If you, or a family member, received a kitten as a Christmas present there are many things you need to think about.

It is essential that you take the time to really consider whether or not you should neuter your cat. Because there are so many strays and so few homes for them, it is wise to really take the time to make sure that if you are going to keep your pet natural that you should keep him from reproducing.

Many of the feral cats out there are those that pet owners released simply because they could no longer care for them. A colony of them can easily spread diseases to pet cats and even dogs. Even when they are healthy they are often infested with fleas. Females that are in heat the colony of cats can cause quite a disturbance with all the crying and even fighting. Cats that are hungry can get into trash cans, ruin furniture on your patio and dig in soil in your flower beds.

Cats in heat often cause a lot of trouble and noise. Neutering or spraying cats can help to prevent many things including this. Female house cat in heat can pitifully mew at the door and then cats throughout the neighborhood will soon chime in. Cats that are not neutered have a tendency to ram far from home and they are likely to spray everything in their path.

These cats are also likely to get certain types of cancers as well. The cancers of the reproductive organs are very rare in cats that have been fixed. Unaltered cats can also develop several contagious reproductive diseases.

But, if you do have your cat altered, there are some down notes to take note of. For example, cats that are altered can compete in the show ring but even if he wins the championship he can not reproduce for you.

The humane society will alter kittens as young as eight weeks of age. Most vets will agree that it is healthier to do this to kittens at five to six months, though. If they are feral kittens how are trapped to be altered and then released back they can be done earlier.

Female kittens have a harder time with neutering than males do. Males can handle it at a younger age, then and you can wait until they are six months old to neuter your females.

Most cats have no problems with neutering but sometimes they can develop an infection for the incision. It is important to check the cat daily to insure that it is doing well with it. If the cat licks and chews at the stitches you?ll need to have the vet put on a surgery collar to keep the cat from reaching them. Female cats need to be confined indoors for up to five days after having the surgery.

Neutering your cat can keep the pet population under control. It will not necessary do anything to the cat?s temperament and it will not be a cruel event to the animal. It can be the responsible thing to do.

Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals for cat medication such as Frontline, Advantage, Revolution and Cosequin. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info

Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

Losing your cat is a worrying experience, use these ‘How to find a lost cat’ steps, and try to stay calm. Remember that most lost cats have not run away from home, we all know about cats and curiosity.

The first place you will want to search for your lost cat is right inside your home. It may seem obvious but make sure that your cat is not shut in a room, less obvious check washing machines, clothes dryers, dish washers, even refrigerators. Check garden sheds, garages, basements and attics, look up trees. An injured cat will hide anywhere, and will not always respond to your calling, so search every possible space, under furniture, in boxes, any conceivable space that your cat could have crawled into.

Next check with your immediate neighbors, ask them to check their sheds, garages, etc. Ask local children if they have seen your cat, when and where they last saw it, ask if they know of any places that your cat could be hiding. If the children are old enough, and with their parents permission, ask them to help find your lost cat.

Ask people who are regularly outside your home, joggers, postal workers, people walking dogs, moms taking kids to school, if they have seen your cat. Show them a photograph if possible.

It is a good idea to make a search to find a lost cat at night, but not alone – have someone with you.

Have you, or your neighbors, had anything delivered? It has been known for cats to climb into the backs of vehicles and get driven off, phone the company and see if they know anything. Have you recently moved? Check your old address, if it is a distance, phone your old neighbors ask them to let you know if they should find your lost cat.

Post flyers, preferably with a photograph, all around your neighborhood. Make the flyers stand out somehow, use brightly colored paper if possible. Do not publish your name and address, just your phone number, if you offer a reward do not state the amount. Don’t forget to go back frequently and check that the flyers are still there, sometimes people take them down. Leave flyers at your local post office, pet supplies store, laundromat, gas station, animal shelter and veterinary. Consider placing a ‘Lost Cat’ classified ad. in your local newspaper.

