Animal Friendships

  Animal friendships, especially among predator-prey species, are often fascinating and adorable to watch. Cats in particular are known for forming powerful bonds with all kinds of other animals. Here are a few entertaining videos we've found across the web.

Cat and Owl

 

Cat and Dolphin

  

Rat Loves Cat

Five Funny Cat Videos

   Youtube is bursting with cat videos. Cats have gained international fame by the entertaining antics they have demonstrated on the web. Here are five cat videos guaranteed to make you smile.

Cat Taking a Shower!

Engineer's Guide to Cats

Dramatic Cat

Puma the Talking Bengal Kitten

Slinky Cat (no, seriously)

Cats and Camping: For Adventurous Felines Only

   Usually when we tell people that we take our cat Sushi tent camping we receive some strange looks. It was a common occurrence for us to see dogs camping with their owners and after noticing this, we questioned why dogs should be the only ones having all the fun. We then decided that we would try it with our curious and brave little cat, who already loved walking on her leash outdoors. Most people would be surprised to know that Sushi loves to go camping. Cats can enjoy camping if they have the right temperament and an owner who understands how to take them along safely. You may be wondering how you could possibly take your cat camping with you without it being a traumatic experience where you end up chasing your escaped cat through the woods. Here's our recipe for success.

   Bring your cat in his carrier, making sure to pack a bag with food, bottled water, litter, cat bed or blankets, litter box, and toys for the trip. Having a large tent also helps to allow the cat plenty of room, and space to put a litter box. I also highly recommend having your cat leash trained for an extra level of protection against escape. Please make sure before the trip that your cat cannot pull out of his harness as well, just in case he is frightened by a sudden noise and tries to pull away.

Sushi the Camping Cat

   When you arrive, set up your tent and campsite while keeping your cat in his carrier inside the car with it running, so he can stay in a temperature controlled environment. Remember, if you would not take a small child camping with you in a certain type of weather, leave your cat at home. Transfer your cat to the tent after you have finished setting up and allow him to explore the inside of your tent. Set out a litter box, food, and water inside the tent. Your cat may need some time adjusting and exploring her new surroundings. When you exit and enter the tent be very careful not to let your cat escape and if your cat is an escape artist, consider buying a tent with zip-off rooms where you can confine him upon opening or closing of the tent to the outside.

   Tents with mesh windows are ideal for cat tent camping, so that the cat can look outside to see all the excitement that nature has to offer. You can also take your leashed cat on walks and use a dog's tie-out stake to allow him to be outside with you while you are cooking or hanging out around the campfire. Make sure your cat is not staked close enough to the fire that he may injure himself and that he is never left outside unsupervised, as he could be a dangerously appealing snack to passing predators without your protection. Happy cat camping!

Collars and Leashes

   After a trip to my local pet store, I noticed that cats seem to suffer from a lack of attractive collars and leashes as compared to dogs. Upon this discovery I took it upon myself to find cat or cat sized collars that were appealing. My favorite places to get collars are usually dog bakeries or on the internet. Here there are usually a variety of different designs that are more appealing than your average blue or red collar for cats. Make sure to know your feline's size before purchasing. If you are purchasing collars on the internet they usually provide a size guide for your benefit so that you can measure your cat to find the appropriate collar. Here are a few of my favorite collars and some links to stores that sell cat collars.

  

Pampered Whiskers

Willow Tree Ragdolls
Pattern and Paw
Feline Fido

  

Flea Problems

   Occasionally some of us will have the unfortunate luck or circumstance of having a cat with a flea problem. Thankfully, there are a variety of options that are very successful at treating them. Fleas can be a very persistent pest and may have to be treated on multiple levels in order to eliminate them.

   First, you need to evaluate your cat's flea problem. If it is severe your cat may need to go to the vet, where she can receive more extensive treatment than the average owner can provide. Examine your cat's body, checking to see how many fleas are on her skin and to see if she has been chewing any sections of her fur. After you get a sense of the scope of the flea problem, it's time to go to your nearest pet supply store for flea treatment.

 There are a few ways you can treat your cat for fleas. One, is by giving your cat a bath with flea shampoo or regular cat shampoo and then using a flea comb to remove any remaining fleas. This is an effective initial treatment to kill the fleas on your pet, but it is not very effective in dealing with the problem long term. The worst part of having a flea ridden cat is that the fleas will take residence in your home. Only 5 to 10 percent of the fleas in your home live on your cat, while the rest are living in your carpet, fabrics, and yes, even on you! Fleas can carry a variety of parasites and diseases, such as tapeworms and the Bubonic Plague. Cats can also chew their fur excessively and rip it out, leading to infections which can create further medical complications.

