what a great battle!
Cats need to scratch because scratching is a natural part of cats' instinctive grooming habits. Unfortunately, scratching can also be annoying for cat owners because cats often damage furniture, curtains or other property. Additionally, many cat owners worry that their cat's claws may carry germs – and it is true that a cat's claws can be a great medium for bacteria and viruses.
Some people address these issues by declawing their cats, which is the removal of the cats' claws. However, most people who elect to declaw do not realize the seriousness of the procedure: Cats' claws are directly attached to muscle, so declawing can be compared to the amputation of the half of the cat's toes.
Cat's claws are an essential part of the animal's anatomy:
- Claws help the cat walk, run, and spring
- Claws are cats' main protection when they feel threatened
- Removing its claws is very tough on a cat, and it may find it hard to resume its normal activities after being declawed
- Declawing renders cats defenseless in the face of attacks
- Declawing is very painful
- Declawed cats may develop infection and bleeding problems.
So, before you decide to declaw your cat, think about it very carefully and think about alternatives:
- Scratching may be resolved through scratching posts
- Your cat's claws can be made less dangerous with plastic covering
- You can also enroll your cat in a cat training school, especially if your cat is young enough.
Declawing is very extreme measure. It will hurt your cat more than you can imagine.
First published at http://www.guide2pets.com/p1_articles_cats_declawing.php
More pet articles and information at http://www.guide2pets.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Tanna
Read more
Some people address these issues by declawing their cats, which is the removal of the cats' claws. However, most people who elect to declaw do not realize the seriousness of the procedure: Cats' claws are directly attached to muscle, so declawing can be compared to the amputation of the half of the cat's toes.
Cat's claws are an essential part of the animal's anatomy:
- Claws help the cat walk, run, and spring
- Claws are cats' main protection when they feel threatened
- Removing its claws is very tough on a cat, and it may find it hard to resume its normal activities after being declawed
- Declawing renders cats defenseless in the face of attacks
- Declawing is very painful
- Declawed cats may develop infection and bleeding problems.
So, before you decide to declaw your cat, think about it very carefully and think about alternatives:
- Scratching may be resolved through scratching posts
- Your cat's claws can be made less dangerous with plastic covering
- You can also enroll your cat in a cat training school, especially if your cat is young enough.
Declawing is very extreme measure. It will hurt your cat more than you can imagine.
First published at http://www.guide2pets.com/p1_articles_cats_declawing.php
More pet articles and information at http://www.guide2pets.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Tanna
Toilet training your cat is easily done. There are a few exceptions. There are cats who just won't, because they don't want to. Cats are relatively easy to toilet train - most of the time. However, there is always the exception to the rule, the little kitty rebel who refuses to conform to the structure of society, albeit it is a severely limited society consisting of you, the rest of the family, other pets and the house that you share with your cat.
Still, this is his society and if he gets it into his little kitty mind to rebel, it will be a challenge to convince him to conform. Let's face it, when you go head to head with a cat you have some serious work on your hands.
There is a positive side to a stubborn cat. Cats are naturally driven to eliminate in the same area all the time. So, as a smart cat owner you will be able to use this fact to make them litter box free, and toilet trained. That's right no more litter box cleaning, or smell. This also makes it so your cat is less likely to venture elsewhere.
Creative kitty can find many other places to do their business. They may use your couch, your dirty laundry, or even a basket of clean laundry, and once they find these alternatives, it's hard to convince them to use anything else. However, if your cat uses the toilet, it is less likely for them to regress to these tactics.
It is recommended that you toilet train your cat when it is a kitten, however, it is very possible to train an adult cat. You start by putting kitty in a kennel while sleeping at night, and right when they are able to leave the kennel in the morning, take them directly to the litter box, and place them in it. Then, do this every time they eat a meal, nap, or you can see them sniffing for a place to do their business.
Once Kitty uses the litter box once, it will be drawn to the scent and realize that it has a purpose. Yes, start with the litter box, but keep the litter box next to the toilet. Begin slipping phone books or other items to raise it about two inches each day until it is level with the toilet.
Now, it is crucial when toilet training that you as the owner stick to a few habits yourself. You have to leave the toilet lid up, the toilet seat down, and make sure to leave the bathroom door open. This makes moving around the toilet easy and accessible. When the day comes that the litter box is level with the toilet, kitty will probably be using the toilet to get to their litter box. It is important to remember to stay at a pace that your cat is comfortable with.
