Making a Winter Shelter For Stray Cats - Stray Cat Outside My House

Parasites: Cats that spend a great deal of time outdoors have a much higher chance of getting both internal and external parasites than their indoor counterparts do. While external parasites like fleas and ticks are fairly easy to detect, internal parasites can grow undetected for weeks or even months, causing serious problems down the road.


Heavy rocks and cement blocks from an unused pond were put on the bottom of the tarp to hold it down.


The other morning, after having had three nights with BELOW zero temperatures as low as -23 below F, I saw some sort of paw prints in the snow as I was leaving home for church. Little paw prints that may or may not have belonged to a cat, a rabbit or a small dog.


There are people and organizations that specialize in helping feral cats through the trap and release program. Your veterinarian is likely in contact with local persons who can help you. You can also get more information about feral and stray cats at the Alley Cat Allies, (alleycat.org), a national online organization.


Feral cats by nature do not directly interact with man but have learned to coexist. Feral cats associate with other feral cats and sometimes they will associate with stray cats but not often. Like their ancestors, the wild cat, they tend to keep with their own and resist outsiders. They survive quite well without our help but can present a problem if your home is in their territory. The feral cat will likely be hostile to you and your pets that will cause problems with your own pet's behavior.


In some countries, it can be summer all year round. In such climate where the sun can be burning hot, you may hope for it to rain to bring the temperature down or go somewhere where air conditioning is available. Like any other person, your cat cannot agree more to that. It is necessary for you to take extra precautious of your cat's health during hot season to prevent it from suffering from dehydration. Unless you are able to understand what your cat is telling you, you have to constantly observed your pet's behavior or at the very least, give it a cooler living condition in order to prevent it from overheated.


Taped the boxes shut and cut an entrance hole in the side.


Next we covered the insulated boxes in heavy duty plastic to keep them (boxes and cats) from getting wet. Large heavy duty garbage bags could be used instead.


If that's not feasible or if he gives you grief because he "MUST" be outside, here are a few things to consider doing to make his outside stay safer for him:


If you are one cat owner who likes to take your cat in your car wherever you go, make sure that your cat is never be left in a parked car during hot summer. By leaving your cat in a parked car even for a short while may cause harm to it. Have you ever notice that the temperature in your car can increase rapidly during hot days. This can even happen when you are parking under a shade due to the reasons that the sun will not fixed at one position and that heat travel from hot regions to cold regions. Unlike dogs, cats may not be able to alert passers-by of its discomfort and they could pass out and die in as short as fifteen minutes. So, make it habit to take your cat with you after parking your car.


· A domestic feral cat will gladly eat your food but never let you get close so trapping is the method of choice.


Making nighttime off limits: Nighttime is when the most problems happen for cats because it's when most fights and car accidents take place.

About the Author

by Jamarcus Henderson

Build Your Own Cat House - Cat House Plans.

Cats and Dogs Together - Are They Compatible? by Tarun Kr Das

Cats and Dogs Together - Are They Compatible?

An old stereotype exists about dogs and cats being incompatible, but many households across the globe have a dog and cat, or even several dogs and several cats, living in complete harmony. Though many conflicting characteristics make up these two species, they can often not only co-exist peacefully, but also become the best of friends.

Cats and Dogs, Living Together!
Sometimes, people are forced to blend a cat household and a dog household together, such as when couples marry or when adult children move back home. Other times, animal lovers just need to expand their love opportunities to include other species. Whatever the reason, this change in environment can be very disruptive to all parties. To reduce the stress on everyone, you can follow a few simple tips to allow the household to gradually adapt to the changes in activity, odors, schedules and status.

Dog Breeds That Accept Cats
Pet owners should understand that some breeds are naturally hostile to cats and will chase and attack them. It will be difficult, if not impossible, to provide a safe environment for both species. These breeds include greyhounds and borzois, sight hounds that instinctively chase small, furry prey. Cat-friendly breeds include the Labrador retrievers, poodles and collies. Of course, individual differences can make the adjustments easier or more challenging. If you get a dog from a shelter, choose one that was raised in a household with cats.

