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About Us

ABOUT DOGS & PUPS

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DOGS & PUPS is a magazine which promotes Responsible Pet Parenting. Started in July 2004 we bring information which takes care of our furry friends in all possible ways. The magazine has caught the pulse of the reader and fulfils their desire to pamper their pet in a pawfect way. We cover information both nationally and internationally. DOGS & PUPS and CATS & KITTENS target people who are passionate about them, whether they are pets or strays. We provide all-round information on health, training, nutrition, grooming, etc; besides information on the latest and the best canine/feline products to pamper our loving pooches/felines. The magazine is also for a cause wherein we promote awareness for strays and abandoned dogs/cats and the people/organizations who help them. Even serious issues are presented in an easy-to-understand manner for the benefit of the readers. DOGS & PUPS is a forum to raise voice against the wrath on dogs. Each issue of DOGS & PUPS is eagerly awaited by children, dog parents, vets, breeders, groomers, etc – in fact anybody who loves dogs. Let’s all join and make this world a better place for our dogs and cats.

ABOUT THE GROUP

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Dogs & Pups and Cats & Kittens is a part of New Delhi-based S-Media Group. The Group is engaged in producing B2B publications, books, directories, and more. Other titles produced by the Group include Print & Publishing, Sign & Graphics, DigiSign Digest and All About Newspapers, besides the regularly updated websites – www.smediagroup.in

Welcome to our abode!

If you are planning to bring home an adorable kitty, then it’s your responsibility to make transition easy for your loving feline. Here’s more on how to make the physical environment conducive for this little angel.

Kittens in a new home deserve time to get used to their new situation, gain confidence and start bonding to their new family without getting too overstimulated. Here are a few tips to make it easier for them to adjust to the new surroundings:

1. Confinement: Decide the place where you wish to keep her and limit her to one room for the first week at least for a kitten and longer for an older cat or two kittens.


2. Spending time: When they are in the confined area, spend lots of time with them. Just being there only makes quick bonding to the new family. Your kitten should be confident of you and not duck away from you by the time you give her the run of the house.


3. Litter box training: It is also the best time to get the kitten convinced that she likes her litter box. Bring the kitten in a carrier and open the carrier next to the litter box.


4. Giving her own time: Let the kitten choose its own time to venture forth and leave the carrier available with open door as a refuge. If she does so immediately, make the effort to scratch her feet in her litter box, so that she locates it promptly.


5. Water bowl: Provide water on the other side of the carrier or away from the litter box.


6. Changing the place of litterbox: Move the litter box only a few feet at a time, rather than a room at a time.


7. Sleeping together: Let the kitten sleep with you if you have a single kitten. But, do not forget to wear heavy pyjamas as they have sharp little claws.

Mischievous Cat? He just might be bored

Mr. Whiskers has done it again: He’s knocked over the potted plants, batted belongings off the dresser and chased people around the house. Cats like Mr. Whiskers aren’t just rebellious. Sometimes, they’re just bored.

Signs of boredom

Those who share their home with a cat might be under the impression that their companion lolls about the house all day, doing nothing at all. On the contrary, cats–for the most part–are more inclined to spend their days playing.

If they’re bored, they might meow, chase or pester, escape or engage in repetitive behaviour like knocking objects off shelves. They entertain themselves and might think it’s fun to be destructive, especially when that behaviour attracts their person’s attention.

It’s important–even when the cat knocks over the plant that was just repotted–not to punish him. After ensuring he has a clean bill of health, assess his needs at home, paying close attention to his personality, which will give hints to his mental and physical needs. Younger or more social cats usually require more stimulation than older or shy cats.

Banish boredom

Using a toy or game to play with a cat usually helps him release his energy. Cats have a natural prey drive and love testing their pouncing, stalking or chasing skills. Even a paper grocery type sack (handles removed) makes for a fun game of hide-and-seek.

Some cats will even fetch a ball if thrown to them, and positive reinforcement can be used to teach cats tricks.

Banishing kitty boredom can be as simple as setting up a bird feeder outside a window. For cats who enjoy climbing, a tall scratching post with perches could do the trick.

It can be a challenge to figure out which activity any cat likes best, but–above all–don’t force him to do something he doesn’t want to do. Find an activity or toy that he already enjoys. He’ll be less likely to be bored and destructive if he has playtime scheduled with his favourite person.

‘Cat’ch her in the act

If you observe your kitty closely, you can know exactly what she has on mind. Here are a few behaviours she displays and what they mean…

If you are blessed with a cat, you inherently know when she is happy to see you and when she is angry, fearful or upset. Here are a few common signals which tell you exactly how your kitty is feeling.

Watch her head…

If your kitty rubs her head on your body, she is expressing love, wants to be caressed or simply relaxing.

Hear the ears…

You must have seen that even when your cat is sleeping, the faintest sound pricks up her ears but she doesn’t react all the time. She reacts only if her mind detects a predator or a prey. Watch her ears closely to know more about her feelings.

If your kitty’s ears are upright and pointing forward, she is alert but nothing to worry, as she is relaxed as well. If her ears are pointing sideways, she’s attentive to what’s happening around but she is not relaxed and if you see her ears upright and pointing backwards…then she is actually disturbed and may turn aggressive.

Ears pointing back and flat against the head indicate that your kitty is scared but she may become aggressive. And if her ears are flattened sideways, she is in an aggressive mood…don’t go near her.

Eyes you can’t miss…

If you see two cats staring at each other, it is threatening but if one of them breaks the eye contact, it means there is no dispute.

If you see your kitty’s dilated pupils, she is either fearful, aggressive, excited or in pain but if her pupils are narrow, she’s angry but self-assured.

Observe her eyelids also. If they half-closed or fluttering, she is sleepy and if she looks at you at this time, she is displaying trust in you.

