Health and Behavior

Health and Behavior in Cats

Most of the "help!" emails I receive are about either health or behavior problems in cats. Readers are often surprised that sometimes there is a connection between the two. Learn more here about the factors related to cats' health as well as how to troubleshoot and manage typical feline behavioral problems in cats.

Common Preventable Diseases

The sad fact is that every year thousands of cats die from communicable diseases that could have been prevented, either by vaccines or by keeping them away from other cats that are potential sources of these infections. Learn more about the most virulent of these infectious diseases.

Factors That Contribute to Feline Disease

Aside from letting cats roam free, other factors are present that can either cause or exacerbate the possibility of your cat acquiring a serious disease or condition. Diet is a large factor, as are heredity, aging, and contact with other cats. To learn more, read further.

Managing Chronic Disease in Cats

While infectious diseases can usually be cured with antibiotics, chronic diseases in cats require long-term teamwork with your veterinarian. Much of the management of conditions will fall to you. Although daunting at first, you will find with training from your veterinary staff and a little practice, you'll soon be giving insulin injections or administering subcutaneous fluids like an expert.

Other Potentially Serious Conditions

Probably the most potentially serious condition is FLUTD, often caused by acidic urine. The very first thing your vet will check for suspected urinary tract problems is your cat's urine pH.

While fleas or hairballs may be considered only an annoyance by some cat owners, the reality is that both of them have the potential for causing painful and serious problems. Other conditions such as constipation, anal gland impaction, and dental disease have equally potential for serious results.

Veterinary Care & Pet Health Insurance

Your cat will need veterinary care a number of times during the course of his life, from his initial kitten exam and shots, to spaying/neutering, to routine care as he ages. Accidents and serious illness also require veterinary attention, sometimes in a vet E/R setting. As your cat ages he will encounter those diseases and conditions that go along with advancing years.

Behavior & Training

I have always maintained that there is no such thing as a "bad" cat. Cats rarely, if ever, commit breaches of good behavior without reason. Once undesirable habits are ingrained in a cat, behavioral modification is possible. It takes some detective work on your part, patience, and a great deal of love, but you can help your cat if you try.

Care of Your Cat

Before you Get Your First Cat

Getting a cat for the first time involves a lot more than just picking one out. Cats are not necessarily the self-sufficient creatures some people think, and you need to be take several things into consideration before making the monumental move of sharing your home with a cat.

Caring for a Kitten from Birth to One Year

With these articles, I've given you all the tools you need to ensure that your kitten gets the very best care you can give her. From birth to one year, you will learn how to groom her, feed her, and play with her. All of these activities are bonding experiences, and your reward will be a lifetime of devoted companionship with your cat.

The Maintenance Years

Although some breeds of cats, such as Maine Coons, do not reach "adulthood" until after two or more years, most cats can be considered adults after one year. By now you will know your cat's basic personality, his likes and dislikes. (Believe me, he'll let you know.) Bonding continues to be important, and your continued good care will strengthen your cat's trust in you, which is vital to your relationship.

Senior Cats Deserve Golden Years

Much like human senior citizens, geriatric cats need a bit more attention and help from their caretakers in order to enjoy the quality of life they deserve.

Care of a Pregnant Cat

Whether your female cat slipped out and the result is an "oops" litter, or a pregnant cat presented herself (or was dumped) at your door, you may need help with managing her pregnancy. This section covers the gamut of reproduction in cats, from the act of mating to helping with the birthing process and even help in finding permanent homes for the resultant kittens.

Cat Breeds

The world of cats is a fascinating study in history, and it is no wonder that people flock to cat shows to see an infinite variety of cat breeds. Learn more about the profiles and history of cat breeds, as well as the role of genetics in color patterns.

Cat Food & Nutrition

"You are what you eat" is just as applicable to cats as to humans. I firmly believe that next to regular veterinary care, nutrition is the most important facet of a healthy, long life for cats. Tools are provided here for learning to read and understand cat food labels, along with articles, cat food reviews, and my suggestions for the best cat foods.

You and Your Cat

If you are like most other cat lovers, you consider your cat as a member of your family and already have developed a deep bond.

Bonding with another being, whether human or four-legged, soon evolves into a tapestry of intertwining souls. The unique bond between cats and humans is awesome to behold and even more incredible to experience. You may even be coping with cat allergies, but your cat's companionship is something you don't want to give up. There's help here, too, for that, so don't be discouraged.