Return to the same spots that you have already investigated and search again and again. Call back to the animal shelters and animal control agencies, in person – do not rely on telephoning. Do not shrink from checking with the highway department and any other agency that deals with road kills, you would rather know if the worst has happened.

Finally have hope, cats are tough creatures and can last for some time without food and water. It is not too unusual for lost cats to be reunited with their owners after being missing for some months.

About The Author

If you have a pet related web site and you wish to reproduce the above article you are welcome to do so, provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this resource box and live link to http://www.best-cat-art.com.

Cat art posters, art prints, cat calendars and cat collectibles. Great cat gifts for yourself or your cat loving friends.

Ask ten experts how many breeds of dogs exist and you will get ten different answers. However, many estimate there are more than 300 breeds of dogs. Each is valued by someone or by a group of people. In fact, they exist because they were bred to have characteristics that make them well suited for specific tasks. Over thousands of years, dogs were bred to meet a variety of human needs.

Chihuahuas, Pekinese and Shih-Tzus are generally known as yoy breeds – very small types of dogs, often weighing less than ten pounds. The dogs were bred to be mainly companions rather than perform physical labor. These dogs were the basis of the phrase lap dogs as they were easily held in their owners’ laps.

Dogs in the Hound group come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and were all originally bred to assist with hunting. Many hound types have an amazing sense of smell; others are best known for their stamina during the chase.

German shepards, Doberman pinchers, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, Giant Schnauzers and Boxers are just a few of the better known types of working dogs.

Working dogs have the size and strength that makes them well suited to guarding property and other intense physical tasks. They are well known for their extremely high intelligence and protective nature to their human companions.

Like the Hounds, dogs from the Sporting group were bred to assist with hunting. Alert and active by nature, sporting dogs fit in well with active owners. If you plan on adding any type of sporting dog to your family, keep in mind that these high-energy dogs need frequent exercise.

The dog breeds included in the Non-Sporting group vary greatly in appearance and abilities. Dalmatians, with their vast amount of stamina and energy, were set to run alongside carriages to guard the travelers inside. Later, firemen employed these unique dogs to guard fire wagons. Dalmatians are playful and loyal, and need human companionship.

Poodles were originally bred as work animals. These dogs are highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. Some poodles are good guard dogs and some can be trained as hunters.

Terriers are known for their distinctive personalities. Bred to hunt vermin, terriers are instinctive, active diggers. Tenacious by nature, these lively dogs require owners willing to provide lots of physical and mental stimulation.

Sight hounds were bred to assist the hunter by virtue of their excellent eyesight. Instead of finding prey by scent, these lean hunters spot their quarry from a great distance. They have amazing stamina and energy and all members of this group need plenty of exercise.

Hopefully this information will help you to decide what breed of dog is right for bringing into your family. Whichever breed you decide on you need to remember that your dog will rely on you for everything from food and water, to shelter and exercise. In return for this you can expect lifelong devotion and love from your new best friend.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource which will help you find infomation, hints and tips to keep your dog happy and healthy. Dog News Center publishes news and articles about dogs and puppies.

http://www.best-pet-health.info Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info. All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

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A pet relies on its owner to look after it. Sometimes a veterinarian is too far away when your puppy needs immediate attention. Would you be able to administer basic first aid if you needed to?

It is up to you to be able to administer the first aid that your pet needs when he needs it. Something can happen at virtually any time at home or away from home. You should have with you a first aid kit that is designed for your pet in mind. If you take your pet away from home frequently, make sure to store the first aid kit in your car as well. These tools can save your pets life.

Here are some of the things that you should have within that kit:

Hydrogen peroxide

Gauze pads and tape

Absorbent cotton/cotton balls

Scissors with a round tip

Instant ice packs

Tweezers

A bulb syringe to be used to remove mucous from the mouth/nose

Eyewash solution specific for pets

A clean white cotton sock for paws that are hurt

Flashlight

A rectal thermometer

Medication syringe for dispensing medication

An electrolyte liquid such as Pedialyte

You need to protect these products so keep them in a hard shell container that has a tight fitting lid. You should also have the vets name and number written and enclosed in this package. You should know and secure information about the local emergency pet hospital as well. Also, when you leave your pet with another caregiver to take care of, such as when you are traveling, you need to provide them with the kit and a release form authorizing them to seek treatment for your pet.

