Discount Pet Health Care Program – Save Big In Tough Economic Conditions
Brian Cosgrove asked:
Tough economic conditions have peaked the prices of all products and services. Pet care is no exception. We all want to pamper and love our pets. They are members of the family and there is nothing more important than their long-term health and happiness. But the escalating costs of dog care and cat care in these worsening economic conditions have forced many families to give up their beloved animals. Dog care and cat care is expensive and individuals or families that need pet insurance are often denied due to their animal’s age or breed, or pre-existing, chronic and hereditary conditions. Even those who do find cheap pet insurance are in for a rude awakening when their claims are denied due to coverage exclusions, benefits schedules and payout limits.
Studies indicate that the pet adoption rate has slowed down very much because of the rising prices of dog care and cat care. Many pet owners around the country are forced to give up their pets for adoption, as they are not able to afford the costs associated with pet care. Thankfully, now there is a perfect solution for this situation – programs that offer discount vet services. Just keep reading to learn more about how discount veterinary care can help you care for your pets.
What Is A Pet Care Discount Program?
You are well aware of the countless pet insurance plans that are currently available. Pet care discount programs are alternatives to pet insurance. When you compare pet insurance to discount veterinary care programs – you will see that pet insurance plans are becoming much more expensive. Pet care programs provide a competitive but cheap pet insurance alternative. Most of these pet insurance alternatives come with a very reasonable annual fee and multiple plans providing discount vet services that accommodate any budget. By becoming a member of such pet health care programs, you are eligible for discount veterinary care; discount veterinary medications and emergency vet discounts.
Becoming A Member Of Pet Care Discount Program
With the huge demand for pet insurance alternatives, various discount veterinary care programs have surfaced. It’s up to you to compare pet insurance benefits to discount vet services. Referring to client testimonials is a great way to compare pet insurance plans to what is available through a pet health care program. Client testimonials often help consumers identify the pros and cons of a given service. Make sure to spend considerable time online researching pet insurance companies or discount veterinary care programs before signing up.
Benefits Of Joining A Discount Pet Health Care Program
As already said, these discount veterinary care programs are pet insurance alternatives and hence will have all the benefits that apply to a pet insurance. However, discount vet services do not cover the entire costs involved in pet care, instead they provide some kind of discount relief. Some of the best discount Pet Health Care Programs offer discounts of up to 65%. Members are eligible for discount veterinary visits; discount veterinary medications and emergency vet discount. Even aging animals, those with pre-existing, chronic or hereditary conditions, are eligible for discount vet services up to 25%. Membership charges for these pet health care programs can be less than a dollar per day.
A discount pet health care program is really a great boon to the pets and the pet owners. Visit www.happytailsmembership.com to learn more specifics about their popular pet care discount program.
Tough economic conditions have peaked the prices of all products and services. Pet care is no exception. We all want to pamper and love our pets. They are members of the family and there is nothing more important than their long-term health and happiness. But the escalating costs of dog care and cat care in these worsening economic conditions have forced many families to give up their beloved animals. Dog care and cat care is expensive and individuals or families that need pet insurance are often denied due to their animal’s age or breed, or pre-existing, chronic and hereditary conditions. Even those who do find cheap pet insurance are in for a rude awakening when their claims are denied due to coverage exclusions, benefits schedules and payout limits.
Studies indicate that the pet adoption rate has slowed down very much because of the rising prices of dog care and cat care. Many pet owners around the country are forced to give up their pets for adoption, as they are not able to afford the costs associated with pet care. Thankfully, now there is a perfect solution for this situation – programs that offer discount vet services. Just keep reading to learn more about how discount veterinary care can help you care for your pets.
What Is A Pet Care Discount Program?
You are well aware of the countless pet insurance plans that are currently available. Pet care discount programs are alternatives to pet insurance. When you compare pet insurance to discount veterinary care programs – you will see that pet insurance plans are becoming much more expensive. Pet care programs provide a competitive but cheap pet insurance alternative. Most of these pet insurance alternatives come with a very reasonable annual fee and multiple plans providing discount vet services that accommodate any budget. By becoming a member of such pet health care programs, you are eligible for discount veterinary care; discount veterinary medications and emergency vet discounts.
Becoming A Member Of Pet Care Discount Program
With the huge demand for pet insurance alternatives, various discount veterinary care programs have surfaced. It’s up to you to compare pet insurance benefits to discount vet services. Referring to client testimonials is a great way to compare pet insurance plans to what is available through a pet health care program. Client testimonials often help consumers identify the pros and cons of a given service. Make sure to spend considerable time online researching pet insurance companies or discount veterinary care programs before signing up.
Benefits Of Joining A Discount Pet Health Care Program
As already said, these discount veterinary care programs are pet insurance alternatives and hence will have all the benefits that apply to a pet insurance. However, discount vet services do not cover the entire costs involved in pet care, instead they provide some kind of discount relief. Some of the best discount Pet Health Care Programs offer discounts of up to 65%. Members are eligible for discount veterinary visits; discount veterinary medications and emergency vet discount. Even aging animals, those with pre-existing, chronic or hereditary conditions, are eligible for discount vet services up to 25%. Membership charges for these pet health care programs can be less than a dollar per day.
A discount pet health care program is really a great boon to the pets and the pet owners. Visit www.happytailsmembership.com to learn more specifics about their popular pet care discount program.
Top Five Cat Breeds
Lucky Cat Furniture asked:
Choosing a cat breed can be a bit daunting, especially if you don’t know very much about cats! When considering a cat, you must be sure to choose a breed that will best suit your lifestyle. Some breeds require more physical activity than others, and some require much more grooming. Look below to find the top five most popular cat breeds. You will also find a brief description about each breed’s grooming requirements and personality type.
The Oriental is one of the most popular cat breeds around. This breed is a very intelligent, loyal companion and tends to bond deeply with its family. It has large, pointed ears, and although its body is very sleek, it is still quite a muscular breed.
The American Shorthair is extremely popular with families, as they tend to be very affectionate and friendly. The American shorthair originally was a working breed, mostly for mouse hunting, which explains the agile muscular structure and short hair. They do need a little exercise, but most are quite content being a lap cat.