   If you want to avoid fleas and their nasty friends, you can treat your home by washing all sheets, towels, and curtains. This should also include vacuuming carpets and floors. You can put down carpet flea sprays or powders, and if you are experiencing an extreme infestation, a flea bomb. I do not recommend using flea bombs because you will likely have to spend the night elsewhere for a day or two. They are horrible smelling and also toxic, so only use them in extreme cases. I personally have used powder when I rescued my flea covered kitten, and it worked very well to get rid of them.  There are also flea sprays and flea collars that you can put on your cat. I have found that these last two methods are ineffective, foul smelling, and possibly stressful for the cat.

   The most important tool in eliminating a flea problem is a flea treatment that goes on your cat's neck like Advantage or Frontline. This is the single best way to kill fleas and keep them off. Usually as long as you use this monthly, fleas will never be a problem for your cat. When you use them initially you can apply them once a week until the fleas are gone from your pet, and then taper down to once a month doses. I usually give my cats a treat while I put on their Advantage and it helps to keep the cats distracted so it doesn't startle them when I apply the medicine to their neck. Make sure when applying flea treatments like these that you put them in an area on the back of the neck where they aren't likely to lick. Best of luck handling your flea problems and having a happy, healthy cat!

Cats in Costumes

   Here at Florida Felines, we share a passion for cats in costume. Here are some of our favorite pictures of cats in costumes.

Japan Disaster

    Today is the one month anniversary of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan. It is one of the most devastating disasters in modern history, with thousands of people and animals killed or displaced. There is an active effort on the ground to get to animals that have been trapped or separated from their owners. The situation for cats presents a special problem, where many cats have little to no experience living outside and are hiding amongst the rubble of collapsed buildings. Feral cats present another problem, because many of them need care and are wary of humans. Rescue organizations such as the Japan Cat Network have assembled teams of volunteers who are going into impacted areas to find and trap cats to bring them back to shelters. They also providing medical treatment to injured cats and starting the process of reuniting them with their owners.

    Despite all the sadness and loss, there are rays of hope. Many cats have already been reunited with their owners and are living in special temporary shelters created in pet stores or other locations until their owners can find a more permanent place for their families to live. Other owners have chosen to say in damaged homes with their pets because some shelters for people are not allowing pets. The overall feeling is that of perseverance and workers are putting in long hours to help improve the situation. Provided below are a list of organizations that need assistance and donations, and if possible, we want to encourage you all to donate or help in whatever way you can.

Japan Cat Network
Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support
Animal Refuge Kansai

Cats and the Dreaded Bath

   "Bath" is a word many cats and cat owners alike begin to fear. Bathing a cat, while usually not necessary, is a task that must be undertaken with a great deal of caution. It is a very stressful experience for a cat and usually for the owner, because the owner must take great care to make sure that the cat doesn't injure herself or escape to spread suds and water all over your home.

   When should you bathe your cat? A bath is necessary when a cat has gotten into some sort of liquid or debris that the cat is not capable of removing themselves. Other people bathe their cats when they have an unpleasant smell or to cut down on dander which can irritate people who have allergies. Cats also can benefit from a bath if they have fleas, because it can drown the population of fleas currently living on your cat. If you should decide that it is time to "take the great plunge" make sure you take the proper precautions when bathing your dirty feline.

  First, you need to acquire a cat shampoo. Shampoos designed for cats help care for their skin and coat, and can kill pests such as fleas, depending on the type of shampoo you choose to purchase. Cat shampoos are often tearless too, meaning that it won't hurt kitty's eyes if she accidentally gets some in her eyes. Human shampoos are not designed for cats and can irritate your cat's skin. Once you select a shampoo, fill up the tub with lukewarm water to a level high enough so it just brushes your cat's belly.  You don't want the water to be too high or your cat may react as if she were drowning once you get her into the tub, which will only increase her distaste for the experience. It is also advisable that you trim your kitty's claws before you bathe her so that she will be less likely to injure you if she scratches. Wearing latex gloves can protect your hands and arms from claws and teeth when you are bathing your cat, so you may do this if you wish.

   I usually have a cup or water pitcher by the tub to help assist in rinsing my cat, so make sure you either have something that can hold water to rinse her, or you can use a shower head as long as it is on a very low setting. You should have some towels laid out on the side of the tub for when you remove her from the water and so you can reach them easily. Cats can chill very easily, so make sure you wrap her up as soon as she gets out. Sometimes I even warm the towels slightly in the dryer so that it can help gently warm the cat up so she is not cold.

