Your Cat Is Eating Constantly ?

As a cat guardian, you know that if your cat goes off his food for more than a day or so, a trip to the vet is probably in order. But did you know that constant eating can be a sign of health problems, both physical and psychological? Here are some reasons why your cat may be overeating.


Your cat has worms
Roundworms can cause your cat to become very hungry, because the worms are taking all the nutrition from his food before he can get it. Ironically, a roundworm-infested cat may look fat, as the parasites cause his body to swell.
Roundworms are contagious to humans, so if you suspect your cat has them, bring a fecal sample to your vet to have it tested.


Your cat has hyperthyroidism or diabetes
These diseases both cause a vast increase in appetite: hyperthyroidism does so because your cat’s metabolism is burning too many calories, and diabetes because your cat’s body can’t convert sugar to energy -- and the nutrition doesn’t even get into his body in the first place. If your cat is eating constantly and still losing weight, and especially if he’s also drinking a lot of water, get him to the vet as soon as possible.


Your cat is bored or lonely
Just like humans, some cats will eat because they’re bored. The solution to this problem is to provide your cat with more stimulation and to stop leaving kibble out for him to munch on all day. If you want to have a supply of food available, provide it in puzzle toys, which will cause your cat to have to work for his meal. This will help him burn calories and keep his mind engaged.
Be sure to provide other intellectually stimulating toys (or maybe even a kitty friend) to keep his mind off his dish. You can also buy automatic feeders, which provide access to a set amount of food at set times of day.


Your cat is depressed
Overeating can be a self-soothing behavior for cats who are depressed or grieving. I’ve seen this happen: I once met a couple who had a cat they'd exiled to the basement after their baby was born. In response, the cat started eating to self-soothe, and the result was incredibly sad.
If your cat is depressed, try drawing him out of his shell with gentle interactive play. Give him “love blinks” -- close your eyes slowly, leave them closed for a second, and then open them slowly, while thinking “I love you.”


Your cat's food isn’t meeting his nutritional needs

You know how when you eat fast food, you’re usually hungry an hour later no matter how much you ate? Poor-quality cat food can have the same effect on your cat. And like a person who eats a lot of fast food or who can only afford starchy foods, your cat will eat and eat because he can’t satisfy the true hunger (for nutrients) at the root of his desire to eat. Try feeding canned food; it’s typically more nutrient-dense, tastes better, and the cost ends up being about the same as kibble when you feed your cat the proper amount.
Remember that cats’ stomachs are extremely small: a couple of tablespoons of canned or raw food or (not and) a third of a cup of kibble per feeding is about all a cat needs to stay fit and healthy. Of course, if your cat a 20-pound Maine Coon, he’ll need a lot more food than a petite Singapura, so be sure to work with your vet to figure out the most appropriate amount to feed your feline friend.

The Saluki Dog

The Saluki is a Sighthound that originates from the Middle East. It is one of the oldest breed of dogs and is depicted in carvings of early civilizations such as that of “Sumerian Empire” of Mesopotamia dating back to 7000 BC. It’s names originates from Saluq, an ancient city in Arabia.

It is a dog of considerable size with a lean body built for speed and endurance and is believed to share a common ancestor with the Pharaoh hound. The Saluki Hound is also known by the other names of the Gazelle Hound and the Persian Greyhound.
It was originally bred to hunt hawks, hare, foxes, wolves and gazelle. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which locate the prey and for the dogs to run down.

This dog was declared “sacred ” by the Muslim religion whilst all other dogs were “unclean”. Salukis were not allowed to breed with non-Salukis, which explains their purity throughout the centuries.

The nomadic existence of the Bedouin owners of the Saluki’s ensured the spread of the breed throughout North Africa, the Middle East and Egypt. The terrain of the Saluki varies from the desert of the Sahara to colder, mountainous areas.

The Egyptian pharaohs were known to keep the ancestors of this dog. References to the Saluki’s’s ancestors appear as hieroglyphics and are also found engraved in cuneiform ( written in wedge-shaped characters) on ancient pillars and tablets.

The breed had been occasionally imported to England before 1840, however there was no serious interest until the Hon. Florence Amherst imported a breeding pair of Salukis from Lower Egypt in 1895 and began working to popularize the breed. The Saluki was recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1928.

