by Nomi Berger The fear of a pregnant woman’s contracting toxoplasmosis should never be a reason to relinquish the family’s cherished feline companion. In fact, people are more likely to become infected with toxoplasmosis by eating unwashed vegetables from their garden or by ingesting undercooked meat than from their pet. If yours is […]
Continue readingCategory Archives: All Things Cat
All Things Cat Column Page by Nomi Berger
Pica
by Nomi Berger That Peculiarity Called Pica Pica (from the Latin term “magpie”) is the term for a feline’s affinity for eating anything that isn’t FOOD. And although it appears most frequently in young cats, it can affect older cats as well. Many cats may “nurse” on fuzzy items like wool, fleece and […]
Continue readingThe Downside of Declawing Cats
by Nomi Berger Like many cat owners, you may be fed up with finding scratch marks on everything from your floors and furniture to your curtains and comforters, cushions and clothes. And skin. But before you consider resolving the problem by choosing declawing as your only solution, be advised that declawing your cat […]
Continue readingMake Moving Easier for You and Your Cat
by Nomi Berger Cats, like humans, are creatures of habit. Once comfortable in their surroundings, they are unnerved by change. And trading a familiar home for an unfamiliar one can cause fearfulness and stress. Unless you, the conscientious cat guardian, plan ahead with all the precision of a successful military campaign. Logically, […]
Continue readingCat Safe Cat Gardens
by Nomi Berger Although cats are predominantly carnivores, most felines fancy a side of greens with their protein. As cat guardians can attest, their pets have a particular propensity for ingesting the leaves of indoor houseplants and gorging on grass when outdoors. While researchers may not agree on the reason behind this kitty […]
Continue readingCatified Cats Are Satisfied Cats
by Nomi Berger The verb may be new to the vernacular, but it’s far from a novel concept in “certain circles.” That verb is catification. The creation of a feline-friendly environment catering to a cat’s natural instincts to climb and perch, rest and play. A “cats only” club whose members own their own […]
Continue readingIntroducing Your New Cat to Your Other Pets
by Nomi Berger Imagine handing out treats and name tags at the front door of your home for your new cat and your resident pets. Imagine happy munches and friendly meows or woofs as they blend and bond instantly and forever. Then blink twice and remember that you are living in the […]
Continue readingA Cat Proofed Home is a Cat Safe Home
by Nomi Berger A cat proofed home is a cat safe home whether your new pet is a newborn kitten or a fully- grown cat. Before that first front paw crosses your threshold for the first time, your home must be a health zone, not a hazard zone. Be especially attentive to the […]
Continue readingACHOO! Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers
by Nomi Berger Are you for cats but your allergies are against them? Don’t despair. There ARE solutions. Although not purr-fect, they are certainly more paws-itive. But first: Allergies 101. What is the culprit behind your sneezing and itching, coughing or wheezing? The protein Fel D1 in cat saliva. When cats […]
Continue readingThe ABCs of Cat Behavior
by Nomi Berger Whether their behaviors are amusing, bewitching and charming or aggressive, bothersome and cantankerous, living with cats is always adventurous, seldom boring and occasionally challenging. Whatever cats do, they do it for a reason, THEIR reason, while humans come along for the ride: to watch, listen and learn. Listed below are […]
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