Why feeding a cat the correct diet can help with this health condition. Diabetes is a common disease found in cats. In the vast majority of cases, it is directly linked to a high carbohydrate diet of dry food (carbohydrates convert to sugar). Cats are by nature carnivores. A true carnivore is an animal that lives on a diet consisting only of meat. A cat may consume other products presented to it, but these products are not essential for good health and can actually cause damage to their health. True carnivores have difficulty digesting vegetable matter. The food you feed your cat should be appropriate to cats for the overall health of the animal and should come pretty close to what the animal would normally eat in the wild. In the wild, cats would be eating rabbits, squirrels and mice (meat). They would not go to a cornfield or a rice paddy to find a meal of grain.

Since a cats body is not made to consume a high carbohydrate diet of grains or vegetables, feeding a diabetic cat a high carbohydrate diet is the same as trying to put out a fire with gasoline. Carbohydrates are long chains of sugar molecules linked together. Your cat’s normal digestive process breaks up these chains into individual sugar molecules that pass through the intestinal wall and load up your cat’s blood stream with sugar. It is not recommend for any cat, much less a diabetic cat to eat any foods whose main ingredients is corn (meal), wheat, barley, rye, oats or rice. This also means no potatoes, carrots, beets, soy, peas, yams or beans. Feeding your cat this is little different than just pouring straight sugar into your cats bowl.

There is nothing magical about a diabetes-management diet for your cat. It is just a matter of finding foods that are low in carbohydrates.

Popularity: 11% [?]

Does your cat attack your other pets? Does it attack the new cat you brought home? Or does it fight with your pet dog? Animal behaviorists have different names for each of these behaviors. When kitty attacks your pet mouse, or the bird in the garden, it’s called predatory aggression. It is just following its natural instinct to hunt for prey. Unfortunately, it is difficult to stop this kind of behavior. The best you can do is put a collar with a bell on your cat. This will keep it from sneaking up on its prey. You should also keep your other smaller pets (like your pet hamster) away from your cat.

Fear aggression is yet another instinctive behavior. How do you recognize when kitty is frightened? It hisses, bares its teeth, and crouches low with its tail and legs tucked under its body. It flattens its ears against the head, the pupils dilate, and the fur stands on end. To the person triggering this reaction, it almost seems as if your cat has doubled in size. Just the same as a puffer fish doubling its size to frighten its enemies away. Push kitty any further and it may attack.

So, what can you do? For a start, you should not try to pet or console your cat when it displays this frightened yet aggressive behavior. Petting your cat in this situation not only could get you hurt, it reinforces in kitty that this behavior is okay. You do not want this to happen. Even though it seems uncaring, it is better to ignore kitty in this mood.

Where possible, you want to gradually desensitize kitty towards this trigger. Treat it like a phobia in a human being. Expose kitty to the fear trigger a safe distance away for short periods of time, and reward it with treats when it does not show aggressive behavior. Once it gets used to the trigger at a certain distance, gradually decrease the distance. Eventually, like a human being, your cat will stop being afraid.

The other kind of aggression which causes kitty to attack other animals is called territorial aggression. This mean that kitty will chase or fight with the new cat which you bring home. It is trying to protect its territory. If this happens, you will need to take their introduction to each other slowly.

First, you need to confine both of them to their own quarters. Let them hear and smell each other, but do not allow any physical contact.

Once they get used to each other like this, switch their quarters. Let kitty investigate the newcomer’s smell, and let the newcomer investigate kitty’s smell and its new home.

After this, place them in the same room, but at opposite ends of the room. Let them eat, in order to condition them to associate food with each other’s presence.

Slowly bring then closer to each other.

Finally, free them from their carriers and feed them, while making sure they cannot attack each other.

If they eat their food and remain calm at this stage, then you are successful. Be warned that this could take weeks and even months.

In the end, there is no single way of keeping your cat from attacking another animal. You need to be patient and use a complete process.

Popularity: 18% [?]

Finally, a litter box you don’t have to hide! With its Tuscany true hand finish, Hidden Litter looks like a real clay pot. Complete with an attractive high-quality plant, Hidden Litter will enhance the décor of any room. No one will know if your cat doesn’t tell

Product Description
No one will know if your cat doesn’t tell! The Hidden Litter Box (Tuscany Model) is the largest of the hidden litter boxes. The litter box to humans looks like a planter when turned around towards the corner of the wall. Your pets will be able to crawl inside the base of the planter and use it as a litterbox with great privacy. The base can also be lined with bedding to use as a pet bed instead. Vented design and filter controls dust and odor! Comes complete with plant, filter and moss just add litter. Durable polypropylene construction. Large capacity pot great for large cats and multi-cat households.

