Caring for Kittens and Cats

You may have heard that cats have nine lives. Well, maybe that’s true, but one thing is for sure — your cat can have a long and healthy life with the proper care. There are many things to consider when caring for a cat, and we’ll cover them all.

Cats depend on people for everything they need…food, fresh water, a clean litter box, veterinary care, and, most important, affection and love.

Here are some essentials to keep your feline friend happy and safe…

Feeding

• Kittens from 6 to 12 weeks must eat four times a day.
• Kittens from three to six months need to be fed three times a day.
• Adult cats should be fed one large or two or three smaller meals each day. You can either feed specific meals, throwing away any leftover canned food after 30 minutes, (an alternative is to put unused canned food in a glass container with a lid, and keep in the refrigerator for a day or two)….or keep dry food available at all times. 

We recommend a high-quality, brand-name kitten or cat food – avoid generic brands.

You will need to provide fresh, clean water at all times, and wash and refill water bowls daily.

Generally, orphaned or hand-fed kittens can be offered moistened kitten food at about three weeks of age.

Use a commercial milk replacer to moisten the food, and gradually reduce the amount of milk replacer you use until the kittens are eating dry kitten food at about five or six weeks of age.

Although cat owners of old were told to give their pets a saucer of milk, cats do not easily digest cow’s milk, which can cause diarrhea in kittens and cats.

Treats are yummy for cats, but don’t go overboard. Most packaged treats contain lots of sugar and fat, which can pack on the pounds.

Some cats like fresh fruits and vegetables, like broccoli, or cantaloupe. You can offer these once in awhile.

If your kitten is refusing food or isn’t eating enough, try soaking her kitten food in warm water.

If that doesn’t work, kittens can be fed human baby food for a short time. Use turkey or chicken baby food without vegetables, made for children six months and older. Gradually mix with her regular food.

Kittens

After being born, kittens are totally dependent on their mother for survival and do not normally open their eyes until after seven to ten days.

After about two weeks, kittens quickly develop and begin to explore the world outside the nest. After a further three to four weeks, they begin to eat solid food and grow adult teeth. Kittens are highly social animals and enjoy human companionship.

About Hairballs

The best natural way to cure hairballs is to prevent them in the first place. Brush your furry friend daily, removing any excess loose hair from her coat. 

Without loose hair on her coat, when she grooms, there won’t be any matter to ingest. Plus, your kitty will appreciate the quality time spent with you and the help with her grooming. 

When your cat grooms herself, she ingests the loose hair from her coat. This hair builds up in her tummy to form balls of hair that she’ll then vomit up, usually on your favorite rug.

I personally recommend NUPRO® Health Nuggets for Cats. 

I’ve been using this product for over two decades and have found remarkable results with this amazing product.

It is a superior supplement formulated to provide your cat with the raw vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and omega fatty acids that may be lacking in commercially processed cat foods, which provides a strong immune system necessary to fight off diseases and virus’. 

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Housing

Your cat should have her own clean, dry place in your home to sleep and rest. Line your cat’s bed with a soft, warm blanket or towel. Be sure to wash the bedding often.

Please keep your cat indoors. Having a ledge or table near a window allows her to look outside. Make sure the window is securely closed with screens out of her reach.

Un-screened windows pose a real danger to cats, who fall out of them so often that the veterinary profession has a name for the complaint…High-Rise Syndrome.

Cats who are allowed outdoors can contract diseases, get ticks or parasites, become lost or get hit by a car, or get into fights with other free-roaming cats and dogs.

Litter Box

All indoor cats need a litter box, which should be placed in a quiet, accessible location.

A bathroom or utility room is a good place for your cat’s box. In a multi-level home, one box per floor is recommended.

Keep in mind that cats won’t use a messy, smelly litter box, so scoop solid wastes out of the box at least once a day.

Dump everything, wash with a mild detergent and refill at least once a week. You can do this less frequently if using clumping litter. Don’t use ammonia, Clorox, deodorants or scents, especially lemon, when cleaning the litter box.

Identification

If allowed outdoors (again, we caution against it!), your cat must wear a safety collar and an ID tag.

A safety collar with an elastic panel will allow your cat to break loose if the collar gets caught on something.

If your pet is indoors-only, an ID tag or an implanted microchip can help insure that your cat is returned if he or she becomes lost.

Spaying and Neutering

Some states have laws that state the age is four months, which is a good idea, because female cats can go into heat at four months of age. Most vets recommend fixing a pet around six months of age, so they’ll have a strong immune system as it’s major surgery, especially for females.

The most important thing to know about spaying and neutering is that it saves lives. In every community in the U.S. there are animals sitting in animal shelters waiting for homes.

There are numerous BENEFITS of spaying and neutering our pets, not only for them, but for their guardians, as well. Click here to find out these benefits before it’s too late.

Note: The longer kittens are with their mother, the better it is for the kitten and mom. Kittens should remain with their mother until the age of at least 8 weeks, preferably 12 weeks. Spay your kitty early enough so she doesn’t become a “teenage” mom.

YOU can help in the overpopulation of cats by Spaying and Neutering your cat(s).

Cats are the #1 pet to be euthanized in shelters because of over crowding.

If you adopted your cat from an animal Shelter, they are spayed and neutered before they are allowed to leave the facility.

Grooming

Most cats stay relatively clean and rarely need a bath, but you should brush or comb your cat regularly.