Move the litter box over the toilet for a few days until the cat gets used to this then remove the litter box altogether. Some cats go straight to the toilet from there, but you may need to add a stage. Use a metal mixing bowl with a little litter and place it under the toilet seat. As the cat uses the "bowl" keep an eye on her. Begin placing her feet in the proper places (outside of the bowl and on the seat area) and praise her when she does it properly.
Have a cat behavior problem that needs solving? If so, you'll want to visit http://www.secretsofcats.com today to get expert information on how to train your cat and eliminate cat problems quickly.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathrynn_Kelley
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Still, this is his society and if he gets it into his little kitty mind to rebel, it will be a challenge to convince him to conform. Let's face it, when you go head to head with a cat you have some serious work on your hands.
There is a positive side to a stubborn cat. Cats are naturally driven to eliminate in the same area all the time. So, as a smart cat owner you will be able to use this fact to make them litter box free, and toilet trained. That's right no more litter box cleaning, or smell. This also makes it so your cat is less likely to venture elsewhere.
Creative kitty can find many other places to do their business. They may use your couch, your dirty laundry, or even a basket of clean laundry, and once they find these alternatives, it's hard to convince them to use anything else. However, if your cat uses the toilet, it is less likely for them to regress to these tactics.
It is recommended that you toilet train your cat when it is a kitten, however, it is very possible to train an adult cat. You start by putting kitty in a kennel while sleeping at night, and right when they are able to leave the kennel in the morning, take them directly to the litter box, and place them in it. Then, do this every time they eat a meal, nap, or you can see them sniffing for a place to do their business.
Once Kitty uses the litter box once, it will be drawn to the scent and realize that it has a purpose. Yes, start with the litter box, but keep the litter box next to the toilet. Begin slipping phone books or other items to raise it about two inches each day until it is level with the toilet.
Now, it is crucial when toilet training that you as the owner stick to a few habits yourself. You have to leave the toilet lid up, the toilet seat down, and make sure to leave the bathroom door open. This makes moving around the toilet easy and accessible. When the day comes that the litter box is level with the toilet, kitty will probably be using the toilet to get to their litter box. It is important to remember to stay at a pace that your cat is comfortable with.
Move the litter box over the toilet for a few days until the cat gets used to this then remove the litter box altogether. Some cats go straight to the toilet from there, but you may need to add a stage. Use a metal mixing bowl with a little litter and place it under the toilet seat. As the cat uses the "bowl" keep an eye on her. Begin placing her feet in the proper places (outside of the bowl and on the seat area) and praise her when she does it properly.
Have a cat behavior problem that needs solving? If so, you'll want to visit http://www.secretsofcats.com today to get expert information on how to train your cat and eliminate cat problems quickly.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathrynn_Kelley
Look at your tongue!
What in the what happen to you?
Hey.. that's my place!
We just wanna say I love you!
If your cat should suffer an accident such as being involved in a car accident or suddenly become ill then you could find the vet's fees are astronomical. Taking out cat cover for a premium each month would mean that you would get the financial help when needed and this does not just cover illness but can also protect against additional things.
By covering your pet with insurance, you would not have to struggle financially if it should need extensive treatment with a vet and with the cost of medication and x-rays rising, you could save yourself hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
Taking out pet protection can cover much more than just vets fees, there are many other ways you and your pet can benefit from having policy type. The level of cover will vary between policies so it is vital that you read the small print of any cover you are thinking about taking out and what is included in the product can be found in the small print.
Additional inclusions could be paying for boarding fees if you should have to board your cat, putting up a substantial reward for the recovery of your cat if they should get stolen, lost, or for accidental damage caused to another person's property.
Finding cheaper but value cat cover is critical and the best way to get access to some of cheap quotes is by going online with a specialist website. A specialist website will gather together budget quotes and best deals so you can then look them over including the key facts and make a decision regarding the best insurance cover for your cat.
Jason Hulott is Editor of My Pet Insurance Expert, please drop by for Cheap Cat Insurance and Insurance News. Visit http://www.myfinanceexpert.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hulott
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By covering your pet with insurance, you would not have to struggle financially if it should need extensive treatment with a vet and with the cost of medication and x-rays rising, you could save yourself hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
Taking out pet protection can cover much more than just vets fees, there are many other ways you and your pet can benefit from having policy type. The level of cover will vary between policies so it is vital that you read the small print of any cover you are thinking about taking out and what is included in the product can be found in the small print.
Additional inclusions could be paying for boarding fees if you should have to board your cat, putting up a substantial reward for the recovery of your cat if they should get stolen, lost, or for accidental damage caused to another person's property.
