Nothing Wild about the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail cat is anything but wild. With its clear, calm expression and natural intelligence flashing across its eyes, the American Bobtail has grown in popularity during the past several years. Rugged, hardy, and very intelligent, the American Bobtail has inherited the sturdy characteristics of its predecessors while adapting to the pleasures and restraints of domestic life. Is an American Bobtail cat right for you? If you're looking for a highly energetic and expressive pet that loves to play, an American Bobtail may be just what you've been looking for!

History of the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail as a recognizable breed emerged during the 1960s. A brown tabby kitten with a bobtail was identified at an Indian reservation in the American Southwest. A couple adopted him and later went on to breed him with a long tail female. The offspring from this coupling was the basis for the American Bobtail breed. Although the name may indicate otherwise, the American Bobtail is not a "wild" breed. Rather, American Bobtails descend from bobtailed cats that have traditionally been located in the American Southwest.

The American Bobtail cat is one of the newest breeds to be accepted by the Cat Fancier's Associate. The American Bobtail registered as a breed in February of 2000, although it had been widely acknowledged as a unique breed by legitimate breeders for several years. The American Bobtail is also exceptional because, as its name indicates, it is genuinely indigenous to the United States.

Buying and Caring for an American Bobtail Cat

Breeders will generally make American Bobtail kittens available for purchase beginning at least twelve weeks after birth. At this young age, the kittens have developed the physical strength and social skills to interact with other animals, and to adapt to a new environment. If kept indoors, the American Bobtail should be provided with maximum attention and a suitable area for it to play and paw. Scratching posts and play areas are recommended. American Bobtails can be easily leash-trained, and once your cat gets used to it, he or she will demand to go for regular walks!

Physical Attributes of the American Bobtail Cat

The American Bobtail has a number of distinctive physical features. Most breeders and cat enthusiasts are quick to point out the cat's 'wild' features. The American Bobtail cat is certainly strong, sturdy, and athletic-looking, although all strains of wildness have disappeared. The American Bobtail is well known for its well-muscled appearance, its strong, rolling gait, and overall sense of power and intelligence.

The American Bobtail is generally larger sized, with most male cats easily weighing in at more than 15 pounds. American Bobtail cats are slow to grow, with most cats reaching their adult weights at age two or three. Most American Bobtail cats have short, very thick coats, although some cats have longer hair and a more shabby-haired appearance. The American Bobtail's coat is known for its extraordinary resilience and its water-resistant nature. Their coats come in nearly all patterns and colors, although they do not exhibit a 'pointed' design such as that displayed by Eastern breeds like the Siamese. Most American Bobtail cats have very straight, short tails, sometimes displaying slight curves and variations.

The American Bobtail has a broad head with a prominent brow that endows the cat with a distinctive 'hunter's gaze.' Its eyes are almond-shaped, clear, and project a sense of intelligence.

Temperament of the American Bobtail

Despite its somewhat 'wild' appearance, the American Bobtail is completely domesticated and has developed a reputation for being lively, loving, and affectionate. They have been compared to dogs in their loyal nature and in their ability to initiate play. The American Bobtail is highly energetic and fun, with a prowess for hunting and climbing. They have been described as excellent family cats that are capable of living with small children and other pets, even dogs. Above all else, the American Bobtail is widely known in cat fancy circles as an exceptionally intelligent breed. They are also known to be a highly vocal breed. If you would like a cheerful companion who is expressive and talkative, the American Bobtail may be just the right cat for you. Be prepared to play catch and fetch with your American Bobtail, as well.

Several Ways Cats Pamper Their Humans

Do you ever get the feeling that your pet is taking care of you, rather than vice versa? You may not be too far off. Recent research has demonstrated conclusively that owning a loving pet provide innumerable benefits, enriching both your physical and your emotional life.

Here are five ways that cats pamper their humans in ways you may not have realized before.