Frequent brushing helps keep your cat’s coat clean, reduces the amount of shedding and cuts down on the incidence of hairballs.

Handling

To pick up your cat, place one hand behind the front legs and another under the hindquarters. Lift gently. Never pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck or by the front legs.

Play

Make time to play and provide entertainment. Cats often entertain themselves, but regular play sessions with your pet will provide her with the physical and mental stimulation she needs and strengthen the bond you share.

Cats delight in stalking imaginary prey.

The best toys are those that can be made to jump and dance around and look alive.Your cat can safely act out her role as a predator by pouncing on toys instead of people’s ankles.

Please don’t use your hands or fingers as play objects with kittens. This type of rough play may cause biting and scratching behaviors to develop as your kitten matures.

Cat “condo’s” strengthen cats legs as they climb up and down the condo, which is great exercise for them and is a lot of fun for them – and you!

Throwing small cat balls or a toy is a great way for them to get exercise by running after them.

Many cat owners allow their kitty to play with yarn, which is not recommended. They can bite off small pieces of the yarn, which can get caught in their throat.

Play with your cat. Since physical activity can reduce stress, playing with your cat for 10 to 15 minutes twice a day may help both of you feel more relaxed.

RELATED:  How Kids Should Not Interact With Cats

 Wind down the play in the last couple of minutes so your cat can calm down, and always end by giving your cat a treat or a meal.

To keep toys interesting, rotate them every few days.

Keep a cheerful happy attitude around the house and your cat will follow in your footsteps-hence the expression “Copy Cat”.

Scratching

Cats need to scratch!

When a cat scratches, the old outer nail sheath is pulled off and the sharp, smooth claws underneath are exposed.

Cutting your cat’s nails every two to three weeks will keep them relatively blunt and less likely to harm the arms of both humans and furniture.

Provide your cat with a sturdy scratching post, at least three feet high, which will allow her to stretch completely when scratching.
The post should also be stable enough that it won’t wobble during use, and should be covered with rough material such as sisal, burlap or tree bark.

Many cats also like scratching pads. A sprinkle of catnip once or twice a month will keep your cat interested in her post or pad.

Health

It is recommend that your cat should see the veterinarian at least once a year for an examination and vaccinations, and immediately if she is sick or injured.

It is strongly advised NOT TO OVER VACCINATE your cat, which could cause irreversible damage, and sometimes death.

Rabies vaccination is required by law in most areas of the country. Ask your veterinarian if you are unsure of the laws in your area.

Fleas and Ticks

Class Action Lawsuit To read more  Click Here

Flea infestation should be taken seriously. These tiny parasites feed off of your pet, tapeworms and irritate the skin. Carefully check your cat once a week for fleas and ticks.

If you live in a dry climate, likely, your cat will not come in contact with flees.

If your cat has fleas you can use this Homeopathic medicine for itching and skin irritation caused by flea bites.

Cats die every year from improper treatment with flea and tick control products. Please contact your veterinarian for the most effective flea control program for your pet. 

• Medicines and Poisons

Never give your cat medication that has not been prescribed by a veterinarian. For example, did you know that the following OTC medications can be FATAL to a cat?!

• Tylenol: Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in this pain reliever, is very toxic in cats. The drug interferes with oxygen uptake in the blood of cats and can result in death if not treated promptly. 
• Ibuprofen: This is the active ingredient in over-the-counter medications such as Advil, Motrin, and “cold and flu” medications, and is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). This drug is never recommended for cats or dogs, as it can result in severe gastric ulcers or acute kidney failure.
• Naproxen: This is the active ingredient in Aleve or Anaprox, and is a very potent NSAID. Minute doses can result in severe symptoms of gastric ulcers, stomach perforations, or acute kidney failure in animals, and should never be used in animals.

Is your home safe?

Many dangers for your children, pets and even you, are lurking in unexpected places in your home. What are these dangerous, poisonous and potential “killers”? Click here to find out. It will shock you – better safe than sorry.

Punishment

Don’t do it! Cats don’t understand physical punishment. In addition to it being wrong to hit your cat, punishment simply doesn’t work and is likely to make your situation worse.

You can’t make a cat do anything she doesn’t want to do. Get clear on that. And getting her to stop something she enjoys is just about as difficult.

Clever though Kitty is about many things, she won’t understand that you’re punishing her for scratching the couch.

She will only compute that sometimes when you catch her she is treated badly. This may make her insecure and stimulate her to scratch more or develop other undesirable behavior problems.

Eventually you will break the trust and security that is the basis for your cat’s relationship with you, and you will find it very difficult to catch her for any reason at all.

Cats have excellent memories and hold serious grudges.

Instead of punishing your cat, an effective and safe way to get your kitty to stop “the bad deed”, try using odors that they hate, which include:

• Lemon essential oil or the zest of one lemon 
• Orange essential oil 
• Peppermint essential oil
• Wintergreen essential oil 
• Eucalyptus essential oil is used as a repellent for any number of animals, among them fleas, mosquitoes, and — you guessed it — cats.
• Clove Oil – put a few drops on a cotton ball, & place it under the pillow of a chair she may be spraying/urinating on or under a rug she likes to scratch.

Mix 10 drops of essential oil into 1 quart of water and put mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the area that you don’t want your cat to go. Always shake well before using. 

Do not spray on cats or enable ingestion. Cats are not able to process essential oils and this spray will prove toxic if sprayed onto the cat or ingested by it.