Trailing tails…

If your kitty’s tail is upright and quivering, she’s pleased to see you – she’s communicating friendliness and contentment. But, if her tail is upright and bristling, with hair on her back standing, then she’s probably upset about something…beware.

Also, a tail held half way up indicates that the cat is friendly but she is not confident of the person or cat who is approaching her.

If you have ever scolded you cat, you must have noticed that her tail is between her rear legs; sometimes curled inwards…she is submissive at this point.

And as you know these beauties have a lot of attitude too, so if you see tail hair upright with a little flick with just the end of the tail, she is acknowledging you but she has other better things to do than you!

Hissing and meows...

If your kitty gives a hiss or a snarl with an open mouth, she is communicating defensive aggression. When your kitty meows, she is probably greeting you or requesting you for some favour.

Though all these are mere signals to show what your cat means, it is important to observe the whole body language of your kitty to know what’s exactly on her mind.

Kitty allergies

Our furry angels love to keep themselves neat and clean but still sometimes, they can suffer from skin allergies. Here are some of the most common types of skin allergies.

 

Cats are not usually born with allergies but they can develop after prolonged exposure to whatever the irritant might be. They are allergic to flea saliva, which is the most common cause of skin allergy. It is therefore extremely important that cat owners endeavour to keep problems with fleas under control by taking responsible care of their animals at all times. Other causes of allergies include food, dust and various plant pollens. Mites and ticks can also be a serious problem with cats but again, if the pet parent is vigilant with their animal cleanliness, this concern can generally be avoided.

Dietary allergies

Causes: Skin diseases caused by feline diet are not common. However, cow’s milk can often create allergies and so can some meat, fishand eggs.

Symptoms: Often the problem appears as rashes on areas around the head and neck. It becomes worse because it is an area where the cat can continually scratch easily.

Solution: Sometimes wearing an Elizabethan Collar will help avoid the non-stop scratching. Cats who live indoors can easily be put on a restricted diet. Also, ask your vet to recommend cat foods which contain ingredients toassist in the control of hypersensitive items in the cat’s diet.

Inhalant allergies

Causes: Cats are sometimes allergic to the various sprays we use to clean our homes. Sometimes, for cats who live outside in breeding catteries or have the freedom of the garden, this problem can be caused by various plants when in flower – cats can re-act in the same way that humans do when suffering during the flowering season of many plants.

Symptoms: Symptoms include either asthma or hay fever, which causes the cat to cough and sneeze for a long period of time.

Solution: It is not always easy to isolate the problem but, again, your veterinarian can help you to determine the cause and the possible medication needed to help reduce the allergy.

Drug allergies

Causes: Sometimes, cats react strongly to various medications given orally or by either injections or the application of various skin creams that need to be applied.

Symptoms: Every cat reacts differently and pet parents need to consult their veterinarians to discuss this problem.

Dos and Don’ts

l The most important thing to remember is that pet parents must NEVER attempt to use home remedies or human medications when faced with feline allergies.

l Your veterinarian is the only one who can really help you and who will do your cat no harm as he endeavours to seek the necessary solution to the problem.

(Joan E Henderson is based in Australia and she has judged furry felines in many other countries including USA, Bermuda, Malaysia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Philippines and New Zealand.)

Ask the expert..Nov-Dec 09

Q: What are the behaviour changes in cats with respect to climate and food?
Dr Sunil Kumar C, Thalassery, Kerala

 

Dr KG Umesh: Cats are true carnivores. They generally prey items, which are rich in water, protein & fat and low in carbohydrate and have no requirement for plant materials. Cats can not taste sugars/carbohydrates. It is generally believed that food at body temperature is preferred by cats. Whiskas cat food has been developed considering all these feeding behaviours and enjoyment of feeding. For example, Whiskas has specific design of kibbles size and shape, texture, aroma and variety. Adult cats are grazers, feed 2-5 or more small meals per day. Whether you are feeding wet, dry or semi-moist, water is a vital nutrient. 

The most important part of the environment is climate, which includes humidity, temperature and photoperiod. These climatic factors or seasonal changes influence the behaviour, breeding status and immunity of animals. Animals who live in hot/cold seasons/climates are adapted to their environment. Reduced food and thus nutrient intakes can be a problem in pets in hot environment yet energy requirements may be increased to maintain normal body temperature. Therefore, it seems prudent to feed the diets with a moderately increased energy level during cold or hot climate in cats. A nutritionally balanced diet with a continuous source of fresh clean drinking water appears to confer some protection from the detrimental effects of heat stress.

A spayed cat is a healthy cat

If you do not wish to breed your feline friend, it is always advisable to get her spayed. Spaying not only prevents unnecessary litters but it also helps in preventing your feline friend from deadly diseases like pyometra.

I first saw Shy, a timid cat, at the animal shelter in obvious pain with a large distended abdomen. The X-ray revealed that she had an enlarged uterus. She was diagnosed with pyometra, the dreaded disease of unspayed female cats. Surgery was done immediately and after three critical days, when Shy had to be given intravenous fluids, she finally showed signs of recovery. Thankfully, Shy has fully recovered and back to leading her normal life.

Problems in pyometra

It is the infection of the uterus, which affects young to middle-aged unspayed female cats. Due to hormonal changes, the lining of the uterus gets thickened, following a heat cycle which does not result in fertilization. Following several heat cycles, cysts form in the lining of the uterus. The thickened lining secretes fluids into the interior of the uterus, which produces an ideal climate for bacteria to grow. If the cervix is open, the pus will drain to the vagina and to the outside. The cat will lick the area to keep herself clean. After a while, the cervix closes and the pus is trapped inside. The bacteria release toxins which are absorbed into the blood circulation. This affects the kidney function, causing increased urine production and the cat drinks excessive water.