A common dilemma is the bee sting. If this happens to your pet, you should restrain the animal and use a pair of tweezers to remove the stinger. Then, bath the area with a mixture of water and baking soda to relieve some of the pain. You can help to reduce swelling by using an ice pack on the area and using Benedryl. Make sure you know how much to give your pet by asking the vet.

What should you do if your dog is injured?

Youll need to approach the animal slowly and carefully because they may snap or bite at you. It is just a nature reaction for them to do this. See what has happened to them and reassure the pet that you are not going to hurt her through a smooth voice and calmness.

Your first concern is to stop the flow of blood as quickly as possible. Apply pressure to the wound and hold it there. Make sure to use a cloth that is clean and change them as needed. Keep as much pressure on it as possible until you get to your vet. If you need to, tape a thick gauze pad to the wound. Youll want to keep as much pressure on the wound though, so if possible have someone else transport you.

In the case of choking, you should use a flashlight to check down the throat. If you can, remove the object. If you cant see it, youll need to use a Heimlich maneuver that is designed for your pet. As a pet owner, you should have this basic training taught to you. It is important to do it correctly in order to protect against serious injury of the pet. You can get this type of training at your local humane society or through your vet. You can also learn how to give your pet CPR and how to deal with serious injury and poisoning.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource which will help you find infomation, hints and tips to stocking a doggie first aid kit and keeping your dog happy and healthy. Dog News Center publishes news and articles about dogs and puppies.

http://www.best-pet-health.info This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links are included intact.

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Most dogs handle their own grooming needs. But, you can offer a helping hand as necessary. If you do this, you will have many benefits to it. For example, it helps the two of you to bond. And, it allows for you to catch diseases or other health problems that can affect your pet. Cant get your dog to sit still long enough? Then, do a small portion of her each day. Eventually she will enjoy it and allow you to do it easily.

Dogs use licking, shaking and scratching to stay clean. If you brush them, you can help the fur to stay clean and unmated. Some dogs that have longer hair will require this attention daily. Others who have shorter hair can be brushed just once a week. Most dogs will enjoy the brushing. Others will not right off the bat. In order to help this process, use the brush in a small amount while talking soothingly to her. Afterwards, give her a treat for being good. Add a little more time on each time.

Dark specs on the skin can be fleas. In order to check for these types of problems, run your hands down here coat as you brush her. If you see quite a bit of black flecks, which are flea dropping, then you need to seek help for your animal right away. You may also notice rice like debris near her tail. These are a sign that the dog has worms. Again, you need to take your pet to the vet in this case as they will need treatment.

Just like you, your pet needs her teeth brushed daily. You can do this using a child sized toothbrush or just a finger toothbrush that is designed for your pet. The paste that you use should be one designed for dogs only. Your toothpaste can seriously make your dog ill. To help keep dogs teeth in tip top shape, give them rawhide chews to gnaw on. This helps keep teeth as well as gums healthy.

Youll need to do other types of grooming as well, but not as frequently. You should check ears and nails weekly or monthly. Look into your dogs ears. If you see small, black/brown specks, this can be ear mites. For nails, walks that are given on sidewalks as well as in the driveway can help to wear them down. Make sure, though, that the nails are not too long. You can learn from your vet the proper way to trim them to help the dog to stay healthy and to walk correctly. You should not trim them without getting some training though.

Best Pet Health Information brings you tips, news, recommendations and reviews of dog grooming and health products to keep you and your dog happy and healthy. Dog News Center publishes news and articles about dogs and puppies.

http://www.best-pet-health.info. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links are included intact.