You can however, spray plain water near cats and they’ll run away, as they’re afraid of the sound and the water.

Homemade cat spray (lemon is recommended) is a safe and environmentally friendly mixture which is also an excellent cleaner, killing bacteria.

LOVE

Last, but certainly not least, is the love you share with your new friend. Pets love unconditionally, and will give you their heart forever.

If they develop behavioral issues, it’s most likely something that you’ve done or not done…example: not cleaning their litter box as much as needed, or de-clawing her, which can make her paws sensitive or hurts to step on certain kinds of litter, so they resort to going elsewhere.

They are finicky when it comes to cleanliness…seems like they are constantly grooming themselves. Treat them with love and respect, and you will have the perfect companion.

Even though cats are independent little souls they thrive on affection and love, who live to cuddle on your lap with an occasional lick (kiss) on your face. And…don’t forget to talk to them, they’re great listeners who don’t talk back and won’t gossip.

These magnificent, magical souls we call the “cat” 

leave pawprints on our heart. 

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Caring for A Puppy or Dog

Congratulations on deciding to adopt a dog! You are embarking on a wonderful and rewarding relationship.

Because adopting a new dog comes with a lot of change for both dog and dog parent, this basic overview guide was compiled to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Getting a dog is more than just taking home the adorable little fur ball. Are you ready to get a dog?

This is a step-by-step basic overview guide to taking care of any dog, and could come in handy!

Feeding

• Puppies 8 to 12 weeks old need four meals a day… feed your puppy until it is full.
• Feed puppies three to six months old three meals a day.
• Feed puppies six months to one year two meals a day.
• When your dog reaches his first birthday, one meal a day is usually enough.
• For some dogs, including larger canines or those prone to bloat, it’s better to feed two smaller meals.

Feed your dog breakfast. Like people, dogs want some too. You can find pet bowls and pet food at your local pet store.

If your dog has not had all its teeth come in, you might want to consider buying canned food or wetting the food with water until they all have come in.

(Give water in the dogs food if your dog doesn’t drink as much. They are guaranteed to drink that water as it tastes like food.)

Puppies should be fed a high-quality, brand-name puppy food. If the first ingredient says “corn” (a filler and a toxic GMO product), put it back on the shelf.

Please limit “people food,” because it can result in vitamin and mineral imbalances, bone and teeth problems and may cause very picky eating habits and obesity.

Clean, fresh water should be available at all times, and be sure to wash food and water dishes frequently.

Foods That Are Toxic To Dogs

• Grapes. They should only be given in a very limited amount on an infrequent basis, and should not be left where a dog or cat can have access to them. The unknown toxin damages the kidneys. Also, a grape can lodge in the pets throat making it impossible for him to breathe.
• Chocolate.  It has a certain type of caffeine that makes your dog’s heart beat too fast.
• For a complete list of toxic foods click here

Supplements

NUPRO All Natural Dog Supplement was researched and developed by a nutrition doctor. It is a totally holistic product that replaces the vitamins, minerals, and digestive enzymes that a dog does not get from his processed food.

In other words, Nupro is replacing with natural ingredients what a dog would normally have gotten in the wild. It is excellent for all breeds and all ages frompuppies to geriatric.

Exercise

Supervised fun and games will satisfy many of your pet’s instinctual urges to dig, herd, chew and retrieve.

Give your dog a walk. Dogs enjoy being outside to smell new smells, see new sights, and simply to walk.

To Read: 10 Top Dangers to Avoid When Walking Your Dog click here.

Start by buying a six foot leash, a harness and some poop bags.

DO NOT purchase a retractable leash. Because the leash is retractable, it requires special precautions to reduce the risk of injury. You lose control of your dog and because of the extensive length of the leash, your pooch could run into the street.

Have the dog to the left of you and let about a 4-5″ slack on the leash.

To run or jog, hold on to the edge of the leash and run, letting your dog be in front of you.

If you don’t do that, the dog may run into the street and get hit by a driving car not just leading to death, but painful tears.

As puppies keep the dogs closer to you to prevent later pulling and straining on the leash. If you’re thinking about getting a “shock” collar to train your dog.

First try the collar on your neck and “zap” yourself on low, medium and high. How does it feel? This is not the way to train your dog by “zapping” him to do what you want him to do. It is reminiscent  of the way circus trainers are taught how to train animals.

Handling

Small dogs, sometimes referred to as “lap dogs,” are the easiest to handle. To carry a puppy or small dog, place one hand under the dog’s chest, with either your forearm or other hand supporting the hind legs and rump.

Never attempt to lift or grab your puppy or small dog by the forelegs, tail or back of the neck. If you do have to lift a large dog, lift from the underside, supporting his chest with one arm and his rear end with the other.

Grooming

Groom your dog regularly. Some dogs need more brushing than others. Look up your dog’s breed and find out how frequently your dog should be brushed. Some dogs need brushing once a day, while others may need brushing only once every two weeks. This is one of the best ways to bond with your pooch.

You can help keep your dog clean and reduce shedding with frequent brushing. Check for fleas and ticks daily during warm weather.

Flea collars are very dangerous for pets! If your dog has fleas consider using a “natural” and safe remedy.

To read more about these tiny critters and say goodbye to them click here. 

Most dogs don’t need to be bathed more than a few times a year. Before bathing, comb or cut out all mats from the coat. Carefully rinse all soap out of the coat, or the dirt will stick to soap residue.

