By Mike Selvon
Cat health is important. When we have a new pet in the house, most of us know that a full set of vaccinations is the first need for a new kitten. We ourselves receive many vaccinations as children against many diseases and illnesses.
However, some veterinarians are beginning to take a stand against the rate at which we vaccinate dog and cat species and consider vaccines dangerous to the animal's health.
In the past, felines were vaccinated against distemper and rabies. Slowly, more vaccines for cat health have been added to the list. Individuals are often afraid that if their pet doesn't receive its vaccinations, it may contract a fatal disease.
Some feline diseases can be transmitted to humans. However, it's interesting to note that the rate of disease in cats has increased over time regardless of these vaccinations. Many veterinarians are noting that our pets aren't as healthy as in times past and that the cats' lifespan is shorter.
Today, many veterinarians skilled in cat health suggest shots for distemper in felines, Chlamydia, and one to prevent an upper respiratory infection known as rhinotracheitis, to name but a few. All of these vaccines are repeated year after year for the lifespan of your cat. Are our cats getting too much of what we believe to be a good thing? Think about it.
Would you want to be vaccinated for chicken pox every year of your life? One would think there would be some adverse effects from too much vaccination. Reports show that most of the illnesses that veterinarians deal with on a daily basis have roots in over-vaccination. Homeopathy has a term for this: Vaccinosis.
In Celeste Yarnall's book Cat Care, Naturally, Dr. Jeff Levy, DVM explains the evolution of new diseases that stem from vaccinosis: "I believe that feline leukemia evolved because of vaccination for panleukopenia. Then with the vaccination for feline leukemia, the cat just came up with a different disease, FIV (Feline AIDS).
You can see this in vaccinated cats that later turn up with all the symptoms of feline leukemia but still test negative. The disease is coming from the cat, and each subsequent incarnation that is necessitated by vaccination."
Allopathic medicine and the greed of the pharmaceutical industry are as harmful to our pets as it is to us. The same companies who are selling the vaccines fund the schools that are training new veterinarians. Only a handful of veterinarians are brave enough to dare to step outside those boundaries and practice holistic medicine on animals.
Over the years, humans have suffered as well from over-vaccination. Leukemia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and many other diseases are a result of the negative effects of vaccination.
Yarnell also quotes studies of the smallpox vaccine in humans as having been harmful. She claims, "Smallpox (along with other infectious diseases, including diphtheria and scarlet fever) declined with sanitation reforms instituted in the latter half of the nineteenth century.
Government health records from all over the world showed that, during the most intensive periods of vaccination, the incidence and death rate attributed to smallpox increased, though these statistics were actually on the decline when vaccination began."
So what are we as pet owners supposed to do? Rely on your veterinarian's advice regarding cat health because veterinarians are the professionals and should know what they're doing. If your cat is an indoor cat, then you may be safe in only getting the initial shots when your cat is a kitten.
If your cat is an outdoor cat and encounters other cats often, then you might consider a little more protection. Alternatively, you could find a veterinarian who practices holistic medicine and find out what alternatives are available to help your cat live a healthier and longer life.
Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal. Please visit our cats portal for more great tips on cat health dangers when vaccinated, and leave a comment at our cats blog.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Cat Collars and Leads
By Terry King
Most people will happily walk their dog, fewer people walk their cats. You may not be aware that cats can learn to walk on a lead. There are harnesses, and leads designed just for cats. Some cat owners have taken to walking their cats to avoid disputes with neighbours or where road traffic is heavy.
Cat collars are not normally designed to be used with a cat lead. The shape of a cat's head makes it too easy for a collar attached to a lead to pop right off. Instead, collars are used for other reasons. They place jeweled or patterned collars on their cats simply because they like the way these collars look. Other people use cat collars to hold I.D. tags, so that their cat more easily identified as their cats found. Of course, a common reason for putting a collar on a cat is to warn birds of his approach. Collars with bells on them may be a low tech alarm system, but they work. Finally some owners use a flea collar to ward off fleas.
Whatever an owners reason for investing in a collar I would recommend that a snag proof version is used. These are designed to let a cat escape if the collar becomes entangled. Every year many cats are strangled unnecessarily when their collars are caught in hanging articles such the branches of a tree.
Cat harnesses are specially designed to stay securely on a cat, even when the cat is on a lead. You can buy a simple nylon harness for your cat or you can find more deluxe models that look more like padded vests. As long as the harness is completely adjustable, it should work well.
Cat leads can be standard leads or retractable models. Whichever type of lead you choose be sure that it is lightweight enough to allow your cat to move easily under its weight. Retractable leads are ideal for people who want to allow their cats to explore their surroundings in a park or other traffic safe area, but want to keep the cats close by when they are walking to and from their homes.
To train your cat to walking on a lead, you should use a variation of techniques to used to train dogs. Cats like Dogs respond well to praise, the difference is Cats do not respond well to negative correction; so giving a quick tug on the lead when they do not stay at your side will not teach a cat to heel. Instead, praise your cat when he does what you want and ignore him when he does the wrong thing. Be realistic, although you can teach your cat to tolerate a lead, don't expect cats to consistently heel on command.
Like most animals even humans the best results can be achieved when starting training early. The easiest way to teach your cat is to use a lead is to start when it is a young kitten of eight to ten weeks old. Place the harness on your cat and allow it to walk about completely unrestrained. After a few days, add the lead. Be sure that you do not apply any pressure. Once your cat is used to the lead, you can pick it up and teach it that it is ok for you to be on the other end of the lead. Gently apply pressure to the lead and call your cat to you. Praise the cat softly when it responds. Eventually, he will become used to following you when he is on his lead.
Terry King runs Parcel Pets, a leading UK pet supplies web site and has had pets all his life. He lives with his wife Louise, dog Sam, Cat Sabrina and 5 fish!
Most people will happily walk their dog, fewer people walk their cats. You may not be aware that cats can learn to walk on a lead. There are harnesses, and leads designed just for cats. Some cat owners have taken to walking their cats to avoid disputes with neighbours or where road traffic is heavy.
Cat collars are not normally designed to be used with a cat lead. The shape of a cat's head makes it too easy for a collar attached to a lead to pop right off. Instead, collars are used for other reasons. They place jeweled or patterned collars on their cats simply because they like the way these collars look. Other people use cat collars to hold I.D. tags, so that their cat more easily identified as their cats found. Of course, a common reason for putting a collar on a cat is to warn birds of his approach. Collars with bells on them may be a low tech alarm system, but they work. Finally some owners use a flea collar to ward off fleas.
Whatever an owners reason for investing in a collar I would recommend that a snag proof version is used. These are designed to let a cat escape if the collar becomes entangled. Every year many cats are strangled unnecessarily when their collars are caught in hanging articles such the branches of a tree.
Cat harnesses are specially designed to stay securely on a cat, even when the cat is on a lead. You can buy a simple nylon harness for your cat or you can find more deluxe models that look more like padded vests. As long as the harness is completely adjustable, it should work well.