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You can take the easy option and throw some discount cat feed into a bowl for your feline friend, but will she remain your friend for long if you don’t give a bit more thought into what you feed her? Here is some advice that will have her purring with delight at feeding time, and keep her healthy at the same time.

In order to keep your cat or kitten healthy, you need to choose quality foods that will provide him with nutrients he needs. But, what are they? You cant just give your cat any type of food that is available. There are several things you should do to improve your cats nutrition.

Kitten Food

During the first few weeks, the food will come from mom cat. But, when he begins to reach the age of four to six weeks, he needs to supplement his foods with canned kitten food or you can provide him with dry cat food that is softened with water. At eight weeks, he should be weaned from the mother and eating kitten food solely. The breeder at this point can allow him to be adopted and should provide you with some of the food that he is eating. If you plan to switch brands, you can do so but make sure that you mix the food together until he is used to it.

Growing kittens will eat a good amount of food. They are growing very fast and need it. They will eat more than once a day. They are likely to eat up to four smaller meals until they are six months old. You should give him plenty of clean water as well. Remember, kittens have smaller stomachs and need smaller amounts but use a lot of energy nonetheless.

As Your Kitten Gets Older

At six months, the cat will begin to taper off in growing. He will likely be less active as well. This means you can cut back to feeding him to two or three meals a day. You should not change from kitten food to adult food since he is still growing.

At a year, you can provide him with adult food. Adult cats will eat when they are hungry so you can simply leave a dish filled with dry food for him. But, if he overeats and becomes overweight, he will need to be limited to eating twice a day instead. If you give him canned food, you can still offer dry food as well. Canned food should not be left out all day.

What Kind of Cat Food?

To purchase cat food, you should look for the types that have protein sources in the first few ingredients that are listed. You should make sure that the food is well balanced too. If the cat has problems that are health related look for foods designed to help with these conditions.

Many cats will enjoy both wet and dry food. But, some are finicky about it. If your cat does not seem to like dry cat food, moisten it or provide him with regular check ups at the vet to keep his teeth clean. Providing well balanced food for your cat will allow him to live a healthy, long life.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to ensure you have the correct cat health products to keep your moggy happy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

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Your dog is a social being, just like you! He/she loves walking in the park with you, playing ball or chase with you, and just being with you. Even when he/shes lying around the house or the backyard having a snooze, your dog is well aware of your presence, or absence, and appreciates every minute you spend with him/her. If you have a family, your dog loves being part of your family and no doubt has a special relationship with most, if not all, of the family members.

I have a Rottweiler, Kara, and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Jet. Theyre both female and both just turned 9 years. Ive had them since they were puppies, and theyre definitely members of my family. I love them to bits and would be lost without them.

Ill bet your dog is much like mine when it comes to interacting with you.

I know my dogs are always beside themselves with joy and excitement whenever I come home – regardless of whether Ive been away for a week, or just popped out for 10 minutes! What human gets that excited to see you? No one? I thought so. I dont know any human whos even half that happy to see me.

Kara often stands and wags her tail when I walk past her in the house or when I talk to her. And Jet doesnt move from her comfortable position lying down. But her tail thumps up and down on the floor. Just goes to show that every dog has his/her own unique personality. Just like us.

And my dogs just love being let in from outside. They consider their place is in the house – just like the human members of the household!

And why not? Dogs really can be a mans (or a womans or a childs) best friend. They rarely ask for anything. So long as you feed them regularly, and show them some love and attention, theyre happy. And a happy dog is the first step to a healthy dog. (Dont get me wrong, dogs dont have to be allowed in the house to be happy – mind you, my dogs would like me to believe that this is the case!)

Consistency when dealing with your dog is very important. And Im talking here about both the initial teaching/training of your dog, and also the reinforcement of those teachings throughout your dogs life.