Housing

Your pet needs a warm, quiet place to rest, away from all drafts and off the floor. A training crate is ideal. You may wish to buy a dog bed, or make one out of a wooden box.

Place a clean blanket or pillow inside the bed. Wash the dog’s bedding often. If your dog will be spending a lot of time outdoors, (checking him often) be sure she has access to shade and plenty of cool water in hot weather, and a warm, dry, covered shelter when it’s cold, or better yet, bring him inside the house.

It is preferable and safer for pets to stay indoors except for walking them and playing with them outside.

If left inside a fenced yard for too long, you run the risk of them being stolen and sold as “bait” dogs to dog fighting rings, or sold to laboratories that test (torture) animals.

It’s big business…Dog theft is running rampant now, so please, be careful and check on him often if he has to be outside.

Fencing and Gates

Now that your yard is landscaped with dog-safe greenery, plants, and flowers, there are a few more touches you need to make it a complete home for your dog – a strong fence with a gate that latches properly and easy access to shade, shelter, and fresh water.

Whatever type of fencing you choose, make sure it’s sturdy, with no way for your dog to escape.

He shouldn’t be able to jump over it, dig under it, or squeeze through a hole.

If your pet is a confirmed digger, you may have to thwart him by lining the ground beneath the fence with concrete.

Some homeowners like the open fields look and decide to put in one of those underground electronic “invisible” fence systems. If you’re thinking of going that route, remember, although this type of fence might effectively keep your dog in, it won’t keep other dogs or intruders out.

Also, some dogs figure out – by trial and error or just by accident – if they run through the shock or ultrasonic burst that these systems count on to keep the dog on your property, there’s nothing to stop them from heading into the next county.

If you have the low-tech but reliable old-fashioned kind of fence, it’s also not going to help much without a well-maintained gate.The gate should be hinged to close and latch automatically when you enter or leave the yard, with no way for Rover to nose it open.

To read: Dognapping…What To Know To Keep Your Dog Safe From This Growing Crime Click here

Training

A well-behaved companion canine is a joy. But left untrained, your dog can cause nothing but trouble.

Teaching your dog the basics—”Sit,” “Stay,” “Come,” “Down,” “Heel,” “Stop,” “Off” and “Leave it”—will improve your relationship with both your dog and your neighbors.

If you have a puppy, start teaching him his manners as soon as possible! Use little bits of food such as carrots, which is good for them and their teeth, as a lure and reward.

Puppies can be enrolled in obedience courses when they have been adequately vaccinated.

Contact your local humane society or SPCA for training class recommendations. Petsmart and Petco have training classes available in most states.

You should always keep your puppy or dog on a leash in public. Just be sure your pet will come to you at all times whenever you say the word. A dog who is disobedient or aggressive is not ready to play with others.

Dogs who were taught by this method were more likely to learn a new behavior within 30 minutes, and to learn the behavior faster than dogs in a clicker-training group. And they are more likely to remember it later, even in a different context.

Click here to learn about this training. 



House train your dog. A dog that is not house trained will do its business all over your house! To prevent this, simply teach your dog not to go in the house by watching him/her closely for the first week.

When he/she goes to his business, pick your dog up, say “No!” firmly and loudly. Then, run out the door to the desired potty spot. 

Reward your dog for doing its business. Then, put a bell on your doorknob and teach your dog to ring it when he/she has to go out.

Identification

Microchips are a crucial part of dog-ownership, providing your pooch with the proper identification. It could save you a lot of heartbreak someday.

Animal control officers and veterinarians routinely look for microchips to return lost pets quickly to their owners, avoiding expenses for housing, food, medical care, and euthanasia. Most shelters place chips in all their animals.

Microchips can be implanted by a veterinarian or at a shelter.

After checking that the animal does not already have a chip, the vet or technician injects the chip (the size of a rice grain) with a syringe and records the chip’s unique ID. No anesthetic is required. A test scan ensures correct operation.

Identification tags and/or Rabies tag can be attached to the dogs collar.

This provides a visual way to see that he’s owned by someone in case he is missing.

If your dog is found, a lot of people don’t know to take him to a vets office to see if
he’s been microchipped and this visual aid will give him double protection.

When fitting him with a collar, place two fingers under the collar to make sure he’s comfortable.

Tips

• Reward them each time they obey your command. Use small treats and don’t give them too much.
• Make sure you have a good reliable vet. A good way to choose a vet is to see if they answer your questions promptly, and if they have time for you. Remember, you also need a backup vet that’s open 24 hours a day and/or weekends. 
• Stroke their fur from their head to tail, not vice-versa as this will irritate them. 
• Always brush your dog because of fleas and loose hair.
• Dogs will love you forever if you treat them correctly. Whatever you do, never hit your dog or abuse him/her in any way. Also, never taunt him/her as it will frustrate them and they will begin to dislike you. The worst punishment for a dog is being yelled at after the deed is over and done. They forget and don’t understand what they are being yelled at for. When you punish be sure to do it immediately, without any waiting.

Warnings

• Don’t ever let your dog get away with biting you or chewing on your shoes! It becomes a very bad habit. A way to prevent this is to switch a chew toy with whatever he/she’s chewing on. Please avoid rawhide bones as dogs can’t digest them and chunks could get lodged in the dogs intestines which causes irreversible damage.
• Don’t jump on a dog for every little thing they do. Reward a puppy, but as they get older still don’t bombard with treats and toys as soon as they sit. Don’t forget to always say “good dog”!
• Don’t ever hit your dog! It’s cruel and doesn’t get the point across. It doesn’t matter if it’s a boink on the nose or a smack on the head; it still hurts the dog and makes their relationship with you worse.