1. Your cat may just help you get a better night's sleep. Researchers are just beginning to measure the sleep patterns of individuals who sleep with their pets, and gauge the effect pets have on their owners. So far, it appears that sleeping with your pet can provide significant benefits. Human beings that sleep along side their animals are certainly not beginning a new phenomenon. It is believed that in prehistoric times, humans and animals slept close together to create and sustain warmth. Even now, with our space heaters and air conditioning units, nothing quite beats the warmth and comfort of having a loving pet at your bedside.

The emotional and psychological benefits of sleeping with a pet can be even more substantial. Just knowing that your pet is going to join you at night can help provide with a relaxing environment that is conducive to getting a good night's rest. Winding down after a long day's labor can be a treat for both you and your cat. Moreover, the time you spend together each night serves to enhance your relationship and helps to nourish a sustaining emotional bond.

2. Your cat may also be pampering you with their busy paws. Cat lovers are very familiar with the kneading action that many cats make with their paws when they are in a relaxed state. As many cat lovers’ can testify, this kneading paw action can give quite a massage! Stroking, petting, or brushing your cat's fur can also be a relaxing and enriching experience for you and your cat.

3. The allure of the sweet purr. What cat lover hasn't enjoyed the soft trill of a cat's purr? The sound and vibration of a cat's purr is beginning to be scientifically studied, and it is believed that the sound can lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and aid your ability to fall asleep. The cat purr phenomenon has begun to grow in popularity, with researchers taking interest and investigating the so-called curative and sedative effects of a cat's purr. A new compact disc featuring the purring of cats is even being marketed to individuals who have trouble falling asleep.

4. The joy of companionship. To those who've never experienced the companionship of a cat, it can be difficult to describe the allure of having a feline companion at your side. Cats provide a type of companionship that is marked by loyalty and affection. Unlike dogs, cats are notoriously more independent than dogs. They are capable of grooming themselves and going to the bathroom with little need for help from their owners. This combination of loyalty and independence creates a unique relationship between cat and owner that parallels many human relationships.

5. Cats pamper their owners by showing them a better way to live. It has been argued in the pat that animals often experience life more richly than humans. Let your cat pamper you by observing and learning from her life philosophy. Your cat's philosophy may include:

Take frequent naps. They don't call it a 'cat nap' for nothing! Cat's famously fall asleep quickly, then awaken refreshed and ready to play at a moments notice. Taking a moment in your day to rest can ease even the most difficult day. So do as your cat does, and take a nap!

Bask in your solitude. Even the most outgoing person needs a few minutes each day to recharge and refresh. Cats wisely know that solitude feeds the soul and distresses your mind and body. So take a cue from your cat and take some time out for yourself.

Stretch the tension out of your tired body. What do cats do best, besides sleeping and eating? Stretching! When a cat rises from a long nap, note the moments of luxurious stretching. Not rushed or harried, but simply a long, slow stretch to slowly reawaken the body. Human beings, too, would benefit from frequent stretching.

Pamper your Cat with the Best in Kitty Kibble

Do you want to give your cat the very best quality of life possible? A well cared for pet can live many years beyond the average lifespan if fed and cared for properly. If you want to ensure the best health for your cat, the best way to do this is to guard their diet carefully. Pamper your cat with the best in kitty kibble. Avoid greasy table scraps, and make sure your feline friend gets plenty of exercise.

With so many kitty kibble brands and treats on the market, it can be confusing deciding which is best for your cat. Here are a few things you should look for when shopping for your kitty kibble, as well as advice on how to feed your cat.

1. Examine the protein content in the kibble. This is the number one indicator as to the quality of kitty kibble. Does the kitty kibble use high-quality animal sources, or is its protein derived mainly from substitutes like plant materials? Cats are naturally carnivores, and they crave protein from high-quality animal sources like lamb and chicken.

2. Look at the fiber content in the kibble. Although fiber in itself is not bad, too much of it can indicate a lower-quality kibble. Fibrous sources and materials are often used as "filler" ingredients in the lowest quality cat kibble. Very high levels of fiber are not particularly healthy for your cat, either. High levels of fiber have been linked to a lowered immune response and allergic reactions.

