i LOVE CATs.....

Before you Get Your First Cat

Getting a cat for the first time involves a lot more than just picking one out. Cats are not necessarily the self-sufficient creatures some people think, and you need to be take several things into consideration before making the monumental move of sharing your home with a cat. By the way,proud to introduce u my cat name BENNY. He is almost 9 years old...

So you think you might want to get a cat, and don't know where to start. You no doubt have dozens of questions running through your mind: "Should I get a male or a female, a kitten or an older cat?" "I'd really like a purebred (name your favorite breed), but maybe I should adopt a mixed breed instead." This tutorial helps answer those questions, as well as a few you haven't thought of.

Am I ready for a cat???

Think seriously about this important step, which is much like entering into a marriage. Bringing a cat into your family should be a lifelong commitment, so give it serious thought. A good place to start is by understanding that no one truly owns a cat. Cats are sentient beings, and your cat (should you decide to welcome one into your home) deserves to be a family member rather than a "collectible."

What kind of cat should I get???

You may have some preconceived notions that you want a particular breed of cat, or that you want a kitten instead of an adult kitty. But before that important decision, do some homework. Like life itself, there are many factors involved in choosing a cat, some of which you may never have considered.

Where do I look for a cat???

There are many possibilities with attendant pros and cons. Our adoption guide offers facts about the most popular sources for getting a new cat, and advice on two places you should avoid at all costs.
All right! You've done your homework, and you're fully prepared (you think) to become a new cat parent. You've chosen your first cat or kitten (or more appropriately, he or she has chosen you), and you're just waiting for the details to settle so you can bring your new baby home. You've only just begun, though.

Common Preventable Diseases

The sad fact is that every year thousands of cats die from communicable diseases that could have been prevented, either by vaccines or by keeping them away from other cats that are potential sources of these infections. Learn more about the most virulent of these infectious diseases.
A glossary of feline terms is included to help you understand more about feline health matters.

Factors That Contribute to Feline Disease

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

Managing Chronic Disease in Cats

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

Other Potentially Serious Conditions

Probably the most potentially serious condition is FLUTD, often caused by acidic urine. The very first thing your vet will check for suspected urinary tract problems is your cat's urine pH.
While fleas or hairballs may be considered only an annoyance by some cat owners, the reality is that both of them have the potential for causing painful and serious problems. Other conditions such as constipation, anal gland impaction, and dental disease have equally potential for serious results.
Read on to learn more about these conditions, what causes them, and what you can do to help your cat avoid them.

Veterinary Care & Pet Health Insurance

Your cat will need veterinary care a number of times during the course of his life, from his initial kitten exam and shots, to spaying/neutering, to routine care as he ages. Accidents and serious illness also require veterinary attention, sometimes in a vet E/R setting. As your cat ages he will encounter those diseases and conditions that go along with advancing years.
How will you pay for all this? Since most people do not have unlimited funds, you could consider either starting a special savings account, or invest in pet health insurance. The bottom line is that you cats' health should be a priority.

Behavior & Training

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