opposition to surrender. The flag has been used by groups opposed to representation. The black flag has also been used in many protests against oppression. It was used by pirates to indicate the lives of a crew would be spared if they surrendered. It was also used during the French and Russian Revolutions by certain protest groups. It is still used today by anarchical movements.
The circled A, where the A stands for anarchy, is one of the best known present day symbols. It was developed by Giuseppe Fanelli, a Freemason, in 1868 and later adopted as a symbol of anarchy. The symbol became a part of the punk rock movement in the 1970's. It was used by the band, Sex Pistols, to signify the punk rock style of music. Although used as a marketing ploy, it increased the awareness of anarchy.
The black cross is a symbol representing a movement to eliminate all prisons. The symbol originated in Russia to support political prisoners. It was adopted by anarchists to signify unity of purpose. The cross was modified from the symbol for the Red Cross to avoid confusion with the Red Cross. It has been associated with black power, women's lib, youth power and the American Indian Movement.
Known as a symbol of piracy, the jolly roger or the skull and cross bones has gained popularity as a symbol of anarchy. Originally used by the Libertatain pirates, it signifies a pirate's way of life free from repressive societies. It has gained popularity with many anarchical movements.
The anarchist symbol, circled A, with a V represents the political philosophy of animal liberation. The philosophy also known as veganism excludes the use of animals for food, clothing or other uses. It was popularized in 1995 by Brian Dominick and is used by animal rights groups. People who actively support this movement are against killing any animal and have strict vegetarian diets.
Other symbols of anarchy not shown above are the wooden shoe, black rose and bisected flags and stars. Each symbol has been used to represent a political movement or protest throughout the world. Depending on the cause, an organization will adapt or create a symbol that best represents it's philosophy.

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