Cat leads can be standard leads or retractable models. Whichever type of lead you choose be sure that it is lightweight enough to allow your cat to move easily under its weight. Retractable leads are ideal for people who want to allow their cats to explore their surroundings in a park or other traffic safe area, but want to keep the cats close by when they are walking to and from their homes.
To train your cat to walking on a lead, you should use a variation of techniques to used to train dogs. Cats like Dogs respond well to praise, the difference is Cats do not respond well to negative correction; so giving a quick tug on the lead when they do not stay at your side will not teach a cat to heel. Instead, praise your cat when he does what you want and ignore him when he does the wrong thing. Be realistic, although you can teach your cat to tolerate a lead, don't expect cats to consistently heel on command.
Like most animals even humans the best results can be achieved when starting training early. The easiest way to teach your cat is to use a lead is to start when it is a young kitten of eight to ten weeks old. Place the harness on your cat and allow it to walk about completely unrestrained. After a few days, add the lead. Be sure that you do not apply any pressure. Once your cat is used to the lead, you can pick it up and teach it that it is ok for you to be on the other end of the lead. Gently apply pressure to the lead and call your cat to you. Praise the cat softly when it responds. Eventually, he will become used to following you when he is on his lead.
Terry King runs Parcel Pets, a leading UK pet supplies web site and has had pets all his life. He lives with his wife Louise, dog Sam, Cat Sabrina and 5 fish!
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Nothing's Unhappier Than a Fat Cat
By Mike Selvon
Do you have a fat cat? Dog and cat obesity is the number one pet health problem that vets see today. Our pets are as susceptible to obesity as humans are. Of course, you love your cat and want the best for it. You make sure to treat it well and provide for its needs.
You may be treating your cat a little too well. If your cat is obese, it is at risk for diseases such as diabetes, Hepatic Lipidosis (fat seeping into the liver cells), and arthritis.
Just like humans, if a cat (or any other mammal for that matter) takes in more calories than its body can burn, the cat will gain weight. Forty percent of all cats in the United States today have a diagnosis of sedentary obesity and that percentage is growing.
In the wild, a cat expends a lot of energy to hunt down and catch its prey. Cat's bodies are designed to store nutrients when hunting is slim. A domestic cat that lives indoors doesn't have to hunt. Food is right there waiting for felines any time they want it - the perfect environment for a fat cat.
Many people refuse to see the fact that too much food is the cause of their fat cat and its weight problem. You may not be feeding your cat many treats, but you may be feeding them too much at one time, too often, or not enough meals in a day.
A cat that gets food once a day tends to gorge in case there won't be a next meal. Veterinarians suggest that you serve your cat two to four meals a day - and think in ounces, not cups. 0.6 to 1.0 ounces per serving is plenty.
Cats were never made to digest carbohydrates. Humans and dogs have special enzymes in their saliva to break down carbohydrates in the mouth. Researchers have found that cats have considerably less of these enzymes than we do. Dry pet food can have high amounts of carbohydrates (usually in the form of flour or sugar).
Dry cat food diets are not always the best for your cat's metabolism. The carbohydrates are immediately converted to fat and the result is a fat cat. Cats need a meat-based diet with high levels of protein. Research shows that diets high in fat and protein are best for carnivores such as cats - combined with plenty of exercise.
A lot of pet foods claim to be "perfectly balanced". The only way your cat is going to get its true, proper diet is if it was living in the wild. Popular brands of canned food use many fillers, such as grain, to make the food more visually appealing to the owners.
Yes, that's right; the food is produced to be appealing to you and not the cat. Grain is a replacement for real meat that your cat needs more than the carbohydrates grains provide.
Pre-packaged treats are another problem that create a fat cat. A treat once in a while is fine. However, owners make a habit of doling out treats far too much when they think the cat is restless or want to reward it for being cute. Never give your cat a treat to stop it from meowing, as this will only encourage your cat to vocalize more.
In effect, you're telling your cat "Good kitty! Keep talking and I'll give you another one of these treats!" If you must give your cat a treat, try giving it a small piece of cooked fish or chicken, something that is high in protein and better for the cat.
Of course, exercise is important to avoid a fat cat. If you can't change what your cat eats, you can at least try to help your cat burn extra calories. Unfortunately, you can't go for walks with your cat like you would a dog. Some cats might take to leash training, but it's rare.
A typical domestic cat's day consists of sleeping, eating, sleeping, and then waking up to sleep some more. If you have a fat cat, those habits will only increase as its weight slows it down. You need to provide your cat with toys and interesting things to do.
A cat needs to chase things, play hide and seek, stalk, and do something other than take naps in its favorite sunny window! If you can, get a second cat. The two cats will keep each other busy during the day while you're away at work.
Before starting any diet plan for your fat cat, bring the cat to a veterinarian. Your vet will give your cat a thorough physical exam and discuss with you exactly what options you have at hand to help your cat lose weight.
Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal. Please visit our cats portal for more great tips on treating a fat cat, and leave a comment at our cats blog.
Do you have a fat cat? Dog and cat obesity is the number one pet health problem that vets see today. Our pets are as susceptible to obesity as humans are. Of course, you love your cat and want the best for it. You make sure to treat it well and provide for its needs.
You may be treating your cat a little too well. If your cat is obese, it is at risk for diseases such as diabetes, Hepatic Lipidosis (fat seeping into the liver cells), and arthritis.
Just like humans, if a cat (or any other mammal for that matter) takes in more calories than its body can burn, the cat will gain weight. Forty percent of all cats in the United States today have a diagnosis of sedentary obesity and that percentage is growing.
In the wild, a cat expends a lot of energy to hunt down and catch its prey. Cat's bodies are designed to store nutrients when hunting is slim. A domestic cat that lives indoors doesn't have to hunt. Food is right there waiting for felines any time they want it - the perfect environment for a fat cat.
Many people refuse to see the fact that too much food is the cause of their fat cat and its weight problem. You may not be feeding your cat many treats, but you may be feeding them too much at one time, too often, or not enough meals in a day.
A cat that gets food once a day tends to gorge in case there won't be a next meal. Veterinarians suggest that you serve your cat two to four meals a day - and think in ounces, not cups. 0.6 to 1.0 ounces per serving is plenty.
Cats were never made to digest carbohydrates. Humans and dogs have special enzymes in their saliva to break down carbohydrates in the mouth. Researchers have found that cats have considerably less of these enzymes than we do. Dry pet food can have high amounts of carbohydrates (usually in the form of flour or sugar).
Dry cat food diets are not always the best for your cat's metabolism. The carbohydrates are immediately converted to fat and the result is a fat cat. Cats need a meat-based diet with high levels of protein. Research shows that diets high in fat and protein are best for carnivores such as cats - combined with plenty of exercise.
A lot of pet foods claim to be "perfectly balanced". The only way your cat is going to get its true, proper diet is if it was living in the wild. Popular brands of canned food use many fillers, such as grain, to make the food more visually appealing to the owners.
Yes, that's right; the food is produced to be appealing to you and not the cat. Grain is a replacement for real meat that your cat needs more than the carbohydrates grains provide.