3. Avoid artificial preservatives. With the amount of high-quality kibble available today on the market, there's no reason why you should settle for a kibble that is loaded with artificial preservatives. Check the label carefully. Many kibbles add artificial preservatives to preserve the fats and oils in the kibble. You should also avoid kibble that lists artificial flavoring in their ingredient list, especially BHT, BHA, and Ethoxyquin, which have been linked to cancer and liver diseases in cats.

4. Look for kitty kibble rich in whole foods, such as vegetables and whole grains like barley and brown rice. Your cat needs the nutrients provided by fresh vegetables and whole grains. Avoid kibble that lists some type of 'meal' at the tops of their ingredients list, as in 'corn meal' or 'soy meal.' Kibbles who rely on miscellaneous meals probably indicate a lower quality kibble, as many meals simply consist mainly of filler ingredients.

5. Look for high quality oils such as fish oil or flaxseed oil. Like all creatures, cats need to consume fats, but you should actively avoid kibbles that don't list their source of animal fats.

6. A good rule of thumb: Avoid kibbles that list several ingredients that you do not recognize. When looking for the best kibble, always examine the ingredients list. If the ingredients list is loaded with ingredients you have never heard of or cannot pronounce it's best to move on. Chances are the kibble is loaded with chemicals, artificial preservatives, and inexpensive flavoring ingredients.

7. Don't just choose the most expensive kibble on the market, expecting quality. While it's true that kibble that uses high quality ingredients is generally more expensive than lower quality brands, you should not simply choose the most expensive kibble you can find. When choosing kitty kibble, you should take into consideration your cat's life stage, age, activity level, special dietary concerns, and their own expressed preferences. Take the time to study the ingredients list—your cat will thank you!

8. Strive to feed your cat at roughly the same time everyday. Cats, more than dogs, are very much creatures of habit. Your cat will feel happy and content knowing exactly when her next feeding is on its way. Feeding your cat every day will also help put your cat on a schedule that will help regulate her digestive system.

9. Feed your cat dry kibble on a regular basis. Cats are notoriously picky eaters, so you may be tempted to feed your cat a moist diet. But snacking on dry, crunchy food like kitty kibble will keep your cat's teeth healthy and clean, and is often much easier on their digestive system. If you need to change your cat's diet or switch kibble brands, do so gradually, mixing in a bit of the new food with her old food until the switch has been made completely.

Herbal Products to Pamper your Kitty

Many cat owners are choosing to pamper their furry, feline friends with natural, holistic herbal products rather than conventional veterinary medicine. The herbal philosophy holds that a natural diet and lifestyle are the best foundation for the maximum healthy and longevity for pets. Herbal products are being used to treat and prevent health issues targeting pets. Holistic treatment uses natural products from our environment rather than man-made medicines and the results from pet owners have been favorable.

Pampering herbal products are dispensed in liquid or powder forms. Pet owners can mix the product with food, dispense through a dropper syringe, or mix it with water. It seems there is an herbal product for any ailment or chronic condition your cat may have. Herbal products are also available and used as vitamins to promote general health for certain systems. From dental care to constipation relief, the holistic veterinary practice of medicine has thought of an herbal relief product for your kitty.

For cats with allergies, an allergy relief herbal product will strengthen and support your cat’s body to better deal with symptoms of allergy. A calming herbal product is available for the many cats who become anxious in the face of high-tension events such as going to the veterinarian, groomer, or traveling by car or plane. To keep your feline’s eye health at its optimum, a vision herbal product is at hand. Dental care herbs will keep your cat’s teeth and gums clean. To detoxify your cat’s system, an herbal purifier will enhance the overall health of your cat. Relieve your cat’s diarrhea and soft stool predicament with a diarrhea relief herbal product. For cats with upset stomachs and weak digestive systems, pamper your kitty with some digestive relief herbal products.