The Birman breed is thought to have originated from Burma. It is perhaps best recognized by its blue eyes, white body, and smoky-brown face, ears, legs, and tail. Birmans possess a long, sturdy body structure with long, mat-resistant hair. They love to play and are quite gentle. They are affectionate without being too needy.
If you’re looking for a very affectionate, cuddly cat, then a Sphynx may be the breed for you. Although they look like they have no fur, they actually have a peach-like fuzz all over their body. As they don’t have much hair to protect their skin, they should strictly be kept indoors. This breed does require a bit of extra care, particularly with room temperature, as this breed can easily become too cold.
A very mild and gentle cat breed is the Ragdoll, appropriately named such as it can be quite floppy and relaxed when picked up. If you love a cat that accompanies you from room to room, this breed would likely be a wonderful match for you. They are very careful not to use teeth or claws when playing around, so they would also make an excellent cat for children.
Now that you have a better idea about the most popular, yet very different, breeds out there, hopefully you find choosing a cat to be a little less daunting than before. Be sure to remember that lifestyles are important factors to consider; so if you aren’t very active, you probably shouldn’t choose a cat that requires a lot of activity, and vice versa.
Choosing a cat breed can be a bit daunting, especially if you don’t know very much about cats! When considering a cat, you must be sure to choose a breed that will best suit your lifestyle. Some breeds require more physical activity than others, and some require much more grooming. Look below to find the top five most popular cat breeds. You will also find a brief description about each breed’s grooming requirements and personality type.
The Oriental is one of the most popular cat breeds around. This breed is a very intelligent, loyal companion and tends to bond deeply with its family. It has large, pointed ears, and although its body is very sleek, it is still quite a muscular breed.
The American Shorthair is extremely popular with families, as they tend to be very affectionate and friendly. The American shorthair originally was a working breed, mostly for mouse hunting, which explains the agile muscular structure and short hair. They do need a little exercise, but most are quite content being a lap cat.
The Birman breed is thought to have originated from Burma. It is perhaps best recognized by its blue eyes, white body, and smoky-brown face, ears, legs, and tail. Birmans possess a long, sturdy body structure with long, mat-resistant hair. They love to play and are quite gentle. They are affectionate without being too needy.
If you’re looking for a very affectionate, cuddly cat, then a Sphynx may be the breed for you. Although they look like they have no fur, they actually have a peach-like fuzz all over their body. As they don’t have much hair to protect their skin, they should strictly be kept indoors. This breed does require a bit of extra care, particularly with room temperature, as this breed can easily become too cold.
A very mild and gentle cat breed is the Ragdoll, appropriately named such as it can be quite floppy and relaxed when picked up. If you love a cat that accompanies you from room to room, this breed would likely be a wonderful match for you. They are very careful not to use teeth or claws when playing around, so they would also make an excellent cat for children.
Now that you have a better idea about the most popular, yet very different, breeds out there, hopefully you find choosing a cat to be a little less daunting than before. Be sure to remember that lifestyles are important factors to consider; so if you aren’t very active, you probably shouldn’t choose a cat that requires a lot of activity, and vice versa.
Are There Better Cat Breeds as Pets?
Debbie Foster asked:
Cats have been a part of human life since ancient times. Today they are second only to dogs in popularity. Taking care of cats is easy to do, even if you are away from your apartment for long periods of time during the day. If this sounds like your schedule, a cat as a pet is a good choice.
The majority of felines don’t come with a pedigree because most cats are derived from multiple breeds. Actually there are only a small 3% of felines that are purebred. This is because they cost a lot more than the mixed breed cat and have no significant advantages or disadvantages over the mixed breeds. Across the globe, there are now just over one hundred purebred cats that have been identified.
There are notable distinctions between the unique breeds. There are distinct types of body shapes, coat lengths, color of coat, eye color, personalities and size of the animal. Cats can be categorized as the short haired or long haired variety. The most common of the two being short hair varieties.
Long haired cats take more time to care for. They require more daily grooming and are more prone to hairballs. Also, the long fur makes it more challenging to get rid of fleas, and harder to care for any cuts they may have.
Cats do not take as much of your time as dogs, who need daily exercise. Really, all the felines need is a little food, attention and a litter box. Of course, felines enjoy playing and climbing. The occasional unexpected pounce or sweet purring in your ear are attributes of a happy cat. Additionally, because they are so adaptable, cats are great for most anyone’s living area, including apartments. Undoubtedly, these furry friends quickly become adored pets through their playfulness, affection, and loyalty.
Cats have been a part of human life since ancient times. Today they are second only to dogs in popularity. Taking care of cats is easy to do, even if you are away from your apartment for long periods of time during the day. If this sounds like your schedule, a cat as a pet is a good choice.
The majority of felines don’t come with a pedigree because most cats are derived from multiple breeds. Actually there are only a small 3% of felines that are purebred. This is because they cost a lot more than the mixed breed cat and have no significant advantages or disadvantages over the mixed breeds. Across the globe, there are now just over one hundred purebred cats that have been identified.
There are notable distinctions between the unique breeds. There are distinct types of body shapes, coat lengths, color of coat, eye color, personalities and size of the animal. Cats can be categorized as the short haired or long haired variety. The most common of the two being short hair varieties.
Long haired cats take more time to care for. They require more daily grooming and are more prone to hairballs. Also, the long fur makes it more challenging to get rid of fleas, and harder to care for any cuts they may have.
Cats do not take as much of your time as dogs, who need daily exercise. Really, all the felines need is a little food, attention and a litter box. Of course, felines enjoy playing and climbing. The occasional unexpected pounce or sweet purring in your ear are attributes of a happy cat. Additionally, because they are so adaptable, cats are great for most anyone’s living area, including apartments. Undoubtedly, these furry friends quickly become adored pets through their playfulness, affection, and loyalty.
Cat Health Insurance: Get Exclusive Care for your Cat
Robert Scott asked:
Regardless of your intensive care, all pets including cat, fall ill or are injured. Like a human being, your pet also needs medical treatment; in fact, they need more heed than a human being needs, as they cannot express their pain through words. Since charges of medical treatments are very high, a minor injury or illness of your pet can affect your entire budget. At present, there are n numbers of insurance companies, which offer effective reliable insurance policies for your pet. However, all pets are unpredictable but when it comes to a cat, predicting a single step of this naughty creature becomes impossible. If you own a cat and are worried about her health, then cat health insurance is the best solution for you; in fact, with this policy you can cover your cat’s health expenses for a lifetime. This policy helps you in ensuring that your cat will get the best care and medical assistance during illness or injury.