Finding cheaper but value cat cover is critical and the best way to get access to some of cheap quotes is by going online with a specialist website. A specialist website will gather together budget quotes and best deals so you can then look them over including the key facts and make a decision regarding the best insurance cover for your cat.
Jason Hulott is Editor of My Pet Insurance Expert, please drop by for Cheap Cat Insurance and Insurance News. Visit http://www.myfinanceexpert.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Hulott
Come on.. gimme that fish!
Play aggression
Aggression is an inherent aspect of your cat’s predatory nature: behaviors like stalking, chasing, leaping, pouncing, swatting, and biting are all common displays, and are always a major component of any play session.
Usually, this doesn’t constitute a problem: it’s just how cats play, and catering to your cat’s predatory whims can be pretty fun!
But when your cat becomes play aggressive, things can get very uncomfortable, very quickly: faced with a cat that doesn’t understand that such play is painful and even dangerous for her owner, playtimes with your cat can become a trial rather than a pleasure.
This problem is the number-one most common form of aggression that cats display towards humans. It happens when a bored, underexercised, and lonely cat becomes overstimulated during play â€" and typical play-time mock aggression becomes the real deal.
How do cats normally play?
Cats play in two ways: social (or interactive) play, which is directed towards other cats and humans; and solitary play, which is directed towards objects like balled up paper, mobile cat toys, and paper bags.
Play aggression is often present in either of these two modes of play, but it only becomes an issue when people are involved.
What causes play aggression?
Play aggression happens when your cat has an excess of unused energy â€" usually from a lack of exercise and owner interaction â€" and, as a result, becomes too rambunctious and vigorous during a play session.
Because all cat play is based around the predatory feline nature, an overstimulated cat vents this excess through an intensification of her normal predatory play: so, instead of swatting at you with claws sheathed, she extends them; instead of mouthing your hand, she gives it a sharp bite.
Unfortunately, the problem is usually self-replicating. The cat is play-aggressive because she’s not getting enough stimulating, interactive play time; but because she demonstrates this behavior whenever she gets played with, her owner plays with her less … which results in more play aggression … which results in even less play … and so on.
How can I tell when my cat’s about to become aggressive?
You can often tell when the play’s getting a bit out of control by paying attention to your cat’s body language and expression.
Normal, non-aggressive feline play behavior includes the ‘play face’, with a half-open mouth and heavily lidded eyes; the sideways hop (often with arched back); and a lightly switching tail (it’s going from side to side, but slowly and gently.)
When your cat’s getting too revved-up, her body language will alter dramatically. Her ears will go back, her tail will start lashing violently from side to side, and her pupils will enlarge. Her movements will also become significantly more vigorous and energetic: there’ll be increased speed and force to her playing.
What should I do when I sense things are getting out of control?
If you think your cat’s getting overexcited, the best thing you can do is to stand up and walk away â€" before she actually starts to display aggression! You can resume play as soon as she’s calmed down a bit; the idea is to intervene before she has the chance to vent her energy on you.
If it’s too late for this and she’s already started to bite or scratch at you, don’t reward her with attention â€" not even negative attention. Simply stand up and walk away. Leave the room, if necessary.
At this point, she will most likely try to initiate play with you again. When she does, don’t respond â€" play initiation is dominant behavior, and if you accede to her demands, it’ll teach her that bothering you for attention results in her getting her own way.
If she’s particularly persistent, or the aggresion is becoming hard to deal with, you can isolate her in a room by herself until she’s calm (which can take anywhere from five to twenty minutes.)
Main do’s and don’ts for play aggression
- Remember, your cat isn’t really trying to ‘attack’ you â€" her intentions are purely playful. She just has to learn that aggressive behavior isn’t going to result in a rewarding play session for her. In order for her to learn this, you need to be consistent with your reactions: so don’t reward her with attention sometimes, and ignore her at other times. She’ll get confused, and won’t learn to curb her aggressive behavior.
- Don’t ever use physical punishment to correct play aggression. There are two reasons for this: one, if you actually hurt your cat, this will result in increased aggression on her behalf; and two, even if it doesn’t hurt, it’s still going to scare her, which results in owner-avoidance and a general deterioration of your relationship.
- Since play aggression is almost always due to boredom and an excess of energy, the best thing you can do is to provide lots of opportunities for stimulating interactive play with your cat. Try to make it aerobic exercise: get her running around, chasing things, climbing, pouncing, and so on.
- Make sure the play is on your terms. Don’t allow your cat to initiate play â€" this is habit-forming, and teaches her that you can be manipulated.