Cat That Accept Dogs
Cats will generally learn to accept a dog in the household as long as the canine respect the cat's space. Fortunately, cats can jump to get away from a dog when that space is violated. The cat will determine how much "closeness" is allowed and will hand out "discipline" to the dog if required. Manx cats are one breed that is known to get along well with other animals in a household, but individual cats may have problems adjusting.

Growing Up Together
The best and easiest way to have both dogs and cats in your household is to have them grow up together. Acquire the kitten and puppy around the same period of time, and they will always be accustomed to having an animal of a different species in their household.

Introducing Your Puppy To Your Cat
Puppies are full of boundless energy without a lick of restraint, so you will have to be the controlling force in keeping the animal in check while the cat gets used to him. Put the cat in a separate room so that she will be unmolested in her own space. Put her bowl, cat toys and any other articles that will make her feel comfortable. It's a good idea to start the puppy training so that he will obey your commands Allow the puppy into her space on leash and only under strict supervision. Let the cat watch the puppy from a safe distance for a time, so that she can become accustomed to the high level of energy, but don't allow the puppy to get too close to her. After a time, the cat may want to investigate at a closer range. Make sure she can safely do so by keeping the puppy on leash. If the puppy becomes rambunctious, remove him from the area. Observe your cat for signs of distress or aggression. Extend these sessions to longer and longer periods. After the puppy no longer considers the cat a threat or new "toy," try taking him off leash. If he behaves, allow the two to interact in a gentle manner. If he gets too rowdy, the cat may take a swipe at him to warn him off. The introduction may take several weeks for successful adjustment between the two animals.

Introducing A Kitten To Your Dog
Introducing a new kitten to an existing dog is similar. Many experts feel no face-to-face meeting should occur for the first week to allow the newcomer to become comfortable in the new surroundings and to allow the existing pet to get used to the new smells and activities in the household. The initial plan is the same, putting the kitten into a separate space with all that she needs. Introduce the new kitten to other cats in the household before introducing her to the dog. When this is done to satisfaction, bring the dog into the safe room, on leash, and allow the two animals to watch each other. Make sure that the dog does not show aggression to the kitten. Correct him for bad behavior and praise him for calm behavior. Allow the kitten to approach the dog on her own terms. They may sniff each other to become familiar. Be ready with a hand on the leash or a water pistol to separate them. You must repeat this encounter procedure many times to ensure that the two will not act aggressively. When you are certain that the dog will not attack the kitten, you can then try taking off the dog's leash, but only when you are there to supervise. Keep the animals separated when you leave the house. Ensure that the dog and cat have separate feeding areas where they will be undisturbed. A pet gate will keep the dog away from the cat-feeding bowl and litter box.

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Stop Your Cat From Spraying

When you spot your cat stand by a door or any other object at home, lifts its tail then urinates then you know that it is spraying on the door or object. Perhaps if you are a neophyte in the cat world, you do not know what spraying means. When a cat is new to a place, it is bound to make that place its territory by spraying. It is not a cat's dilemma as not knowing its own litter box; rather, it sprays for marking a definite location. It is natural for them to spray and usually it is ordinarily done by cats outdoors. Yet, there are cat owners who complain about their cats spraying indoors. It could be troublesome for a home owner if a cat sprays inside the house. Do not worry too much as for every difficulty, there is a solution.

The reason why cats spray can either be one of the following: for marking a location, for calling a mate or for relieving stress.

A cat, just like other territorial type of animals, wants to mark its territory. In order to do this, it sprays a bit of urine on its territory. The smell of the cat's urine will alert other cats and animals to get off its property. It is natural for cats to spray on things, so extend a little understanding towards your cat.

Pheromones are a substance that animals utilize to communicate. This substance is released with the urine sprayed by cats in heat. This hormone is similar to fingerprints because animals use this to identify the kind of creature that sprayed in the location. Often, this hormone is released when cats are in heat. The pheromones tell the other cats that it is searching for a mate. Other cats in heat are attracted towards the scent of the urine due to of the pheromones. This serves as an open invitation to get engaged in procreation. Later, you will get kittens in the house.

Getting rid of stress is another reason why cats spray. It could be stressful for a cat to find another of its kind in its territory. When it catches a glimpse of another animal, it also sprays. The spraying of urine allows the cat to release some of the built-up stress generated by seeing another creature in its territory.