Cat health insurance is something that can really lighten your financial burden, as it reimburses all medical and hygiene expenses of your cat. Owning a cat is the great pleasure; in fact, whenever we see that sweet creature jumping here and there, we just forget all our worries and find a new world of joy in her innocent activities. However, she needs extra care, as there are many uncertainties and risks that are associated with her. You can give her every possible thing just by purchasing an insurance policy for her; this policy will definitely provide your cat with exclusive medical and routine health care. Getting your cat insured is your own personal decision but it is always advisable to secure your cat with cat health insurance.
Cost and type of insurance policy completely depends upon the breed of your cat, as some breeds are more vulnerable to health problems. For insuring such breeds, insurance companies charge a higher rate; in fact, it is reasonable, as the pet gets better financial benefits with such policies. There are many times when your cat eats something venomous and falls ill; this is the situation where your cat needs cat health insurance. This policy will help you in compensating all medical expenses; however, this cannot compensate her pain but can give your darling cat a lifetime security. Despite of the seriousness of illness, it enables you to afford the best care and treatment for your cat.
Since all cat health insurance policies cover head-to-tail injury and illness expenses, you can choose any policy according to your requirements and budget. If you are worried about monthly premium, then you can be rest assured that it will never affect your monthly budget. To avoid expensive premiums you can also go for a cheap insurance policy, as such policies cover every aspect of your cat’s health without putting any extra burden on your pocket. But before you go for cat health insurance, always make sure that it covers every health and hygiene expense of your cat or not.
Regardless of your intensive care, all pets including cat, fall ill or are injured. Like a human being, your pet also needs medical treatment; in fact, they need more heed than a human being needs, as they cannot express their pain through words. Since charges of medical treatments are very high, a minor injury or illness of your pet can affect your entire budget. At present, there are n numbers of insurance companies, which offer effective reliable insurance policies for your pet. However, all pets are unpredictable but when it comes to a cat, predicting a single step of this naughty creature becomes impossible. If you own a cat and are worried about her health, then cat health insurance is the best solution for you; in fact, with this policy you can cover your cat’s health expenses for a lifetime. This policy helps you in ensuring that your cat will get the best care and medical assistance during illness or injury.
Cat health insurance is something that can really lighten your financial burden, as it reimburses all medical and hygiene expenses of your cat. Owning a cat is the great pleasure; in fact, whenever we see that sweet creature jumping here and there, we just forget all our worries and find a new world of joy in her innocent activities. However, she needs extra care, as there are many uncertainties and risks that are associated with her. You can give her every possible thing just by purchasing an insurance policy for her; this policy will definitely provide your cat with exclusive medical and routine health care. Getting your cat insured is your own personal decision but it is always advisable to secure your cat with cat health insurance.
Cost and type of insurance policy completely depends upon the breed of your cat, as some breeds are more vulnerable to health problems. For insuring such breeds, insurance companies charge a higher rate; in fact, it is reasonable, as the pet gets better financial benefits with such policies. There are many times when your cat eats something venomous and falls ill; this is the situation where your cat needs cat health insurance. This policy will help you in compensating all medical expenses; however, this cannot compensate her pain but can give your darling cat a lifetime security. Despite of the seriousness of illness, it enables you to afford the best care and treatment for your cat.
Since all cat health insurance policies cover head-to-tail injury and illness expenses, you can choose any policy according to your requirements and budget. If you are worried about monthly premium, then you can be rest assured that it will never affect your monthly budget. To avoid expensive premiums you can also go for a cheap insurance policy, as such policies cover every aspect of your cat’s health without putting any extra burden on your pocket. But before you go for cat health insurance, always make sure that it covers every health and hygiene expense of your cat or not.
General Cat Health Care
D.J.C. asked:
General cat health is also extremely important as a kitten so that they can grow up to be healthy throughout the rest of their life. Cat health care is one of the most important subjects for responsible and loving cat owners to be aware of. It involves prevention, understanding, and sometimes treatment of a possible life-threatening disease. Cat health care is also affected by lack of exercise and poor diet. You can love your cat into a state of being unhealthy without enough exercise and proper nutrition.
Talk to cat owners who have older cats. Ask them about cat health care for their older cats. What are the problems and what are the right foods and nutritional needs that fall under the term elderly care. If your cat does not receive the proper food and nutrition, they may have problems with their health. Talking about cat health care in advance will make it easier for everyone when the time comes.
Natural cat food is always a welcome one for all pet owners. There are brands of cat food that contains no chemicals and has lots of white meat and vegetables. The prices of these products will vary but because of the balanced diet, correct protein, and vitamins you are going to find the priced higher then the “store brand”.
Heat and humidity degrade nutritional value, so do your best to buy fresh food. Once opened, your cat’s dry food should be stored in a sealed pet feeder container to preserve freshness. As for soreness in your cat, heat is a good soother, heated cat beds or a heated throw will give much relief to this painful complaint. Massage is often beneficial but should be administered with care. Your vet will give you complete direction as to how long to do it.
Bad breath is another unhealthy sign. Your cat should have strong white teeth without odor. Dry cat food will give them strong gums, good healthy teeth, and that will give them clean breath.
Symptoms of flea allergy include hair loss, redness, and sometimes sores known as hot spots. Symptoms of diabetes in your cat include excessive ********* and drinking along with weight loss or sudden obesity. If you find that your cat develops diabetes you need to carefully regulate diet and monitor blood sugar levels.
Fleas carry many diseases and can transmit these to your cats. Fleas carry the tapeworm cyst inside them and your cat inevitably swallows fleas during routine grooming .When this happens it is then that the tapeworm hatches and grows in your cat’s stomach. Natural flea control methods and products provide a safer alternative to chemical insecticides. If you cannot reasonably control fleas with this “safer” approach, then consider stronger measures.
Vaccinations (’shots’) can help keep your cat from getting many of the serious diseases which can make your cat sick, or may even threaten your cat’s life. Your cat’s individual lifestyle and situation will determine which vaccinations your cat needs to have and how often these vaccines need to be given. You will need to keep the shots up to date.
