Cats | LOLCATS 2

{Cat History And Cat Classification Of Domestic Cats}

§665 · September 6, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Scientists classify living organisms into different kingdoms, family, and orders to study more about them. Although, most people do not get into such details, but certain individuals who love cats, will definitely want to know the scientific classification of cats.

However, before that here is little history about classifications. In nineteenth century, there was this huge craze to classify the organisms scientifically. During that era, researchers identified numerous species and subspecies. They named the organisms by their own name or by the name of traveler, who bought them from different regions. Accordingly, cats were no exception and researchers classified them too.

Below is a detailed description of the scientific classification of the cats. To start with, the domestic cat in the household is commonly referred as Felis Catus.

How Researchers Classified Cats:

Life science expert Carouse Linnaes gave the name Felis Catus to the domestic cat in the year 1758. The domestic cats are in fact distant relatives of the wild cats. Therefore, domestic cats are the subspecies of feral cats. Thus, according to the guidelines of the ICZN (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature), wild cats are referred as F silvestris and F silvestris catus for the domestic species.

Cats are mammals and represent the vertebrate groups. Furthermore, since cats are meat eaters they are placed under carnivores order. The easy and scientific tabulation of the cat classification is as follows:

Common name: cat, feline, kitty cat, domestic cat, and pussycat
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora
Suborder: Feliformia

Family: Felidae
Subfamily: Felinate/Pantherinae

Species: Felis catus

Cats such as domestic cats, Pumas, cheetahs, lynx, ocelot, and others come into Subfamily Felinae whereas large cats such as leopards, jaguars, lions, and tigers come in subfamily Pantherinae.

Long before the scientists assigned scientific classification for cats, ancient travelers and cat lovers had already classified them into subspecies. It usually depended on the notion that the particular cat type was representative of the main phenotype of cat in the area.

This method was same as that of Victorian love of gathering and classifying the organisms and then claiming them in certain order. For instance, the present day Felis Catus anura is referred as the Manx, catus Siamensis as Siamese, F catus cartusenesis as the Chartreux, and F catus angorensis as Turkish Angora.

About Species:

Species are nothing but taxonomic assembling of animals, which are similar but are readily distinguishable from one another. Although, they appear similar they never crossbreed naturally.

For instance, tigers and cats are of same species but they are very different in terms of behavior as well as in type, so there is a need to classify them more into subspecies or races. Mammals of a particular subspecies vary morphologically from distinctive mammals.

The domestic cat is actually the offspring of the original African Wildcat. The subspecies of an African wildcat is F s lybica. The domestic cats take the place below F s lybica and become felis catus. All breeds of felis catus interbreed naturally.

Go to Cat and Kitten Zone to get your free ebook about Cats and Kittens at Cats. Cat and Kitten Zone also has information on Kittens, Cat Supplies and a Cat and Kitten Forum where you can connect with others who love cats and kittens. You can Find Cat and Kitten Zone at www.catandkittenzone.com.

Tags: cats, Classification, Domestic, History

{Cats lacking accountability}

§664 · September 6, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Cats lacking accountability
I agree wholeheartedly that it’s time for cat owners to pay their fair share of the costs of animal welfare in Langley [Past time for cats to pay their fair share, Aug. 31 Letters, Langley Advance].

{Couple fined for neglecting 14 sick cats}

§620 · September 2, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Couple fined for neglecting 14 sick cats
A Christchurch couple with so many cats that an SPCA inspector lost count after 30 have been convicted of not providing veterinary treatment for 14 that had to be put down.Graeme Thomas Smith and his wife, Gillian Mary Smith,…

{You Should Not De-Claw Your Cats}

§438 · August 15, 2010 · cat · (No comments)

Cats use their claws for various purposes. The claws are important to cats, as they are an essential part of balancing. If you’ve ever noticed a cat jumping and latching on to a high object, you’ve probably noticed that he uses his claws to pull himself up. When climbing trees, cats tend to use their claws to latch onto the bark and climb towards their destination.

Cats also use their claws for stretching, walking, and running as well. The claws are also a cat’s primary source of defense against other animals and humans as well. Most cats keep their claws extremely sharp, as their claws and teeth are basically their only weapons. The claws are also essential for using the bathroom as well, as cats use them to cover up their mess with dirt.