English Salukis were exported to many countries, but by the mid-1930s, interest slackened, and with the outbreak of World War II, breeding and show activities almost entirely stopped. The number of litters was minimal – just enough to keep the breed alive. Food rationing reserved all edible meat for humans and rather than see their beloved Salukis starve or perhaps killed by bombs, some owners euthanized entire kennels. A small number of Saluki kennels survived the war, and along with fresh imports belonging to a second wave of soldiers returning from the Middle East, the slow process of re-establishing the breed began again.

Unique Dog Breeds You May Never Come Across

You will see many dog breeds in your life, but there are some unique breeds you may never see. While some of these breeds have similar traits to dogs we are familiar with, others look more exotic. Regardless of their sizes and shapes, these unique dog breeds are so cute. Enjoy reading about and looking at these pups and don’t hide your smile!

Swedish Vallhund



In 1942, the Swedish Vallhund almost became extinct in Sweden, but a breeding program started to save them. These dogs can capture small predators like rodents, herd cattle, and guard the house. Due to their perfect temper and love of their owners they are capable of being good pets. They are extremely energetic and they need lots of exercise. (see What to consider when looking for a dog) 

Bedlington Terrier



The first time I saw this dog breed, I thought it was a lamb, but it wasn’t! Bedlington Terrier puppies have dark coats that fade with age. This unique dog breed is good with kids and is easy to take care of. As long as Bedlington Terrier has his fur trimmed and gets enough exercise, he will keep his tail wagging. If you are thinking of having one, be ready for a stubborn attitude and loud barking. 

Tibetan Mastiff


Don’t think that this dog is a mastiff. The word ‘mastiff’ means ‘large dog,’ that’s why it is included in its name. Tibetan Mastiff is known as guardian and has been used to protect places, people, and herds. Since these dogs are very protective, they are not happy when their owners invite guests into their house. Again, these dogs require some training. 


Catalburun



Oh God! I’ve never seen anything so cute, and you? Look, this dog has a split nose! While it looks unique, it also works excellent and gives the Catalburun a very strong sense of smell. That’s why they’re great hunters and they’re able to track well. This unique dog breed is mostly seen in Turkey and is not known in other countries.


Mudi


 
This pup is really cute! This is a herding breed that comes from Hungary. Mudi is very energetic. They are expected to live from 13 to 14 years and weigh 18 and 29 pounds. Mudi comes in a variety of different colors, which are all equally adorable!






Catahoula Cur



This dog can be very noisy and might chew up your furniture, especially if they don’t get enough attention from you. Catahoula Cur was originally used for herding and once lived in swamps to round up cattle and pigs. This dog needs a truly dominant owner that can teach it the difference between wrong and right.




Schipperke



These dogs are from Belgium, and they are expected to live from 13 to 15 years. Although they are so adorable, they are known to cause some troubles. Sometimes called ‘the little black devil, these doggies like to disobey their owners and chase other animals. They can be very aggressive and must be kept away from other animals. They are not good for the weak-willed and they require a lot of training.


Azawakh


The Azawakh is a sight hound dog breed that is rare outside of its native West Africa. Azawakh is found in a great variety of colors such as grizzle, red, blue fawn, and, rarely, black and blue. Renowned for its agile and cat-like gait, these dogs are timid by nature, but friendly and very affectionate. The breed is used to hunt gazelle and other fleet animals.



Thai Ridgeback



An ancient dog breed, the Thai Ridgeback is also renowned as Mah Thai Lang Ahn. I love this breed and I think it’s the most unique and beautiful dog breed. The Thai Ridgeback has a line of hair running along the back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. These beautiful, strong-willed and powerful dogs are usually used as livestock guardians. Thai Ridgeback is a very intelligent breed. This dog is best kept by a consistent owner who has a good understanding of dog behavior.

Must Common Cat Myths

Cats have nine lives 

Fact: The myth most likely originated from Egyptian gods and religions, where sun god Atum-Ra, one of the Ennead, or the Nine would assume the form of the cat when visiting the underworld. Throughout the ages, cats continued to be considered magical and otherworldly, and their resilience in surviving falls from high places and long confinements without sustenance continue to amaze us. 

 

Pregnant women cannot live with cats

Fact: While toxoplasmosis is a risk for fetuses, a woman is more likely to catch it from handling raw meat or digging in the garden than from her cats. Cat guardians can protect themselves from cat-related exposure by emptying the litter box daily, having someone else clean the litter box or wearing rubber gloves and a mask if the litter box task can’t be foisted onto anyone else.