Remember that the main reason to spay is to prevent pregnancy, not to eliminate a cat’s normal behavior, however, removing the ovaries also reduces the risk or mammary cancer.
Remember that advice simply can’t be a substitute for proper medical attention. Only your vet can say exactly what is best for your cat. Remember to give your kitty a hug today and be thankful that they are with you!
NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.
General cat health is also extremely important as a kitten so that they can grow up to be healthy throughout the rest of their life. Cat health care is one of the most important subjects for responsible and loving cat owners to be aware of. It involves prevention, understanding, and sometimes treatment of a possible life-threatening disease. Cat health care is also affected by lack of exercise and poor diet. You can love your cat into a state of being unhealthy without enough exercise and proper nutrition.
Talk to cat owners who have older cats. Ask them about cat health care for their older cats. What are the problems and what are the right foods and nutritional needs that fall under the term elderly care. If your cat does not receive the proper food and nutrition, they may have problems with their health. Talking about cat health care in advance will make it easier for everyone when the time comes.
Natural cat food is always a welcome one for all pet owners. There are brands of cat food that contains no chemicals and has lots of white meat and vegetables. The prices of these products will vary but because of the balanced diet, correct protein, and vitamins you are going to find the priced higher then the “store brand”.
Heat and humidity degrade nutritional value, so do your best to buy fresh food. Once opened, your cat’s dry food should be stored in a sealed pet feeder container to preserve freshness. As for soreness in your cat, heat is a good soother, heated cat beds or a heated throw will give much relief to this painful complaint. Massage is often beneficial but should be administered with care. Your vet will give you complete direction as to how long to do it.
Bad breath is another unhealthy sign. Your cat should have strong white teeth without odor. Dry cat food will give them strong gums, good healthy teeth, and that will give them clean breath.
Symptoms of flea allergy include hair loss, redness, and sometimes sores known as hot spots. Symptoms of diabetes in your cat include excessive ********* and drinking along with weight loss or sudden obesity. If you find that your cat develops diabetes you need to carefully regulate diet and monitor blood sugar levels.
Fleas carry many diseases and can transmit these to your cats. Fleas carry the tapeworm cyst inside them and your cat inevitably swallows fleas during routine grooming .When this happens it is then that the tapeworm hatches and grows in your cat’s stomach. Natural flea control methods and products provide a safer alternative to chemical insecticides. If you cannot reasonably control fleas with this “safer” approach, then consider stronger measures.
Vaccinations (’shots’) can help keep your cat from getting many of the serious diseases which can make your cat sick, or may even threaten your cat’s life. Your cat’s individual lifestyle and situation will determine which vaccinations your cat needs to have and how often these vaccines need to be given. You will need to keep the shots up to date.
Remember that the main reason to spay is to prevent pregnancy, not to eliminate a cat’s normal behavior, however, removing the ovaries also reduces the risk or mammary cancer.
Remember that advice simply can’t be a substitute for proper medical attention. Only your vet can say exactly what is best for your cat. Remember to give your kitty a hug today and be thankful that they are with you!
NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.
Taking Care of Cats
Patricia Reed asked:
Cats are proving to be one of the most popular pets you can own. They are a domesticated animal that date back around 8,000 years and beyond. There are several different breeds of this animal with the most popular being Siamese and Persian. Like any other pet, including dogs, cats can cost money to take care of properly.
You need to think about the costs associated with keeping a cat. Obviously you will need food and
you will need to consider the costs of a veterinarian. You will also need litter for the litter box, which can get quite expensive as the years go by. Your cat will need a food dish and a water dish. You should also get your cat some toys as well, such as a scratching post, cat toys, pet carrier and a bed. An ID collar is a good idea also, just in case your cat gets lost.
The age of your cat will influence the feeding of your pet. Older cats require two small meals or one large meal for the day. Kittens, on the other hand, require several feedings a day until they get around the age of 12 weeks old. At three to six months of age, cats need to be fed three times a day. Canned food is good for cats, although any food that has been left out longer than 30 minutes needs to be thrown out. Canned food gets expensive very fast and you should always keep in mind that some may need to be thrown away when you buy it. Cats love canned food, although it doesn’t have any benefits to their dental health like dry food does.
An alternative to canned food is dry food. You can leave a supply out for your pet. When you give your cat dry food, you should always make sure that he has enough water. Dry food costs less than canned food, and it can also help to prevent the buildup of tartar on the cat’s teeth. When you buy dry food, you should always look in terms of health and benefits and stay away from generic food. Even though generic food may be cheaper, it may not offer the nutrients your cat needs.
If you have a kitten, you should only give him food designed for kittens. you will also need to clean and refill his water dish every day. You should avoid giving kittens and cats cows milk, even though they really like it. It can cause diarrhea. Treats are fine on occasions, but too many of them can cause your cat to get fat. Feeding your kitten human food is good on occasion, although you may have to mix it with cat food.
Cats stay fairly clean by themselves. You will need to give them a brushing at least once a day. You don’t need to bathe them very often. Brushing reduces the risk of hairballs and keeps your cat’s coat nice and clean. If you keep your cat indoors, you will need to have a litter box in the area that is easy for the cat to access. You should scoop it on a daily basis and clean it out once a week. Cats do not like to use dirty litter and will scratch it out onto your floor. They want it nice and clean.
Cats do require some work, but they are great pets that will provide you years and years of
companionship. As long as you take car of your pet, take them to the vet for checkups and generally love them, they should remain healthy and happy pets. A healthy and happy pet makes for a healthy and happy owner. They will get sick from time to time and knowing how to care for them will make a lot of difference.
Cats are proving to be one of the most popular pets you can own. They are a domesticated animal that date back around 8,000 years and beyond. There are several different breeds of this animal with the most popular being Siamese and Persian. Like any other pet, including dogs, cats can cost money to take care of properly.
You need to think about the costs associated with keeping a cat. Obviously you will need food and
you will need to consider the costs of a veterinarian. You will also need litter for the litter box, which can get quite expensive as the years go by. Your cat will need a food dish and a water dish. You should also get your cat some toys as well, such as a scratching post, cat toys, pet carrier and a bed. An ID collar is a good idea also, just in case your cat gets lost.
