Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.


Category Archives: Articles

The Catnip Buzz (for your Cat)!

Kitten-Pictures-80.jpg

Awww, Man, Doggie Slobber

From: d21c.com

Cats sleep a lot, have you noticed it?  It’s a natural part of being a cat, I’m convinced, because it’s a seemingly universal trait.  And really, cats kind of move at their own pace, don’t they?  However, should you give your sedate kitty a deep whiff of catnip, the party will come alive.  Suddenly this sedate, dormant feline will ‘wake up’ and frolic and be as frisky as a kitten again.

Then…

Two to fifteen minutes pass by and your cat comes back down from the moon and returns to the same sedate cat you’ve come to love – the effects of the catnip totally gone.

So yes, the catnip can have an effect, but why do cats react to it that way?

Did you know that not all cats react to catnip?  It’s true.  About one third to half of all domestic cats are totally unaffected.  In fact, the classic catnip ‘fever’ is inherited – a kitten with one parent who reacts and one that doesn’t has a 50 percent chance (one out of two) of reacting themselves.  Cats that have both parents that react have a 75 percent chance (three out of four) to react to it themselves.  Also, kittens younger than four months usually do not react to catnip – but do that really need it anyway :?   And catnip has a lessened effect on older cats.

So what is the magic ingredient of catnip that drives the kitties wild?  It’s a oil called napetalactone.  However, researchers still don’t know why it causes cats to go nuts.

Did you know that even big cats – lions, leopards, cheetahs, pumas can also catch the catnip buzz.  Interestingly enough, tigers seem to be immuned.

The catnip buzz seems to come more from topical exposure rather than from ingesting it.  If you watch, most cats with catnip will sniff at it, rub up against it.  Those that eat it can experience the opposite effect, which is act as a sedative instead as a stimulant.

So can this catnip high be dangerous for you feline friend?  Catnip is chemically related to cannibis and effects typically last no more than 15 minutes.  In fact, after about 15 minutes, most cats loose interest altogether.  Interestingly, most cats will not react again for a minimum of an hour.  Also, studies have shown that cats do no become dependant on the substance.

Not all cats react the same way to catnip.  Typically, the response is increase friskiness and playfulness, but there are some cats that actually become more aggressive with its use.

So, in summary, catnip seems to be a safe, recreational drug for your kitty-cat.


Can you toilet train your cat? (Part 2)

Kitten-Pictures-79.jpg 

A Hard Day’s Night

From: bengalkitties.com

In last post, we talked about the advantages and disadvantages of toilet training your cat.  Today, we are going to get a little more concrete and detail the logical progression of steps.

You will notice that there is a logical progression from one step to the next.  The key to this whole process is patience, patience, patience.  You need to watch your cat and observe any ‘discomfort’ from moving too quickly. 

Step 1
So that your Cat will start to associate his/her litter box with the toilet, you want to gradually inch the litter box toward the toilet until is right next to it.  Remember to do this slowly or it could disorient your cat, having its litter box moved too often and to quickly. 

Step 2
Now it’s time to raise the litter box up to the toilet seat’s level.  The key here is to do this gradually, about a 1/2 to 1 inch per day or so.  Really the amount is up to your cat’s tolerance for change.  Also, make sure that you keep the toilet bowl lid up and the seat down during this phase.

Step 3
Next, you want to move the litter box on top of and resting on the toilet seat.  Again, do this gradually.

Step 4
Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.Next, fit a metal bowl on the inside of the toilet bowl – make sure it’s a snug fit.  Many pet stores carry these.  Otherwise, you can use a larger mixing bowl.  Make sure that the bowl has about 5 small holes on the bottom for draining – a regular drill can be used to make these.  You are going to fill the bowl with flushable cat litter.  Remove the litter box. Make sure to put down the toilet seat.

Step 5
The goal is to have your cat plant all four paws on the toilet seat and squat over the toilet.  However, at first, he/she will plant down inside the bowl full of litter.  So now, this is where your work and patience comes in.  You need to watch for when you kitty goes to the ‘litter box’.  You’ll want to gently move the cat while it is excreting from the inside of the metal bowl to the seat, using lot’s positive praise.

Step 6
The next step is to start decreasing the amount of litter in the bowl – again, this is a gradual process.  Cat’s instinctively scratch in the litter to cover their waste, so be prepared for some litter on the floor.

Step 7
Get a new metal bowl, one without any holes in the bottom and replace the one you had been using.  Next, gradually fill the bowl with water – a little at a time.

Step 8
When you have filled the bowl to about 1 inch from its top, it’s time to remove it altogether.  You are basically done and you cat should be toilet trained.

Remember to remember to leave the toilet seat up and flush often.