- If you find it difficult to make the time to play with your cat, scheduling in a couple of set ten-minute playtimes each day might help. Paying attention to your cat’s circadian rhythms (watching to see when she’s the most active) is a good idea as well: play with her when she’s wide-awake and raring to go. She’ll get more out of it.
What toys should I use?
Cats are predators. Their play is instinctively based around behaviors that will increase their ability to hunt.
Because of this, cats prefer toys that resemble prey â€" that is, small, mobile objects that move.
Try things like ping-pong balls, scrumpled-up paper, cardboard boxes, paper bags, dangling ropes affixed to the ceiling or doorways, scratching posts, and skeins of yarn for solitary play; and fake mice, cat dancers (like a mobile which you dangle and jerk around for your cat to play with), wands, and anything that rolls which you can toss for her for interactive play.
If she likes to climb and explore, you can also try creating an obstacle course for her to enjoy: rig up some branches, pillars, shelves, perches, and climbing ramps etc for her to clamber around on. Most cats enjoy being up high anyway, so this should go down a treat. You can also try hiding some small, tasty treats in various places to encourage her to get climbing.
For a really detailed look at how to deal with your cat’s behavior problems, take a look at Complete Cat Training. It’s a cutting-edge cat training manual that’s focused on training your cat and changing her behavior for the better.
For professional tips on transforming your cat’s behavior problems (as well as teaching her some pretty neat tricks, from sit and stay to roll over, play dead, and fetch!) Complete Cat Training comes very highly recommended.
Please Visit us at: http://hubpages.com/hub/Pictures-of-Cats-Doing-the-Funny-Things-They-Do
About the Author
You can visit the Complete Cat Training website by clicking on the link below: http://www.thecatwhisperer.info
Do you have any fur?
There... long there... in the star constellation...
Cat training is not always easy, but it is possible if you want to have a well trained cat that will add a lot of fun, joy and laughter to your family. A cat that is not properly trained will not understand what is acceptable and what is not, which is why cat training is so important to both the cat and his/her owner.
It is much easier to instill good habits on a kitten as opposed to an older cat, which is something that every cat owner should take into consideration prior to selecting a new addition to their family. It is thus best to begin your cat training as early as possible.
Well first, let us at some basic fundamentals when training your cat:
1) The bonding process is especially important while you attempt cat training.
2) It is important to remember that reprimands don't work well in cat training. This is a totally unacceptable method and instead of having a positive impact will have a negative impact.
3) Cat training tries to encourage good behavior and discourage bad behavior.
Now, let's look at some of the problems you may face as a cat owner and how to resolve them.
So is there any method to prevent or reduce scratching?
One method would be to spray some lemon juice on certain targeted areas where your cat is about to scratch. Another method is to use repellants instead. However, using repellants may not be a good way as your cat may be sensitive to them. Of course the cat will never stop scratching but using caps is also a good method to prevent damage when your cat scratches something. Cat training for indoor cats may also involve the implementation of a scratching post, which will prevent them from ruining furniture or carpet with their nails.
These are some of the house cat training methods to prevent your cat from scratching your favorite furniture or objects.
Another typical problem that many cat owners face is training them how to use the litterbox.
One method to train your cat will cover a period of several weeks during which the litterbox is elevated and moved until it is near the toilet. During this period, the litter can be suspended above the toilet using either a small bowl or box. At the end of this training period involving the toilet, the cat will be able to use the toilet by perching over the bowl.
Being a cat owner is not a one day process, it takes time and patience to train your cat to your ideal expectations but remember not to rush things as it will have a detrimental effect instead.
Albert recently developed a eCourse for looking after your cat's mental and physical needs. If you are interest in learning more about this free eCourse and taking good care of your cat, please go to http://catcentral.justastore.com or you can send an email to catcentral@getresponse.com to request for your free eCourse.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Albert_Tang
Read more
It is much easier to instill good habits on a kitten as opposed to an older cat, which is something that every cat owner should take into consideration prior to selecting a new addition to their family. It is thus best to begin your cat training as early as possible.
Well first, let us at some basic fundamentals when training your cat:
1) The bonding process is especially important while you attempt cat training.
2) It is important to remember that reprimands don't work well in cat training. This is a totally unacceptable method and instead of having a positive impact will have a negative impact.
3) Cat training tries to encourage good behavior and discourage bad behavior.
Now, let's look at some of the problems you may face as a cat owner and how to resolve them.
So is there any method to prevent or reduce scratching?
One method would be to spray some lemon juice on certain targeted areas where your cat is about to scratch. Another method is to use repellants instead. However, using repellants may not be a good way as your cat may be sensitive to them. Of course the cat will never stop scratching but using caps is also a good method to prevent damage when your cat scratches something. Cat training for indoor cats may also involve the implementation of a scratching post, which will prevent them from ruining furniture or carpet with their nails.