The scent of cat's urine can be odious. The problem is sometimes the cat sprays inside the house. The urine can stain furniture and leave foul odor. When your cat sprays, do something at once like shooing it away.

The most effective way to eradicate this spraying behavior is by neutering or spaying the cat. This applies to both male and female cats. The spraying activity will immediately stop after being neutered. Since a male cat will no longer mate after being neutered, it will get rid of its spraying. It is important to consider whether you do not want to breed your cat or otherwise because spaying or neutering is irreversible. Do not spay or neuter if you still wish to have kittens. Consider another option. It is best to ask for your vet's opinion regarding spraying if you do not want to sterilize your cat.

Find out how cats spray [http://www.kittybehaviour.com/what-to-do-when-your-cats-spray/] is affected when you neuter a cat [http://www.kittybehaviour.com/what-to-expect-when-you-neuter-a-cat/]. Check here for more information on cat marking [http://www.kittybehaviour.com/understanding-cat-marking/].

About the Author

Kitty Bee is the owner of two lovable cats.

How to Prevent and Treat Cat Hairballs by Claudia Escobar

Cat hairballs can really become a problem for your cat, especially if they occur frequently. What causes hairballs? Cats are very clean animals. They wash themselves constantly, and in the process, they ingest a lot of fur. Eventually, all that hair builds up creating a hairball. Cat hairballs are not only uncomfortable for you cat, but they can also lead to other problems like constipation. There are ways, fortunately, to reduce and even prevent hairball buildup.

So if you already own a cat, or if you just adopted a cat, and need information on cat hairballs, here is some information about the symptoms and prevention of hairballs. You'll also find information on cat hairball remedies.

Hairball Symptoms

A hairball problem is somewhat easy to spot. Your cat will start hacking and coughing, followed by vomiting. These episodes might occur frequently, especially if you have a long-haired cat.

Even if you don't see your cat going through what I call a "hairball episode", you can still see the evidence: a ball of hair on the floor, or the carpet, or wherever your cat chose to spit out the ball. Usually, a hairball is an long mass of hair, similar to a cigar in shape. It is definitely not a pretty sight.

Hairball Prevention and Treatment

The easiest step to help you prevent hairballs is brushing your cat on a regularly basis, preferably every day. Even if brushing does not completely eliminate hairballs, it will reduce the amount ingested, thus reducing the frequency of the problem. Furthermore, brushing your cat will help your cat stay in great condition. And remember that a grooming session is always a great bonding opportunity.

If despite your efforts, your cat continues to have a hairball problem, try a hairball remedy. Consult your vet, and he or she will suggest the best treatment for your cat. Some common hairball remedies include petroleum-based gels, which are given orally. You may also give your cat a fiber-rich diet, or special-formula food designed to prevent hairballs.

And finally, you may also try home treatments, like giving your cat a little bit of butter once or twice a week. Canned pumpkin is another known home remedy used to treat hairballs. You can mix a bit of pumpkin with your cat's wet food. Again, always consult your vet before using any of these remedies.

About the Author

Claudia Escobar is the owner of two 10 year-old tabby cats. For more information on cat hairballs or cat lovers gifts, you can visit her site http://www.cat-lovers-gifts-guide.com. You may publish this article provided you do so in its entirety and include this resource box.

Common Behaviors Of Cats And Their Meanings

How well do you understand your cat? Even if it were only days or decades, perhaps you have observed a cat's actions. The acts of your pet are different from other animals. Some people think it perplexing when they see their pet behaving in a strange way. You may have a dilemma in raising your pet if you fail to read your cat's action. It may be difficult to find out what your cat means when it acts differently but there are methods to uncover your kitty's mystery.

You probably have become aware of your cat pushing an object (e.g., cabinet, stool, table leg) or a person. Then it strokes its head against the individual or thing. You will most probably notice this action done on individuals with allergies to cats or to those who have other animals. The cat does this because it wants to mark the person or object as its possession by putting a hint of its spit on that person or thing. This kind of cat behavior can be irritating for others. In the cat's point of view, however, the individual or object stands as someone or something odd; thus, it exhibits this action to establish it as part of its property.