Symptoms of pyometra

The cats become lethargic, anorectic and vomit. Some cats may have fever and some may become dehydrated. The abdomen may also appear distended. The preferred treatment is surgically removing the uterus and ovaries. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat immediately to your veterinarian.

Treatment of pyometra

Intravenous fluids are often needed before and after the surgery. However, the best prevention to this dreadful disease is spaying your furry friend.

So, if your kitty is not yet spayed, get it done immediately to help your friend live a healthy life.

Australian Mist: Most adorable!

The Australian Mist is one of the most lovable feline breeds. What makes them so lovable is their ability to get along well with all–toddlers, young and old.

Best of the gene pool

The Australian Mist proudly wears the label ‘Made in Australia’. They have been developed by Dr Truda Straede for more than twenty years. They have a large gene pool, derived from over 30 foundation cats. Their ancestry can be traced back to half Burmese, and a quarter each of Abyssinian and domestic tabby cats. They inherited the beautiful muscular body and wonderful people friendly and outgoing personality from the Burmese. However, the Abyssinian contributed to the misty appearance of the coat pattern, besides high intelligence, gracefulness and energetic activity. While, the domestic tabby cat has given them the spotted tabby pattern and the good healthy crossbreed vigour and vitality.

Natural charmers

Australian Mists are moderate-sized cats who are medium-boned and have rounded head with large expressive eyes which are green in colour. The coat is short, but resilient while the tail is plumply furred. The pattern of their coat has delicate spots or intricate marbled swirls against a misty ground, with legs and tail ringed and barred, and the face lined. The nose, chin and whisker pads are broad giving the face a generous expression. They come in various colour forms like Brown (seal brown markings on silvery fawn; Blue (bluish-grey markings on silvery cream); Chocolate (chocolate markings on creamy-fawn); Lilac (dove grey markings on pinkish-grey); Gold (old gold markings on rich cream) and Peach (salmon pink markings onpinkish-cream).

Loved by all

Australian Mist has a fantastic temperament - full of love and fun. Intelligent but relaxed, they are very fond of people and do well with all kinds of families with toddlers, teenage children, and elderly. They love to crawl in the lap of their human family, so if you wish to have a lap cat, here’s one for you. They are tolerant to any kind of handling and are very disinclined to scratch. If you have other pets at home, they will go along with them wonderfully as well.

Easy to handle

You can easily train your Australian Mist to walk on a lead and harness, play fetch, ride in the car or go with you anywhere. Adaptable and intelligent, they use their common sense to blend into any situation they are put into.

Happy indoors

Since the Australian Mist are people-centric, they are happy to stay indoors. So, if you are looking for a loving indoor cat, Australian Mist is for you!

Don’t let curiosity kill your cat

Cats are unique…they will follow scents and odours, play with the strangest objects and get into places you would never dream of venturing into; in short, go where no man (or pet) has gone before. And as a responsible cat parent, it’s time we saw our homes through our feline’s eyes, and cat-proofed our homes.

Ideally, the best time to cat-proof your home is before your cat comes home. Here are the potential dangers your kitty can face: 

Dangers within home

Beware of hideaways: Beware of uncovered drains, nooks, drawers and cupboards that your cat can crawl into and get trapped in. It’s best to keep these closed off and to regularly check to make sure you know where your kitty is hiding. 

Cleaners - a poison for kitties: Laundry and household cleaning products also pose deadly risks. Keeping these atop a cupboard will not make them out of reach for your cat, so make sure these are securely closed. 

Other traps: Doors, recliners, pot pourri, medicine cabinets and garbage cans are other household traps. 

Electricity dangers: Plug points, power cords and wires are very tempting to playful cats but can cause serious shocks, burns and even death. Install baby guards on the former and roll away or hide wires under carpets or tape them down. Mobile chargers are particularly tempting, so don’t leave them plugged in. Use Tabasco or citrus scents to dissuade your cat. 

Plants: Indoor plants (like mistletoe, poinsettia, lilies, Christmas trees and hydrangea) are poisonous, as are certain seeds like apple, apricot, cherry, plum, peach and castor. 

Foods to watch: Certain foods that humans enjoy are harmful for cats – onion and garlic cause anaemia, baking powder, soda and yeast cause serious physiological and heart problems. Fatty foods (include dairy products) could cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Chocolate, coffee, nutmeg and grapes are other danger foods. 

Small objects: Unsafe toys include yarn, wool and any toy dangling from a long string, small shiny objects (like Christmas decorations or pins) and candle flames (yes!). 

Dangers outside home

Outdoor hazards: If your cat is going to have access to the outdoors, hazards include toxic plants, vehicles, predators (dogs, feral cats and snakes), prey (insects and reptiles), parasites (fleas, ticks and worms) and diseases (like feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency syndromes which are spread through saliva). 

Unwanted pregnancies: There is also the risk of unwanted pregnancies in your queen and your pet could run into trouble with the law by breaking into a home for a tasty treat. 

A word of caution: Also, make sure that your pet has a collar with identification and has a way to get back into the house, or at least a place where he can find shelter from the elements and predators. Try and limit his territory to your compound wall and take care to avoid toxic plants (like oleander, ivy, mushroom, tomato, bean plants and cactus) in your garden. Some grasses and leaves like bamboo and lemongrass may not be poisonous but will cause vomiting and bleeding because of their sharp edges. 

So, if you must allow your cat access to the outdoors, make sure he is neutered, vaccinated and dewormed regularly and has regular check ups to check for cuts, diseases and infections. A little caution and vigilance is all it takes to keep your pet protected. We know that they are worth the effort so don’t delay in making your home a safe place for your cat!