These are some of the house cat training methods to prevent your cat from scratching your favorite furniture or objects.
Another typical problem that many cat owners face is training them how to use the litterbox.
One method to train your cat will cover a period of several weeks during which the litterbox is elevated and moved until it is near the toilet. During this period, the litter can be suspended above the toilet using either a small bowl or box. At the end of this training period involving the toilet, the cat will be able to use the toilet by perching over the bowl.
Being a cat owner is not a one day process, it takes time and patience to train your cat to your ideal expectations but remember not to rush things as it will have a detrimental effect instead.
Albert recently developed a eCourse for looking after your cat's mental and physical needs. If you are interest in learning more about this free eCourse and taking good care of your cat, please go to http://catcentral.justastore.com or you can send an email to catcentral@getresponse.com to request for your free eCourse.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Albert_Tang
just kidding bro!
Genes account for things like eye colouring, colour of the coat, physical characteristics and sex determination.
Rex is the name given to gene mutations which are responsible for the guard hairs on the coat to be missing. The Rex cat has only the curly undercoat hair present. This breed of cat first made an appearance in Cornwall, England. The name of this cat was Cornish Rex. Then, just a few years later, in Devon, a kitten was born, from a litter of foreign-type kittens. This gene mutation gave life to the Devon Rex.
Where the Cornish Rex is warm and soft to the touch and has a slightly woolly feeling coat, the Devon Rex has a closer coat which feels more crisp and short. In the beginning, the coat of the Devon Rex was sparse and not very nice looking, but gradually, overtime, cat breeders have managed to eliminate this feature and now it has an adequate covering making it that little bit more attractive!
Cat breeders are now able to transfer the Rex coat to any colour or type of cat, and so although there are two standard types of Rex, any other breed can be produced with the typical wavy coat with the guard hair missing. The standard for Russian Blue cats set out by the American Cat Fanciers Association, states that it is a dainty cat distinct from all other breeds with its soft, lustrious, bright blue double coat, and that handling it feels like running a silk scarf through your hands.
For more information on Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, please visit http://www.allthingskittycat.blogspot.com Also, please visit http://www.holistic-life-living.com for information on herbal remedies for your pets!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Loretta_Kay
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Rex is the name given to gene mutations which are responsible for the guard hairs on the coat to be missing. The Rex cat has only the curly undercoat hair present. This breed of cat first made an appearance in Cornwall, England. The name of this cat was Cornish Rex. Then, just a few years later, in Devon, a kitten was born, from a litter of foreign-type kittens. This gene mutation gave life to the Devon Rex.
Where the Cornish Rex is warm and soft to the touch and has a slightly woolly feeling coat, the Devon Rex has a closer coat which feels more crisp and short. In the beginning, the coat of the Devon Rex was sparse and not very nice looking, but gradually, overtime, cat breeders have managed to eliminate this feature and now it has an adequate covering making it that little bit more attractive!
Cat breeders are now able to transfer the Rex coat to any colour or type of cat, and so although there are two standard types of Rex, any other breed can be produced with the typical wavy coat with the guard hair missing. The standard for Russian Blue cats set out by the American Cat Fanciers Association, states that it is a dainty cat distinct from all other breeds with its soft, lustrious, bright blue double coat, and that handling it feels like running a silk scarf through your hands.
For more information on Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, please visit http://www.allthingskittycat.blogspot.com Also, please visit http://www.holistic-life-living.com for information on herbal remedies for your pets!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Loretta_Kay
Back off! Drive Now! This is my personal car!
Cute cat... with yellow eyes...
What a nice poem...
Sorry... time out!
Sun bathing? I don't think so...
Shut up man!
- Training Your Cat -
When most people think about animal obedience work, cats aren’t usually the first candidates to spring to mind.
We tend to associate cats with words like aloof, independent, and laid back â€" they seem to focus on doing what they want, pretty much as and when they feel like it.
You might be excused for thinking that this isn’t really ideal training material!
However â€" there’s an ever-increasing number of people who are deriving a great deal of pleasure from training their cats in basic and advanced obedience work and tricks (from sit, stay, come to jumping through hoops, twirling, and high-fiving) - and what’s more, they’re convinced that their cats enjoy it, too!
The benefits of training your cat
Just because cats typically lead solitary, individual lives doesn’t mean that they necessarily want to do so.
In fact, many cats are incredibl affectionate and loving by nature â€" they just need you to demonstrate your leadership and initiate the rapport-building process.