Pre-packaged treats are another problem that create a fat cat. A treat once in a while is fine. However, owners make a habit of doling out treats far too much when they think the cat is restless or want to reward it for being cute. Never give your cat a treat to stop it from meowing, as this will only encourage your cat to vocalize more.
In effect, you're telling your cat "Good kitty! Keep talking and I'll give you another one of these treats!" If you must give your cat a treat, try giving it a small piece of cooked fish or chicken, something that is high in protein and better for the cat.
Of course, exercise is important to avoid a fat cat. If you can't change what your cat eats, you can at least try to help your cat burn extra calories. Unfortunately, you can't go for walks with your cat like you would a dog. Some cats might take to leash training, but it's rare.
A typical domestic cat's day consists of sleeping, eating, sleeping, and then waking up to sleep some more. If you have a fat cat, those habits will only increase as its weight slows it down. You need to provide your cat with toys and interesting things to do.
A cat needs to chase things, play hide and seek, stalk, and do something other than take naps in its favorite sunny window! If you can, get a second cat. The two cats will keep each other busy during the day while you're away at work.
Before starting any diet plan for your fat cat, bring the cat to a veterinarian. Your vet will give your cat a thorough physical exam and discuss with you exactly what options you have at hand to help your cat lose weight.
Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal. Please visit our cats portal for more great tips on treating a fat cat, and leave a comment at our cats blog.
Friday, May 25, 2007
What Makes A Cat - A Cat?
By Robert Gallegos
And why does a cat stubbornly insist on behaving like a cat?
Just about everyone can list the things that most accurately identifies what a cat is to them. Some will cite their amazing grace, agility and speed. Others will wax nostalgically about their intrinsic beauty. There will always be comments about their powers of concentration, excellent night vision, the cuteness of kittens that elicits such strong maternal instincts, and their seeming aloofness and self-confidence. And why does it seem that cats don't handle changes or stress well? In reality, these traits and others, are all just the symptoms of underlying characteristics that more rightly define the make-up and nature of cats. The feline characteristics elicit both enjoyable and maddening responses from humans, especially those who expect cats to act like people, dogs or other domesticated animals. Without question, cats are unique.
What needs to be kept in mind is the fact that cats are the newest of any of the domesticated species. This puts them very close to their 'wild' roots. Studies of small wildcats, that is, undomesticated or untamed cats that live beyond the comfort of human households, gives insight to what the 'natural' character of the cat is. It is generally agreed upon that today's house cat has descended from a small African wildcat, Felis silvestris libyca. One of the notable characteristics of the wildcat is that in order to insure its own food supply and decrease its chances of becoming prey itself, is to limit it's activities to seeking food when others aren't. Namely, at night. Cats have perfected this night-time strategy and can function very well in limited light, or even in what a person might consider total darkness. Along with excellent night vision, some other characteristics have also been developed:
A broken, erratic tabby pattern and coloring of the fur coat which offers a well conceived camouflage for hiding in tall grass or forest settings. A black cat may possess the best camouflage on a dark, moonless night. How about a keen sense of hearing that can track predators or follow a prospective meal as it moves through the darkness. In addition to excellent night vision that makes the most of limited light, there's the additional advantage of eyes that also detect even the slightest motion.
Along with all this night-time advantage, a cat must also be able to move swiftly and precisely through it's territory to escape predators or other threats. They are able to accomplish this with the use of scent glands located on their feet and on the sides of their face. As they pass through their territory, they'll mark prominent objects along their path. With these scent glands they can lay down a trail that's extremely easy to follow. Now, these scent marks can communicate on the brightest day or darkest night and unlike sound, they won't alert predators. Unfortunately, these marks have to be freshened up from time to time, as well as added to if a new trail is to be explored. A resident cat, that is a cat that has claimed a territory for herself, must continually inspect her territory to keep the scents fresh and to mark any changes to it, such as a newly downed tree or other obstruction on her path. She doesn't want any surprise encounters in the dead of night while fleeing a predator.
All this scent marking plays a critical role in the survival of the small wildcat. With only so many hours in the day, she can't spend all her time marking a territory and leave no time for hunting, finding water or mating. If she did she would become extinct quite soon. She can only claim an area that supports her with food (and her kittens, too), and that area must be efficiently maintained with her scent trails. Under these conditions, it's easy to see that it's not practical for her to share her space for (2) reasons:
There's usually a limited food supply in the territory she has to maintain on a regular basis. The scent trails from other cats would probably be confusing.
Finally, there's the unique maternal nature of a cat that makes it very different from all other domestic animals. The answer to that question lies in her wildcat heritage, also. Survival of the cat species is dependant upon the survival of the kittens. Unlike 'pack' animals, a mother cat, or queen as they are known, is totally responsible for the care of her young. There's no one else around for her to rely on. She must teach her young everything they need to know to survive and do it before their food requirements exceeds the ability of her territory to provide for them. She must do this is a very short time and the kittens must have the capacity to learn all she has to teach. Needless to say, a very strong maternal bond is necessary if either mom or the kids are going to be successful at survival. And, as they learn to survive on their own, the young will one day leave the queen's territory and establish territories of their own. Or else, mom will kick them out. Now, we have (5) characteristics that make a cat... a cat:
Cats are nocturnal Cats are territorial Cats are solitary Cats are predatory Cats are maternal
So, What's all this Heat About??
The female cat's usual heat cycles are influenced by seasonal changes in the amount of daylight. These cycles run from January (as the days begin to grow longer) to October (when the days begin to shorten). She will cycle every 10 to 14 days until she is bred. Heat cycles are easily identified with a lot of vocal calling, rolling on the ground and constantly rubbing against furniture or your legs. She will assume a breeding position with her rump in the air and forepaws near the ground. Note: Spaying and neutering is the perfect cure for this situation. Heat symptoms will be eliminated as well as the risk for ovarian cancers and infections of the uterus. Not to mention the eliminating of kitten litters that can't be properly cared for.
Mating in cats presents an interesting diversion for animals known for their solitary nature and a strong sense of territory. In feral colonies it has been noted that a female in heat will mate with 18 or more males in a single day. Some ethologists attribute this rather promiscuous behavior to the fact that cats must really enjoy sex as much as humans do. The point is moot and probably can't be determined one way or the other. But, it does offer one answer as to why such solitary creatures would gather and form complex social interactions on a seasonal basis. As noted above, the maternal characteristic of a mother cat and her kittens is necessarily strong thus providing a kind of social interaction for cats at a young, impressionable age. So, it's not like cats never experience any degree of socialization from which they can draw the tools of getting along in a large gathering of like minded animals.
When cats gather around a regular, dependable food supply, such as a dump or rodent infested barn, a queen may not wean her young for up to eighteen months. This does have some distinct advantages:
Nursing keeps the queen and kittens together longer than is usual in the wild, keeping everyone social longer and living peacefully. Since lactating females won't come into heat, the population is limited and preserves peace. The nursing kittens won't mature sexually quite as fast which also keeps peace and provides some population control. With a more complex social environment, the kittens will learn more social skills. The longer a kitten nurses, the longer she is in a learning mode, hence, the more she learns.
