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The Hartz Mountain Corporation Recalls Vitamin Care for Cats Because of Pos
2007-11-09 08:29:00
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --Baconton, GA -- November 2, ,2007 ---The Hartz Mountain Corporation is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats due to concerns that one or more bottles within the lot may have been potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Hartz is fully cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration in this voluntary recall. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, all of whom are at particular risk from exposure and should avoid handling these products. Salmonella symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea in both cats and humans. Anyone experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek immediate medical attention. Owners of cats exhibiting these symptoms should also seek veterinary assistance. The product involved is 3600 bottles of Hartz Vitamin Care for Cats, lot code SZ- 1637 1, UPC number 32700-97...

Medical Reserve Corps seeks veterinary volunteers
2007-11-03 07:28:00
The Medical Reserve Corps is looking for more veterinarians to join the ranks of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and other health professionals who volunteer with community health teams. The MRC is a national network of volunteer units that, under the sponsorship of the U.S. Surgeon General and local groups, supplement community resources for emergency response and public health. The 5-year-old corps has about 700 units, but 500 units don't have any veterinarians on the roster. "I think there are a lot of roles for veterinarians and veterinary staff members to help out," said Capt. Robert J. Tosatto, RPh, MRC director. "The needs are great to have individuals with those skill sets to help out in emergencies and also strengthen the public health infrastructure." Captain Tosatto said veterinarians and veterinary technicians can support the dual role of MRC units in responding locally to disasters and supporting the regular activities of health departments. Veterinarians co...
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INFORMATION FOR CONSUMERS from FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
2007-10-30 09:14:00
The following consumer information is provided by David A. Dzanis, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN. Pet food labeling is regulated at two levels. The Federal regulations, enforced by the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), establish standards applicable for all animal feeds: proper identification of product, net quantity statement, manufacturer's address, and proper listing of ingredients. Some States also enforce their own labeling regulations. Many of these have adopted the model pet food regulations established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These regulations are more specific in nature, covering aspects of labeling such as the product name, the guaranteed analysis, the nutritional adequacy statement, feeding directions, and calorie statements. Product Name The product name is the first part of the label noticed by the consumer, and can be a key factor in the consumer's decision to buy the product. For that reason, manufacturers often use fanciful n...
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Winter tips for Cats
2007-10-25 12:42:00
Cats may have a fur coat but, keep in mind just like us they are affected by the Winter cold. Here are some tips on keeping your cat safe and happy during the cold days and nights of winter. Many people use fireplaces and small heating units during the winter. Keep in mind there can be very dangerous to your cat and can cause a serious burn. Make sure you have a screen in front of your fireplace and block off access to space heaters. Some hairless breeds might actually need a coat to be kept warm. For instance, the Sphynx breed might benefit from a coat. Make sure to have a nice place for your cat to snuggle and sleep. There are many beds available for this type of application. Pay close attention to cars, if your cat happens to be outside they may seek the warmth of the engine. Be sure to check before starting your car. If you use central heat keep in mind that it may be warm and toasty inside to you but, it might be to hot for your cat. Try to keep one room in your house...
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Congress Strengthens Pet Food Safety Regulations
2007-10-24 09:08:00
Legislation passed by Congress in September contains food safety provisions requiring the Food and Drug Administration to set ingredient and processing standards for pet food. The new law, which applies also to human food, establishes an early warning system to alert the public about unsafe pet food. Congress directed the FDA to improve communication with the public, companies, and professional organizations during recalls, including the posting of information and a searchable, user-friendly recall list on the agency's Web site. A reportable food registry must be set up so the FDA can issue alerts about foods that could harm people or animals. The agency is to provide more detailed reports to Congress on food inspections as well. Under the new law, state and federal authorities must work together to improve food safety programs. Food companies are obligated to quickly report contaminations of their product after determining there is a problem and to make records available so contam...