Product Features

I bought one and then another a few months later. They are easy to assemble and clean. The “pot” finish is authentic looking but the plant and wiry moss are not at all lifelike and tedious to arrange the first time. But my cats (2)(ages 8 and 9) love them, especially the privacy. I have them on small washable area rugs, one on each floor. I had previously bought one of the covered litter boxes you tilt to clean, but it was ugly and did not work well for me as it was smallish and I like to give my cats a deeper bed of clumping litter than was practical for that model.

I own one and must say it looks surprisingly good for a thin plastic pot with a fake plant. The pot is realistic as long as you do not stoop to examine. The plant is not bad either and you can always use your own plant. It was difficult to arrange the leaves and the stem had to be “un bent”, but with a little effort it does not look bad at all.

The pot makes a large litter pan which I really like. I put mine in a corner with the opening towards the wall and as long as you keep it cleaned out people do not seem to notice.

I bought this when the only alternatives where $500+ wood furniture that looked nicer than my bedroom set. So I ordered a second one for the upstairs hallway. This is the problem, it has been on order for several months now. I cannot believe they are still selling this when it is back-ordered for so long. So I recommend this, but I would buy it from the manufacturer unless you have time to wait.

Popularity: 17% [?]

Easily keep the cat-litter box clean with this roll-away litter box. The unit quickly self-cleans, while controlling dust and containing odors. Simply roll the litter box to the right until the top touches the floor, and then roll it back to the upright position. The unit’s internal mechanism deposits the clumped waste into the pullout waste tray for easy disposal. The system works only with clumping litter, and the waste tray separates clumped waste from clean litter, so clean litter is never thrown away. The litter box makes it easy to provide the cat not only with a clean litter box, but also with privacy due to the covered pan design. The litter box also helps save money–no more scoops, liners, or filters to buy. With a silver top and blue base, the litter box measures16-1/2 by 19 by 16 inches with a 7-by-7-1/2-inch opening.

Reviews from Purchasers:

I would describe this cat box with words like- LOVE_LOVE- FUN- easy, ETC ETC….
When I bought the first one, I saved the receipt. I thought for $30 I am taking it back if it doesnt work like a dream. I also gave it to my mom as XMAS gift, so I wanted to make her test it out. When we first got Ragdolls cats for each other as XMAS gifts, we agreed on loving the cats but hating the cat box.
We even tried the automatic cleaning ones and took them back.
This cat box would be worth $100 in my opinion. I cant believe how easy it is to use, less then 10 seconds to cleans the litter box, no removing the lid. Throw away the scoops as you will never need it once you own this cat box. No smell, no bags, no mess. Even for someone with a bad back it would only require bending over. You roll it upside down, and the cleaning is done.
You slide out the drawer and the solied litter is ready to goto the trash can. The only thing I could think people may need to adjust themselves to is using minimal amount of litter. Just fill the main section with 3-4 inches of litter. Dont try to even it out to fill up the right side of the box.
Since I have gotten one for my mom, I purchased one. 4 other people I have demonstrated my cat box too, have also purchased one and they say they love it!!!
Go get one today!!

You can buy this Item at Amazon.com by clicking the following link:

Popularity: 15% [?]

This self-cleaning box is meant to be used with Fresh Step crystal litter. It has a seperate sealed container that the waste is deposited into to reduce odor and make clean-up a breeze. One unique feature of this litter box is that you can choose the amount of minutes between kitty potty time and the automatic box raking. It even has a counter that keeps track of how often your cat goes!

Pros:

• Counter is great for cats with urinary/digestive issues, you can give an accurate report to your vet
• Comes with a hood for your cat’s privacy and to minimize smell
• Quieter operation than most automatic litter boxes
• Designed to be changed only once or twice a month

Cons:

• The litter that must be used is non-clumping which can be messy wifor cats with soft stool
• The disposable cartridge system can get very expensive (there is a non-disposable option as well)
• Most users say they have to tend to the box much more often than advertised

More Real User Feedback

The ScoopFree was my first electronic litterbox. With the SF, I didn’t have to scoop pee clumps anymore so I was scooping maybe twice a day removing the poop clumps. I could and did forget about the litter box — didn’t find myself checking it or worrying about it any longer. It is very simple to maintain. There was very little litter tracked out of the box so a lot less floor cleaning, too. And, the crystals dried out the poop so much that the odor control was also fairly good — not perfect but a lot better!