Cats also use their claws to scratch things, which mark their territory. Their claws have glands, which contain a secretion. When they leave their mark on something, the secretion is transferred to the area they scratched. This is detectable to other cats although not to humans. Sometimes, they will also scratch something to remove the older claw which will fall off and give them a brand new claw that resides underneath.

As sad as it is, a lot of pet owners choose to put their own possessions above their cat, such as their expensive furniture or carpets. These cat owners are afraid that they cat will ruin their furniture or carpet, and therefore will choose to get their cat de-clawed. Getting a cat’s claws removed is a surgical procedure, one that can only be performed by a veterinarian. The owner will need a good reason though, as a vet won’t do the surgery just to keep one’s furniture or carpet protected.

If you’ve been thinking of getting your cat de-clawed, you should know that the process can totally change his personality. Once the cat is de-clawed, he will be in pain and confused. He may not be able to jump in the window or on the couch, and he may not be able to play like he once did. Some cats, after being de-clawed, tend to get aggressive and bite with their teeth. To make a long story short, the cat will be completely miserable – which is a tough thing to bear for those who love their cats.

Those who decide to own cats should know that a cat can scratch on occasion. If someone isn’t prepared to deal with that fact, they shouldn’t own a cat in the first place. Cats are great pets, although they do have claws and they will use them on occasion. There are plenty of other great pets out there, if you aren’t up for handling a cat. If you’re just worried about your furniture or carpet, there are ways that you can keep your cat from scratching on your belongings.

The first thing to do is to get your cat a scratching post and let him know where it is and how to use it. You can also get a rush mat as well, which will help your cat with his instincts to scratch. You may have to demonstrate how to use the mat or the post at first, although your cat should catch onto it quick. Once you have shown him the ropes, he will scratch on the post or the mat – and not your furniture or your carpet.

Although many don’t realize it, there are other ways to protect your things other than getting your cat de-clawed. Getting a cat’s claws removed is very painful and confusing to the cat, and may totally change his outlook on things. Before you decide to take the inhumane path of getting your cat de-clawed, you should look into your other available options- your cat will like these options much better.

Learn about sheep facts and elephant facts at the About Animals site.

Tags: cats, DeClaw, should

{Cats improving still need work}

§437 · August 14, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Cats improving still need work
As the season nears Benjamin Russell head coach Danny Horn likes the overall improvement of his football team …

{Hairball Remedies for Cats}

§432 · August 13, 2010 · cat · (No comments)

Hairball Remedies

Hairballs are a common thing for almost all cat owners. Though they may be disgusting to humans, a hairball is a normal and natural way for cats to rid their system of unwanted hair. Hairballs are also a way to get rid of irritating hair that gathers in the cat’s intestinal tract.

As we all know, cats clean themselves by licking their hair. Some cats can be compulsive groomers and every time they lick their fur to groom themselves, loose hair is picked up on the tongue, swallowed, and makes it way down to the stomach. Some cats are especially prone to producing more hairballs or hairballs on a more regular basis. This includes cats that are heavy shedders or ones the groom excessively. While a hairball is a normal thing, it is still uncomfortable for the cat. When a hairball is not eliminated they can cause a blockage in the intestinal track which requires immediate and often costly medical attention.

There are many ways to reduce hairballs which will make your life and the life of your cat easier and more fun. Not every option may be viable for every person and cat, so make sure to try as many as you can.

Cat Brushes

The best thing you can do to reduce hairballs is to give your cat a good daily groom. There really is no substitute for a good brushing. A good brushing will remove loose hair and keeps the cat’s coat clean and shiny. All the hair that ends up in the brush is hair that does not end up in the cat’s stomach. A good cat brush is one item that should be bought when buying all other essential cat supplies. Another benefit of brushing your cat is that it is a great bonding time.

Lubricants

Lubricants are another option to help move excess hair through your cat’s system. Petroleum-based lubricants are used. As many cat owners know, cats can be very picky about they eat. The good thing is that most of these lubricants are an oral paste and are available in many different flavors such as chicken and beef. Sometimes they are even combined with catnip to make them more appealing to cats. Another way to get your cat to digest these lubricants is to put them on the cat’s paw or nose which will your cat will then lick off and it forces the cat to ingest the lubricant.

Specialty Diets

Most specialty diets for hairball reduction are highly effective and quite popular. They are available at many of your local pet food stores. These diets are high in fiber and low in calories. They have been researched and scientifically formulated to provide the best nutrition possible for your cat. When your cat receives great nutrition it improves their skin and coat condition, which in turn reduces the shedding your cat does. In addition, the higher fiber content helps move the hair through the intestinal tract and eliminate potential blockages would could be deadly.