NOTE: When you adopt an animal from a Shelter or Rescue Group, your new pet will have been spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations, given a rabies shot, microchipped, and given a temperament test.

It’s been reported that petting an animal significantly reduces stress and helps to eliminate depression. It is one of the great rewards of life for you and…your dog.

They understand more than you could imagine, so tell him you love him everyday and enjoy this wonderful and loving journey ahead with your new “Best Friend Forever”.

Animals can be adopted from the Humane Society, SPCA, adopted from an Animal Rescue Group or rescued off the street, their contribution to the household they are in, is invaluable.

Click Here

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Is This Oil Good For Pets? The Truth Is Revealed

Coconut oil may work great as a way to enhance food. But could it benefit a pets health as well? With more and more Americans appreciating the fantastic flavor and health benefits of coconut oil, it has been found that the same health benefits applies to our pets.

Incorporating coconut oil into cats and dogs lives both topically and internally will undoubtedly lead to dramatic improvements in their overall health. The following list is just a few of the many health benefits for us all.

Aids Digestion

• Absorption of nutrients
• Healing of digestive problems (i.e. inflammation of the bowls)
• Reduces and may completely eliminate bad breath
• Helps eliminate hair balls and related coughing

Bones, Immune System, Metabolism

• Anti-bacterial
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-viral, three important attributes in the fight against infection, cancer and other diseases
• Antioxidant
• Balances, regulates insulin
• Helps reduce weight, diabetes prevention and control
• Increases energy
• Aids in health of ligaments
• Helps with arthritis relief
• Improves brain energy metabolism
• Reduces risk of brain lesions in older dogs
• Coconut oil is excellent for brain health; it’s being used to stave off dementia in humans, and it’s a must to keep senior dogs’ minds from becoming cloudy.

Skin and Fur Conditions

Helps to clear-up:

• Eczema,
• Flea allergies
• Dermatitis
• Itchy Skin
• Ring worm (a fungal infection)

Improves health and appearance of:

• Skin
• Fur
• Deodorizes
• Prevents and treats topical yeast and fungal infections
• Disinfects cuts and supports healing of wounds

Oral/Dental Health 

Coconut Oil can be used to support oral health. It removes “stinky breath” in dogs and helps to control shedding in dogs and cats.

As A Topical Application

Supports the healing of: 

• Cuts
• Dry skin
• Hot spots
• Insect bites
• Insect stings
• Wounds

What Kind of Coconut Oil Should You Buy

It is important that you give your dog only Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) or Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (EVCO) both are also called unrefined oil.

Cold-pressed VCO is best. Organic and non-GMO coconut oil is even better.

Despite what manufacturers and people may say the difference between VCO and EVCO is simply a marketing campaign borrowed from the olive oil manufacturing community – there is no real difference between the two (EVO and EVCO).

Daily Dosage

It is best to give coconut oil with food. You can drizzle the coconut oil on top of your dog’s and cat’s kibble or other food.

The recommended maximum dosage is:
¼ teaspoon for every 10 lbs of body weight twice daily, or
½ teaspoon for every 10 lbs of body weight once daily.

When first introducing coconut oil to your dog’s and cat’s diet it is best to use a lesser amount that the maximum dosage indicated above. I started with 1 drop the first day, and increased the dosage each day by a drop, just to be safe.

The dosages above represent a typical maintenance dosage. Introductory dosages should be in the range of  ¼ tsp per day for small dogs, cats, puppies and kittens and 1 tsp per day for large dogs.

If you know that your dog or cat has a sensitive digestive system then start off with a few drops of coconut oil a day. You can then gradually increase the amount of coconut oil over several weeks.

Large amounts of coconut oil given to a dog or cat can cause diarrhea or greasy stools while his/her body adjusts to the change in diet.

Start with small amounts, such as ¼  teaspoon per day for small dogs or puppies and 1 teaspoon for large dogs, or even just a dab if your dogs or cats constitution is sensitive. If your pet seems tired or uncomfortable or has diarrhea, just cut back the amount temporarily. Gradually increase the amount every few days.

The reason for this phased-in approach is because coconut oil kills bacteria, viruses, parasites, yeasts, and fungi, your dog or cat may respond negatively to the detox aspect of coconut oil.

Signs of detoxing too rapidly may include lethargy, headaches, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and diarrhea. If your dog does have any such reaction, just temporarily cut the daily amount back to allow your dogs and cats system to gently adjust.

This is another reason why dividing your dogs and cats intake of coconut oil between two feedings a day is a good approach.

Quote from Natural News: “In a time when strange viruses are making headlines around the world, perhaps it’s time you knew about the most powerful natural antiviral around: coconut oil. 

The antiviral activity in coconut oil is unparalleled, even among the most resistant viruses, and the best part is, if it’s virgin and organic, there isn’t a man-made chemical in the mix.

Think it’s too good to be true?”

This is a partial list of benefits for us!

Bruce Fife, C.N., N.D. and author of The Coconut Oil Miracle shares, “Laboratory tests have shown that the MCFAs (medium chain fatty acids) found in coconut oil are effective in destroying viruses that cause influenza, measles, herpes, mononucleosis hepatitis C, and AIDS; bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers, throat infections, pneumonia, sinusitis, urinary tract infections, meningitis, gonorrhea, and toxic shock syndrome; fungi and yeast that lead to ringworm, candida, and thrush; and parasites that can cause intestinal infections such as giardiasis.” Sounds like a powerhouse to me.