Ask the Expert.. May-June 09

Q: My cat Krishna, who is two years old, ate a cockroach recently and had some digestive problem thereafter. Please advice if the problem was due to the cockroach or any other factor. How should I prevent my cat from doing the same in the future? z - Ajesh. V, Malappuram

 

A: Dr. K. G. Umesh:
Cats are true carnivores (meat eaters) and their diet consisting of small preys such as rodents, birds, fish, reptiles and insects. They generally prey items which are rich in water, protein & fat and low in carbohydrate & ash (minerals) and they have no requirement for plant materials. Hunting is entirely natural for cats and takes place even when they are well fed at home.

There is really no point in trying to punish/correct your cat for hunting as it is part of his nature that is so deeply rooted that to try and eliminate it may cause him a lot of confusion. Playing ‘catching games’ with your cat using toys may help to relieve some of his urge to hunt. It is important to worm your cat regularly, particularly if he hunts. Consult your veterinary surgeon for more advice on worming. As cat’s nutritional needs are different to that of a dog or man, and feeding a high quality, well-balanced commercial cat food (Whiskas) help maintain optimum body weight and condition.

Havana Brown: beautiful cat you can love and admire!

Beautiful brown coat with striking emerald green eyes…Havana Brown is an intelligent cat… a perfect kitty for your home!

My gracious Havana Browns are the best buddies I have; she often helps me while I’m at my computer (they are quite gifted) and you won’t have to worry about getting cold while lying on the couch, as they are excellent substitutes for a blanket. However, they consider ‘me’ their favourite pillow…nevertheless they are the best companions I have. This is a perfect breed for someone who is looking for an interactive, intelligent, and extraordinarily beautiful cat to love and admire. 

Beautiful me

The most striking characteristics of Havana Brown are their beautiful brown fur and their brilliant emerald green eyes. The head of the English ‘Havana Brown’ has a long straight line from the top of the head to the tip of the nose whereas the head of the American ‘Havana Brown’ has a distinctive “stop” at the level of the eyes. The English Havana Brown has ears that are strikingly large, pointed, and set wide at the base as opposed to the ears of the American Havana Brown which are large, round-tipped, cupped at the base, and tilted forward. The English Havana also has a long neck and a tubular body like a Siamese or Oriental Shorthair whereas the American Havana Brown has a medium neck and a medium muscular body type.

My persona…the best

This gentle breed has a charming personality and they quietly demand attention and affection from their people. One of my Havanas likes to play fetch and their inquisitive nature makes them so pleasurable to watch. Their favourite place is your lap or close by as this breed does not like to be left alone. The best way to describe their personality would be as “dog like” because they are very interactive with people and truly depend on human companionship. If you are a busy professional who spends lots of time away from home for days at a time, perhaps you should consider a different breed. I cannot overemphasize how dependant they are on their people for companionship and they will not thrive if left alone for extended periods of time. 

They are moderately active which is a definite plus and means you won’t have to child-proof your home or put away all your breakables. Their voice is softer than a Siamese yet has a deeper resonance than most breeds which is very pleasing to the ear and they usually aren’t talkative unless it’s dinner time.

Having a second cat is highly recommended for this breed. By having a feline companion, it helps to ensure they are never lonely and they get the proper exercise and play.

I am low-maintenance

Havana Browns are very low maintenance. All they need are their humans for love and companionship and the company of a second feline. Very little grooming is needed because this is a shorthair breed. A weekly brushing will do very well.

Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behaviour of scratching (we disapprove of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

How to bring up a kitten

Bringing up a healthy and happy kitty is an art. In the last issue, we discussed about good mom care, early socialisation, litter training and weaning. Here are some other ways, which can support growing kittens to ensure that the development process goes well.

Regular veterinary check-ups

The body of a small kitten is very vulnerable and her immune system is not as well developed as that of an adult one. This means that any bugs she picks up can be very serious, so breeders and owners should never delay seeking veterinary treatment for any potential infection. Diarrhoea, sore or gunky eyes, sneezes or sniffles should all be investigated.

A kitten exploring a dusty corner under a bed or behind furniture may give a little sneeze without cause for concern, but any discharge should be seen by a vet as soon as possible. Bad colds in growing kittens can cause permanent damage to the inside of the nose and long-term respiratory problems. Give them plenty of reassurance and take along some of their favourite treats while visiting the vet.

Making travelling easy

Some cats are also wary of travelling, so any journeys that kittens can be taken on while they are still young and open to new experiences will help to ensure that they feel comfortable on trips to see family, to cat shows, or to the vet. If kittens are going to be shown then they should get the experience of going to shows while they are young. It is a mistake to wait until they are old enough to be entered into adult classes, as cats shown as kittens tend to have a more confident attitude at shows. Kittens who appear a little more nervous can be taken to shows to be put on exhibition only for their first experience, then they will have had an opportunity to adjust to the sounds and smells of a cat show before they go back and are handled by judges. Most kittens love all the cuddles and attention they receive.

Making grooming fun

It is important for cats to be habituated to grooming from an early age, especially longhaired cats who will need more intensive grooming as adults. They should get used to being brushed all over, including the tummy and back of legs, having their ears cleaned and nails trimmed. If kittens are not brought up with this exposure they will often resent being groomed as adults and those with thick coats may end up with painful mats. Create positive associations with grooming for kittens by keeping session short and finishing with a food treat or play session.

Good behaviour training

Destructive behaviour can be a problem, especially with younger cats who have more energy and get bored more easily. It is a good idea to prevent boredom by providing playmates, toys and interactive playtime. However, a certain amount of training can help to bring up kittens with good habits. The earlier in life a kitten learns good house rules the more effectively they will take these on.