Food Supplements

Besides lubricants and specialty diets, food supplements can be used to help reduce shedding and improve the coat condition. Fish oils, B-vitamins, pumpkin, and brewer’s yeast help with a healthy skin and shiny coat. This in turn will help control the formation of hairballs. Additional omega-3 and -6 fatty acids which are generally found in a liquid form can also help with shed control and a shiny coat. Lastly, there are cat treats that are given as an additive for improving skin and coat conditions. Many of these treats have the fish oils included in them.

Grooming Products

Besides brushing your cat, there are other grooming products that will help reduce your cat’s hairballs. Shampoo and conditioners that are specially formulated to control excessive shedding are a good place to start. There are also shampoos and conditioners that are fortified with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to moisturize the coat and leave it shiny and healthy. This option works great for those people that already give their cat a bath.

Toys

Lastly, toys and cat scratching posts are often not talked about when it comes to reducing hairballs. Cat Toys increase activity which aids in getting a cat’s system moving, this helps eliminate excessive hair build-up in the intestines.

Poochieheaven features Dog Carriers, Dog Beds in many different sizes and colors, and tough dog toys.

Tags: cats, Hairball, Remedies

{How About Naming Your Cats Properly?}

§415 · August 8, 2010 · cat · (No comments)

In this day and age, a lot of things have changed from how they used to be, which can be new and exciting for most. Pet cats hold a very special place in the hearts of their owners. Wouldn’t it be nice to give a pet cat the loveliest name one can think of?

Wouldn’t it be great to give a pet cat a name that would reflect its personality as seen by the one who owns it or a name which would give recognition to the cat’s breed? There are actually a lot of names to choose from in books or in the internet. But generally, how can an owner choose a name which he will find fit for his cat?

Many cat owners name their pet cats with human names. Actually, a whopping fifty percent of pet names are those of persons. This primarily is because there are owners who are enamored with a certain name and actually desire to christen someone, or something for that matter, with that favorite name.

Another basis for names is personality or appearance. In this category, examples are Midnight (should the pet be a black cat), Fluffy (obviously, if the cat is fluffy or has long, soft and bouncy coat) and Whitey (of course, if the cat is white). Pet names based on appearances or personality make up an amazing twenty percent of all pet names. However, unlike human infants where the parents can opt to wait for a few weeks to see the baby’s personality before naming the child, cats must be named more quickly.

So how does an owner actually name his pet cat? Here are some tips which cat owners can give some thought.

First off, keep in mind that the name that the owner chooses for his pet cat will not only reflect the cat’s character but also how the owner views his relationship with his pet cat. As much as it says a lot about the cat, the name given by the owner will tell much about the owner himself. It can then be seen how the name can portray an image of the characteristics of the cat. Many cat names give either a positive or negative impression of the cat. So, it is important to choose a name which will best convey the proper image of the pet.

A cat’s name is for keeps. No matter which name the owner chooses, the cat’s name should be that for the rest of his life. It is absolutely not fair to change the cat’s name every two weeks just because the owner finds another name he thinks he might prefer. If the cat already recognizes the sound of its name it should not be changed.

Although the cat won’t mind any name its owner may wish to use, it is just not fair to give the cat an embarrassing name. While the cat would not mind being named “Ooga Booga”, it would be embarrassing for the owner to actually use this name. Imagine a person calling out “Ooga Booga” at least eight times a day every time he is looking for his cat. The cat’s owner should find his pet a name which he will be proud to use. Also please remember to pick a name which will be appropriate when your cat is full-grown. A large tabby cat with a silly name like Mimi or Kitten seems ridiculous.

A name with two syllables will do best. The response of animals is better to two-syllable names. A cat owner may decide to give his pet a long name as well as a nick name. However, the longer name inevitably would be shortened, and this would probably ruin the effect the cat owner originally sought.

The cat’s breed heritage may provide great ideas for names. For instance, if the cat owner owns a Siamese cat, why not name it Siam? If the cat is a Russian Blue, it would be nice to give it a Russian-sounding or Russian inspired name such as Sofia or Chekov.