Good For Cats Also!

Recommended:
How to Choose A Coconut Oil: Comparing Best and Worst Brands

Sources:
Science Based Medicine
Why Is Coconut Oil Good for You
Coconut Oil for Healthy and Happy Pets

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Medical Insanity: Mind Altering Drugs For Family Pets

The culture of prescription drug addiction in America seems to be spreading to the pet population, as an increasing number of pet owners opt to medicate their furry family members into behavioral compliance with mind-altering mood medications like Prozac.

A recent report by MyFoxNY.com explains that more pet owners are choosing to dope up their pets with calming meds in order to address behavioral issues rather than simply spend more time exercising and playing with them, which is what they really need.

New York City based pet expert and trainer Andrea Arden is deeply concerned about this disturbing trend, which she says has seen a massive uptick within the past 10 years.

The overall number of pet prescriptions being filled for dangerous mind-altering drugs like Prozac and Xanax, for instance, is simply staggering, and the root cause of the issue likely has nothing to do with pets themselves and everything to do with overly busy and even irresponsible pet owners.

Recommend Reading:

• FDA Approves Dangerous Antidepressant Drug For Dogs

“Animals are expected to live more constrained lives,” explained Arden to MyFoxNY.com. “I think people are busier and busier, especially with the economic downfall. They’re working more so they have less time for their pets, and I think as a result we’re seeing more behavioral problems with animals.”

Back in 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) actually granted approval for a Prozac medication specifically designed for dogs.

Drug giant Eli Lilly, in conjunction with Elanco, created a once-daily chewable Prozac drug known as Reconcile, which quells the nervousness and anxiety often experienced by dogs when their owners leave the house or are gone for long periods of time.

“I think it’s mostly owners looking for a quick fix,” added Arden. “I think what people need to think about is [how] to find a way to spend more time with their animals, more quality time with their animals, and they really need to focus on enriching their lives so that they have fewer behavioral problems.”

Medicating your pets with mood-altering drugs could make the problem worse

But like with all pharmaceutical-based solutions, this quick fix comes with the potential for some nasty side effects. Animals given Prozac and Prozac like drugs could actually experience more stress, says Arden, as well as develop eating disorders and elimination problems, among other conditions.

The FDA failed to take any of this into account when it granted glowing approval for Reconcile and other similar mood-changing drugs.

“It may make them overly anxious,” warned Arden about the drug class. “It may make their appetite increase, which could cause stress. It could cause them to gain weight. It could cause an increase in urination and defecation. Those are all things that you want to talk to your veterinarian about.”

Good, old-fashioned training and regular exercise, on the other hand, are still the best options for addressing behavioral problems in pets, insists Arden.

Just like with humans, throwing drugs at the problem will only create other problems in many cases, so it is important for pet owners to opt for drugs only as a last resort, and under the strict guidance of a trustworthy veterinarian.

Sources:

• My Fox NY
• Alliance For Natural Health
• Science: Natural News Scientific Studies on Prozac

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Pet Zodiac Signs

Pet zodiac signs and traits might give you some insights into their behaviors ~ good or bad. Astrology isn’t just for two-legged creatures, you know. Whether it’s your cat or dog, fish or horse, all beings are influenced by the planets.

Track down your pet’s birth date and get the real low down on their behavior. Armed with this new found knowledge, you and your brood will be the envy of the animal kingdom.

Aries Pet

• Possesses an enormous amount of energy
• Prefers to be alone rather than associate with other animals
• Does not always obey and/or is difficult to discipline
• Enjoys fighting with other animals and is known to instigate confrontations
• Loves to break away from the “home front” and often runs non-stop
• Is very alert
• Does not sleep much
• Has an overall personality which is quite aggressive
• Is extremely impulsive…frequently moving or jumping up abruptly
• Enjoys running…or galloping, hopping, slithering, etc…forcefully and non-stop

Taurus Pet

• Is extremely stubborn
• Gravitates toward creature comforts…blankets, pillows and soft bedding, for example
• Does not have an abundance of energy
• Loves to be caressed and fondled, but in a physical rather than emotional fashion
• Is loyal, even though facial expressions and/or gestures may not indicate such
• Is steadfast, true and constantly by owner’s side
• Prone to sleep a large amount of the time
• Is relatively sociable
• Loves to eat
• Prefers to stay at home, but welcomes the opportunity to go out for short periods

Gemini Pet

• “Talks” a lot…barks, meows, chirps, sings, screams, cackles, grunts, etc.
• Is very active
• Enjoys learning new tricks and tends to learn them quickly
• Has a difficult time keeping still, either continually fidgeting, scratching or simply moving about in a nervous fashion
• Has a relatively short attention span
• Is frequently “changeable” in bestowing affection upon owner (i.e., not consistent)
• Prone to flit from one activity to another within short periods of time 
• Is very agile
• Is very mischievous
• Is exceedingly curious

Cancer Pet

• Would rather stay at home than roam the neighborhood
• Is very attached to owner
• Is very loving and attentive to owner
• Appears to require much attention and affection from owner
• Is an extraordinarily good parent to offspring
• Is very gentle and kind by nature
• Does not always respond favorably to animals or people who are strangers
• Loves all children regardless of species
• Is very sensitive – don’t scold or yell which causes them to retreat and cower until you kiss and makeup
• Does not usually like to sleep or rest on a hard surface