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What you should know about toxoplasmosis
2007-10-23 11:52:00
What is Toxoplasmosis? Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by a microscopic parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. It is not a new disease, having first been discovered in 1908. Since its discovery, Toxoplasmosis has been found in virtually all warm-blooded animals including most pets, livestock and people. Nearly one-third of all adults in the U.S. and in Europe have antibodies to Toxoplasma, which means they have been exposed to the parasite.How do people become infected with Toxoplasmosis? There are 3 principal ways Toxoplasmosis is transmitted: Ingestion of infectious oocysts (pronounced o-o-cysts) from dirt in which cats have defecated or by ingestion of infective oocysts in food or water contaminated with feline feces. Consumption of undercooked or raw meat from animals with tissue cysts. Directly from pregnant mother to unborn child when the mother becomes infected with Toxoplasma during pregnancy. Pigs, sheep, goats and poultry are sources of meat commonly infected with Toxopl...

Kitten Tips
2007-10-23 11:45:00
Seven to nine weeks is considered the ideal time for a kitten to move into a new home. Spaying or neutering your new pet is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to have your kitten spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted litters. When possible, meet the kitten's parents ? their physical and behavioral characteristics may provide a clue as to how your kitten will be as an adult. If you already have a pet (or more than one pet) and plan to get a cat, remember that your other pets may be less enthusiastic about your new addition than you are Ask your veterinarian about the best ways to introduce your pet to its new animal family. String is NOT a good toy for cats. If a cat eats string (or ribbon), it can develop life-threatening intestinal problems. There are many safe toy alternatives available at pet stores.
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Workforce study examining breadth and depth of profession
2007-10-23 11:40:00
A comprehensive study of shortages within the veterinary profession is under way at the National Academies. "Assessing the current and future workforce needs in veterinary medicine" is an overall look at the demand for personnel in diverse sectors of the profession?both in private practice and beyond. "There is a growing need for veterinarians to address public health issues, such as the emergence of zoonoses and the safety and security of food of animal origin," said Dr. Henry E. Childers, AVMA past president and a member of the study committee. "Veterinarians also play an important role in biomedical research." Dr. Childers said recent reports from the National Academies?"National needs and priorities for veterinarians in biomedical research" in 2004 and "Critical needs for research in veterinary science" in 2005?provided evidence of shortages of veterinarians in sectors such as biomedical research and veterinary pathology. "They also comment on the lack of data in other sectors a...
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Safe Handling Tips for Pet Foods and Treats
2007-10-23 11:39:00
Consumers can take steps to help prevent foodborne illness, including Salmonella -related illness, when handling pet foods and treats. These products, like many other types of foods, can be susceptible to harmful bacterial contamination. Salmonella in pet foods and treats can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and in people too, especially children, older people, and those with compromised immune systems. Salmonella in pet foods and treats potentially can be transferred to people ingesting or handling the contaminated products. FDA has stepped up its efforts to minimize the incidence of foodborne illness associated with pet foods and treats. Pet owners and consumers can also help reduce the likelihood of infection from contaminated pet foods and treats by following safe handling instructions: Buying Purchase products in good condition, without signs of damage to the packaging such as dents or tears. Preparation Wash your hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soa...
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A Overview of the Maine Coon Cat
2007-10-18 12:35:00
The Maine Coon cat is a very interesting breed of cat. What make’s it such a interesting breed is it’s history. There is no set in stone history of the breed. There are many theories and stories of it’s origin. Some people believe the breed came about when New England domestic cats breed with Raccoons. The Main e Coon sometimes makes a chirp sound that somewhat sounds like the same sound a young Raccoon makes, not to mention that it’s bushy ring tail resembles that of the ring tail of a Raccoon. However we now know that it is genetically impossible for domestic cats to breed with Raccoons. Another theory is that the ancestors came from Norwegian Skogkatts brought over by the Vikings. This is also very hard to track down and provide proof of. Some people believe that instead of breeding with raccoons, that the Maine Coon was interbreed with the American Bobcat. Here again we know that this is genetically impossible. However there is a record showing the Maine Coon is listed in...
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Some basic tips on keeping your cat safe on Halloween.