Speaking of inspiration, there are a lot of things out there from which you can gain inspiration. As was said earlier, the name the owner gives his cat will speak just as much about himself. So why not pick a name for the cat which is derived from the owner’s likes, hobbies and favorites? If the owner were passionate about world history, maybe the names Isis, Genghis, Voltaire or Osiris would sound very classy. If the owner were an avid fan of the Greek mythology the names Zeus, Athena, Hercules or Jason would be sure to make a good first impression on other people.

On the more contemporary side, names of characters from favorite movies, cartoon series, TV programs or bands will do just as well. Huey, Louie and Duey would sound cute as well as Bonnie and Clyde. A more posh touch would be naming your cat after signature designers. Tommy, Donna, Karan, Calvin and Gianni would not sound so bad for cats–just as long as they are well groomed as their names imply. Naming cats is not the easiest task there is, honestly. But it can be a lot of fun if these considerations and suggestions are always kept in mind.

Then no doubt, that perfect name will come easily. Wouldn’t it be great for an owner to call his pet cat a name which is close to his heart and a name he will be proud to call out no matter what time of the day? Find out more by reading our other articles on this topic and other subjects we have written related to it.

Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet’s popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website please visit ArticleTeller.com and ContentWOW.com

Tags: about, cats, Naming, properly

{Inside Cats And Outside Cats}

§406 · August 6, 2010 · cat · (No comments)

Cats can be either outdoor or indoor pets. Pet owners themselves must decide whether or not they want their cats to be outdoor or indoor animals. Many countries actually ban people from allowing cats to be outdoor animals, especially if the cats are declawed and defenseless in the wild. In the United States, however, the decision is up to the pet owner. There are several things to consider when making a decision. Below, a few pros and cons of these topics are discussed.

If the only issue were the life expectancy of a cat, then keeping cats indoors would win hands down. It is proven that an indoor cat has an average life expectancy of about fourteen years, while outdoor cats have an average life expectancy of about four years. There are a number of factors that affect this. For instance, an outdoor cat is more susceptible to picking up life-threatening illnesses. Outdoor cats are predisposed to abscesses, from bite wounds from fights, which if untreated, can lead to infections and complications. In addition, an outdoor cat could pick up feline AIDS, rabies, and feline leukemia. These diseases are transmitted from cat to cat, and some can result in death.

Outdoor cats are in danger of being run down by cars, attacked by predators and abused by humans, as well as, being subjected to inclement weather. All of these conditions can shorten a cat’s life. Also, outdoor cats add to the cat population problem that results in so many cats being put down each year.

An indoor cat is like a part of the family. It is kept warm and safe in the house and receives medical attention that helps to treat ailments and increase life spans. Cats are independent creatures that can tolerate being alone for long periods, while family members are busy with their daily lives. They are not available to predators and are safe from diseases transmitted from cat to cat. Also, since they do not roam on streets, they are free from possible death by being run over.

The believers of the theory that cats belong outdoors believe cats belong in their natural environment. They also feel cats confined indoors are not given the opportunity to chase prey, exercise or have freedom to roam their environment. The indoor cat believers feel cats can get enough exercise through interactive play with their owners, and do not need to chase prey as they kill for fun, not food. These people also believe a cat’s natural environment is in the house, since the cat has been domesticated for thousands of years now.

It is believed by many that an indoor cat becomes bored and depressed. But, by showing your cat attention and providing stimulating toys, hiding treats, or providing a companion pet, you can keep your cat occupied. The fact is, by keeping your cat indoors, not only can it increase your cat’s life, protect its health and keep it safe, but it can also become a happy member of your family.

Cat Articles and Tips at http://Cats-Today.com. Learn how to operate a Successful Adsense Website Network at http://eWebCreator.com. Matthew Hick has been designing profitable Niche Adsense Websites for over 5 years

Tags: cats, inside, Outside

{Dozens of cats rescued from feral colony}

§393 · August 2, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Dozens of cats rescued from feral colony
LYNN – Sixty feral cats and kittens living at a feline shelter in Lynn are looking for volunteers to feed them. The Friends of Beverly Animals, the non-profit organization that oversees the so-called “cat colony” at the Lynn-Saugus line, needs people who can offer an hour a week or every other week.

{Cats on a leash: The video evidence}

§370 · July 27, 2010 · cats · (No comments)

Cats on a leash: The video evidence
YouTube offers proof that some felines really can be walked around like dogs. Others, not so much

LOLCATS 2