Cats with gas can be miserable. Gas relief herbal products will improve their digestion, relieve inflammation of their digestive system, and improve their intestinal movements. This should relieve the pain and pressure of gas. If your kitty has been injured or put through a traumatic event, an injury relief product is accessible. Cats with pulled muscles, broken limbs, or those recovering from a surgery will benefit greatly and bounce back quickly. Itch relief will improve the overall skin health of your kitty. Skin and coat products will maintain coat health and prevent shedding of your kitty. If your cat has joint pain and inflammation as well as problems with circulation, joint relief in the form of an herbal product is obtainable.

Does your cat get sick in the car? Relieve nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea associated with motion sickness with motion sickness relief. Kill parasitic worms and strengthen your cat’s digestive system against future outbreaks with a parasite relief herbal product. If your cat is constipated, a bowel relief herb will relieve constipation and help your kitty have normal bowel movements. Echinachea in herbal form will stimulate your cat’s immune system and is designed to help fight infection. If your cat has been diagnosed with cancer, an herbal product may help reduce the growth of tumors, purify blood, and carry destroyed tissue. This may help strengthen your cat’s system so normal cells can destroy abnormal ones. A homeopathic remedy to help relieve pain, itching, and swelling from bug bites and stings such as fleas, wasps, spiders, ants, mosquitoes, horseflies, and bees is also accessible.

For older kitties, rejuvenation is accessible through an herbal tonic that will improve their appetite, digestion, and immune system. Strengthen your cat’s respiratory system and lungs with pampering herbal products. If your cat is sluggish in attitude a thyroid booster may be the answer. This herbal product will improve their hair coats and aid with weight issues. A calming thyroid product will help calm your hyper cat. An overweight cat is an unhealthy cat. To keep your kitty slim, try an herbal product that will aid digestion and help with weight loss. To keep your cat’s urinary system in top condition, a urinary herbal product will keep the overall health of that system in check. Liver disorders can be aided with a liver herbal product. Hairballs can be treated with laxatives and holistic herbs for constipation.

To learn more about pampering herbal products for cats, consult a holistic veterinarian for more information.

Abyssinian Attributes: Great for Families or Singles?

The Abyssinian cat is considered one of the oldest breeds of cats since they can be traced back as far as ancient Egypt. They are gorgeous animals with a sleek, muscular body, an arched neck, elegantly shaped eyes, and large ears. While some fanciers believe that the name “Abyssinian” is derived from the country of Abyssinia (now known as Ethiopia) which was said to be the breed’s place of origin, it is far more likely that the name, although derived from Abyssinia, does not point to the cat’s country of origin but simply to the country from which they were originally imported to Great Britain on the occasion of the frequently held cat exhibitions.

While this type of cat is not necessarily considered at lap cat, it does become quite attached to its chosen humans, and is fiercely loyal to them. Unlike their other feline counterparts, these cats are not happy if left alone for long periods of time, and so it would be best to consider adding this kind of cat to a family rather than to a singles’ household. A lonely cat will become quite unhappy and soon begin to act out, such as soiling carpets or bedding in a desperate plea for attention. This type of cat likes to be treated as a member of the family, spoken to while listening attentively, and granted the leverage to slowly get to know new people. This cat is not sociable towards strangers will quite often turn “invisible” by hiding under beds or behind large pieces of furniture when visitors come over. Families will sometimes bemoan the fact that Abyssinian cats do not usually fall under the lap cat category, since especially children enjoy having a cat snuggle up with them. The cat more than m akes up for this by being inquisitive and always curious around its humans, and being a companion on equal footing rather than a cat put on a lap when convenient and otherwise put on the ground at an owner’s whim.