When a wildcat queen teaches her kittens to accept kill as nourishment and then to hunt for themselves, they will make the transition back to solitary behavior. As the kittens provide more for themselves, the queen will resist nursing. The kitten play will become more aggressive and each will eventually make their way to the solitary life. She will resume her solitary life and the kittens will assume theirs. But, in the feral colony supported with a reliable food supply the driving survival instincts may be ameliorated or softened because of the plentiful food resources and an enhanced social development amongst the neighboring cats. That's not to say that the colony won't outgrow the ability of the territory (dump or barn) to provide food and some may find themselves striking out on their own for greener pastures. One might surmise that cats can get along in groups, establish rules of engagement for mutual survival and be quite successful at it. But, they are not afraid to go it alone and can be very efficient at surviving by their own guile if they have to. They really are quite amazing animals.
So, when you watch your cat as she displays her everyday habits, remember she has a lot of inherited behaviors that are motivating her. Whether it's her scratching or spraying instincts, or walking her domain in the same fashion every day reestablishing her scent trail, or arguing with other pets in your home or neighborhood (because it is after all, her territory). She does so because she learned to survive in an elegant, complex, yet sophisticated way. And it's probably just as hard for her to adjust to your domesticated life as it would be for you to adjust to surviving in the wild. It helps to remember... you're both pretty smart creatures.
The next time someone asks what makes a cat... a cat. Go ahead and tell them. "It's their cute paws, nubby nose, soothing purr, the way she rubs against your leg when you come home, etc, etc, etc". But, you'll know there's a lot more to it than that.
Robert J Gallegos, author of www.catlover-giftsworld.com a web site dedicated to proper cat care with quality cat lover gifts based on an understanding of cat behavior, instincts and the unique requirements for healthy cats as pets. Cats are the newest of animals to be domesticated and still have one paw in the wild. It's a major reason why they're so mysterious and resistant to human expectations.
Robert is a life long lover of cats. He is dedicated to sharing his understanding of the cat experience, reducing the epidemic feral cat situation, and helping cat lovers to provide the best care for their cats.
And why does a cat stubbornly insist on behaving like a cat?
Just about everyone can list the things that most accurately identifies what a cat is to them. Some will cite their amazing grace, agility and speed. Others will wax nostalgically about their intrinsic beauty. There will always be comments about their powers of concentration, excellent night vision, the cuteness of kittens that elicits such strong maternal instincts, and their seeming aloofness and self-confidence. And why does it seem that cats don't handle changes or stress well? In reality, these traits and others, are all just the symptoms of underlying characteristics that more rightly define the make-up and nature of cats. The feline characteristics elicit both enjoyable and maddening responses from humans, especially those who expect cats to act like people, dogs or other domesticated animals. Without question, cats are unique.
What needs to be kept in mind is the fact that cats are the newest of any of the domesticated species. This puts them very close to their 'wild' roots. Studies of small wildcats, that is, undomesticated or untamed cats that live beyond the comfort of human households, gives insight to what the 'natural' character of the cat is. It is generally agreed upon that today's house cat has descended from a small African wildcat, Felis silvestris libyca. One of the notable characteristics of the wildcat is that in order to insure its own food supply and decrease its chances of becoming prey itself, is to limit it's activities to seeking food when others aren't. Namely, at night. Cats have perfected this night-time strategy and can function very well in limited light, or even in what a person might consider total darkness. Along with excellent night vision, some other characteristics have also been developed:
A broken, erratic tabby pattern and coloring of the fur coat which offers a well conceived camouflage for hiding in tall grass or forest settings. A black cat may possess the best camouflage on a dark, moonless night. How about a keen sense of hearing that can track predators or follow a prospective meal as it moves through the darkness. In addition to excellent night vision that makes the most of limited light, there's the additional advantage of eyes that also detect even the slightest motion.
Along with all this night-time advantage, a cat must also be able to move swiftly and precisely through it's territory to escape predators or other threats. They are able to accomplish this with the use of scent glands located on their feet and on the sides of their face. As they pass through their territory, they'll mark prominent objects along their path. With these scent glands they can lay down a trail that's extremely easy to follow. Now, these scent marks can communicate on the brightest day or darkest night and unlike sound, they won't alert predators. Unfortunately, these marks have to be freshened up from time to time, as well as added to if a new trail is to be explored. A resident cat, that is a cat that has claimed a territory for herself, must continually inspect her territory to keep the scents fresh and to mark any changes to it, such as a newly downed tree or other obstruction on her path. She doesn't want any surprise encounters in the dead of night while fleeing a predator.
All this scent marking plays a critical role in the survival of the small wildcat. With only so many hours in the day, she can't spend all her time marking a territory and leave no time for hunting, finding water or mating. If she did she would become extinct quite soon. She can only claim an area that supports her with food (and her kittens, too), and that area must be efficiently maintained with her scent trails. Under these conditions, it's easy to see that it's not practical for her to share her space for (2) reasons:
There's usually a limited food supply in the territory she has to maintain on a regular basis. The scent trails from other cats would probably be confusing.
Finally, there's the unique maternal nature of a cat that makes it very different from all other domestic animals. The answer to that question lies in her wildcat heritage, also. Survival of the cat species is dependant upon the survival of the kittens. Unlike 'pack' animals, a mother cat, or queen as they are known, is totally responsible for the care of her young. There's no one else around for her to rely on. She must teach her young everything they need to know to survive and do it before their food requirements exceeds the ability of her territory to provide for them. She must do this is a very short time and the kittens must have the capacity to learn all she has to teach. Needless to say, a very strong maternal bond is necessary if either mom or the kids are going to be successful at survival. And, as they learn to survive on their own, the young will one day leave the queen's territory and establish territories of their own. Or else, mom will kick them out. Now, we have (5) characteristics that make a cat... a cat:
Cats are nocturnal Cats are territorial Cats are solitary Cats are predatory Cats are maternal
So, What's all this Heat About??
The female cat's usual heat cycles are influenced by seasonal changes in the amount of daylight. These cycles run from January (as the days begin to grow longer) to October (when the days begin to shorten). She will cycle every 10 to 14 days until she is bred. Heat cycles are easily identified with a lot of vocal calling, rolling on the ground and constantly rubbing against furniture or your legs. She will assume a breeding position with her rump in the air and forepaws near the ground. Note: Spaying and neutering is the perfect cure for this situation. Heat symptoms will be eliminated as well as the risk for ovarian cancers and infections of the uterus. Not to mention the eliminating of kitten litters that can't be properly cared for.
Mating in cats presents an interesting diversion for animals known for their solitary nature and a strong sense of territory. In feral colonies it has been noted that a female in heat will mate with 18 or more males in a single day. Some ethologists attribute this rather promiscuous behavior to the fact that cats must really enjoy sex as much as humans do. The point is moot and probably can't be determined one way or the other. But, it does offer one answer as to why such solitary creatures would gather and form complex social interactions on a seasonal basis. As noted above, the maternal characteristic of a mother cat and her kittens is necessarily strong thus providing a kind of social interaction for cats at a young, impressionable age. So, it's not like cats never experience any degree of socialization from which they can draw the tools of getting along in a large gathering of like minded animals.
