Different Kinds Of Cat Collars

February 9th, 2008 at 01:05pm Under Cat Care+ New Cats

By Mike Barus

Although collars are generally thought to be for the canine
kind, many cat owners choose to purchase collars for their
favorite felines. There are many different kinds of cat collars
on the market, so it is imperative that you choose the best
option for your cat’s needs and body. Consider taking your cat
along on a shopping trip to your local pet store—most welcome
animals of all types—and try on different models to find the
perfect fit. Keep in mind that although color, material, and
style is important, these aspects should come second to the fit
of the collar.

Traditionally, cats wear collars that hold their identification
information and a bell. Ensuring your pet is properly identified
is critical for any animal, especially one that you intend on
letting outside. In case your cat becomes lost, you will have a
much better chance of finding your lost loved on if he or she
has the appropriate information securely attached to the collar.
Most cat owners choose to attach a small bell or another type of
noise making device in order to make small animals or birds
aware of a predator’s presence. Cats tend to have retained more
hunting instincts than domesticated dogs, so this is a viable
concern with many cat owners tired of finding their feline
bringing home helpless animals.

A buckle collar is the easiest type for a cat to wear, since it
can be put on and taken off quickly and easily. Try the collar
on your cat to ensure he or she cannot wiggle out of the collar.
Just as a loose collar is unacceptable, having a collar fitted
too tight can cause discomfort or even pain if your pet feline.
For a younger cat that will need a collar that grows with them,
consider choosing an adjustable collar to save you from
purchasing new ones in the future.

Some owners choose elastic collars that slip on and off over
the cat’s head. These are great for cats that do not need the
extra weight and bulk of a buckle. Keep in mind that any elastic
collars should be fitted to your cat to ensure the collar is not
too loose or too tight.

For indoor cats, consider choosing collars with breakaway
panels or buckles that will immediately free the cat if he or
she becomes caught on something inside your house. Similarly,
you should choose collars made of materials that can easily be
cut in case the animal becomes caught.

If you have an outdoor cat, look into a collar that uses
reflective materials. These reflective materials will keep your
precious feline safe at night. This is quite important, since
animals are more likely to become injured or even killed since
they cannot be seen. A reflective collar is also a good idea for
indoor cats, since you can see the animal in the dark to avoid
stepping on your pet.

Some cats enjoy taking walks in the great outdoors, but owners
do not want them to be outdoors unattended. Outdoor cats can
easily become lost, stolen, injured, or even killed. To solve
this problem, some cat owners choose to walk their cats on a
leash just like a dog. Instead of a regular collar, leash
walking cats require a harness to prevent spine issues. If you
are in the market for harnesses, there are two main types: the
figure eight and the H-style. Depending on your individual cat
and the fit, these harnesses are excellent for any cat that
enjoys a walk in the park!

Once you have determined the specific type of collar for your
cat, choose a color that fits his or her personality. Whether
your feline wants a rocker look with black leather and metal
studs or a pretty princess with pink rhinestones, the options
are limitless!

About the Author: Mike Barus Specializes in Cat Collars
www.i-cat-collars.com, www.cat-collars-i.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: www.isnare.com/?aid=35779&ca=Pets

By Fred Add comment

Tips for Introducing Two Cats

October 26th, 2006 at 06:00am Under Cat Care+ Cat Owner+ New Cats

By Kathy Burns-Millyard

<p>

Adding a new member to your feline family is usually more exciting for you than your current cat. Even though they are solitary by nature, most cats eventually learn to accept or at least tolerate newcomers. Because they are very territorial, the way you go about introducing the new cat to your existing cat can mean the difference between success or “cat-astrophe.”
The introduction process can take as little as 10-12 days for kittens and very young cats, to as long as 12 weeks for older cats. It all depends on each cat’s personality. Be sure to give your “first” cat plenty of attention. This will help him feel secure that he is not in competition for your affection.
Confine your new cat to a “safe” room until the introduction process is complete. This should be a small room, such as a bathroom or small bedroom that your current cat rarely visits. Furnish it with a bed, scratching post, food, water and litter box.
In the beginning, your first cat may hiss and yowl at the cat on the other side of the door. Just ignore him and walk away. Never punish him for vocalizing aggressively, it will only cause trouble between the two cats. Be sure to praise and pet your first cat when he acts calmly when near the new cat’s room.
After a few days, take a rag or washcloth and rub it over your new cat as you pet and play with her. Use a different rag to do the same thing with your first cat. At feeding time, put each cat’s scented rag under the other cat’s bowl. This will help them associate the other cat’s scent with something positive-food. Lots of little feedings each day will help them get used to the smell more quickly. Be sure to renew the scent on the rags each day.
Next, you can feed them in closer proximity. Keep your new cat in her “safe” room with the door firmly closed, and place each cat’s dish on their side of the door. Be sure to feed them at the same time. Once they both eat with no growling or hissing, you can move to the next level of the introduction.
Close your first cat in a room he likes to frequent, making sure he has water, some favorite food and a litter box. Let your new cat out to explore the house. After a few hours, put her back in her room and let your first cat out. He will probably hiss and fuss when he smells another cat’s scent in HIS territory. Again, be patient and praise him when he acts calmly. Repeat this activity at least once a day until both cats seem comfortable.
Before you let the cats have full access to one another, let them come face to face in a safe situation. Use two hard plastic doorstops to jam the door to the new cat’s room open a mere 2-3 inches. Check that the door can’t be pushed open any further, and that neither cat can get its head through the opening. The object is to give them a chance to swat paws at one another and even go nose to nose without the opportunity for full body contact. Feed each cat on their respective side of the door. Once they no longer hiss or growl at one another, you can try playing with both of them in the same room.
© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard.
This article is provided courtesy of MyPetAnimals.com - http://www.mypetanimals.com - a large and growing pet website featuring articles, tips, advice and shopping for popular pet supplies, toys and accessories.
This article may be freely published on any website, as long as the author, copyright, website address and link, and this notice are left intact.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard

By Fred Add comment