Leo Pet

• Acts in charge of the household
• Can be quite domineering
• Has robust health
• Thrives on attention and praise
• Has a very strong and intense personality
• Is extremely faithful to owner and other family members
• Is very secure in both an emotional sense and a psychological sense
• Is jealous of affection shown to other animals or people by owner
• Seems to have an inexhaustible amount of energy 
• Always appears to be happy

Virgo Pet

• Is extremely clean
• Becomes annoyed very easily
• Is extraordinarily intelligent
• Enjoys learning new tricks and learns such tricks quickly
• Is not particularly affectionate, bestowing “just enough” before continuing to more important things
• Can be selfish…dislikes sharing toys, possessions or food with anyone
• Is somewhat independent
• Would rather stay at home than roam the neighborhood
• Generally ignores other animals in the household
• Does not normally fuss when being groomed

Related: What’s The Best Pet For Your Sun Sign?

Libra Pet

• Does not like to fight
• Is usually relaxed and rather easy-going
• Drinks a small amount of water
• Is affectionate but fickle
• Usually gets along well with other animals and people
• Is very sociable
• Is even-tempered
• Like to share the company of owner…just not too closely
• Is somewhat lazy
• Does not like to be alone

Scorpio Pet

• Is usually quiet and still
• Rarely becomes angry, but can be vicious when the occasion arises
• Is somewhat emotionally distant
• Does not necessarily like the company of other animals
• Has a very intense and magnetic personality
• Is intelligent and/or clever and/or rather sly
• Learns quickly and thoroughly, but carries out any request or rule according to personal terms and timetable
• Seems annoyed by the presence of other animals
• Is very stubborn
• Is very independent

Sagittarius Pet

• Is very healthy
• Is very active in a physical sense
• Would rather roam the neighborhood than stay at home
• Appears to possess an endless amount of energy
• Has a short attention span…becomes bored easily and constantly looking for something different to do
• Is affectionate, but only for short spurts of time
• Is fearless and unafraid to take a risk or do something daring
• Would rather stay outside than inside
• Is curious
• Is extremely obedient, for the most part

Capricorn Pet

• Is miserly and possessive with personal belongings and food
• Is extremely intelligent
• Rarely becomes sick but, if so, quickly makes a complete recovery
• Is not particularly active
• Is unusually quiet and reclusive
• Possesses a character which is cold, inexpressive and generally inhibited
• Is never mischievous or daring
• Has a difficult time bonding with either animals or humans
• Does not like to play or socialize with other animals…and does not like to play at all, for the most part
• Would rather be inside than outside 

Aquarius Pet

• Is extremely independent
• Has virtually no attention span
• Is friendly to everyone
• Would rather be outside than inside
• Occasionally appears to be scatter-brained
• Rarely remains still
• Is good natured
• Likes to socialize with people and other animals
• Runs chiefly on nervous energy
• Is skittish and insecure

Pisces Pet

• Is extraordinarily gentle
• Appears to sense owner’s thoughts and feelings
• Is extremely affectionate
• Would rather be inside than outside
• Lovingly tolerates other pets within the household
• Sleeps a great deal of the time
• Loves to “cuddle up” to owner
• Is totally devoted to owner
• Seems to have a psychic bond with owner
• Likes to hide under furniture or in secluded place

The best places to adopt a pet is a shelter or animal rescue group. They have a large selection and even have pure bred pets. Adopt a pet and save a life.

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FDA Approves Dangerous Antidepressant Drug For Dogs

The pet products industry is greatly prospering, as recent figures released by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) show that Americans now spend more than $50 billion a year on food, supplies, and veterinarian care for their pets, up nearly 300 percent since 1994.

And now Big Pharma wants a piece of the pie, with drug giants Elanco and Eli Lilly and Company having gained approval for their dangerous antidepressant drug Reconcile, the equivalent to Prozac designed specifically for dogs.

According to the Alliance for Natural Health – USA (ANH-USA), Reconcile is a once-daily, chewable drug for dogs that is intended to treat canine separation anxiety (CSA), which is just a fancy way of describing the behavioral changes that occur when a dog is separated from his owner and is left alone. 

But Reconcile is a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI), meaning it comes from a class of drugs known to cause mental problems, aggression, suicidal thoughts, and even violence against others.

With this in mind, it is suspect that Reconcile, which was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), does not contain a black box warning notifying pet owners of these potential side effects. 

Reconcile’s label also makes no mention of the highly addictive nature of SSRIs, and of how coming off of them can be extremely difficult and highly dangerous to both users and to others with which they come in contact.

As far as dogs are concerned, taking Reconcile may cause them to undergo severe mental changes, which could result in them lashing out against children, their owners, and even others in public. Based on previous research involving Prozac, Reconcile may also permanently damage the health of dogs who take it.

The FDA, in fact, actually has no idea how dogs will react to Reconcile, particularly in the long term, but the agency has granted its approval anyway, signaling to millions of pet owners that Reconcile is safe and effective, even though it is likely not. 

And as a result, you can expect to see many more dangerous pet drugs like Reconcile showing up on the market in the future, as drug companies are sure to take advantage of this vast new drug market.