For the cat, it serves it well to perform this pushing and rubbing act. In this world, however, there are some with pet peeves and those allergic to cats. They will try to get rid of the saliva because it upsets them. If they are successful, they will rid themselves with the cat's scent. The feline will, however, repeat the same process if it cannot smell the scent that it left on the guest. This will really pose as a predicament for the individual with allergies or with pet peeves. As a cat owner, you have to explicate to the inconvenienced person why it does this behavior - that it is just a welcome greeting for the cat. What you should do is to talk to the guest and request him to permit your cat to do this behavior. Once the cat does its business, it will leave your guest alone eventually.

Hunting is almost a must for cats. Do not be shocked if your cat is peeking out the window, creating strange sounds and doing bizarre movements. It just has its hunting instinct acting out. If your cat sees a cat or some movement, it will readily be on its paws. Again, do not be shocked because it is normal for cats.

There are individuals who think it baffling why cats pounce at things. Pouncing is one of a cat's favorite activities. Pouncing is part of play for them. Do not stop your cat from doing this behavior unless you want to get some troubles. You and your cat may wind up with trouble breaking a lot of stuff in the house. If you like to manage how your cat plays, buy a toy that it can pounce on. A yarn or a string may even be adequate enough for it to play with. Your cat will surely enjoy your company as it runs after the yarn or string.

If you have detailed understanding of how your cat behaves, you will have lesser problems because you will be dealing with it the correct way. Go beyond feeding and providing litter to your cat. Know your cat a little more by knowing its behavior.

About the Author

Kitty Bee is the owner of two lovable cats.

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Ideas on How to Brainstorm Regarding an Exclusive Kitten Names by Andy Weeks

Finding great names with regard to kittens or cats could appear overwhelming at incredibly first. Od course with regard to such a cute kitten you will will need some thing cute as a name. And it should be something you will not get tired of repeating every day regarding the next fifteen to twenty years! It has to fit your new kittens seems, individuality, plus your way of life.

You may acquire millions of options. That's the excellent thing about naming an animal. You may select everything your imagine descibes. He doesn't have to fit within on the gemstone, and no one will make fun of his name if it is seriously off-the-wall. So go ahead, express yourself!

Awesome, and now exactly where to commence from? Well 1 notion is to browse listings of preferred cat names. But, that only could beat your plan to be unique. You want to be distinctive, so why choose the exact same name as everybody else? It is an excellent way to get started, though. It might possibly nicely provide you with ideas.

The fairly first factor to take into consideration with each name is how it'll sound. You happen to be going to need to say it a terrific deal, and you do not want to get tired of it. Furthermore, you want your cat to hear it only. That is why numerous cats have a name with a lengthy vowel sound- they rapidly recognise their name if this carries a lengthy vowel, such as the "e" in Leo.

Names with regard to kittens could reflect the look of them. When you use a black cat, why not consider Luna, Midnight, or Ninja? The white cat could be referred to as Bianca. A tiger cat could be named, effectively, you already know!

The next notion will be to take brainstorming 1 step further. For example, let's say you've a gray kitten. Smokey is an obvious selection. Instead, take into consideration all issues gray. Gray weather makes me think about clouds, storms, how about Twister, or Nimbus (short for the cumulonimbus cloud sort)? Or maybe your kitten is more silver? Platinum may be a clever name. Gold contributes to jewellery, why don't you consider Bling?

You could possibly nicely wish to take into account your kittens identity. Does he or she desire to climb? Is she an overall total snuggle-bug? These qualities may lead in to a name! One time i recognized a kitten that was only outrageous. His operator gave him a local American name that will mirrored his wild characteristics.

Some of the finest names with regard to kittens are ones that reflect your exclusive character. Do you've a favorite author, sports hero, or even hobby? Take some time to think about it, and you might just come up with the best name!

If you might be acquiring two kittens, you may well opt to have their names match. Twin kitten names are fun and convey a special relationship between the kittens. On the other hand, many choose to name every kitten individually. It's completely your selection.

Desire to get outlandish? I have privately recognized a Hosehead, Chainsaw, and Three. There essentially are no boundaries when it comes to particular kitten names!

Several of the ideal names with regard to kittens are human names, precisely given that they are human! Some of the most powerful human name choices are so very man, that they are absolutely quirky and distinctive on a cat!