  Now it's time to calmly pick up your feline as if nothing were amiss, and bring her into the bathroom. I recommend that you close any doors that will allow her to escape. Take your cat and lower her into the water, taking care to keep her from panicking or injuring herself. Shampoo your kitty thoroughly, use a soft cloth to wipe her face, and then proceed to rinsing her off with clean, warm water. After you are finished rinsing, remove her from the tub and wrap her in a towel. Gently pat her dry and make sure you get most of the water off of her coat before you set her free. Be warned, your kitty will probably be none too pleased at this point and will try to desperately escape. Try to keep things as stress free and gentle as possible. For your viewing pleasure, I have attached a video as an example of how not to bathe a cat, just for reference. Good luck bathing your kitties!

Leash Training a Cat

   One of the most enjoyable experiences we have had with our cat Sushi has been taking her for walks. Many people react with disbelief when we tell them that we take her for walks outside on a leash. People generally assume that cats are untrainable, aloof creatures that won't listen to their owners. This is simply not true. Success in training your cat to walk on a leash lies with motivation, as cats are not naturally inclined to complete tasks just to please their owners in the same way that dogs are. However, if you show your cat that there is a reward to be gained from cooperating with leash training, you will have an enthusiastic walking partner.

   Why leash train your cat? There a few reasons, mainly that when you take your cat to the vet or travel with your cat, you can often take them out of the carrier or transport them more easily and safely if they are leash trained. Another reason is that most cats spend their days indoors, and can become bored if not enough stimulation is provided. If you take your cat on a walk, it allows him to exercise his instincts in watching and chasing birds or bugs outside. It also allows them some activity which is good for their health and beneficial if your cat is overweight.

   Before you decide to leash train your cat, make sure that this is an activity that he will enjoy. In order for leash walking to be successful, your cat needs to be the kind of cat that is curious and isn't too frightened of the outside world. If you have an extremely nervous cat that is not social, it is not recommended for you to attempt leash training with him. Some fear of the outside world is expected, especially if your cat has never been outside or was a rescued cat with a history of negative experiences outdoors. Our cat Sushi was found outside and was initially fearful, but with some gentle guidance and help from her curious nature,  she decided that outside can be fun as long as she is on a leash with someone she trusts.

   The first time we introduce Sushi to a leash, we used a "Come With Me Kitty" harness and leash which can be purchased at most pet stores or even places like Target or Wal-Mart. It is a stretchy leash and harness that doesn't pull on kitty when she is walking. They come in multiple sizes, so make sure you locate the size appropriate to your cat. The day we brought it home, we put the harness on Sushi and gave her time to adjust to the feeling of it around her body. She was initially none too pleased about it, but accepted it and eventually grew to wearing it around the apartment as if there was nothing there. After this stage, you can then attach the leash and motivate your cat to walk on it by using a few treats as a lure. Get him used to the feeling of walking beside you until he is comfortable.

   Next, I recommend taking him outside, to a quiet park or place where there aren't many cars or loud noises to frighten your cat. Once again, use treats to motivate your cat to walk around and find a spot to sit where you cat can observe birds or animals so that he will begin to realize that being outside is fun. You ultimately want your cat to realize that the leash means that he will get to go outside. Once your cat realizes that outside is a fun place where he is safe on his leash, your cat will be meowing for a walk every time you pick up the leash.

Introducing a New Cat into your Family

  After our recent experience, I figured I would make a post about the best way to introduce a new cat into your family. The first step in this process, before the introduction itself, is evaluating whether the personality or personalities of the cats in your family are compatible with adding another feline to your household. Cats are animals with a wide range of quirks and personalities, lending some to be social and some to prefer being an "only child". Ask yourself these questions: will another cat add positively or negatively to the atmosphere of your home? Can you handle the cost and responsibility of another animal? Do you have the space for another cat? I have seen a whole range of reactions, from the new cat becoming good friends with the others, to one of the cats in the household turning into a nervous wreck. Now is the time to thoroughly consider your decision because you don't want to have a chaotic household, or have to find a new home for one of your feline friends.

  Once you select the cat and bring her home, make sure to keep the atmosphere as soothing as possible. The cat should have an area where she can be away from the other cats and humans to let her adjust to the smells and sounds of your home. If the cat is fearful or nervous of humans, let the cat spend time in her room and allow her to approach you at her own level of comfort. Some people let the cat have her own room for a day or two, some do it for weeks, it is truly up to the individual cat's personality so use your best judgment. Naturally, your other cat/s will be curious so don't be surprised if you find them acting differently and spending a lot of time near the area where the new cat is located.