Like Prozac, the key ingredients in Reconcile are fluoride molecules

According to Reconcile’s product information sheet, Reconcile is made of fluoxetine hydrochloride (Prozac), which is converted into norfluoxetine by the liver. Both of these are fluorophenyl compounds, which means that they are a form of mind-altering fluoride, which many readers know is a serious toxin.

So in addition to the long list of Reconcile’s dangerous side effects, which include:

• seizures
• weight loss
• tremors
• aggression
• constipation
• vomiting
• diarrhea

Just to name a few, Reconcile will also pollute dogs’ bodies with thyroid disrupting fluoride compounds as well.

Even beyond these stated side effects are the numerous reports that indict SSRIs like Prozac and Reconcile are increasing users’ risk of having:

• strokes
• getting thick arteries
• developing cataracts
• having miscarriages
• developing suicidal or homicidal tendencies (humans)
• lashing out against others in fits of rage

And on top of all this, antidepressants have not even been proven, without a doubt, to provide any health benefits at all.

A 2010 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, for instance, found that for the vast majority of patients, SSRIs provide virtually no benefits — but they do, of course, leave them addicted and perpetually ill. 

Thus, it is foolish to assume that Reconcile, the canine form of these same SSRIs, will provide any real benefit for dogs. If anything, millions of dog owners will be hoodwinked into buying Reconcile thinking that it is safe, only to later realize the damage it will cause to their furry friends.

It is also important to note that Reconcile was approved based on a single, eight-week study in which dogs treated with Reconcile experienced only slightly better improvement with their CSA symptoms compared to dogs who received simple behavior modification therapy.

The study was funded by Reconcile’s manufacturer, of course, and did not examine the long-term effects of using Reconcile.

Join ANH-USA in demanding that black box warnings be added to both human SSRIs and Reconcile.

ANH-USA has put together a Citizen Petition by which the public can urge the FDA to add black box warnings not only to animal SSRIs like Reconcile, but also to human SSRIs, warning consumers that use of such medication increases risk of violence towards others.

In the case of dogs, using Reconcile to try to temper anxiety, only to have those same dogs experience potential health problems and even worse behavioral problems than they had prior, makes no logical sense.

And the public needs to know the truth about Reconcile and all other SSRIs before agreeing to use them either on their pets or on themselves.

To access the ANH-USA petition, click here.

Recommend Reading:

• Medical Insanity: Mind Altering Drugs For Family Pets

Source:

• Drugs: About Reconcile
• Alliance For Natural Health

Should You Leave Your Cat Home Alone While You’re Away

Recently, I came across a survey that suggested over half of U.S. cat owners choose a feline companion in part because they believe cats can be left alone for long periods of time.

And it’s a fact that many people are accustomed to putting down a big bowl of kibble, another of water, and leaving their cat alone at home for a few or several days. This isn’t a good idea, and let me explain why.

Why Cats Really Shouldn’t Be Left Alone at Home

Number one, cats do get sick, and if no one is around for several days, your kitty won’t get the help he needs until you return. Most veterinarians know at least one client who has come home to a desperately ill or dead cat.

There are some relatively common feline disorders, for example, urinary blockages that can come on suddenly and can result in a painful death in less than three days.

Imagine how you would feel arriving home to find your beloved kitty dead, knowing he could have been saved had someone been around.

Another reason I don’t feel cats should be left alone for more than a day is because I don’t recommend feeding dry food to kitties, and you can’t leave fresh or canned cat food out because it will spoil.

Thirdly, many cats object to a dirty litter box. If no one tends to your kitty’s powder room for several days, she might develop undesirable coping behaviors like relieving herself somewhere she shouldn’t.

How to Care for Your Cat If You’ll Be Away from Home for Longer Than a Day

My recommendation is to arrange for someone to visit your cat at least once a day, and preferably twice, to feed him, scoop and dispose of soiled litter, and spend a little time with him to insure he’s healthy and comfortable. 

Perhaps you have a neighbor, relative or friend who is available to stop by. If not, I recommend hiring a professional pet sitter for once or twice daily visits.

Another, less desirable option is to board your cat. This is almost never ideal, because cats prefer to be on their own turf and most become stressed when kenneled away from home. 

Stress often leads to GI upset – especially if your kitty is fed an unfamiliar diet or treats while boarded. In addition, most boarding kennels require vaccines that you wouldn’t ordinarily choose for your pet.

If you must board your kitty, try to find a cats-only facility. Kitties do best in a calm, quiet environment, and many all-pet boarding facilities are very noisy with barking dogs, shrieking birds, and other vocal animals. This type of set-up is very stressful for cats.

Some cats-only facilities go all out to create a feline-friendly environment. Guests stay in individual “suites” or “condos” outfitted with furniture and materials kitties are known to prefer. 

Just keep in mind that no matter how deluxe the accommodations, your cat doesn’t require the same level of social interaction a dog does and will do best in her own home with someone stopping by each day to care for her.

Click Here

Article by Dr. Karen Becker

Images submitted by PNM

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Holiday Doggie Dangers

The holidays are a time of joy, love, and light. It’s also the time of year when we dust off the decorations and string up twinkling lights and tinsel in celebration. But, if you’re celebrating with a dog (or cat) there are some holiday hazards to keep in mind before you pull those boxes down from the attic or invite the family over for that holiday party!

We can’t think of a worse way to spend the holidays than at the emergency room with your dog! To keep your dog safe and have a happy holiday, print, post, and share this important infographic!

By Brandy Arnold –

Compliments of The Doggington Post

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