When cats gather around a regular, dependable food supply, such as a dump or rodent infested barn, a queen may not wean her young for up to eighteen months. This does have some distinct advantages:
Nursing keeps the queen and kittens together longer than is usual in the wild, keeping everyone social longer and living peacefully. Since lactating females won't come into heat, the population is limited and preserves peace. The nursing kittens won't mature sexually quite as fast which also keeps peace and provides some population control. With a more complex social environment, the kittens will learn more social skills. The longer a kitten nurses, the longer she is in a learning mode, hence, the more she learns.
When a wildcat queen teaches her kittens to accept kill as nourishment and then to hunt for themselves, they will make the transition back to solitary behavior. As the kittens provide more for themselves, the queen will resist nursing. The kitten play will become more aggressive and each will eventually make their way to the solitary life. She will resume her solitary life and the kittens will assume theirs. But, in the feral colony supported with a reliable food supply the driving survival instincts may be ameliorated or softened because of the plentiful food resources and an enhanced social development amongst the neighboring cats. That's not to say that the colony won't outgrow the ability of the territory (dump or barn) to provide food and some may find themselves striking out on their own for greener pastures. One might surmise that cats can get along in groups, establish rules of engagement for mutual survival and be quite successful at it. But, they are not afraid to go it alone and can be very efficient at surviving by their own guile if they have to. They really are quite amazing animals.
So, when you watch your cat as she displays her everyday habits, remember she has a lot of inherited behaviors that are motivating her. Whether it's her scratching or spraying instincts, or walking her domain in the same fashion every day reestablishing her scent trail, or arguing with other pets in your home or neighborhood (because it is after all, her territory). She does so because she learned to survive in an elegant, complex, yet sophisticated way. And it's probably just as hard for her to adjust to your domesticated life as it would be for you to adjust to surviving in the wild. It helps to remember... you're both pretty smart creatures.
The next time someone asks what makes a cat... a cat. Go ahead and tell them. "It's their cute paws, nubby nose, soothing purr, the way she rubs against your leg when you come home, etc, etc, etc". But, you'll know there's a lot more to it than that.
Robert J Gallegos, author of www.catlover-giftsworld.com a web site dedicated to proper cat care with quality cat lover gifts based on an understanding of cat behavior, instincts and the unique requirements for healthy cats as pets. Cats are the newest of animals to be domesticated and still have one paw in the wild. It's a major reason why they're so mysterious and resistant to human expectations.
Robert is a life long lover of cats. He is dedicated to sharing his understanding of the cat experience, reducing the epidemic feral cat situation, and helping cat lovers to provide the best care for their cats.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Here Kitty, Kitty, How to Welcome Home Your New Pet
By Jack Moundon
Cats, as most of us know, make a wonderful and loving pet. For that reason, more and more households in the United States have cats. We can virtually see them sleeping on windows or cuddling with their owners. These feline pets have been around for a long time now. Studies show that the earliest known domestication of the cat was in Egypt, which was more or less 5,000 years ago.
During the ancient times, cats were considered as loyal and endearing companions. Also, cats have proven themselves to be excellent hunters, this is because cats have several notable characteristics than those of dogs (such as shorter sleeping periods, easier to wake up, better vision at night and better auditory system).
Unlike the ancient times wherein cats were used as hunting companions, cats these days only used as pets and for show. While some of today�s cat seldom hunt mice and rodent because of the reliance of man.
There are numerous cat breeds these days, from the regular cat found mostly on alleys to the popular Siamese breed. Each and every breed is unique and offer great companionship if properly cared.
If you are planning of adopting one, it is advisable that you must first carefully consider the source. If you plan to adopt from a cat breeder, it is recommended that you first check if the cat breeder has a good reputation in breeding cats. It is important that the cattery (or the place where the cats are bred) is clean and is operated properly. Most of the reputable breeders won�t allow the kittens to be adopted unit the kittens are 12 weeks old, while some breeders prefer 16 weeks, this is to ensure the proper development of the kitten�s health and immune system.
And once you have adopted one, it is important that you must place your cat in a litter box. The litter box must always be kept tidy and must have constant source of food and water. If you opt for a kitten, it is highly recommended that they must be allowed to roam and run around freely. It is unwise to keep kittens on cages. Also, it is important that you have constant physical interaction with the kitten, the kitten must get used to being touched and stroked so that it will interact more to you. A kitten that is handled properly will eventually have better temperament when it grows up.
Cats make very good pets or companion if properly taken care of. You can adopt a cat or kitten through the local animal adoption agency near you. Or you can either find one through your local paper and on the internet.
Jack Moundon is the owner of http://www.the-cat-central.com Helpful information about cats health problems and meanings about their common behavior. Great gift for cat lovers and helping you cat stay healthy.
Cats, as most of us know, make a wonderful and loving pet. For that reason, more and more households in the United States have cats. We can virtually see them sleeping on windows or cuddling with their owners. These feline pets have been around for a long time now. Studies show that the earliest known domestication of the cat was in Egypt, which was more or less 5,000 years ago.
During the ancient times, cats were considered as loyal and endearing companions. Also, cats have proven themselves to be excellent hunters, this is because cats have several notable characteristics than those of dogs (such as shorter sleeping periods, easier to wake up, better vision at night and better auditory system).
Unlike the ancient times wherein cats were used as hunting companions, cats these days only used as pets and for show. While some of today�s cat seldom hunt mice and rodent because of the reliance of man.
There are numerous cat breeds these days, from the regular cat found mostly on alleys to the popular Siamese breed. Each and every breed is unique and offer great companionship if properly cared.
If you are planning of adopting one, it is advisable that you must first carefully consider the source. If you plan to adopt from a cat breeder, it is recommended that you first check if the cat breeder has a good reputation in breeding cats. It is important that the cattery (or the place where the cats are bred) is clean and is operated properly. Most of the reputable breeders won�t allow the kittens to be adopted unit the kittens are 12 weeks old, while some breeders prefer 16 weeks, this is to ensure the proper development of the kitten�s health and immune system.
And once you have adopted one, it is important that you must place your cat in a litter box. The litter box must always be kept tidy and must have constant source of food and water. If you opt for a kitten, it is highly recommended that they must be allowed to roam and run around freely. It is unwise to keep kittens on cages. Also, it is important that you have constant physical interaction with the kitten, the kitten must get used to being touched and stroked so that it will interact more to you. A kitten that is handled properly will eventually have better temperament when it grows up.
Cats make very good pets or companion if properly taken care of. You can adopt a cat or kitten through the local animal adoption agency near you. Or you can either find one through your local paper and on the internet.
Jack Moundon is the owner of http://www.the-cat-central.com Helpful information about cats health problems and meanings about their common behavior. Great gift for cat lovers and helping you cat stay healthy.
Monday, May 21, 2007
The Joy of Cats
By Michelle Bery
In the ongoing battle of cats versus dogs, pet owners continue to sing the praises of their animal of choice. While dogs are vastly considered to be the more family-friendly pet, cats have their own equally enthusiastic fan club that can easily rattle off the attributes of their feline in-residence. The truth is that cats � loyal, loving, and often misunderstood � are just as popular in the world of pets as their canine counterparts.