Kittens should be strongly discouraged from scratching furniture and encouraged to use a scratching post. If this is done they will associate the post with a need to scratch and seek it out. Other ground rules should be set out from the start and stuck to unswervingly. Kittens will just be confused if they do not get a consistent message about whether they are allowed on the kitchen worktops or in the bedroom.

Outdoor vs indoor

Another firm decision is required about whether the kitten is allowed outdoor access or not. There is no need to give cats outdoor access as all their needs can be catered to indoors. Once given outdoor access cats may not appreciate having it taken away. If a decision is made to provide outdoor access then ways of making this secure should be considered, such as use of leads, runs or cat-proof fencing. Cats should only be allowed out during daylight hours and will require microchipping first. A collar with an ID tag and vaccination against FeLV should also be considered. Owners can also ask their vets if their local area has a high incidence of FIV or airgun attacks.

Anyone with young kittens needs to give special attention to the way in which they bring them up. With the right care and attention they can be well socialised to make them friendly and outgoing, they can be given a healthy start and they can learn to happily enjoy the varied elements of life with a human family. A well brought up kitten should grow into a happy, loving and balanced adult cat.

(Anthony Nichols has been showing cats for about 20 years, starting with non-pedigrees, and breeding for about ten years. He has bred Devon Rex and Singapuras, but mainly focuses on breeding LaPerms in a range of colours, particularly the reds, creams, torties, chocolates and colourpoints.)

Ask the Expert.. | March April 09

Dr. K. G. Umesh (MVSc, MSc (UK)) is a Postgraduate in Clinical Medicine. He is working for WALTHAM as Regional Associate for South Asia. Q: After using the litter box my cat comes out and drags her backside on the carpet. Why do you think she is doing this, how do we remove this habit? - Ritu Puri, Delhi

Dr. K. G. Umesh: This behaviour is sometimes seen in cats and is usually due to anal sacs/glands problems. The anal sacs situated on either side of the anus, should empty every time faeces are passed. However, the sacs may become impacted (over full but not expressed) from conditions such as constipation/diarrhoea, irritation or infection. The cat responds by scooting her bottom. The other conditions which may cause cat to rub her hind end include matted hair around anus or tapeworms. Your vet will able to manually express the contents and help to clear up the underlying cause. The cat should return to normal if there are no signs of infection.

Signs which show your kitty is pregnant

The normal gestation time for cats is 64 to 69 days, which is roughly two months. It takes three weeks before cat pregnancy signs become visible. During the first weeks of cat’s gestation, it’s almost impossible to notice that she is pregnant. In general, she will behave normally. Here are a few signs that show your cat is pregnant:

• Her nipples become pink after about three weeks. From that moment, it will take six weeks before the kittens arrive. Your vet will be able to confirm if she’s pregnant.


• Pregnant kitties sleep more and are not interested in male cats. Heat cycles stop and she becomes more loving.


• If your cat used to walk outside, she will voluntarily spend more time at home during gestation.


• During pregnancy, a cat will gain weight. But it lasts until the fifth week before this becomes visible.


• After six weeks, her nipples will also grow considerably. From then on, they are filled with milk.


• Your cat will want to eat more. Give her enough food, but don’t overfeed her.

Tips to follow:

• Keep her indoors for the last two weeks of pregnancy to ensure she doesn’t give birth to the kittens elsewhere.


• Cats should be vaccinated before they get pregnant, to increase the amount of passive protection they pass in the first milk to their kittens.


• Never vaccinate pregnant cats.


• Never vaccinate other cats in the house where a pregnant cat lives because live vaccine virus can be shed by vaccinated cats and affect fetuses of the pregnant cat.

The Lady With the Lamp

A small pet is often an excellent companion for the sick or long chronic cases.
– Florence Nightingale (1859)

Florence Nightingale also known as the Lady With The Lamp dedicated her life to nursing and raising the operating standards and medical facilities. Because of her invaluable contribution and passion to serve the sick and the needy, she became the first woman to receive the red cross by Queen Victoria in 1883.

Florence had a soft corner for cats and in her lifetime she parented sixty furry felines. She was very particular about the well being of her cats. She also ensured each kitten found a perfect home and went to great lengths in describing the nature of the kitten to the potential adopter. Her homes for her kittens are chosen with great care. They were all a source of solace for to her. She had a soft spot for Bismarck whom she considered to be affectionate and very gentle.

The Napoleon Cat

An excellent combo of beauty and heart–it’s hard to resist these amazingly wonderful little cats!

Napoleon…best of two breeds

The Napoleon cat breed was originally conceived by Joe Smith by cross breeding between the Munchkin breed and Persian breed group (Persian, Himalayan and Exotic Shorthair). That’s the reason why Napoleons possess the very best characteristics of both the breeds.

Beautiful and elegant

Napoleons are beautiful medium-sized cats with round heads, big round expressive eyes and strong cobby bodies. Standard Napoleons have short legs while non-standard ones have regular length legs. Although the short legs are one of the key trademarks of a Napoleon breed, all litters have both long and short-legged kittens due to the genetics involved. Non-standard Napoleons have all the wonderful characteristics of their short-legged littermates, except the short legs.

Though all Napoleon breeds have a similar body structure, their coats come in a range of varieties. They can have coats of any lengths, from very short to very long. The texture also varies a great deal. Their colours come in a rainbow as any colour of cat can be found among them.

Excellent persona

Having amazing personalities, Napoleons are friendly and affectionate cats with a playful yet relaxed demeanour. Napoleons are wonderful cats to share your home with. They are always seeking attention and will frequently follow you around from room to room just to be near you. They are excellent cats for families with small children as well, due to their laid back temperament. Having visitors over with a Napoleon is no problem unless the guests do not like cats!