The age of your cat will influence the feeding of your pet. Older cats require two small meals or one large meal for the day. Kittens, on the other hand, require several feedings a day until they get around the age of 12 weeks old. At three to six months of age, cats need to be fed three times a day. Canned food is good for cats, although any food that has been left out longer than 30 minutes needs to be thrown out. Canned food gets expensive very fast and you should always keep in mind that some may need to be thrown away when you buy it. Cats love canned food, although it doesn’t have any benefits to their dental health like dry food does.
An alternative to canned food is dry food. You can leave a supply out for your pet. When you give your cat dry food, you should always make sure that he has enough water. Dry food costs less than canned food, and it can also help to prevent the buildup of tartar on the cat’s teeth. When you buy dry food, you should always look in terms of health and benefits and stay away from generic food. Even though generic food may be cheaper, it may not offer the nutrients your cat needs.
If you have a kitten, you should only give him food designed for kittens. you will also need to clean and refill his water dish every day. You should avoid giving kittens and cats cows milk, even though they really like it. It can cause diarrhea. Treats are fine on occasions, but too many of them can cause your cat to get fat. Feeding your kitten human food is good on occasion, although you may have to mix it with cat food.
Cats stay fairly clean by themselves. You will need to give them a brushing at least once a day. You don’t need to bathe them very often. Brushing reduces the risk of hairballs and keeps your cat’s coat nice and clean. If you keep your cat indoors, you will need to have a litter box in the area that is easy for the cat to access. You should scoop it on a daily basis and clean it out once a week. Cats do not like to use dirty litter and will scratch it out onto your floor. They want it nice and clean.
Cats do require some work, but they are great pets that will provide you years and years of
companionship. As long as you take car of your pet, take them to the vet for checkups and generally love them, they should remain healthy and happy pets. A healthy and happy pet makes for a healthy and happy owner. They will get sick from time to time and knowing how to care for them will make a lot of difference.
Choosing your First Indoor Cat
David W Johnson asked:
Deciding to be a pet owner and caregiver is a big responsibility. Owning an indoor cat can bring years of enjoyable pleasure for you and your new companion friend. Although cats are seen as self-reliant, you as the owner will always have to be the diligent parent.
If you’ve never owned any pets before, you should get some pet education before bringing your new furry friend home.
Probably the best way to find out about caring for an indoor cat is to visit the homes of friends who have indoor cats. Your friends can be an excellent resource for what’s going to be required of you to care for a cat. Other resources are community cat clubs, veterinarians, animal shelters, books, tapes, videos, and the Internet.
Before you get your first cat, decide what your commitment to this relationship will be. How much devotion, cost, effort, and attention are you willing to provide to your new friend. Also consider what your personal preferences are for the new family addition. Are you looking for?
Kitten or Adult
Longhair or Shorthair
Male or Female
Breed (Persian, Burmese, etc)
Pedigree or Non-Pedigree
To many, a kitten is a cute, cuddly bundle of joy, just like a new born baby. But like a baby, you’ll need to watch over carefully to the health of the kitten as it grows to adulthood. An adult cat, on the other hand, is more capable of attending to its own personal care.
Hair
Cats shed hair, just like humans. Some breeds shed more hair than others. Cats are fastidious groomers. Be prepared and none too surprised when they vomit a hairball from time to time — completely natural with little cause for alarm. It’s a good practice to routinely brush your cat to collect the loose hair.
Shorthair cats usually need less routine brushing than longhairs. If you brush your cat routinely, they can have less incidents of hairballs and upset digestion. Giving your cat a bath (cat formulated shampoo only) once in a great while is good also.
Gender
Cats are individuals. Both female and male cats can make wonderful companions. If the cat has been spayed or neutered, then the cat’s gender doesn’t play a huge role. The cat’s own unique personality will determine how good of a pet it will make. Your personal preference may be to choose a cat whose personality is agreeable to yours.
Breed
Generally the cat’s breed isn’t a factor and your selection usually is a personal preference.
Pedigree
You may choose a pedigree cat if your intention is to invest, breed, or show. There are other reasons why someone would choose a pedigree over a non-pedigree, and that’s a personal choice. Expect to pay more for a pedigree primarily because its lineage can be traced and its pedigree is highly prized by others.
Non-pedigree cats are just as cute and cuddly as the pedigree. A lot less expensive too!
Summary
A cat is a wonderful addition to your family and will give you many years of enjoyable pleasure.
Deciding to be a pet owner and caregiver is a big responsibility. Owning an indoor cat can bring years of enjoyable pleasure for you and your new companion friend. Although cats are seen as self-reliant, you as the owner will always have to be the diligent parent.
If you’ve never owned any pets before, you should get some pet education before bringing your new furry friend home.
Probably the best way to find out about caring for an indoor cat is to visit the homes of friends who have indoor cats. Your friends can be an excellent resource for what’s going to be required of you to care for a cat. Other resources are community cat clubs, veterinarians, animal shelters, books, tapes, videos, and the Internet.
Before you get your first cat, decide what your commitment to this relationship will be. How much devotion, cost, effort, and attention are you willing to provide to your new friend. Also consider what your personal preferences are for the new family addition. Are you looking for?
Kitten or Adult
Longhair or Shorthair
Male or Female
Breed (Persian, Burmese, etc)
Pedigree or Non-Pedigree
To many, a kitten is a cute, cuddly bundle of joy, just like a new born baby. But like a baby, you’ll need to watch over carefully to the health of the kitten as it grows to adulthood. An adult cat, on the other hand, is more capable of attending to its own personal care.
Hair
Cats shed hair, just like humans. Some breeds shed more hair than others. Cats are fastidious groomers. Be prepared and none too surprised when they vomit a hairball from time to time — completely natural with little cause for alarm. It’s a good practice to routinely brush your cat to collect the loose hair.
Shorthair cats usually need less routine brushing than longhairs. If you brush your cat routinely, they can have less incidents of hairballs and upset digestion. Giving your cat a bath (cat formulated shampoo only) once in a great while is good also.
Gender
Cats are individuals. Both female and male cats can make wonderful companions. If the cat has been spayed or neutered, then the cat’s gender doesn’t play a huge role. The cat’s own unique personality will determine how good of a pet it will make. Your personal preference may be to choose a cat whose personality is agreeable to yours.