There is no dash. Get to know your kitten. Spend some time developing and observing him, and in the meantime think about some of these groups:

Individual Names
Mythology
Real Life Celebrities
Novels
Weather
Your Hobbies and Individual Interests
Names regarding kittens can certainly arrive from everywhere. These all supply extremely good creativity, once you decide the perfect name, you will comprehend it!

About the Author

Being a true cat enthusiast Andy Weeks is captivated by not simply his cats, but by everything to do with cats. Andy shares his love to these stylish pets in his site - Kitten names [http://kitten-names.betterpetcares.com/] where you can find the perfect name for your beloved kitten

How To Introduce The New Cat

It is exciting to have a new cat but what if you already have one? It may look difficult at first but by following the recommendations here, you can successfully introduce the new to the old. Cats are very protective of their territory so you have to make sure that your new cat is introduced properly to the old one.

If your cats are still kittens, it may take only a short while to initiate them. They may get along within 10 to 15 days of introduction. Both cats’ temperament and personality influence the introductory process. Make sure that your old cat feels secured and do not show preferential treatment on the other cat so that it will not think that the new cat is a rival for affection.

When bringing the new pet home, allot a safe room for the new cat to live in for a while. Let it live there until you are in no doubt that both the old and new cat are properly introduced. There are no specifics for the room that you could make use of - it can be a spare bedroom or a bathroom. However, the room that your new cat will live in should be a place that your old cat does not go into. Place a scratching post, litter box, bed, water dish and food dish inside the room so the new cat will be comfortable.

Since a cat is new, the old one may try to dominate it and make it feel that it does not belong there. The old cat may hiss and howl at the new cat when it notices it by the door. Not paying any attention to what the old cat is doing is the best thing to do. Punishing the old cat for its aggressive behavior may cause bigger problems later on. Eventually, the old cat will calm down when it goes near the door of the new cat. When it does this, praise and pet your old cat.

The introduction starts when the new cat is no longer hostile when it sees the new cat by the door. An effective way to do this introduction is by using their odor. Having them utilize the same food dish is the first thing to do. It is strongly recommended that you give food to them at different times but using the same dish because it is important that they get accustomed to each other’s scent first.

In a few days, the old and the new cat will probably be used to each other’s scent; then you can attempt to feed them closer to each other. To do this, hide your new cat in the safe room then shut the door. Feed the new cat in the safe room with the door shut behind it. Then, set up the place at other side of the door as the new place to feed your old cat. Later on, they will stop hissing and growling at each other and eat peacefully at the same time. Then, the time to meet each other has come.

Introducing the two cats to each other in the same room can once again be tough because there might be some growling and hissing from both parties. Even though they are used to each other’s scent already, your old cat may still feel uncomfortable seeing the new cat in its territory. At first, play with them both so that they can greet and smell each other. Allow them some time to be apart if fighting commence.

Giving them time is important. Have patience. Both cat will turn into happy and satisfied pets if you have introduced them properly. Though it may be tough at first but your old cat will later appreciate its new company. Later on, if you want to add yet another kitty, it will then be easier on your part.

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About the Author

Kitty Bee is the owner of two lovable cats.

Top 8 Must Haves For The New Kitten In The House by Heidi Marie

Bringing home a new kitten is exciting. Be sure that you prepare your home with the essentials before picking up your new arrival. Here are the top 8 must haves.

1) Bed

Kittens are happy just about with anything soft and cushy. You can get a fancy bed, but even a soft pillow in a box will suffice. Small beds aren't that much, but make sure it's one that you can wash if you do choose to buy one.

2) Food & Water Dishes

If you only have one kitten at home a couple small, shallow bowls will work fine. Be sure the water bowl is sturdy enough that it won't tip over. Clean them regularly. Water bowls tend to start building up residue around the sides. Make sure they have fresh water to drink at all times.

3) Brush and Comb

For a long haired kitten you can use a long toothed metal comb and a brush. They should be brushed at least once a day to help keep their fur free of mats. For short haired kittens a bristle brush will work. You don't have to brush them as often, but it's good to keep brushed regularly. Be sure to start this while they are young so they get used to it.