Napoleons will be the first to greet a visitor at the door and be sure to make good friend with them before they leave. Since they are highly sociable, whenever you are out for a long time, it is highly recommended that there must be another cat or a dog to keep them company in your absence. You will also want to make room form them in your bed as Napoleons love to curl up and sleep with you.

Brush them beautiful

Most Napoleons have fairly low maintenance coats. However, a good regular brushing is always important to keep them beautiful and knot free.

Living with them…nice and easy

Along with their extraordinary beauty and excellent dispositions, Napoleons are easy cats to live with and care for. They are healthy cats and generally do not require any extra work or special care than any average cat does. Simply provide them with their basic needs along with a good cat tree, some entertaining toys and a warm lap to curl up in and you will have a friend for life.

(Kristin DuBois, owner of Blue Skies Cattery has been involved with breeding of Napoleons for more than three years. He is continuously striving to produce the best Napoleon breeds.)

First Feline dies in White House

‘India’, the 18-year-old female cat in the White House passed away on January 4, 2009. The demise of ‘India’ had deeply saddened her pet parents George W Bush, Laura and their daughters Barbara and Jenna. Barbara named the kitty ‘India’ after the former Texas Ranger baseball player Ruben Sierra who was popularly known as El Indio. ‘India’ had been a beloved member of the Bush family for almost two decades.

How to bring up a Kitten

We all want our kittens to be healthy and well adjusted. And the best start in life will enable them to bond well with humans and enjoy a robust constitution. Here are ways, which can support growing kittens to ensure that the development process goes well.

Good mom care…

Nutrition: Even before a kitten is born, the breeder needs to ensure that the mother is well fed and no under stress.

Warm and cosy: From the moment a litter arrives, good beginnings will set a kitten’s development off on the right track. A secure, cosy and comfortable nest is a must as without this it will be harder for the mother to settle with her kittens and keep them warm and safe.

Early socialisation…a must

As the kittens grow, they go through a vitally important phase called the Socialisation Window. This is the period in a kitten’s life between two and eight weeks of age during which she imprints on and forms social bonds with humans and other cats. The socialisation that takes place during this time will decide how the cat reacts to humans for the rest of her life.

If human contact doesn’t take place during this period, the cat will never be able to become fully tame. Anyone raising a litter of kittens has the responsibility to socialise the kittens well in preparation for their lives as well-loved household pets.

Socialisation with household appliances: One of the best known of these is getting small kittens used to the sound of vacuum cleaners so that they don’t panic when they hear it in later life. The same can be done with other noisy household appliances, such as hair dryers, loud stereos and the general noise of a busy household. Kittens raised wrapped in cotton wool will be nervous and jumpy when they are shifted to a normal family home with its sounds and activity. Growing kittens should not be shut away in a kitten room all day but allowed to experience the hurly-burly activities of a normal household.

Socialisation by touch: However, the most important element of socialisation is lots of handling so that kittens are not only comfortable but also happy to be picked up and held, and will settle contentedly on a warm lap. Kittens should be handled thoroughly, not just held and cuddled, but also given the chance to get used to paws and mouths being felt and looked at. Some kittens may bite and scratch while they are being socialised, particularly during play and the breeder must discourage them from doing this with an appropriate response. A mother cat would hiss and gently push a kitten away so kittens understand what this means, even when it is done by humans.

Socialisation with people: It is good for young kittens to experience a range of different types of people, including adults and children, men and women, young and old. This helps to avoid them being too attached to just one type of person at the expense of others.

Socialisation with other pets: Introductions to other pets at an early age will help to ensure that they get on as adults. Introducing kittens to other cats is normally fairly straightforward, but more care may be needed with dogs. Plan introductions carefully, keep them short initially and make them positive with food and toys and plenty of reassurance.

Litter training…

It is vitally important to ensure that kittens start out with good litter tray habits. Litter training starts at the same time as weaning and provided that a litter tray is placed close enough for kittens to reach. They should follow the example of their mother and their own natural instinct to use it.

Use plenty of litter trays: When a small kitten feels the urge, she cannot hold on for long and might not remember where the tray is. So it is a good idea to provide plenty of trays and limit the area where the kittens are until they have got the habit of using them.

Use non-clumping litter: Some kittens try to eat litter, so training should always be done with non-clumping varieties which will not cause a blockage if swallowed.

Cleanliness is important: Kittens avoid smelly trays, so they should be changed often to make them as user-friendly as possible.

Taking care of accidents: Some accidents may happen while they are learning and these should be cleaned up as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Some kittens appear to have an instinct to toilet in corners or behind doors and they can be prevented from becoming attached to these places by putting down tin foil or a small bowl of dry food. Many breeders keep a vigilant eye open for a kitten getting into the ‘crouch’ position in an inappropriate place and quickly place them into a tray. Occasionally a kitten will start peeing in the bathroom and this has a simple solution: keeping two-inch depth of water in the bathroom for a few days soon puts them off.

Making weaning easy

Weaning is when kittens start to eat solid food, and this starts to happen from around three to fi ve weeks of age.

Making it easy: Breeders use various techniques to get kittens started. Once a little food is put in the corner of a kitten’s mouth they usually realise what to do and make attempts to lick and swallow. It takes a little while for them to master the technique but in a couple of weeks they are eating happily from a plate. Weaning should be done with good quality food and strict hygiene.

Giving variety of food: Once the kittens began eating they should be exposed to a variety of foods so that they do not grow up to be fussy. Rotating different brands will ensure that they don’t get overly attached to just one food. Kittens should be encouraged to eat dry food so that a bowl can be left available for them to nibble on at all times. Other food should be fed frequently at fi rst and less often as the kittens get bigger.

(Read more about veterinary check-ups, travelling, grooming and training in our next issue.)