Breed
Generally the cat’s breed isn’t a factor and your selection usually is a personal preference.
Pedigree
You may choose a pedigree cat if your intention is to invest, breed, or show. There are other reasons why someone would choose a pedigree over a non-pedigree, and that’s a personal choice. Expect to pay more for a pedigree primarily because its lineage can be traced and its pedigree is highly prized by others.
Non-pedigree cats are just as cute and cuddly as the pedigree. A lot less expensive too!
Summary
A cat is a wonderful addition to your family and will give you many years of enjoyable pleasure.
Solving the Health Care Dilemma
Harris R. Sherline asked:
How many people do you know who think their Congressperson has the answers to providing health care in America? Or, their Senator? George W. Bush? Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton? Or, for that matter, any politician? Do they really have the answers?
If they can’t do it, then how about the politicians in Canada, or Great Britain? Have they solved the problem in their societies? Some people believe they have. However, in England, where the private practice of medicine was outlawed when socialized medicine was first established there, they were eventually forced to reverse their policy and permit the public to go outside the government’s system to obtain health care from private physicians.
In Canada today, the story is much the same. Many Canadians come to the U.S. for emergent needs, such as bypass surgery, because the waiting time in Canada is interminable, often many months before their citizens can get life-saving treatment when they need it.
State-Run Health Care
All state-run health care systems have one thing in common: rationing. Not necessarily involving the use of ration cards, but rationing nonetheless. Rationing of resources. The cause is a devilishly simple principle that’s present in all nationalized health care programs. That is, it’s free, or so low cost that it’s almost free. Basic economics clearly demonstrates that whenever something is free, the demand quickly becomes unlimited. The lower the price, the greater the demand. Give something away and you can “sell” everything you have and more.
However, the flip side of unlimited demand is a shortage of supply. And, not having enough doctors, nurses, or expensive equipment, such as CAT Scans and MRIs, eventually leads to rationing. Without enough health care to go around, rationing becomes a necessity. That has been the failing with nationalized health care in England, Canada, Germany, Japan, the former USSR, everywhere it has been tried.
So, if there are no politicians who really know what should be done to solve our health care problems why do we keep expecting them to come up with the answers?
Just exactly what are the problems? Too many uninsured? Too high cost? Poor quality? Lack of availability? All of the above? Do you know or think you know?
What have been the government’s (read politicians’) solutions to date?
Health Care Policy
National health care (socialized medicine) in one form or another is the primary health care policy that is gradually being adopted in America. And it is slowly but surely lowering the quality of the health care we are getting. Talk to any doctor you trust and see if they don’t agree. They will tell you that they are working much longer hours for far less money, that many physicians are retiring early or converting to “concierge” practices because they are fed up with the government and insurance company bureaucrats telling them how to practice medicine. Consequently, there is a growing shortage of doctors and nurses.
But, you may say, we don’t have socialized medicine in America! Perhaps not yet, but we’ve been moving in that direction for some time, and we seem to be going further down that path as the years progress. It’s a slippery slope. For example, consider Medicare.
But, Medicare is not socialized medicine, you may insist.
Unfortunately, it is, or is headed that way. Why? For one thing, it’s a system that’s based on price controls.
Price Controls
Price controls have never worked, ever, in any society at any time in history. They were tried as early as 301 A.D. by a Roman emperor, Diocletian (243-316 A.D.) who implemented price controls under penalty of death. But, even that didn’t work, and it hasn’t worked since. What price controls do is cause shortages, increased costs and disrupted markets.
Look at what has happened to the Medicare program since 1984, the year the government changed its method of paying for hospital services from a “cost plus” to a system called DRGs (Diagnostic Related Groupings). DRGs are a method of classifying illnesses and assigning a comparative value and a specific authorized payment to each. At that point, many hospitals began to lose money because the government started dictating the prices that are paid for inpatient care.
As much as 70% of many hospitals’ patients are seniors, whose bills are paid by Medicare. The Federal Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) determines, in its sole discretion, the prices that can be charged for seniors’ inpatient hospital care, and then pays only 80% of those amounts. The differences between a hospital’s standard fees for service and the amounts that Medicare pays must be written off. They cannot be collected from the patient. That’s price control.
Furthermore, because Medicare payments are determined solely by the government, annual cost of living increases are limited, generally to between 1-1/2% and 2-1/2%, in spite of the fact that hospital costs have been rising for years at an annual rate of anywhere from 6% to 14%.
Another little known fact about Medicare is that seniors are prevented from seeking care outside the Medicare system, even if they are willing to pay the bill themselves. Any doctor who accepts payment directly from a senior who is covered by Medicare is automatically disqualified from providing care to all Medicare patients for a period of two years. This is especially important in situations where a patient wants a second opinion and would like to see another doctor. That type of regulation is certainly an element of socialized medicine.
Many Hospitals Lose Money
Between health insurance contracts (HMOs) and Medicare limits on their charges, hospitals generally collect only about 50% of their total billings. The rest is written off. The result of all this is predictable: many of them are losing money. About one-third of all hospitals in California are currently operating at a loss. With a national health care plan, at some point, many hospitals would either be closed or services curtailed. That’s been the pattern in every country that has nationalized its health care. Nonetheless, that seems to be where we are headed, in spite of compelling evidence that it doesn’t work.
Like the proverbial frog being cooked in a pot of cold water, Americans are gradually becoming aware that the quality of their health care is declining, even as costs continue to rise. It just hasn’t sunk in yet. When it does, they will undoubtedly be led into believing the government has the answers and demand more government control, regulation and oversight. And, our politicians will be only too willing to oblige.
Nationalized Health Care
Nationalized health care in America is gradually overtaking the free market, and we are all being slowly cooked in the pot of government intervention. So, don’t be surprised at the type of health care program we get as time progresses. Whatever your own conclusions, remember one thing: that our politicians won’t have to rely on whatever health care plan they establish for everyone else. As usual, they will have their own, superior plan. And, it will not be a part of the nationalized health care system that the rest of us will be required to use. If you doubt that assertion, just look at the health care plan that our Federal legislators and government employees have now.
In the interest of full disclosure, I’m one of those seniors who has Medicare health insurance coverage and I ran a hospital for about seven years.