Cats are often underestimated when it comes to the training process, simply because the average owner has very little need to attempt any sort of training at all. Unlike with dogs (whose ability to learn is very well documented) there’s no need to train cats in the basics of pet protocol like house training and bathing.
Consequently, relatively few people are aware of their cat’s abilities in this area.
Training your cat is a fantastic way to enrich your cat’s life:
- It builds a strong rapport between you and your cat - Because training underlines your authority (your cat has to do what you want to get what he wants), it helps to curb dominant behavior - It keeps your cat’s mind active and stimulated - It’s great interactive play, and teaches good social skills - Anxious and highly-strung cats are reassured and soothed by the repetition and routine of training
So how do I train my cat?
There are two popular methods of training a cat: target training and clicker training. A brief rundown of each:
- Target training is where you attract your cat’s attention and then obtain desired behaviors through the use of a designated tool. For example, during the ‘beg’ command, a particular target training tool called a training wand is used to attract the cat’s attention upwards, and to encourage the cat to rise up on his haunches and ‘beg’.
- Clicker training is a form of operant conditioning (which is where the animal is taught to form a conscious association between a specific behavior and a result.) A small mechanical noise-maker (the ‘clicker’) is used by the trainer to create a short, distinct noise. The clicker is clicked at the precise moment that the cat performs a desired behavior â€" for example, during ‘sit’, the clicker is clicked at the very instant that the cat’s bottom touches the ground. Directly after the click, the cat is fed a small and tasty treat. With repetition, the cat grows to associate the click with the food, and recognizes his own ability to earn treats by performing the desired action on command. The clicker is a particularly valued training tool because it allows the trainer to pinpoint the exact behavior that’s being rewarded: without the clicker, it’s too easy for the cat to form associations between the treat and a completely unrelated behavior (since it’s impossible to feed the cat a treat at the precise moment that he’s performing a trick.)
Practical tips for training your cat
- Remember to be patient. Your cat is an individual, with his own abilities and preferences. He will pick up some tricks quickly, but may struggle with others. Make allowances for his personality, and don’t lose your temper if it doesn’t go exactly according to schedule.
- If you’re free-feeding your cat (leaving food out at all times for him to eat as and when he feels like it), stop doing this. Enforcing a feeding schedule has two main benefits: it increases the reward-value of food treats as training devices, and also introduces a semblance of routine into your cat’s life (which, believe it or not, most cats actually prefer.)
- Train smart. If you’re using food treats (which is highly recommended to achieve the desired results) then schedule training sessions for just before mealtimes: your cat’s natural desire for food at his regular mealtime will sharpen his focus and increase his desire to obey you (so he can get a treat.) - Take baby steps. When training your cat, it’s best to build up a solid foundation of the basics before attempting to expand his repertoire.
- Cats have pretty short attention spans, and low boredom thresholds. Keep lessons short and interesting â€" and always try to end on a positive note.
An example of successful cat training in action
Training your cat to ‘sit’ on command
‘Sit’ is a great basic command for your cat to know, because it serves as the foundation for a number of other, more advanced tricks and commands (for example, ‘stay’, ‘beg’, and ‘high five’.)
- Make your training wand extra-effective by smearing the tip in a little tuna oil, and use it to attract your cat’s attention (wave it around, trail it past his face, etc.)
- Once he’s come over to you, place the wand just over his head, so that it’s slightly behind the crown of his head.
- He will tilt his head back to keep his eyes on it. When he does this, he will naturally sit down (since otherwise, his neck can’t bend back far enough to allow him to keep watching the training wand.)
- As he sits down, say the word ‘Sit’, which will be the verbal cue for this command (your cat will grow to associate the command with the act of sitting, and eventually will learn to sit down whenever you ask him to.)
- As soon as his bottom touches the ground, click the clicker. It’s important that you time this precisely.
- Directly after clicking, give him a small food treat. Make sure it’s cut up very small â€" if it takes him more than two seconds to eat it, he’ll forget why you gave it to him.
- Repeat this process a few more times, and over the next few weeks, keep doing so until he’s comfortable with what’s expected of him. When he’s able to sit down on command, you can phase the clicker out â€" but still give treats sporadically (interestingly, if you treat every single time that he performs a command, he’s actually less likely to reliably obey that command. Keeping him on his toes seems to increase the likelihood of obedience!)
About the Author
To visit the Complete Cat Training website, click the link below: http://www.thecatwhisperer.info
I'm here brother...