(Anthony Nichols has been showing cats for about 20 years, starting with non-pedigrees, and breeding for about ten years. He has bred Devon Rex and Singapuras, but mainly focuses on breeding LaPerms in a range of colours, particularly the reds, creams, torties, chocolates and colourpoints.)

Cats of yore

Cats have been involved in the lives of humans since the days of ancient Egyptian and Roman civilizations, or probably even earlier. Their mystery has fascinated people through the ages and they have been regarded both as celestial and evil, as protectors and destroyers, and have been as loved as they have been hated. Here are some mythological stories surrounding our cats.

The Egyptian mythology…

The ancient Egyptian goddess Bast (circa 2890-2686 BC) is often depicted as a woman with the head of a cat, lion or desert cat. It was believed that Bast was the protector of the king, pregnant women, children and of course cats. She also came to be associated with fertility (no coincidence, given the cat’s skill at procreation). There used to be a temple of Bast in the city of Bubastis (now called Tell-Basta in Egypt), where the mummifi ed remains or necropolis of over 300,000 holy cats were found.

Egyptian women also set standards of beauty to that of a cat’s and it is believed that they applied make-up to their eyes to resemble felines. It was considered a crime to kill cats in Egypt, one that even invited the death penalty, and families mourned the passing away of cats by shaving off their eyebrows.

The Islamic connection…

Islam too has had a long association with cats. A popular story goes that the holy cat Muezza was Prophet Mohammed pet, and was once napping in his arms when he was called to prayer. Rather than awakening her, the Prophet tore off the sleeve of his robe and let Muezza continue sleeping. It is even said that the marking of ‘M’ found on the foreheads of tabby cats was formed by the impression of the Prophet resting his hand on there.

China and cats…

If you’ve been to any traditional Chinese restaurant or beauty salon, you’re sure to have noticed the manekineko or beckoning cat. Legend has it that a nobleman saw this cat calling out to him from the entrance of a temple and stepped in. By doing so he narrowly avoided a bolt of lighting or trap laid for him just ahead, as versions of the story go. Since then the manekineko has come to signify the bringing of good luck or prosperity.

Feline power in India…

India too has its share of cat legends. The reason why Lord Kartikeya (Ayyappa) never got married in life is given through this story: One day, the child-god Kartikeya was in a playful and naughty mood. He happened to spy a female cat and decided to have some fun. He hurled stones at her, held her up by the tail and dropped her and frightened her. Finally deciding he had had enough, he made his way back home to Kailasa.

He rushed to give his mother Parvati a hug when he stopped short, totally aghast at the sight of his beloved mother bruised and bleeding. On demanding who had committed such an atrocity, Parvati replied, “My dear child, it was you! Didn’t you trouble a female cat today, for no reason at all? Have you forgotten my son, that I am Shakti? I reside in all the feminine forms of creation!” And that is why, Kartik never married. Because that would mean a bit of his mother would be in his wife and it is against the laws of nature to marry one’s own mother!

And finally, Ma Shashti, one of the nine ‘grihas’ that we worship, rides a cat as her mode of transport. Bengalis believe that it is because of Ma Shashti’s grace and blessing that they have children. Therefore, most Bengalis would never harm a cat for fear of offending Shashti.

Ask the Expert.. | Jan Feb 09

Dr. K. G. Umesh (MVSc, MSc (UK)) is a Postgraduate in Clinical Medicine. He is working for WALTHAM as Regional Associate for South Asia. Q: My six-year-old kitty Clara has started urinating frequently and does not seem to be feeling hungry. Do advice.
- Deepak Joshi, Mumbai

Dr. K. G. Umesh: Although cats have justifi ed reputation of ‘clean’ animals, eliminating in inappropriate places is one of the most common behavioural problems reported. A distinction must be made between abnormal urination behaviour and a true incontinence (dribbling of urine without the cat being aware of it). Abnormal or frequent urination can occur as a result of:

• Nervousness (intruder/presence of another cat, unfamiliar surroundings etc): Clean the accident spot with strong odour disinfectant and the behaviour disappears once the cat is allowed to settle


• Territory marking – spraying: Un-castrated male cats or un-spayed females spray more often than neutered cats do. Castration or spaying may help and occasionally medication may also be given.


• Old age: Keep litter tray clean and place it in an easily accessible area.


• Increased urine production: It can be due to diseases such as diabetes, chronic kidney failure, spinal problems, bladder infection, lower urinary tract disease (common), etc. A veterinary examination, blood and urine tests and radiographs will be required to determine the cause. Generally cats loose appetite with any of these diseases.

Cats: Common Health Problems

Be on the lookout for these common health problems in your cat:

Fleas: Fleas can easily invade your home, particularly if you have a dog or if you let your cat outside. Fleas can cause such health problems in cats as anemia, allergies, skin infections and tapeworms.

There is a vast array of flea-fighting products that are highly effective and safe; consult your veterinarian for advice on products to use and an ongoing fl ea control plan. Avoid using pesticides and over-the-counter fl ea remedies— they are unnecessary given today’s arsenal of safer, veterinarian-prescribed products—and never use fl ea products on your cat that are intended for use on dogs because such products can be fatal to your cat. Flea collars are not effective against fl eas and can even irritate your cat’s skin.

Tapeworms: These internal parasites are picked up by ingesting rodents or raw meat or fi sh, or from adult fl eas that are carriers. Tapeworms are passed through the cat’s feces. Often you can spot tapeworm segments in your cat’s stool or under her tail—they look like small grains of rice. If you see signs of tapeworms, bring a fecal sample to your veterinarian to get worming medication for your cat. You may need to start a fl ea control program at the same time. Never use over-the-counter worming products. These are usually ineffective and can cause unwanted side effects in your cat.