The history of cats goes back nearly 9,000 years to ancient civilizations. Always the skilled predators, cats were often relied upon to keep vermin at bay. But there is also speculation that cats were kept as house pets as early as 7,500 BC. We do know that ancient Egyptian civilizations revered cats � so much so that anyone convicted of killing a cat was put to death. Cats were often even mummified along with their owners.
Today�s domesticated cats are beloved fixtures in many a home, a valued and loved member of the family. There are literally dozens of breeds of cats from which to choose � the personalities of each separate and distinct. Deciding which of these beautiful cats would best be suited to your home and family is largely dependent on the disposition of the cat in relation to your lifestyle. There are many breeds of cats that � in keeping with their species� tradition of independence � are completely ambivalent about human interaction. There are other breeds of cats, however, that enjoy and seek out the company of their human owners. The choice is ultimately dependent upon your own personality as it relates to pets.
Choosing to own cats means a dedication to being a responsible and caring owner; be sure to research the responsibilities of cat ownership including the nutritional needs of your cat, space considerations, and veterinary appointments.
Cats are wonderful pets and companions and having one in your home can be a joy for you and your family. Choose your cat wisely and prepare for an addition to your family.
For easy to understand, in depth information about cats visit our ezGuide 2 Cats.
In the ongoing battle of cats versus dogs, pet owners continue to sing the praises of their animal of choice. While dogs are vastly considered to be the more family-friendly pet, cats have their own equally enthusiastic fan club that can easily rattle off the attributes of their feline in-residence. The truth is that cats � loyal, loving, and often misunderstood � are just as popular in the world of pets as their canine counterparts.
The history of cats goes back nearly 9,000 years to ancient civilizations. Always the skilled predators, cats were often relied upon to keep vermin at bay. But there is also speculation that cats were kept as house pets as early as 7,500 BC. We do know that ancient Egyptian civilizations revered cats � so much so that anyone convicted of killing a cat was put to death. Cats were often even mummified along with their owners.
Today�s domesticated cats are beloved fixtures in many a home, a valued and loved member of the family. There are literally dozens of breeds of cats from which to choose � the personalities of each separate and distinct. Deciding which of these beautiful cats would best be suited to your home and family is largely dependent on the disposition of the cat in relation to your lifestyle. There are many breeds of cats that � in keeping with their species� tradition of independence � are completely ambivalent about human interaction. There are other breeds of cats, however, that enjoy and seek out the company of their human owners. The choice is ultimately dependent upon your own personality as it relates to pets.
Choosing to own cats means a dedication to being a responsible and caring owner; be sure to research the responsibilities of cat ownership including the nutritional needs of your cat, space considerations, and veterinary appointments.
Cats are wonderful pets and companions and having one in your home can be a joy for you and your family. Choose your cat wisely and prepare for an addition to your family.
For easy to understand, in depth information about cats visit our ezGuide 2 Cats.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Is a Disposable Cat Litter Box Right For Your Home?
By Mayoor Patel
Many people find that rather than owning a cat litter box that is more or less meant to be a permanent solution, the concept of a disposable cat litter box works much better for them. If you are curious about the disposable type of litter box, here are some facts about this cat hygiene solution that may interest you.
One of the most appealing things about a disposable solution to the litter box question is that you can actually make your own instead of having to buy one. Essentially, you need a box that is deep, long, and wide enough for your cat to be able to use effectively. You also want the bottom of the box to be reinforced, which is something you can easily do by adding another layer or two of cardboard. The walls should be high enough to contain the cat litter when your pet scratches around, but also low enough that your cat does not see the walls as an impediment to using the box. Boxes that either are already the right size of that can be cut down to the proper dimensions can easily be picked up for free from many different sources.
Of course, you can purchase a commercially produced disposable cat litter box as well. These will usually come as part of a kit, containing cat litter and a scooper to help you keep the box clean until you are ready to get rid of it and replace it with a new disposable litter box. While these commercial models do tend to be somewhat expensive over the long haul, they also are time savers, as you do not have to clean out the box or spend time washing the box itself. From that perspective, the cost may be worth it to you.
A disposable cat litter box is a great solution for many people. If you think it might work well in your home, purchase a commercial model to day or make one of your own. Your cat may even come to like the idea much better than the present litter box.
Mayoor Patel is the writer for the website http://www.cat-litter.wares-are.us/. Please visit for information on all things concerned with Disposable Cat Litter Box
Many people find that rather than owning a cat litter box that is more or less meant to be a permanent solution, the concept of a disposable cat litter box works much better for them. If you are curious about the disposable type of litter box, here are some facts about this cat hygiene solution that may interest you.
One of the most appealing things about a disposable solution to the litter box question is that you can actually make your own instead of having to buy one. Essentially, you need a box that is deep, long, and wide enough for your cat to be able to use effectively. You also want the bottom of the box to be reinforced, which is something you can easily do by adding another layer or two of cardboard. The walls should be high enough to contain the cat litter when your pet scratches around, but also low enough that your cat does not see the walls as an impediment to using the box. Boxes that either are already the right size of that can be cut down to the proper dimensions can easily be picked up for free from many different sources.
Of course, you can purchase a commercially produced disposable cat litter box as well. These will usually come as part of a kit, containing cat litter and a scooper to help you keep the box clean until you are ready to get rid of it and replace it with a new disposable litter box. While these commercial models do tend to be somewhat expensive over the long haul, they also are time savers, as you do not have to clean out the box or spend time washing the box itself. From that perspective, the cost may be worth it to you.
A disposable cat litter box is a great solution for many people. If you think it might work well in your home, purchase a commercial model to day or make one of your own. Your cat may even come to like the idea much better than the present litter box.
Mayoor Patel is the writer for the website http://www.cat-litter.wares-are.us/. Please visit for information on all things concerned with Disposable Cat Litter Box
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Advantages of Flushable Cat Litter
By Mayoor Patel
You may have read about flushable cat litter or seen some brands of this type of litter at the supermarket or pet store. There are some excellent reasons why more people are choosing to use this sort of litter. Here are a couple of scenarios in which cat litter that is flushable is a very good idea.
One of the main situations where this sort of litter is extra helpful is when one lives in an apartment building. Often, trash is dumped down a chute from each floor. While this is convenient for most of the tenants, it also usually involves some regulations as to what may be dumped down the chute. In most cases, dirty cat littler is not among the items that are considered proper to dump. However, flushable litter will easily dissolve in the septic system, so flushing it down the toilet allows the apartment dweller to take proper care of the cat, without having to make trips off site to dispose of the waste.
Another scenario involves the weather. Many of us live in parts of the country where cold weather can make us think twice about going outside for a nice portion of the year. Do we really want to have to trudge out in the ice and snow, or even freezing rain just to clean up the litter box? With flushable cat litter, you don't have to deal with inclement weather. Simply dump the contents into the toilet and flush, then clean the box itself and put in fresh litter. That is all there is to it.