Its essential for your dogs wellbeing for you to be consistent when disciplining, playing with and just simply spending time with, your dog. But its also important for other members of the household (and even frequent visitors) to treat your dog in a similar manner where possible. This is particularly so if your dog has any problem behaviours, such as jumping up at people. If you dont also ask your family and your visitors to make it clear to your dog that this is unacceptable, your dog is unlikely to curb the jumping altogether. And this may simply perpetuate the problem.

Dogs who experience consistency tend to be better behaved dogs, and, guess what? You guessed it – better behaved dogs are happier dogs, and happier dogs are healthier dogs!

So you know what to do – love your dog, spend quality time with your dog, and make sure youre consistent.

About The Author

(c) Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs, 2004

Brigitte Smith is a dog lover and owns 2 dogs – a Rottweiler and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Brigitte has a special interest in improving the health and possibly extending the life of your dog.

You can subscribe to the Healthy Happy Dogs ezine – for free tips, information, strategies and resources for a healthier happier dog – at: http://www.HealthyHappyDogs.com; Brigitte@HealthyHappyDogs.com

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Although it was once common practice to feed dogs whatever scrapes came from the dinner table, today we realize that there is much more to feeding an animal than we thought. It is important to give them foods that will provide them with a healthy life and a long one too. In fact, there are a number of researchers who dedicate their lives to understanding just what your pet should and shouldnt eat. You can bank on what they have found that should be in your dogs diet.

It is important to provide your animal with the right type of food. That means that you should give her food that is right for the dogs age and activity levels and that is right for her size as well as her health. Youll find a wide selection of products to choose from in your pet store. It is wise to purchase the best quality of food for your pet that you can afford to buy. Realize that if you purchase poor quality food for your animal, his health can be lacking.

Your pets diet should include some dry food because the crunch will help to keep her teeth clean and it will also help with gum health. It provides the fiber in your dogs diet that is necessary. You can use wet food, but dont give them too much of it. For example, pour some over your dogs dry food instead of giving them the whole can. If you are interested in providing your pet with home made foods, find dog specific recipes throughout the web to use. It is important not to give your dog leftovers from your meal though. You need the food to provide nutrition to your dog based on his needs. Things like fats, and fillers in human food, as well as spices, can make a dog sick.

As a puppy, your dog needs to eat frequently throughout the day, about three or four smaller meals, until they are about three months old. Then, cut it down to only three meals a day for the next three months. Ideally, your adult dog should each twice per day. You should provide your dogs food to them for up to twenty minutes. At that point remove it if they have not eaten it and are not in the process of doing so. This will help to stop picky eaters. You do need to provide a constant amount of clean water for your pet to drink as well.

Ideally, you will need to get recommendations about the amounts of food to feed your dog from your vet. Sometimes, information is also available on the food bags as well. Not sure if your pet is eating the right amount? Heres a test. If you run your hand against the dogs side, you should feel her ribs without pressing. If you can not feel them without pressing, she may be overweight. If you can see them, though, she is underweight.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource which will help you find infomation, hints and tips to keeping your dog happy and healthy. Dog News Center publishes news and articles about dogs and puppies.

http://www.best-pet-health.info This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links are included intact.

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You had made an important decision to adopt an animal. Congratulations, there’s nothing which compares to the unconditional love of sharing your life with a fur-baby. They’ll always be there with you no matter the circumstances. So, make sure that you will be able to be there and care for them as you should.

Animals deserve your time and love. There are way too many animals who are already neglected and mistreated. When you bring an animal into your life, you are taking a huge responsibility. There are several things you need to consider: Is there anyone home during the day? Will your animal be left alone and unattended for several hours at a time? Is it an inside or outside animal? If they are inside, have you provided them with: plenty of exercise room, toys and noise for entertainment and companionship, enough food and water and have you taken all the necessary saftey precautions to keep them from harming themselves? Have you put everything up that you would like to keep away from teeth marks?

If they are outside animals: Do they have a place to stay cool/warm? Do they have plenty of toys, food and water? Are all the dangerous and poisonous materials beyond their reach? Is your fencing adequate to keep them safe, but also provide them with enough running room?