Coccidia: These internal parasites are picked up from the infected feces of other animals. Symptoms can be nonexistent or quite serious; they include mild to severe diarrhea, weakness, depression, loss of appetite and weight loss. Your veterinarian will need a fresh fecal sample to diagnose the problem and prescribe medication for these parasites.

Roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms: These internal parasites cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, a pot belly and a dull coat. The symptoms become more serious and debilitating if your cat’s condition is left untreated. Your veterinarian can diagnose these parasites by examining a fecal sample under a microscope. The various treatments may involve several doses before these parasites are eliminated.

Ear mites: If you spot a dark, waxy buildup in your cat’s ears, he may have ear mites, which are microscopic parasites. These crab-like creatures itch like crazy, and in a futile attempt to scratch that itch, cats will shake their heads or paw at their ears, sometimes scratching them raw. Left untreated, ear mites can cause deafness. Prescription ear treatments are available to eliminate ear mites. Let your veterinarian know if you have more than one pet, because the ear mites will simply move to the next untreated animal.

Toxoplasma gondii: This small parasite may be of concern to humans as well as cats, especially people with compromised immune systems. Toxoplasmosis has traditionally been a reason for pregnant women to think they must give up their pet, but this is not necessary. Safe handling of food and water and precautions when cleaning the litter box can easily prevent the transmission of this parasite; that’s why it’s best to assign someone else the responsibility for cleaning the litter box. The majority of toxoplasmosis infections in humans have been the result of ingesting raw or undercooked meat. Cats become infested with this parasite through eating raw prey, but only pass contagious feces for approximately two weeks (and the feces themselves are only infective after 24 hours have passed). To prevent infection, keep your cat safely confi ned and feed him commercial cat food.

Urinary problems: With all cats, and especially males, be alert for any signs of painful urination, straining to urinate or blood in the urine. These symptoms can indicate a condition that is very serious. If a cat becomes “blocked” (unable to urinate), he could die within hours. If any of these signs appear, immediate veterinary attention is necessary. As a preventive measure, talk to your veterinarian about your cat’s diet and other factors that relate to urinary problems.

(Reprinted with permission from The Humane Society of the United States, www.hsus.org)

Feline fractures: be wary of them

Cats are susceptible to fractures. A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. Fractures can occur in the leg, skull, jaw, spine, ribs, pelvis and digits (fi ngers) as well as the long bones and small bones of the front and back limbs.

Commonly seen fractures in cats…

Cats are susceptible to fractures. A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. Fractures can occur in the leg, skull, jaw, spine, ribs, pelvis and digits (fi ngers) as well as the long bones and small bones of the front and back limbs. Commonly seen fractures in cats… There are four commonly seen fractures in the cat: closed, compound, epiphyseal (growth plate), and greenstick (hairline).

Closed fractures: Closed fractures are those in which the skin is not broken.

Compound fractures: Compound fractures are breaks in which the broken bone protrudes through the skin, and is exposed to the outside.

Epiphyseal: There are soft areas near the ends of each long bone where growth takes place. These soft areas are referred to as growth plates or epiphyseal plates. These growth plates are prone to fracture because they are the weakest part of the bone. The distal ends of the femur (thigh bone) and humerus (upper front leg) seem to be particularly susceptible to this fracture.

Greenstick: Greenstick fractures are small cracks within the bone which leave the bone basically intact, but cracked.

Symptoms and risks…

The symptoms and risks depend on what area and to what extent the bone is fractured. All fractures are serious and should be treated at once. When a bone within a leg is broken, the cat will usually hold the entire leg off the ground. No weight is placed on the paw. With a sprain or lesser injury, it may use the leg somewhat, but walk with a limp. Fractures involving a joint are most serious. A broken back may displace the spinal cord and cause complete paralysis.

Watch out for…

If your pet has had surgery performed, pay attention to the wound, looking for excessive redness, swelling or discharge. Be sure to take the cat to your veterinarian immediately, if any of these conditions occur. Follow your veterinarian’s directions for follow up examinations.

(Sudhersena, a volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover, has 9 cats and 3 dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes. For further information, contact: Blue Cross of India, 72Velachery Road, Chennai-32 or e-mail at bci@bluecross.org.in

The Russian Blue: silver & shiny

Beautiful, velvety silver coat, shiny green eyes, lovely temperament… the Russian Blue is indeed a perfect pet for you.

Origins…

The Russian Blue is one of the oldest breeds in the Cat Fancy. From the time of the world’s fi rst cat show in 1871 until now. The breed is said to have originated in the northern part of Europe and specifi cally Russia. The archaeological fi ndings of similar coats used as fur by the Vikings also do support this theory.

Beautiful body complements a beautiful mind

The Russian Blue is known for his velvety, double coat with its distinctive silver sheen. The silver sheen emphasises his elegant build and graceful movements. The green eyes make a beautiful contrast with the blue of the coat. They can live happily with almost any kind of other animals, children and families as long as the respect they give is returned. If the Russian Blue gives his love to you, you will have that love forever.

Lovable and playful

The Russian Blues love to play, from fetching a small paper ball or a mouse to playing hide and seek. They are very intelligent and love to be challenged. As the cat is always a child at heart, there is no exception to see a or a fur mouse.

Because of their intelligence and playfulness, they need room and attention to be happy. They love to go outside in safe surroundings like a closed garden or balcony. They are excellent climbers, runners, jumpers and hunters!

Groom me beautifully

The coat only needs a soft brush once a week or a slightly wet cloth to remove the loose hairs. Most of the times, stroking the cat will be enough to keep the coat in good condition.

Healthy breed

The Russian Blue is still a very healthy breed. There are no breed specifi c diseases known for these cats.

(With inputs from Yasmin Trok-Wijnands of Cattery Dunoe-Russisch Blauw and Sandra Hipkin of Elenita Cats)