4) Carrier

A carrier is important to have right away since you will be taking your new kitten in to the vet for check ups and shots. Any kind is fine as long as it is ventalated and large enough for them to move around. Throw something soft in it for them to lay down in. Don't let your kitten loose in the car because they can climb all over the place, under your feet, around your neck, or even up on the dashboard which is unsafe.

5) Litter Box, Litter, Scooper & Mat

The litter box needs to be kept clean and fresh litter should be added regularly. A mat or piece of carpet placed outside the box is recommended to catch the loose litter they may have in their paws while exiting their box. If you have dogs keep the litter box out of their reach since some dogs will eat the kittens fecies.

6) Collar with Name Tag

Even if your kitten is strictly indoors it is still good to have a collar with their name and your phone number on a tag. You never know when it might sneak out the door and get outside. Get them used to wearing one while they are young.

7) Scratching Post

A kitten uses the scratching post more for exercise than it does to sharpen it's claws. They like to stretch out while clawing down their post so make sure that it is tall enough for them to do so. They come in all shapes and sizes. You can get one that they can climb up or one that is simply a post with carpet or rope wrapped around it.

8) Toys

Toys are a must as kittens as they love to play. Just be sure they are strong toys and can't be torn apart or swallowed. Kittens love mice, catnip, boxes to climb in, balls, etc. A ball or a soft mouse hanging from a string off a door is always a favorite.

About the Author

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The Health Benefits of Keeping Pets

Pets: you can love and hate them at the same time. One moment theyre sinking their teeth into your expensive shoes, and the next, they shower you with affection. But regardless of what they do and how you feel about them, there is no denying that there are various health advantages of having a pet:

1) Lower stress levels and blood pressure. According to studies conducted at the University of Warwick, interacting with pets (such as stroking them or playing with them) has the tendency to lower a persons blood pressure and relax them. In another study, stockbrokers with high blood pressure readings were asked to adopt a cat or a dog, and those who did were later found to have much lower blood pressure levels in stressful situations that those who did not adopt a pet. Of course, this will not work if you do not like animals or are afraid of them " then they will probably cause more anxiety than they resolve.

2) Recovery from illness. Pets have been known to help people in astounding ways, but they have the greatest number of success stories with heart attack patients. Various studies show that patients who have suffered from a heart attack tend to live longer if they have a pet at home, and they are also less prone to heart disease than non-pet owners. Pets can also serve as a loyal support system to their bed-ridden owners, providing them with the comfort that results in a quicker recovery.

In extreme cases, such as when a person is in a coma, surgeons have even recommended for a pet to be brought to the patients bedside. While there is no real evidence to support this claim, there have been incidences when the pets presence helped the patient awake from their coma. Dogs, in particular, have also been known to offer relief to Alzheimers and Parkinsons patients.

3) Improves social life. Many domesticated animals are social creatures, and therefore provide much social interaction " whether it is a cat that curls up and falls a sleep on your lap or a dog that follows you from room to room " a pet owner is very rarely alone. Pets also serve as great ice-breakers or conversation starters among strangers, both inside and outside the home.

4) Happiness. It is often underestimated how much pets can influence our happiness. In many cases they have helped their owners deal with loss and hardships, even helping them fight depression. Some psychologists have even recommended the use of pets in therapy sessions, as petting a rabbit or playing with a dog raises the serotonin levels in our brain. Being greeted by an energetic dog or purring cat that is excited to see you can be very uplifting if you feel like the life just isnt going your way. This is why pets are also used in elderly homes, to help individuals feel less lonely and isolated.

Regardless of whether you face unemployment or divorce, your pet will continue to love you unconditionally; and it is precisely this love that keeps human beings healthy and happy.

About the Author

Andrew Mitchell, clinical director of the Osteopath Network, writes articles about musculo-skeletal conditions and Glasgow Osteopaths [http://www.osteopath-help.co.uk/osteopaths/cranial-osteopathy/uk/scotland/glasgow]. The Osteopath Network has more than 550 clinics located throughout the UK and offers treatment at weekends and after hours.

Understanding Your Cats Behavior by Julia Sage

People often fail when they try to train their cat. The main reason for this is failure to understand how your cat thinks. Cats and dogs do not think a like, yet many will use the same techniques for dog training with their cat.