There are so many wonderful games you can play with your cat. A few tips before starting: If your cat accidentally hurts you, let them know your disapproval by saying "ouch!" or "no!" and quit playing with them for half an hour or more. If you do this consistently, they will learn to be more gentle with you. Don’t take play to the point where they are very scared of an object or of you. Choose a couple of sounds to use during some games and they will learn that the sound means it’s game time. This lets you make fake threatening sounds and they will know they are safe. Choose a word or sound to let them know when you are done playing, too, so they won’t attack your hands while you are doing something else or trying to sleep.
A classic cat game is to have them "hunt for burrowing mice." Just run your hand underneath a blanket and let them pounce on top.
Most cats can’t seem to resist a brown paper shopping bag left on the floor, but if yours need a little enticing, try scratching your finger at the back of the bag when they are near the opening.
Fishing poles make great toys. All you need is a stick, a string, and some small, soft, bauble at the end like a knotted handkerchief or a stuffed mouse toy.
Showdown is a game for a confrontational cat, once they know they can trust you. It’s best played once they know your signal of when to stop and how to be gentle. When they are batting at your legs or otherwise in a hunting mood, wave your arms up and down in front of them and make your playful fake fighting sounds. Don’t frighten them, and watch that they don’t get too serious, and it can be a fun game for both of you.
Similarly, you can play, "en garde!" Find some object like a ruler or a pencil or hairbrush. That and their paws are the foils in your swordplay.
If you want to get fancy, find a small laser pointer and watch your cat go wild trying to catch the dot of light. Do not let them stare directly into the laser source, but you can point the dot to a wall, or it’s particularly fun if you can sit in a position where you can point the laser from one end of the house to the other and back and forth. You won’t get tired, but they will get lots of exercise!
Cats love being in the same room with you, and are sometimes waiting for your return just on the other side of a closed door. If there is a gap under the door, try poking a pencil or some other object underneath and see if paws appear when you pull it back.
Social network users, click for myspace comments such as compliments, cool comments, love, flirty, birthday, holidays, religion, funny, cute, etc. You can also use myspace graphics. If you love Halloween, click Myspace Halloween Graphics to send to your friends and add to your profile.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=CD_Mohatta
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A classic cat game is to have them "hunt for burrowing mice." Just run your hand underneath a blanket and let them pounce on top.
Most cats can’t seem to resist a brown paper shopping bag left on the floor, but if yours need a little enticing, try scratching your finger at the back of the bag when they are near the opening.
Fishing poles make great toys. All you need is a stick, a string, and some small, soft, bauble at the end like a knotted handkerchief or a stuffed mouse toy.
Showdown is a game for a confrontational cat, once they know they can trust you. It’s best played once they know your signal of when to stop and how to be gentle. When they are batting at your legs or otherwise in a hunting mood, wave your arms up and down in front of them and make your playful fake fighting sounds. Don’t frighten them, and watch that they don’t get too serious, and it can be a fun game for both of you.
Similarly, you can play, "en garde!" Find some object like a ruler or a pencil or hairbrush. That and their paws are the foils in your swordplay.
If you want to get fancy, find a small laser pointer and watch your cat go wild trying to catch the dot of light. Do not let them stare directly into the laser source, but you can point the dot to a wall, or it’s particularly fun if you can sit in a position where you can point the laser from one end of the house to the other and back and forth. You won’t get tired, but they will get lots of exercise!
Cats love being in the same room with you, and are sometimes waiting for your return just on the other side of a closed door. If there is a gap under the door, try poking a pencil or some other object underneath and see if paws appear when you pull it back.
Social network users, click for myspace comments such as compliments, cool comments, love, flirty, birthday, holidays, religion, funny, cute, etc. You can also use myspace graphics. If you love Halloween, click Myspace Halloween Graphics to send to your friends and add to your profile.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=CD_Mohatta
Even though cats are very clean animals, which clean themselves several times a day, it does not mean that they do not need your help. Cats need a good grooming session to keep their hair in good condition and to remove any dirt that is in their fur. Grooming also helps spread natural oils through your cat's hair and keep it tangle free.
You will need to get your cat accustomed to being brush and having its nails trimmed, so it is best to start when it is a kitten. Cats with long hair need to be brushed every day, but for short-haired cats, once a week is enough.
Grooming should be something that both master and cat should be able to enjoy, and not a chore, so the best time is when both of you are in a good and relaxed mood. Grooming sessions can last between 10 and 30 minutes, and you should take into consideration how your cat is feeling. If your cat is not enjoying the grooming session then it is okay to cut it short for the day.