Flushable cat litter does cost a little more than some types of cat litter, but the convenience factor can make all the difference in the world. Why not give it a try today? You may find that once you go through one round of usage that you never want to go back to any other type of litter.
Mayoor Patel is the writer for the website http://www.cat-litter.wares-are.us/. Please visit for information on all things concerned with Flushable Cat Litter
You may have read about flushable cat litter or seen some brands of this type of litter at the supermarket or pet store. There are some excellent reasons why more people are choosing to use this sort of litter. Here are a couple of scenarios in which cat litter that is flushable is a very good idea.
One of the main situations where this sort of litter is extra helpful is when one lives in an apartment building. Often, trash is dumped down a chute from each floor. While this is convenient for most of the tenants, it also usually involves some regulations as to what may be dumped down the chute. In most cases, dirty cat littler is not among the items that are considered proper to dump. However, flushable litter will easily dissolve in the septic system, so flushing it down the toilet allows the apartment dweller to take proper care of the cat, without having to make trips off site to dispose of the waste.
Another scenario involves the weather. Many of us live in parts of the country where cold weather can make us think twice about going outside for a nice portion of the year. Do we really want to have to trudge out in the ice and snow, or even freezing rain just to clean up the litter box? With flushable cat litter, you don't have to deal with inclement weather. Simply dump the contents into the toilet and flush, then clean the box itself and put in fresh litter. That is all there is to it.
Flushable cat litter does cost a little more than some types of cat litter, but the convenience factor can make all the difference in the world. Why not give it a try today? You may find that once you go through one round of usage that you never want to go back to any other type of litter.
Mayoor Patel is the writer for the website http://www.cat-litter.wares-are.us/. Please visit for information on all things concerned with Flushable Cat Litter
A Backward Glance into the History of Cats
By Audrey Frederick
Have you ever wondered where �today�s cat� came from?
I have and so I began a little research on the history of cats.
Apparently no one really knows when or how �the cat� first appeared on our planet.
According to some sources it is said that Miacis, a weasel-like animal that lived about 40 or 50 million years ago is the cat�s closest ancestor.
I have not been able to find any pictures or drawings of this animal, that is supposed to be the father/mother (if you will,) of all land-dwelling carnivores, including the dog.
Since I cannot prove otherwise, I will accept this information for as close to the truth as I can get.
According to a DNA study that was done in 1997 by two members of the National Cancer Institute in Frederick, Maryland, it appears that cats have been known to live in Asia as early as 11 million years ago and here in North America as early as 9 million years ago.
Their research was based on DNA analysis of 37 living cat species.
Millions of years ago, as sea level rose and fell, the earth formed natural bridges and the cats being nomadic creatures traveled all over to colonize, everywhere that is, except Antarctica according to some scientists.
Why not there? I believe cats were smart enough to know it was too cold.
If you are picturing in your mind a cat that looks like your cat wandering around the earth, forget it.
These cats did not look like our cats, some were big cats and some were smaller cats, it took a long while for �our cat� to emerge.
The 1997 study by the National Cancer Institute also helped determine that most of the 37 or so living species of cat that exist today, belonged to one of past eight lineage�s according to their DNA.
It is said that the first association of cats with humans may have occurred during the Stone Age.
Apparently, the cats figured out �where there were humans� there would be food and where there was food a mouse or two could be found.
However, it took a long time for cats to be considered household pets, as cats were considered useful, but wild beasts.
Then came the days of ancient Egypt.
The Egyptians about 5,00 to 6,000 years ago had learned how to stockpile grain for future use.
With the stockpiles of grain came mice and rats and a serious need occurred.
The Egyptians were the first civilization to domesticate the cat on a large scale and to make the world aware of the usefulness of the cat not only for catching mice and rats, but also as a household pet.
The Egyptians were so enamored with �the cat� and its importance in their lives that they not only allowed it in their households, they eventually worshipped the cat and treated it like royalty.
�The royalty treatment� is something the cat never forgot.
In Egypt when a cat died they were mummified and buried in elaborate ceremonies, even in the poorest of households.
Mice were mummified along with the cat, so that the cat would have food in is afterlife.
There were some cats that were considered sacred and they lived in the temples with the priests.
These cats were considered oracles and people would come from long distances to ask the cats questions. The priests would interpret the cat�s actions (such as licking its paw) and tell the visitor what the cat was saying.
It was considered a crime to kill a cat and if you were guilty of that crime, you were killed, too.
It has come to light during an archeological excavation in Saqqara, where thousands of cat mummies were found that all the cats did not die a natural death.
By x-raying some of the mummified cats it was revealed that many did die of natural causes, but some were young cats (year old) with broken necks.
There are two schools of thought here, one being that the cat population had grown too large and it was a way to slow it down.
The other possibility was that the priests raised these cats and later killed and mummified them to sell to people who attended festivals.
It was considered proper to buy a mummified cat as a way to please the �cat goddess� called Bastet and then ask a personal favor from her.
Researchers are fairly certain the people buying the cats did not know they were intentionally killed.
It did not take long for the word to get around (about a 1,000 years or so) about the usefulness of cats in a household.
Soon the Romans and Greeks realized the value of a cat and made them members of their household. Here they were not worshipped.
During the 11th century cats became extremely important in killing the rats that were causing the Black Death.
Then came the Middle Ages and trouble followed for the cats.
Pope Gregory IX apparently did not like cats and decided that they were diabolical creatures and needed to be destroyed.
It was a sad time for cats as they were beaten, killed and driven away from the villages.
Anyone who had a cat was considered a �witch� and was put to death along with the cat.
Cats were sacrificed, burned to death and even buried alive inside walls of houses (supposed to bring good luck.)
As the cat population was being destroyed, the rat and mice population grew by leaps and bounds.
Causing a great many plagues and other epidemics all over Europe.
People were dying everywhere and soon they realized the error of their ways.
By the 17th century, cats were back in favor, doing what they did best, catching mice and rats.
However, people began to see that cats were nice to have around and soon they became treasured household pets once again.
It has been said that the first cats came to North America by crossing over the Bering Strait about several million years or so ago.
However, in more recent times (1600-1700) cats came on board ships with the traders and explorers. Cats were very important on board ships in order to protect the cargo from the rats and mice.
Many early settlers in the colonies brought their own cats with them. Life seemed pretty good for cats until the Salem witch-hunt of 1692 and once again cats became a product of discrimination along with the people who owned them and were destroyed or driven away.
Once again �people� learned the error of their ways and cats were once again welcome as the rat and mice population grew.
In 1749 cats were brought to Pennsylvania to help control a serious rodent plague.
As more and more colonists came to the New World the need for cats grew. It was necessary to import cats and the new cats needed to be stronger and sturdier.
Without cats, the New World would have faced many plagues and ships would have lost much of their cargo.
You might say �cats� saved our country.
As time went on and our country grew, people started moving west.
They packed up their worldly possessions into wagons, gathered up the family and livestock and forgot the cats.
They seemed to forget, that where there were people and food (grain) soon there would be rodents.