Cats do not respond positively to yelling or physical punishment. This only causes your cat to think you are an unsafe person, and adds mistrust to your relationship. In fact, most cats, being of a stubborn and dominate nature will refuse to cower down, as a dog might when you raise your voice. Their naughty behavior may escalate, or cause your cat to become aggressive.

Cats respond to positive and negative consequences. Make sure though that the negative consequences are attached to the behavior and not to you. Reward positive behavior, no reward for negative behavior teaches your cat to behave better.

By nature, cats are creatures of habit. They respond much better when they are on a set schedule and their environment stays the same. Something as simple as moving the furniture or adding a new piece of furniture can send your cat into a frenzy.

Cats will spend a lot of time each day marking their environment with their friendly pheromones by rubbing their faces on things. This adds their scent throughout the house and helps them feel safe in their environment. Understand that when you move furniture or bring in a new piece of furniture, your cat has an instinctual need to remark his/her territory in order to feel safe again. This scent is not the same as when a male cat sprays to attract a female cat. They are simply putting their friendly scent on things so it is familiar to them once again.

A common reaction for adults when their cat begins to rub up against new furniture is to chase the little critter away and sometimes start yelling. Unless your cat is clawing at the furniture, they will not damage your furniture by rubbing against it.

If you are concerned that your cat will get your furniture dirty somehow, it is safe to bathe a cat once a month, sometimes more often if they go outside and get all muddy from the rain. Some people think bathing a cat will cause the cats to quit cleaning themselves. This generally happens when it is done in access. You may want to use a natural bath solution, so your cat is not ingesting chemicals when they lick themselves dry. Or you could use a dry bath if your cat turns into psycho kitty when they get wet. You can use baking soda for a dry bath. Just rub it into their coat, wait a few minutes, and then brush it off.

Understanding how your cat thinks, and their nature will help you have better results in attempting to train them. It will also help you bond more with your animal friend, and lead to a more fulfilled relationship for years to come.

About the Author

Cats are wonderful companions when we understand their nature and how to provide the care that they need. Learn how you can get your cat to be more affectionate and behave better by visiting:
http://healthycat.blogspot.com

Choosing the Perfect Kitten Name

So you bring home your brand new kitten for the very first time. You're looking forward to all the wonderful years ahead with your beloved new pet. You have everything she needs: Food, water, toys to play with, a litter box, and a bed to sleep in. But does she have a name yet?

It's not difficult to choose names for kittens, but you'll want to bear a few things in mind. To begin with, your kitten isn't going to stay a kitten forever. She will grow up to be a cat. If you focus too much on the way she is now as a kitten, you might choose a name that she'll soon outgrow. So think ahead. Is Tiny going to be the best name for your kitten five years from now? What if she puts on some weight and becomes a 15 pound cat?

Your kitten's appearance may help determine the name. For example, if you have an orange kitten, you might call her Ginger, Tabby, Cinnamon, Spice, or Sandy. If you have a grey kitten, you could choose a name like Ash, Soot, Dusk, Dusty, or Silver. If you have a fluffball of a kitten, perhaps Furball should be her name.

And then there is your kitten's personality to consider. Does your kitten run so fast through your house that all you see is a flash of fur? You might call her Zoom or Flash. A nervous, shy kitten might need a name like Mouse or Ghost. If you have a kitten that does all kinds of silly antics, you might decide to call her Clown or Jester.

You could also pick names from history. Plato and Aristotle are very dignified names for an intelligent male kitten. Or you might enjoying naming your kitten after famous fictional characters, such as Sherlock Holmes or Cinderella.

The perfect name just might occur to you all of a sudden while you're watching your kitten. If your kitten's favorite toy is a ball of yarn, maybe you decide Yarn is the best name for her. If your kitten's favorite box used to be filled with pippin apples, you might call her Pippin.

When it comes to picking out names for kittens, there is no right or wrong way to do it. The important thing is taking your time to choose a name for your kitten that you'll be happy with for years to come.

About the Author

Catherine L. Conway is a freelance writer who loves cats. If you want more ideas on what to name your kitten, be sure to visit her site at http://kittykittennames.com [http://kittykittennames.com/]