The cartridges will not last 30 days; we change after 2 weeks. Still no odor, no mess, no tiny bits of poo in the FS. Zip, nada. Trouble free, with the exception of dumping the litter every 2 weeks, and everything in it is as dessicated as a mummy on the Nile, so no problem.

I just think it is such a fantastic litterbox! So maintenance free! I have a maid who once a week will scoop the doodie bin out for me, otherwise it just works it’s magic and I never even touch it.

You can buy this Item at Amazon.com by clicking the following link:

Popularity: 16% [?]

LitterMaid Automatic Litter Box LM920

This model is your more “traditional” raking system for a self-cleaning litterbox.

Pros:

• No more scooping!
• The rake moves over the litter immediately after your kitty does their business so stinky surprises aren’t hanging around.

Cons:

• Self-cleaning mechanism is quite noisy
• Some users report that this litter box is low quality and breaks easily

You can buy this Item at Amazon.com by clicking the following link:

Popularity: 15% [?]

The CatGenie is the closest thing to a flush toilet that your kitty is ever going to get. It actually plugs in and hooks up to a water line for a complete kitty sanitation system! It comes with its own plastic granules so you never have to buy litter again BUT if you need to replace any you only have one choice on who to buy them from.
Pros:

• Users report close to zero incidences of malfunction, this is an extremely high quality piece of equipment
• Washes itself
• No more buying litter which could actually make the total cost of ownership of this expensive machine lower than a traditional litter box

Cons:

• Cats might have a long adjustment period
• Requires hookup to electricity and running water
• Pellets tend to scatter

More Real User Feedback

I bought a CatGenie last week. It came yesterday, and I couldn’t believe how *EASY* it was to install. Took me more time to take it out of the packaging. I can see a little bowl warp (shipping?), but it still seems to work. I was amazed at how easy it was. I mean, I had it assembled, before I even opened the manual.

The Cat Genie has worked admirably for about 10 days, amazing me, the cat (and dogs), my family, and our guests. I’ve resisted the urge to drag unsuspecting strangers in off the street. I am thrilled to say this thing does everything I’d hoped. I researched every automatic litter box on the market and when I encountered CG, my first reaction was it was so ingenious I was jealous I didn’t invent it. I still am.

It’s been about three months and my admiration and appreciation for the CG has only grown. I’m on my second cartridge and have had to top off the litter once. Yes, there were some gross splatters the time we messed with Abby’s diet, and there’ve been some stubborn cling-ons on the scoop and chute, but nothing that some spot cleaning with a sponge or paper towel couldn’t handle. Basically, the CG does what I was told it would everyday without fail. Oh that all the gadgets in my life were so true to their promise!

I went out of town for almost 2 weeks and had a friend come every day to play with my two cats and check on things. I replaced the cartridge right before I left so they wouldn’t have to deal with the beeping. I ran the box on automatic 3 times a day and it worked great. The only thing my friend had to do for the cat genie was clean up some scattered pellets!

You can buy this Item at Amazon.com by clicking the following link:

Popularity: 15% [?]

Popularity: 37% [?]

Bringing home a new kitten is exciting. Be sure that you prepare your home with the essentials before picking up your new arrival. Here are the top 8 must haves.

1) Bed

Kittens are happy just about with anything soft and cushy. You can get a fancy bed, but even a soft pillow in a box will suffice. Small beds aren’t that much, but make sure it’s one that you can wash if you do choose to buy one.

2) Food & Water Dishes

If you only have one kitten at home a couple small, shallow bowls will work fine. Be sure the water bowl is sturdy enough that it won’t tip over. Clean them regularly. Water bowls tend to start building up residue around the sides. Make sure they have fresh water to drink at all times.

3) Brush and Comb

For a long haired kitten you can use a long toothed metal comb and a brush. They should be brushed at least once a day to help keep their fur free of mats. For short haired kittens a bristle brush will work. You don’t have to brush them as often, but it’s good to keep brushed regularly. Be sure to start this while they are young so they get used to it.