While obedience is not the strong suit of any cat, domesticated or not, the Abyssinian is markedly independent and strong willed – some might even call her pig headed! An Abyssinian cat may spend hours attempting to open a door, box, or anything else she may have noticed as being able to open, and so long claw marks and scratched paint are quite often the results of these expeditions. This is another good reason to not leave the cat alone all day. She will find something with which to occupy her time, yet very rarely with the cat’s human companion approve of these activities. Scratching posts and climbing posts are a good diversion, as are a number of cat toys which will keep her distracted and entertained during the times she is left alone. Additionally, it will be wise not to restrict her from certain rooms as such “forbidden fruit” will become a magnet of unending pull simply to explore that which is closed to her for the simple sake of exploring it. Once the door is finally opened to her, she will quite often lose interest since the challenge is now gone, and it is time for her to move on to bigger, better and newer challenges.

If you and your family are considering showing the cat in exhibitions and competitions, you will need to make sure to adequately prepare her for the onslaught of new experiences. As mentioned previously, this breed does not do very well with strangers, and also due to their territorial nature, rarely tolerate other cats nearby. If you take your cat who has become accustomed to you and your family, put her in a small box, take her for a drive in the car, and then suddenly put her in a cage in a room full of other cats and people, you will most likely have a very uncooperative and unhappy cat on your hands. Be sure to speak to your local breeder for tips and tricks to prepare your pure bred feline for showings and an adoring audience. He or she will most likely be able to give you some step by step instructions on how to ease your little Abyssinian into the role of being a crowd pleaser

Subtle Ways Your Cat Trains You

Cats are subtle in the ways they train their human owners. Just as we train them to use a scratching post or accept a new baby, there are many ways they train us.

Cats want us to ensure that they have a safe, fun home. Keep plenty of cat toys and treats on hand.

Of major importance to a cat is the maintenance of their litter box. You should have one litter box for each cat and it should be placed in a safe, quiet location. Keep the box away from the food and water bowls and also away from any doors. Most litter boxes are too small. Cats need a simple litter box of adequate size. You will learn what type of litter your cat prefers and should stick with that brand. Keep the litter box clean. Mats placed under the box keep the litter in or near the receptacle and keep it from being tracked through your home. Keep matters predictable. Cats love routine and may become skittish with a change in venue.

Cats will beg for someone to play with. Make time for your pet. Scatter some catnip across the floor and marinate your cat’s favorite toy in catnip. Watch your cat get frisky! Have a kitty condo or palace on hand for times when you are away from home. Your cat will learn to entertain himself.

Cats need to be groomed. Groom your cat daily with a brush, comb, or glove to remove excess hair and prevent hairball buildup. Feel for bumps, cuts, tumors, sores, bumps, or a flea infestation. This manner of massage will aid your cat’s circulation and also release oils for your kitty’s coat. Cats that are groomed benefit emotionally, physically, and mentally, as do their owners.

Cats don’t necessarily want their claws trimmed but it is a necessary evil. Trim your cat’s claws every two to six weeks with cat clippers and give treats when your mission is accomplished.

Learn how to brush your cat’s teeth for their sake, their feline friend’s sake, and yours. All parties will appreciate fresh cat breath. Purchase a poultry flavored toothpaste from your pet store and brush one or two teeth and the gumline to start. Once your cat becomes accustomed to the process you can progress to brushing more teeth. Brush your cat’s teeth once or twice a week to prevent tartar buildup and tooth decay.

Your cat will appreciate you learning feline body language. Cat tails are great indicators of a kitty’s mood and intent. Broad swishing of a cat tail indicates annoyance. If your cat’s tail is swishing back and forth, he is agitated. A cat that is afraid will puff up or have his tail bristle, or lower it and tuck it between his legs. A raised tail signals a friendly cat. Cats with bent forelegs are ready to defend and fight if the need arises. If your cat’s fur is fluffed up, you are the owner of a confident, aggressive cat. Ears back and a steady posture mean that your cat is considering his next move. However, ears back with a body low to the ground means that your cat is ashamed and remorseful. Pricked ears indicate a very aware cat. When your cat’s head is raised he is displaying an air of confidence. A lowered head indicates a submissive cat who feels inferior. A bored cat leaves his head tucked in. Knowing cat language can help you communicate with each other and better your relationship.