I know if you work all day, you’re tired in the evenings when you come home, and you are ready to finally be able to sit down and relax. If you’re too tired to play physically with your fur baby, then let them curl up on your lap. Make sure you stroke them while talking to them. It lets them know they’re loved and just like you, they need touch and positive physical interaction.

Depression and lonliness can effect animals as well. It’s your job to make sure they do not get lonely or depressed. A little love and attention goes a long way with animals. They can sense when they are loved, just as they can when they are not.

Animals who are depressed can show it in many different behaviors: excessive barking, lethargy, anxiety/nervousness, excessive grooming, self-mutilation or destructive behavior, weight loss/gain, sulking or aggression, change in personality, increased clinginess and attachment and loss of appetite. (Symptoms from PetAlive). If you notice any of these behaviors in your animals, try to spend extra time with them. If the symptoms do not improve, take them to your veterinarian.

A relationship between a human and animal is a beautiful thing for both involved. With just a little effort on your part, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences for you and your pet. After all, they are an important part of the family. Make sure you treat them as such.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pet Forums.

Tracey Wilson is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writers.

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If youre like me, then you dont really have the luxury of keeping a high-maintenance pet such as a dog. Even a less demanding pet such as a cat might be beyond your time constraints. Fish tanks can be difficult too, since its easy to under-estimate the time and effort involved in keeping them clean. So what options do you have?

Well, you could try a snake or one of the hardier lizard varieties. My personal favorites, however, are tarantulas. Thats rightthose big, hairy, eight-legged freaks.

Contrary to popular belief, tarantulas are really not deadly; in fact, there are no known instances of anyone dying from a tarantula bite. In addition, most of the pet store specimens that youll encounter are exceedingly docile, and will generally not bite unless they are severely provoked.

The most common variety available is the Chilean rose hair tarantula (Grammastola rosea), which is notoriously gentle and easy to handle. It is also known to have fairly mild venom, and almost never bites. Other docile and readily available species include the Honduran curly hair tarantula (Brachypelma albopilosum) and the Guyana pinktoe tarantula (Avicularia avicularia).

Unlike a dog or a cat, these animals do not require much care. They can go for weeks without food or water, although regular care is still recommended. They do not generate much waste either, and so cleaning their cages is easy as well. Some species do have rather specific humidity requirements, but the most common pet store varieties are not so demanding. They also require very little space, and most of them can be kept in plastic shoebox-sized containers. Make sure that their lids fit tightly though, since these animals can be quite good at escaping.

I do recommend reading up on tarantula care, so as to learn the proper care requirements for the specimen that you choose. Be aware that some species can be quite aggressive, and are not recommended for beginners. These species are less commonly available though, and are generally obtained via mail order. If in doubt, start with a Chilean rose hair, as this is an excellent beginner species.

Owners should be aware that even within docile species, there can be some individuals that are more aggressive than others. In addition, there is always the possibility of an allergic reaction if you are bitten. In theory, this could result in a potentially fatal anaphylactic shock, although I am not aware of any circumstances in which this has actually happened. For these reasons, new owners should learn how to read a tarantulas body language, and should stay away from species that have a reputation for biting without provocation.

Also, do remember that you never have to actually hold the tarantulasjust as you never have to actually hold your aquarium fish. I recommend reading up on handling techniques, so that you can move the animals around without having to touch them. This can be helpful for those who are squeamish, or who simply wish to be cautious. When in doubt, err on the side of safety.

If youre not intimidated by the prospect of keeping one of these wondrous creatures, then I recommend them highly. They can be quite addictive, and they never fail to entertain.

About The Author

V. Berba Velasco Jr., Ph.D. is a senior electrical and software engineer at Cellular Technology Ltd (http://www.immunospot.com, http://www.elispot-analyzers.de, http://www.elispot.cn). The neighborhood children have referred to him as the Crocodile Hunter though, due to his impressive menagerie of magnificent arachnids.

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