Trimming your cat's nails is a very important task, and again it is easiest if you start when the cat is still a kitten. You do not spend as much time on your cat's nails, as you would brushing your cat. You could perhaps do one paw at a time so as to keep your cat at ease. Rewarding your pet with a treat after the session is a great idea. If you feel unsure how to trim your cat's nails then ask your vet to show you how to do it.
Your cat will feel happier and healthier if you groom it regularly, and the grooming process can also bring master and cat closer to get. If you fail to groom your pet regularly and properly, you will need to spend money on taking your cat to the vets or a cat groomer. So, all things considered, grooming your cat yourself is definitely worth the effort.
By S. Tanna. First published at http://www.guide2pets.com/p1_articles_cats_grooming.php
Discover more pet articles, info and shopping at http://www.guide2pets.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Tanna
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You will need to get your cat accustomed to being brush and having its nails trimmed, so it is best to start when it is a kitten. Cats with long hair need to be brushed every day, but for short-haired cats, once a week is enough.
Grooming should be something that both master and cat should be able to enjoy, and not a chore, so the best time is when both of you are in a good and relaxed mood. Grooming sessions can last between 10 and 30 minutes, and you should take into consideration how your cat is feeling. If your cat is not enjoying the grooming session then it is okay to cut it short for the day.
Trimming your cat's nails is a very important task, and again it is easiest if you start when the cat is still a kitten. You do not spend as much time on your cat's nails, as you would brushing your cat. You could perhaps do one paw at a time so as to keep your cat at ease. Rewarding your pet with a treat after the session is a great idea. If you feel unsure how to trim your cat's nails then ask your vet to show you how to do it.
Your cat will feel happier and healthier if you groom it regularly, and the grooming process can also bring master and cat closer to get. If you fail to groom your pet regularly and properly, you will need to spend money on taking your cat to the vets or a cat groomer. So, all things considered, grooming your cat yourself is definitely worth the effort.
By S. Tanna. First published at http://www.guide2pets.com/p1_articles_cats_grooming.php
Discover more pet articles, info and shopping at http://www.guide2pets.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Tanna
Only for my cute cat
Did you know you can potty train your cat?
That's right folks , you can potty train your cat to go in the toilet.
1. Start with putting the litter box in front of the toilet.
2. Next start lifting the litter box slowly off the ground with books or something.
3. Make sure the litter box is secured with tape so it does not fall over.
4. Once your cat is comfortable with going in the litter box next to the toilet then you can go to the next step.
5. At this time you put the litter box on top of the toilet with the lid to the toilet closed.
6. When you see your cat is comfortable with step 5 then you can take a colander and put litter in it.
7. Secure the colander under both toilet lids with tape (strong tape) the colander has to be big enough to stay secure on/in the toilet with the tape.
8. As you do this start off with alot of litter in the colander.
9. Gradually lessen the litter in the colander.
10. Eventually once your cat is comfortable try removing all the litter from the colander.
11. If your cat is still doing well after a few days remove the colander from the toilet. You should have a potty trained cat.
Please note if at any time between steps you feel you need to repeat a step its ok, just be patient with your cat. Sometimes some cats in the process have accidents in other areas of the house just go back to the previous step for a few days then try again. Eventually your cat will catch on and then you can proceed. It is well worth the effort. You will save money on buying the litter and time having to clean it.
More on cat training, also visit http://www.fehlowdeal.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeannine_Fehlow
Read more
That's right folks , you can potty train your cat to go in the toilet.
1. Start with putting the litter box in front of the toilet.
2. Next start lifting the litter box slowly off the ground with books or something.
3. Make sure the litter box is secured with tape so it does not fall over.
4. Once your cat is comfortable with going in the litter box next to the toilet then you can go to the next step.
5. At this time you put the litter box on top of the toilet with the lid to the toilet closed.
6. When you see your cat is comfortable with step 5 then you can take a colander and put litter in it.
7. Secure the colander under both toilet lids with tape (strong tape) the colander has to be big enough to stay secure on/in the toilet with the tape.
8. As you do this start off with alot of litter in the colander.
9. Gradually lessen the litter in the colander.
10. Eventually once your cat is comfortable try removing all the litter from the colander.
11. If your cat is still doing well after a few days remove the colander from the toilet. You should have a potty trained cat.
Please note if at any time between steps you feel you need to repeat a step its ok, just be patient with your cat. Sometimes some cats in the process have accidents in other areas of the house just go back to the previous step for a few days then try again. Eventually your cat will catch on and then you can proceed. It is well worth the effort. You will save money on buying the litter and time having to clean it.
More on cat training, also visit http://www.fehlowdeal.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeannine_Fehlow
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