Monitor your cat’s health. Know what to look for when assessing your cat’s eyes, mouth, ears, nose, coat and body, and anus. Consult your veterinarian upon any symptoms of illness. Schedule regular visits with your veterinarian and have your cat’s eyes, ears, and teeth examined as well as blood taken for diabetes testing.

Prepare for emergencies. Keep a two week supply of cat food and water on hand at all times in waterproof containers. Also make sure to have a fresh supply of cat litter, scoop, and pan in your disaster relief kit. Your cat should have a collar and leash with her name and phone number clearly marked. If your kitty takes any medication, you should have a back-up supply of pet meds as well as a cat carrier for emergency evacuations.

What Does Domesticated Cat� Really Mean?

A domestic animal is one that has been suited to survive in the company of human beings. Its behavior, life cycle, or physiology has been altered as a result of breeding and living conditions under human control for multiple generations. Domestication happens because humans them to help with work, to produce food or commodities, and for companionship. The first recorded date for cat domestication was 3500 BC to 7500 BC in Egypt or Cyprus where they were held sacred for their ability to kill rodents.

According to US Census information, there are 60 million domesticated cats in America. Domesticated cats still have their innate hunting instinct to capture birds, rodents, and small mammals. The National Audobon Society has recorded a significant decrease or extinction of several bird species due to the cat population. Cats evolved from being non-social carnivores to parasites of civilization before being domesticated.

Today’s housecat is very similar to it ancestor, the African Wildcat. It has retained its superb eyesight and keen hearing that has helped it survive in the wild.

According to physiologist Jared Diamond, animal species must meet six criteria in order to be considered for domestication:

Flexible diet— Creatures that are willing to consume a wide variety of food sources and can live off less cumulative food from the food pyramid are less expensive to keep in captivity. Most carnivores can only be fed meat, which requires the expenditure of many herbivores.

Reasonably fast growth rate— Fast maturity rate compared to the human life span allows breeding intervention and makes the animal useful within an acceptable duration of caretaking. Large animals such as elephants require many years before they reach a useful size.

Ability to be bred in captivity — Creatures that are reluctant to breed when kept in captivity do not produce useful offspring, and instead are limited to capture in their wild state. Creatures such as the panda and cheetah are difficult to breed in captivity.

Pleasant disposition — Large creatures that are aggressive toward humans are dangerous to keep in captivity. The African buffalo has an unpredictable nature and is highly dangerous to humans.

Temperament which makes it unlikely to panic — A creature with a nervous disposition is difficult to keep in captivity as they will attempt to flee whenever they are startled. The gazelle is very flighty and it has a powerful leap that allows it to escape an enclosed pen.

Modifiable social hierarchy— Social creatures that recognize a hierarchy of dominance can be raised to recognize a human as its pack leader.

A herding instinct arguably aids in domesticating animals: tame one and others will follow, regardless of chiefdom.

Cats can learn how to use a litter box, remember its name, and recognize its owner. Many cats know what a doorknob is and how to use it. Cats know that a toilet bowl is a toilet without messing or drinking from it. Cats make contact with humans with their voices and “dance” after making a hunt or kill. The “dance” is a happy dance and signals joy. Domesticated cats have gradually changed coat patterns and color since they have no need to camouflage in the wild. Domestic cat’s brain size has been reduced in size by 30% since they can rely on humans.

The biggest difference between pet cats and other domesticated animals is that pet cats are maintaining their instincts from the wild. In spite of such a fact, cats still have comfortable lives living with humans. Humans often consider owning cats the same as owning other animals, but perhaps human environment is part of cats’ wild, and different from other animals. For other domesticated animals, human environment is a human environment. Living with humans is just another wild environment, which humans determine as wild, but easier for cats to live in. Then it is easier to understand why cats have not had to lose their instincts living with humans