© 2008 Harris R. Sherline, All Rights Reserved
How many people do you know who think their Congressperson has the answers to providing health care in America? Or, their Senator? George W. Bush? Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton? Or, for that matter, any politician? Do they really have the answers?
If they can’t do it, then how about the politicians in Canada, or Great Britain? Have they solved the problem in their societies? Some people believe they have. However, in England, where the private practice of medicine was outlawed when socialized medicine was first established there, they were eventually forced to reverse their policy and permit the public to go outside the government’s system to obtain health care from private physicians.
In Canada today, the story is much the same. Many Canadians come to the U.S. for emergent needs, such as bypass surgery, because the waiting time in Canada is interminable, often many months before their citizens can get life-saving treatment when they need it.
State-Run Health Care
All state-run health care systems have one thing in common: rationing. Not necessarily involving the use of ration cards, but rationing nonetheless. Rationing of resources. The cause is a devilishly simple principle that’s present in all nationalized health care programs. That is, it’s free, or so low cost that it’s almost free. Basic economics clearly demonstrates that whenever something is free, the demand quickly becomes unlimited. The lower the price, the greater the demand. Give something away and you can “sell” everything you have and more.
However, the flip side of unlimited demand is a shortage of supply. And, not having enough doctors, nurses, or expensive equipment, such as CAT Scans and MRIs, eventually leads to rationing. Without enough health care to go around, rationing becomes a necessity. That has been the failing with nationalized health care in England, Canada, Germany, Japan, the former USSR, everywhere it has been tried.
So, if there are no politicians who really know what should be done to solve our health care problems why do we keep expecting them to come up with the answers?
Just exactly what are the problems? Too many uninsured? Too high cost? Poor quality? Lack of availability? All of the above? Do you know or think you know?
What have been the government’s (read politicians’) solutions to date?
Health Care Policy
National health care (socialized medicine) in one form or another is the primary health care policy that is gradually being adopted in America. And it is slowly but surely lowering the quality of the health care we are getting. Talk to any doctor you trust and see if they don’t agree. They will tell you that they are working much longer hours for far less money, that many physicians are retiring early or converting to “concierge” practices because they are fed up with the government and insurance company bureaucrats telling them how to practice medicine. Consequently, there is a growing shortage of doctors and nurses.
But, you may say, we don’t have socialized medicine in America! Perhaps not yet, but we’ve been moving in that direction for some time, and we seem to be going further down that path as the years progress. It’s a slippery slope. For example, consider Medicare.
But, Medicare is not socialized medicine, you may insist.
Unfortunately, it is, or is headed that way. Why? For one thing, it’s a system that’s based on price controls.
Price Controls
Price controls have never worked, ever, in any society at any time in history. They were tried as early as 301 A.D. by a Roman emperor, Diocletian (243-316 A.D.) who implemented price controls under penalty of death. But, even that didn’t work, and it hasn’t worked since. What price controls do is cause shortages, increased costs and disrupted markets.
Look at what has happened to the Medicare program since 1984, the year the government changed its method of paying for hospital services from a “cost plus” to a system called DRGs (Diagnostic Related Groupings). DRGs are a method of classifying illnesses and assigning a comparative value and a specific authorized payment to each. At that point, many hospitals began to lose money because the government started dictating the prices that are paid for inpatient care.
As much as 70% of many hospitals’ patients are seniors, whose bills are paid by Medicare. The Federal Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) determines, in its sole discretion, the prices that can be charged for seniors’ inpatient hospital care, and then pays only 80% of those amounts. The differences between a hospital’s standard fees for service and the amounts that Medicare pays must be written off. They cannot be collected from the patient. That’s price control.
Furthermore, because Medicare payments are determined solely by the government, annual cost of living increases are limited, generally to between 1-1/2% and 2-1/2%, in spite of the fact that hospital costs have been rising for years at an annual rate of anywhere from 6% to 14%.
Another little known fact about Medicare is that seniors are prevented from seeking care outside the Medicare system, even if they are willing to pay the bill themselves. Any doctor who accepts payment directly from a senior who is covered by Medicare is automatically disqualified from providing care to all Medicare patients for a period of two years. This is especially important in situations where a patient wants a second opinion and would like to see another doctor. That type of regulation is certainly an element of socialized medicine.
Many Hospitals Lose Money
Between health insurance contracts (HMOs) and Medicare limits on their charges, hospitals generally collect only about 50% of their total billings. The rest is written off. The result of all this is predictable: many of them are losing money. About one-third of all hospitals in California are currently operating at a loss. With a national health care plan, at some point, many hospitals would either be closed or services curtailed. That’s been the pattern in every country that has nationalized its health care. Nonetheless, that seems to be where we are headed, in spite of compelling evidence that it doesn’t work.
Like the proverbial frog being cooked in a pot of cold water, Americans are gradually becoming aware that the quality of their health care is declining, even as costs continue to rise. It just hasn’t sunk in yet. When it does, they will undoubtedly be led into believing the government has the answers and demand more government control, regulation and oversight. And, our politicians will be only too willing to oblige.
Nationalized Health Care
Nationalized health care in America is gradually overtaking the free market, and we are all being slowly cooked in the pot of government intervention. So, don’t be surprised at the type of health care program we get as time progresses. Whatever your own conclusions, remember one thing: that our politicians won’t have to rely on whatever health care plan they establish for everyone else. As usual, they will have their own, superior plan. And, it will not be a part of the nationalized health care system that the rest of us will be required to use. If you doubt that assertion, just look at the health care plan that our Federal legislators and government employees have now.
In the interest of full disclosure, I’m one of those seniors who has Medicare health insurance coverage and I ran a hospital for about seven years.