It�s Murphy�s Law.
It is said that during the Gold Rush of 1849, people were buying cats off trading ships for $50.00 a piece.
In 1884 during the rat plague that came to San Francisco, people were willing to pay up to $100 for a cat.
Cats like our country prospered and like the people, cats came from all countries of the world. This mix of cats and the breeding that took place has managed to give our country a great mix of what is known as �domestic shorthaired.�
Today there are more than sixty-five million cats living in our homes. Cats far outnumber dogs.
The number of actual breeds varies according to the source you check. Some sources say that there are 36 species, others say 37 species, but we have found with the new breeds coming along that there are probably over 40 different varieties of cats.
This has been a very brief history of cats; they certainly have played a very important part in the growth of the Universe.
It is hard for me to imagine life without having at least one of them around and I hope you feel the same.
If you found this article interesting I invite you to visit me at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com Here you will have a chance to view many interesting articles regarding cats and dogs.
Have you ever wondered where �today�s cat� came from?
I have and so I began a little research on the history of cats.
Apparently no one really knows when or how �the cat� first appeared on our planet.
According to some sources it is said that Miacis, a weasel-like animal that lived about 40 or 50 million years ago is the cat�s closest ancestor.
I have not been able to find any pictures or drawings of this animal, that is supposed to be the father/mother (if you will,) of all land-dwelling carnivores, including the dog.
Since I cannot prove otherwise, I will accept this information for as close to the truth as I can get.
According to a DNA study that was done in 1997 by two members of the National Cancer Institute in Frederick, Maryland, it appears that cats have been known to live in Asia as early as 11 million years ago and here in North America as early as 9 million years ago.
Their research was based on DNA analysis of 37 living cat species.
Millions of years ago, as sea level rose and fell, the earth formed natural bridges and the cats being nomadic creatures traveled all over to colonize, everywhere that is, except Antarctica according to some scientists.
Why not there? I believe cats were smart enough to know it was too cold.
If you are picturing in your mind a cat that looks like your cat wandering around the earth, forget it.
These cats did not look like our cats, some were big cats and some were smaller cats, it took a long while for �our cat� to emerge.
The 1997 study by the National Cancer Institute also helped determine that most of the 37 or so living species of cat that exist today, belonged to one of past eight lineage�s according to their DNA.
It is said that the first association of cats with humans may have occurred during the Stone Age.
Apparently, the cats figured out �where there were humans� there would be food and where there was food a mouse or two could be found.
However, it took a long time for cats to be considered household pets, as cats were considered useful, but wild beasts.
Then came the days of ancient Egypt.
The Egyptians about 5,00 to 6,000 years ago had learned how to stockpile grain for future use.
With the stockpiles of grain came mice and rats and a serious need occurred.
The Egyptians were the first civilization to domesticate the cat on a large scale and to make the world aware of the usefulness of the cat not only for catching mice and rats, but also as a household pet.
The Egyptians were so enamored with �the cat� and its importance in their lives that they not only allowed it in their households, they eventually worshipped the cat and treated it like royalty.
�The royalty treatment� is something the cat never forgot.
In Egypt when a cat died they were mummified and buried in elaborate ceremonies, even in the poorest of households.
Mice were mummified along with the cat, so that the cat would have food in is afterlife.
There were some cats that were considered sacred and they lived in the temples with the priests.
These cats were considered oracles and people would come from long distances to ask the cats questions. The priests would interpret the cat�s actions (such as licking its paw) and tell the visitor what the cat was saying.
It was considered a crime to kill a cat and if you were guilty of that crime, you were killed, too.
It has come to light during an archeological excavation in Saqqara, where thousands of cat mummies were found that all the cats did not die a natural death.
By x-raying some of the mummified cats it was revealed that many did die of natural causes, but some were young cats (year old) with broken necks.
There are two schools of thought here, one being that the cat population had grown too large and it was a way to slow it down.
The other possibility was that the priests raised these cats and later killed and mummified them to sell to people who attended festivals.
It was considered proper to buy a mummified cat as a way to please the �cat goddess� called Bastet and then ask a personal favor from her.
Researchers are fairly certain the people buying the cats did not know they were intentionally killed.
It did not take long for the word to get around (about a 1,000 years or so) about the usefulness of cats in a household.
Soon the Romans and Greeks realized the value of a cat and made them members of their household. Here they were not worshipped.
During the 11th century cats became extremely important in killing the rats that were causing the Black Death.
Then came the Middle Ages and trouble followed for the cats.
Pope Gregory IX apparently did not like cats and decided that they were diabolical creatures and needed to be destroyed.
It was a sad time for cats as they were beaten, killed and driven away from the villages.
Anyone who had a cat was considered a �witch� and was put to death along with the cat.
Cats were sacrificed, burned to death and even buried alive inside walls of houses (supposed to bring good luck.)
As the cat population was being destroyed, the rat and mice population grew by leaps and bounds.
Causing a great many plagues and other epidemics all over Europe.
People were dying everywhere and soon they realized the error of their ways.
By the 17th century, cats were back in favor, doing what they did best, catching mice and rats.
However, people began to see that cats were nice to have around and soon they became treasured household pets once again.
It has been said that the first cats came to North America by crossing over the Bering Strait about several million years or so ago.
However, in more recent times (1600-1700) cats came on board ships with the traders and explorers. Cats were very important on board ships in order to protect the cargo from the rats and mice.
Many early settlers in the colonies brought their own cats with them. Life seemed pretty good for cats until the Salem witch-hunt of 1692 and once again cats became a product of discrimination along with the people who owned them and were destroyed or driven away.
Once again �people� learned the error of their ways and cats were once again welcome as the rat and mice population grew.
In 1749 cats were brought to Pennsylvania to help control a serious rodent plague.
As more and more colonists came to the New World the need for cats grew. It was necessary to import cats and the new cats needed to be stronger and sturdier.
Without cats, the New World would have faced many plagues and ships would have lost much of their cargo.
You might say �cats� saved our country.
As time went on and our country grew, people started moving west.
They packed up their worldly possessions into wagons, gathered up the family and livestock and forgot the cats.
They seemed to forget, that where there were people and food (grain) soon there would be rodents.
It�s Murphy�s Law.
It is said that during the Gold Rush of 1849, people were buying cats off trading ships for $50.00 a piece.
In 1884 during the rat plague that came to San Francisco, people were willing to pay up to $100 for a cat.
Cats like our country prospered and like the people, cats came from all countries of the world. This mix of cats and the breeding that took place has managed to give our country a great mix of what is known as �domestic shorthaired.�
Today there are more than sixty-five million cats living in our homes. Cats far outnumber dogs.
The number of actual breeds varies according to the source you check. Some sources say that there are 36 species, others say 37 species, but we have found with the new breeds coming along that there are probably over 40 different varieties of cats.
This has been a very brief history of cats; they certainly have played a very important part in the growth of the Universe.
It is hard for me to imagine life without having at least one of them around and I hope you feel the same.
If you found this article interesting I invite you to visit me at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com Here you will have a chance to view many interesting articles regarding cats and dogs.
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