Cats steal the breath of babies

Fact: Cats are heat-and comfort-seekers. Curling up next to a newborn in a crib meets both of these needs. However, if the cat chooses to press up against the face of a bundled infant who is too young to turn away on her own, her breathing may be hampered. Keep cats out of the nursery at naptime/bedtime.

 

Cats purr only when happy

Fact: Purring is one of the first sounds kittens can make. They can purr by the time they are 48 hours old. While nursing, both mom and kittens can be heard to purr. But while purring is often heard at times of contentment, cats also purr when in pain and in the throes of death.

 

Cats hate water

Fact: While most cats hate baths, many find running water fascinating and spend time pawing at dripping faucets or demanding their guardians turn on the water for a fresh, cool drink. Kittens, in particular, find sinks and showers a source of amusement, although for most the thrill lessens with age. One breed, the Turkish Van, is nicknamed “the swimming cat” for its swimming prowess and love of all things wet.

Cats are loners

Fact: Outdoor cats are solitary hunters, but most will choose to live in a colony near a food source. Unneutered males will roam the farthest, in search of food and females in heat. Studies of barn cats showed matrilineal groups were created by a founding female, her daughters and their kittens. When males reach approximately eighteen months of age, they leave the area and strike out on their own. The kittens of domesticated house cats are best prepared to fit into a multi-cat household when they are kept with their littermates until at least eight- to ten-weeks of age. Cats can even be friends with dogs! 

Cats always land on their feet

Fact: As a tree-climbing species, the cat’s survival depends on its ability to survive falls when possible. The feline vestibular system and vision work together with the cat’s flexible spine to allow the cat to right itself and, when there is enough time, to “parachute out” in a manner similar to the flying squirrel. While they can usually right themselves, they can still sustain serious injury to limbs, jaws and the thoracic region which may result in death.

 

Black cats are bad luck

Fact: There are nearly as many superstitions about black eats bringing luck as there are about them being harbingers of bad luck. In different cultures around the world, other colors and coat patterns are seen as lucky – or not. However, in one 2000 study of 321 patients reported in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology patients with dark-colored cats were up to four times more likely to suffer a moderate to severe allergy attack than those with light-colored cats. Researchers speculate that darker cats produce more fel d 1 allergen in their skin and saliva. So if adopters are mildly allergic to cats, it may be smart to steer them to lighter colored ones, leaving all the terrific black cats to those lucky folks with no cat allergies.

 

Cats are nocturnal

Fact: Cats are crepuscular. They are most active at dusk and dawn when prey abounds and the hunting is best. The construction of their eyes allows them to see well in low light. Cats only need 1/6 of the light humans do in order to decipher shapes. However, they cannot see in absolute darkness.

People Foods Your Dog Can Eat Too

If you want to give your dog something that is not loaded with artificial ingredients and save some money, you can try out some of these “people” foods that your dog can eat too! Remember these foods must not replace your dog’s normal food and should be fed sparingly to your dog.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are nutritious and cost-efficient chew treat that you can give to your dog! Sweet potatoes contain fiber, carotenoids, and vitamins that are all good for both you and your pup. However, don’t give potatoes to your dog raw, instead serve in a dog bowl cooked or mashed! And make sure you don’t add any butter or salt!

Cheese

If your dog is not lactose intolerant, it’s okay for him/her to eat cheese. Aren’t sure if your dog is lactose intolerant? Just give him/her a small piece of cheese and see your pup’s reaction. Be sure to choose low fat cheese and don’t overfeed! Cottage cheese is usually a great option.

Peanut butter

Peanut butter is another well-known “people” food that is good for your dog. I love to use peanut butter to hide yucky medicine, it works excellent! Remember it’s healthier for your dog and you as well to eat unprocessed peanut butter without added preservatives, sugar and salt. Peanut butter that contains macadamia nuts is not good for your dog, since it has a poisonous effect.

Salmon

You know that salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, that good not only for you but for your pup too. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny and support immune system! Feed your pup cooked salmon, but not raw, or you can add salmon oil to food bowl. But be sure to remove bones from the salmon before giving it to your dog.

Yogurt

Do you like yogurt? Your pup might like it too! Yogurt is packed with vitamins, probiotics, protein, riboflavin, calcium, potassium and zinc, making it a healthy treat for your pup. Frozen yogurt is also a perfect summer treat to keep your dog feeling cool on those hot days! Avoid yogurts that are loaded with sugar, additives, and other preservatives. Plain yogurt is the best option!