4) Carrier

A carrier is important to have right away since you will be taking your new kitten in to the vet for check ups and shots. Any kind is fine as long as it is ventalated and large enough for them to move around. Throw something soft in it for them to lay down in. Don’t let your kitten loose in the car because they can climb all over the place, under your feet, around your neck, or even up on the dashboard which is unsafe.

5) Litter Box, Litter, Scooper & Mat

The litter box needs to be kept clean and fresh litter should be added regularly. A mat or piece of carpet placed outside the box is recommended to catch the loose litter they may have in their paws while exiting their box. If you have dogs keep the litter box out of their reach since some dogs will eat the kittens fecies.

6) Collar with Name Tag

Even if your kitten is strictly indoors it is still good to have a collar with their name and your phone number on a tag. You never know when it might sneak out the door and get outside. Get them used to wearing one while they are young.

7) Scratching Post

A kitten uses the scratching post more for exercise than it does to sharpen it’s claws. They like to stretch out while clawing down their post so make sure that it is tall enough for them to do so. They come in all shapes and sizes. You can get one that they can climb up or one that is simply a post with carpet or rope wrapped around it.

Toys

Toys are a must as kittens as they love to play. Just be sure they are strong toys and can’t be torn apart or swallowed. Kittens love mice, catnip, boxes to climb in, balls, etc. A ball or a soft mouse hanging from a string off a door is always a favorite.

Popularity: 20% [?]

Having your cat urinating all over your home can be extremely troublesome. Especially when it happens after you thought you had successfully litter trained your cat. Rather than getting angry, it may be more appropriate for you to be worried. You should strongly consider taking kitty for a check-up at the vet. There are a number of diseases which can cause your cat to suddenly start urinating uncontrollably. One of these diseases is a urinary tract infection which could be potentially fatal if left untreated. As a matter of fact, any sudden change in kitty’s behavior merits a visit to the vet, just in case.

While kitty peeing outside the litter box is an obvious clue, you should also be on alert about your cat’s urination habits. If you notice kitty making more trips to the litter box than normal, or releasing a greater than usual volume of urine, or its urine having a different smell, etc, all these are warning signs of illness. If you truly love your cat, then you need to be vigilant about its health.

Once ill health has been ruled out, you need to look into environmental factors. The most obvious one is moving house. There are one or two cat owners who somehow failed to realize that their cats became confused and could not find the litter box in their new homes. Or simply did not like the new location of the litter box. In any case, if you move house, be prepared to litter train your cat all over again.

Any number of factors could cause stress to your cat and cause it to urinate away from its litter box, even something as subtle as a change in your working schedule. On the one hand, this is rather inconvenient to you. On the other hand, a part of me would be happy, because this shows that kitty misses me and cares about me. It’s nice to know that you are more than just the person who fills kitty’s food dish, isn’t it? Anyway, if you cannot remove the cause of kitty’s stress, you will just have to toilet train your cat again. Besides this, you may want to learn cat massage. Just like for humans, massage can soothe away some of your cats’s stress. If all else fails, you may need to get a something from your vet to help soothe kitty. However, I strongly advise against aromatherapy or the use of massage oils unless your vet can recommend a safe brand. Cats are often sensitive to such oils and scents. There have been cases of poisoning reported.

Something that few people think about is the litter. Just because you still buy the same brand does not mean the manufacturer is still making the litter exactly the same. There could be major or even just minor changes to the final end product, and it could be noticeable to your cat. Remember that its sense of touch and smell is much better than yours.

The problem could even be the litter box. Are your cat still using the same litter box as when it was a kitten? Or has your cat grown old… You may need to try a different-sized litter box.

Did I mention that smell is important? Did you change the cleaner you used to wash the litter box? Are you cleaning the area around the litter box with a different cleaner? Perhaps kitty hates the smell of the new cleaning product and that is why it is urinating elsewhere. Or did you use a different cleaning product for your house. The new cleaner could be confusing kitty.

Your cat is a sensitive creature of habit. First, you need to eliminate health problems as the cause of your cat’s urination problem. After that, it takes time and patience and loving care to investigate the cause of the problem. A case study published by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (JAVMA, Vol 224, No. 10, May 15, 2004) reported that they took several years to resolve the problem. Partly it was because the cat in question had health problems. The vet needed to try different medications which would both clear up the medical conditions as well as not cause the cat to urinate uncontrollably. At the same time, there was no stability in the home environment. The owner got a divorce, and found a new boyfriend. And apparently some stray cats moved into the neighborhood.

Popularity: 29% [?]