Pets Rock Blog

Although the name Abyssinian is Ethiopian, The Abyssinian cat is believed to be of Egyptian origin. The breed is said to have originated from a cat named Zula who was taken by a British soldier from Alexandria to England in 1868, although this has not been verified. The fist Abyssinian cat was documented in 1871.

The cats are muscular, medium-sized and with a medium body length, with slim legs and a long tapered tail. The head is wedge-shaped with almond shaped eyes. The ears are reasonably large and pointed.

Their coats are dense and shorthaired. Their coats have a unique “ticked” colour marking, due a special gene that is only shared by the Somali cat. Each hair has a light base colour (at the root) followed by 3 or 4 bands of darker colours. Some of the base colours are: ruddy, sorrel, blue, fawn and silver.

Abyssinians are not “lap cats”. They are clever, playful, curious and strong-willed. They are definitely interesting looking cats.

If you’re thinking of getting one of these unique cats, remember that buying a kitten is a serious responsibility

Sources: Wikipedia & American Cat Fanciers Association

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I have been ask by a reader about natural remedies for ticks and fleas. Frontline seems to irritate their dog’s skin.

The saliva of parasites contains and ingredient that irritates the skin. Some dogs have sensitive skins and should not use strong soaps or parasite repellent or  parasite-killing products.

Personally I haven’t really used natural remedies yet but I would like to try them with my next dog. I think we and our pets could all do with fewer chemicals. When it comes to animals, natural is definitely better.

I found an ad for Eco-dust in the pet classifieds. It is organic and eco-friendly and can be used on cats and dogs and their bedding. It is also available from Eco-stuff.

A company called Vondis sells all natural pet products including, skin care products and food. A natural Khakibos remedy for parasites is available from them. They also have a Rooibos remedy to relieve itchy skin.

Aloe Ferox is also recommended since it is soothing on the skin. Diluted lavender  and lemongrass oils  help to ward of both ticks and fleas. Lavender also repels mosquito and soothes the skin. Other useful essential oils are citronella, lemon, geranium and peppermint. Have a look at the essential oils labels at your health shop or pharmacy.

You can also boil fresh lemons in water,  let it cool and spray it on or put a bit of apple-cider-vinegar in the rinsing water after you bath your pet. These are probably good options to try first.

It is also suggested that your pet can ingest garlic to ward off parasites. This should how ever be giving in small doses and can be mixed into your pet’s food.

In general: Bath your pet as regularly as in recommended for the breed. Keep your pets bedding clean. Vacuum carpets regularly

If you sell natural remedies you can advertise it by placing a free ad in the classifieds.

Important Disclaimer:
Consult your veterinarian or local health shop. The information above serves merely as suggestions.

sources: mandalahealth and  PAW animal rescue

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Are you thinking of buying a kitten? You may think that getting a cat is easier than getting a dog, because cats are more independent, but like any pet a cat requires care and is a big responsibility.

Temperaments of different breeds vary, so you should choose a breed that suits your life style and environment.

Do you want a lively or a quiet cat? Do you want a cat with short hair or a long hair that requires more grooming.

Cats have an average lifespan of 10-15 years, so you will have to be willing to care for your cat for a long time.

Do you want to get a kitten or an older cat? How about giving an unwanted cat a good home. You can also adopt a cat either through a rescue shelter or directly from an owner who can no longer take care of it. You can check the pet classifieds for private adoptions.

I do not advocate buying cats from a pet shop, as with puppies from puppy mills, it is not always possible to see where the kittens come from.

If you buy a cat from a breeder you should find a reputable, responsible breeder that is registered with a cat breed club. The cat should come from good bloodlines. Many breeders advertise in the classifieds.

If you buy a cat from a private family you should see the environment the kittens come from. Is the mommy cat a pet or simply a money-making-kitten-having-incubator? If you buy from a private family the bloodlines of the kitten cannot be guaranteed and it might be a mixed breed with the father’s identity unknown.

No matter where you get your kitten from you have to see the environment the cats come from and be sure of what you’re getting yourself into. Do the necessary research to make sure that you’re getting a cat suited to you.

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Persian (Himalayan)

The Persian is one of the oldest cat breeds. The first documented Persians were imported from Persia to Italy in 1620. This poplar cat breed was first registered with the Cat Fanciers Association in 1871.

Persians had mild temperaments and adapts quickly to new environments which makes them sought after pets.

Persians have long hair and tend to shed. These cats come in a variety of colours. Because of their thick fur they require regular grooming. They are “pouffy”, have short legs, a short tail and should weigh about 7-12 pounds. They have a round head, “flat face” and short nose.

Persians are divided into the following colour divisions:

• Silver and Golden
• Solid colour
• Shaded and Smoke
• Tabby
• Parti-colour
• Calico and bi-colour
• Himalayan

Litters on average consist of 3-5 kittens. They have a life expectancy of about 10-18 years. They may develop Polycystic kidney disease or problems with their eyes.

The Persian is certainly a well known and poplar breed. If you are thinking of buying a kitten, make sure that you know what can be expected of the particular breed.  As with any pet, do research on special requirements the cat may have.

Resources:
Wikipedia
persian-cats.com

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The Sphynx or hairless cat first appeared as a genetic mutation, but has been purposefully bred since the 1960s

These cats are not completely hairless but have a fine layer of fuzz, which has been said to have a feel comparable to a chamois. They also feel warm to the touch. They also have a wrinkled appearance. They need to be bathed on occasion since they have no hair to absorb oil build up. Sphynxes should avoid direct or harsh sunlight as they can easily get sunburn.

Since they are hairless they are good for those with pet hair allergies, but not completely hypoallergenic since most allergy suffers are actually allergic to cat saliva.

Sphynxes are curious, mischievous and playful in nature.

These cats are easily cold and likes to snuggle up to a human dog, or other cat.

Kittens can go to new homes between 12-16 weeks of age. If you’re thinking to buy a kitten, please keep in mind that the hairless cat requires special care.

Source: Wikipedia.

Useful links:
mybaldcat
angelsphynx

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