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a great source of fiber and beta carotene. It helps keep the GI tract moving and aids with digestive issues. Both raw pumpkin flesh and seeds are safe for your pup to eat. Roasting plain pumpkin seeds is an easy way to have some handy treats for your dog that will last almost 3-4 weeks!

Lean meat

Sure, meat is good for your dog, but it must be lean! Beef or chicken with no visible fat and with no added seasonings or sauces will add a bit of extra protein to the diet of your dog. Lean meat is also a great source of B vitamins and amino acids. Many people think that dogs can eat raw meat, but it’s much healthier and safer to cook meat before giving it to your dog!

Watermelon

The last summer treat for your dog is watermelon! Sure other melons can be good too, but to be safe, you can feed your dog watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew and don’t give anything exotic that you may find. I also freeze some bits of watermelon and have a wonderful licking treat for my dogs to enjoy on hot days!
Before giving your dog any kind of “people” foods, check online to make sure that they aren’t toxic to your dog. Some toxic foods are grapes, chocolate, raisins, onions, yeast dough, macadamia nuts, artificial sweeteners, avocados, coffee and alcohol. What are your dog’s favorite “people” foods?

Cool Facts About Dogs Will Make You Love them Even More

There are god knows how many dog breeds in our lovely world. We just can’t go through a day and find out that there is some great doctor working on developing dog breed.

It’s just awesome to have your dog around you all the time.

What we have here are some cool facts that will make you understand and love these creatures even more.

Maybe some of you dog lovers already know these facts we are about to share with you and you are welcome to share more in the comments section bellow.

Before you go down reading these facts you need to know that DOGS ARE AWESOME!

The Newfoundland breed has webbed feet and water resistant coat

 

3 Dogs survived the Titanic sinking: 2 Pomeranians and 1 Pekingese

Paul McCartney recorded a unique whistle at the end of a song, which is audible only to dogs so his Shetland sheepdog can enjoy his music. The song is “A day in the Life”

Dogs are like humans. They have slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement

Dogs can see in the dark. It’s the tapetum lucidum membrane that allows them this

 

Bigger dogs have 60-100 heart beats per minute while smaller dog breeds have 100-140 HBPM

According to a research, dogs can detect stormy weather

Dogs sweat only through their feet pads

 

The latest research shows that 45% of the dogs enjoy sleeping in their owners’ bed

Taking Care of Your Hamster

Hamsters are funny, attractive, lively, active, clean and really easy to care for! The main thing to remember is that your hamster needs enough space to play, sleep and feed. Check out a few tips for taking care of your hamster! 

 Buy an igloo for your hamster

Your hamster needs something to sleep in, so make something in the cage or buy an igloo for your beloved pet in the pet store. I have four hamsters and I can say that they really love the igloo-shaped houses to hide in.

 

Don’t forget to feed your pet

It’s important not to forget to feed your hamster. You can feed your hamster a commercially prepared hamster-food mix twice a day and give a small supply of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you decide to give your hamster a new food, introduce it very slowly so he/she can get used to it.

Don’t forget the importance of water for your hamster

Make sure you keep your hamster supplied with clean water. Placing a bowl of water in your hamster’s cage won’t work since it can end up with pieces of food and bedding in it. So buy the type of bottles that attach to the side of the cage. And don’t forget to refill the bottle every day.

 

Give your hamster enough chew toys

Your hamster also needs to have a few chew toys for his/her teeth. All hamsters like to chew on things. There are many special chew toys in pet stores, which have been designed specifically for hamsters. Hamster toys are very important if you do not want your hamster to get bored.

Don’t bathe your hamster

Hamsters do not like water so never bathe your hamster. Hamsters always keep themselves meticulously cleaned. If you believe your hamster smell bad, then the smell is more than likely coming from the dirty cage. Make sure you always keep the hamster’s cage clean.

 

Watch where you place the cage

It is important to place your hamster’s cage out of the direct sunlight and draughts. Place it in a quiet part of your home where you’ll visit your hamster frequently. Don’t put the cage in an unheated room, garage, breezeway, or other cold places.

Your hamster needs to exercise

Hamsters are very quick and agile creatures and they need to exercise, so make sure your hamster’s cage has plenty of room to exercise. Hamsters need an exercise wheel to keep their muscles strong and healthy. When your hamster is outside of the cage, you can put him/her in a plastic hamster ball that you can buy in a local pet store.
A hamster is a fun animal to play with and it can really make exciting pet. Do you like hamsters? Do you have any other tips for taking care of a hamster? Share your thoughts, please!