  Next, I recommend bringing in some items that have the new cat's scent into the area where your current cat/s are living. Let them get the scent of the other cat and make sure to give plenty of positive attention or even a few treats to your cat so that he will associate the other cat's scent with positive emotion. Do the same thing for the new cat, and bring an item of your current cats' into the room with her, repeating the same process. If the cats are separated by a door, it is even advisable to feed them next to the door so you continue the positive association.

  Another step I like to take is putting a see-through baby gate up at the door separating the cats. This way they can see each other and you can determine how they will react to each other. If this goes well, remove the gate and supervise your cats. Once they are together, make sure that they don't fight or harass one another. Some protest and stress is expected, but if they start fighting or become visibly distressed, you should separate them and give them some time to recover from the experience. Do not under any circumstances let them be together unsupervised until you know that they will get along. Usually it is best to continue the supervised visits for a few days, even if they get along like best friends. You do not want to come home to injured cats or a house that is torn apart.

  Keep in mind that some cats may take time to become friends and others may never become friends. It is alright if your cats aren't best friends, but it is crucial that they learn to at least live together in peace. If this method is completed properly, most times the cats will learn to get along.

  There are the rare situations where cats are not compatible with having another cat added to their home. Give the process a few months and if it still does not succeed, then it may be time to find your cat a new home. If you find yourself in this situation, please responsibly place your cat into a good home, where the new owners are aware of his limitations.While it is a delicate process to bring a new cat into your family, it can be an extremely rewarding experience for both you and your cats.

Tex's Story

   Introducing a new cat can sometimes be a difficult experience for any balanced human/feline family. We recently came home with a five year old male Bengal cat who we've had for about a month. He was adopted from a cattery because he is now a retired breeding cat. His name is Tex, and he is 16 pounds of cuddle machine.

   He came to us as a somewhat nervous guy, and in the beginning, we gave him a room to himself so he could acclimate to his new surroundings. His former owner had owned him since he was 12 weeks of age and I can only imagine what a scary experience it was for him coming to a new home. The first day all he did was hide under my bed and wouldn't eat until the second day. It was then that he surprised me and came out for some attention. He is very affectionate but doesn't like to be approached by strangers. In fact, I have noticed that if you approach him standing up he will nine times out of ten, run and hide.

   After some time, we introduced him to our other cat Sushi. She had come to us extremely young, perhaps four to five weeks of age because she is a rescued cat and is the progeny of a local Egyptian Mau who has not been fixed. We actually found her on top of a running gas tank after who knows how long, and had to nurse her back to health. We were worried about her because she hasn't had the normal socialization that kittens get growing up and living around other cats, however she had spent time with some of our family who have cats when one or both of us were out of town. Sushi's initial reaction towards new cats and new people is to hiss, or sneak up behind them until they look at you, and then run away. She's not exactly a social butterfly. Yet, over time she did warm up to our family's cats and become good friends.

   When Sushi first saw Tex, she hissed every time he tried to step closer. Tex is a very cat friendly guy and was attempting to check out his new roommate. After a few days of the "hiss and retreat" behavior, she began following him everywhere. In a few more days, they were playing, and if you were very sneaky, you catch them sleeping together when they didn't think we were looking. Now, they are the best of friends, and you can often find them playing chase or grooming each other on the couch. 

  Our decision to get a new cat started when Sushi would come to us wanting to play at all hours of the day and night. When we'd come home in the evening, we'd find her watching for us at the window and then at the door. She would wake us up at all hours of the night, wanting attention or play. The poor cat was miserably lonely being by herself much of the day and she was making it very clear that our attentions simply weren't enough.

  One day we were coming home and noticed two large, beautiful orange spotted cats in the window underneath our apartment curiously watching us. The months of conversations about getting another cat began to center around Bengal cats, a breed we had heard of but knew very little about. We spent time researching the different options, and decided that maybe an adult cat was our best choice. One night I was on the couch browsing the internet and found a picture of Tex. He was our type of cat, large, wild looking, with beautiful rosettes. We reserved him that night, and the rest is history.

First Post

Welcome to Florida Felines, a blog about everything related to cats. We will be posting a collection of things, from product reviews, to advice on caring for cats and interesting articles. Check back periodically for updates, but for now, here is a picture of our 9 month old Egyptian Mau kitten Sushi. She is a very precocious and playful cat, who has no problem helping herself to the cat food cupboard when we aren't looking. Sushi's favorite activities are chasing the laser pointer, sleeping, and believe it or not, camping! We have a large three room tent that we camp with and Sushi comes along. You can usually find her in the tent chittering at birds and with us on walks because she is leash trained.