© 2008 Harris R. Sherline, All Rights Reserved
Dog Health Care Article: Dog Travel – What You Need To Carry When You Travel With Your Dog
Terrie Simpson asked:
Spring is here and with the onset of warm weather, comes more dog shows and our annual vacations, plus the urge to take a Sunday drive. However, we sometimes neglect the needs of our pets or do not take extra precautions for unseen emergencies. If you cannot board your pet, or leave it at home and find that you must take it with you please make sure you provide adequate ventilation and water in your vehicle. Plus you should read up on heat stroke and heat prostration. Below is a simple check list to ensure your pet is provided for under normal circumstances and in the event of an emergency:
a comfortable crate or seatbelt harness 2 leashes (your usual one and a spare) a spare collar ample water for your pet, yourself and your vehicle a water dish your pets first aid kit your first aid kit tools for your vehicle a brush to remove brambles and ticks pet food (if canned, store in a cooler if opened) toys to offset boredom (nothing worse than chewed upholstery) a tarp for shade, or park in a shady area a copy of your pets vaccinations and registration your veterinarians telephone number a picture of your pet make sure your pet is very familiar with the commands sit, stay, and come – a pet in an unfamiliar area can be nervous and may try to flee a towel and/or blanket make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations
I’ve traveled a fair amount in North America and have found we have given emergency care to animals in the most unlikely spots: A mother cat and kittens in a campground in Olympic National Park, an abandoned dog in a Texas highway rest area, a mother dog and puppies in California. Plus there always seems to be someone at a dog show who hasn’t brought enough water. I’ve had dog collars get lost in brush and leashes break on beaches. Seems like I’m never prepared enough myself for unforeseen emergencies, but taking the above precautions does make the trip go a little more peaceful.
Spring is here and with the onset of warm weather, comes more dog shows and our annual vacations, plus the urge to take a Sunday drive. However, we sometimes neglect the needs of our pets or do not take extra precautions for unseen emergencies. If you cannot board your pet, or leave it at home and find that you must take it with you please make sure you provide adequate ventilation and water in your vehicle. Plus you should read up on heat stroke and heat prostration. Below is a simple check list to ensure your pet is provided for under normal circumstances and in the event of an emergency:
a comfortable crate or seatbelt harness 2 leashes (your usual one and a spare) a spare collar ample water for your pet, yourself and your vehicle a water dish your pets first aid kit your first aid kit tools for your vehicle a brush to remove brambles and ticks pet food (if canned, store in a cooler if opened) toys to offset boredom (nothing worse than chewed upholstery) a tarp for shade, or park in a shady area a copy of your pets vaccinations and registration your veterinarians telephone number a picture of your pet make sure your pet is very familiar with the commands sit, stay, and come – a pet in an unfamiliar area can be nervous and may try to flee a towel and/or blanket make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations
I’ve traveled a fair amount in North America and have found we have given emergency care to animals in the most unlikely spots: A mother cat and kittens in a campground in Olympic National Park, an abandoned dog in a Texas highway rest area, a mother dog and puppies in California. Plus there always seems to be someone at a dog show who hasn’t brought enough water. I’ve had dog collars get lost in brush and leashes break on beaches. Seems like I’m never prepared enough myself for unforeseen emergencies, but taking the above precautions does make the trip go a little more peaceful.
Pet Health Insurance: a Way to Care your Pets
Jenny Black asked:
Owning a pet is one of the most common features that can be seen in almost all our households. And for most pet owners pets are a part of their family. But at the same time it has become one of the most expensive affairs. It is because of the treatment or the care they may need during their lifetime. Apart from the day-to-day costs of feeding and keeping your pet in good condition, there are many unplanned costs that include vets’ fees during operations and accidents, which you might find difficult to cover. Because of this, it’s a good idea to buy a pet health insurance policy which will protect both you and your pet. Pet health care insurance is a policy where the insurer will pay you for the covered costs of the treatment of your pets and in the return you have to shell out a certain sum of premium to the insurer at regular intervals.
There are different insurance companies that offer various health insurance policies and you can opt for the best policy that will suit your needs and family status. There are different health insurance plans for cats, for dogs and for your other pets. Policies vary from one company to other company.
And also the rate of premiums varies from company to company. Usually the policies under veterinary pet health insurance are cheaper for dogs and cats but little higher for other pets such as horses, rabbits etc. So before handing over your premiums to an insurer who provides pet health insurance, it is important for you to do a detailed research of all these information. Hence we suggest you to shop around a little. Now with online facilities on pet health insurance in UK it is easier to search and shop.
It is imperative to keep in mind that most pet care health insurances available in the market do not pay for routine check ups like worming, flea control nor is it likely to cover the pre-existing medical conditions that your pet has been suffering.
Apart from that, for some diseases and treatments that may need a long time, say more than a year, it is necessary to renew the policy at the end of the year. If not, you will loose your claim and the policy may end all together. The best time to buy a pet health insurance for your pet is when it is little, say for instance, 8 weeks old, because it is difficult to get maximum cover at the middle age. Thus according to the pets you own its high time for you to buy a dogs health insurance or cat health insurance or any other pet insurance as soon as possible.
Owning a pet is one of the most common features that can be seen in almost all our households. And for most pet owners pets are a part of their family. But at the same time it has become one of the most expensive affairs. It is because of the treatment or the care they may need during their lifetime. Apart from the day-to-day costs of feeding and keeping your pet in good condition, there are many unplanned costs that include vets’ fees during operations and accidents, which you might find difficult to cover. Because of this, it’s a good idea to buy a pet health insurance policy which will protect both you and your pet. Pet health care insurance is a policy where the insurer will pay you for the covered costs of the treatment of your pets and in the return you have to shell out a certain sum of premium to the insurer at regular intervals.
There are different insurance companies that offer various health insurance policies and you can opt for the best policy that will suit your needs and family status. There are different health insurance plans for cats, for dogs and for your other pets. Policies vary from one company to other company.
And also the rate of premiums varies from company to company. Usually the policies under veterinary pet health insurance are cheaper for dogs and cats but little higher for other pets such as horses, rabbits etc. So before handing over your premiums to an insurer who provides pet health insurance, it is important for you to do a detailed research of all these information. Hence we suggest you to shop around a little. Now with online facilities on pet health insurance in UK it is easier to search and shop.
It is imperative to keep in mind that most pet care health insurances available in the market do not pay for routine check ups like worming, flea control nor is it likely to cover the pre-existing medical conditions that your pet has been suffering.
Apart from that, for some diseases and treatments that may need a long time, say more than a year, it is necessary to renew the policy at the end of the year. If not, you will loose your claim and the policy may end all together. The best time to buy a pet health insurance for your pet is when it is little, say for instance, 8 weeks old, because it is difficult to get maximum cover at the middle age. Thus according to the pets you own its high time for you to buy a dogs health insurance or cat health insurance or any other pet insurance as soon as possible.