2007-10-18 10:30:00
Halloween is now upon us. Halloween may be a fun and exciting time for you and your family however, it can be very stressful time for your cat. Here are some tips for keeping your cat safe on Halloween. Doorbells can be very stressful for your cat. During Halloween the door will be ringing much more than usual, this may upset your cat. Try and keep your cat away from this noise. Place your cat in a safe room along with its favorite bed and toy. This will help keep your cat from being upset with all the extra noise. You and your family may enjoy costumes but they can be very scary to your cat. Keep in mind your cat may not want to share in checking out all the scary costumes. Again it might be better to place your cat in a safe and secure place. Keep in mind the sounds of the season, scary soundtracks, people making noise, etc. This all can cause tremendous anxiety in your cat. Again your cat will enjoy a nice quiet place. Pay special attention if you own a black cat. Since people ar...
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The Five Most Popular Breeds of Purebred Cats for 1997 (according to the Ca
2007-08-14 13:43:00
1. Persian2. Maine Coon3. Siamese4. Abyssinian5. Exotic shorthair
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Did you know?
2007-08-14 13:42:00
The most favorite breed registered with Cat Fanciers' Association is the Persian.A cats first year of life equals 15 years of human life ( in terms of developement ) after a cat's second year, a cat is 25 in human years. After that each year is qual to approx 7 years.A cat has five toes on front paws and only four on the back ones. However it is not uncommon for calls to have extra toes.A cat can hear at least 5 times keener than an adult human and cat's can rotate their ears 180Most cats have no eyelashes.Himalayan Cats -- the color of the points is heated-related -- cooler spots appear darker.Largest breed is Ragdoll -- average males weigh in around 20 pounds.The avearge domestic cat spends 15% of day grooming and 70% of the day sleeping.Cats cannot see directly under its nose. This might explain why cats may find it hard to find small treats on the floor.

Some tips on teaching your cat to come to you on command.
2007-08-14 12:10:00
Cats tend to like to do things the way they want to do them. In order to teach them something it has to be pleasurable and interesting to your cat. Here are a few tips on teaching your cat to answer to his/her name.1. While your cat is sitting with you and is in a happy mood, pet your cat and repeat his/her name a few times. If you do this over time your cat will associate the pleasure of being petted with his/her name.2. Also you can try the popular reward approach. If while petting your cat ans he/she looks at you when you say their name, reward with a treat. Soon your cat will associate his/her name with a treat.3. While your cat is sitting away from you call his/her name. If your cat responds offer a treat. Soon your cat will start responding to you from wherever you call from.
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Why is it that some cats develop FLUTD problems?
2007-08-14 11:47:00
FLUTD can occur in both male and female cats, and more commonly happens in cats between two and six years of age. However, cats of any age may be affected. FLUTD tends to be associated with a number of factors, including stress of any kind affecting the cat, obesity, cats housed indoors, urolithiasis (or stone formation), bacterial infections, seasonal weather, genetics or a difference among breeds, anatomic abnormalities, and stone formation in the lower urinary tract. Because male cats have a narrow urethra, they tend to be more prone to complete obstruction by the stones they form than are females, and without prompt veterinary treatment these obstructions can be serious.
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What you should know about traveling with your pet
2007-07-28 11:16:00
Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets. Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals, like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some dogs and cats cannot withstand the rigors of travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. If this is the case, discuss options such as using a reliable pet-sitter or a clean, well-managed boarding facility with your veterinarian. If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate. Find out in advance if the pet is welcome. The same goes for hotels, motels, parks, and campgrounds. Always check whether pets are allowed or kennel facilities are available. If the pet must be left alone in a hotel room, place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid and the front desk. Consider bringing along a portable kennel for use in hotel rooms or the homes of friends or relatives who are not comfortable ha...
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FDA Expands Its Warning about the Risk of Botulism Poisoning From Certain C
2007-07-28 11:11:00
FDA NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: July 21, 2007 Media Inquiries: Kimberly Rawlings, 301-827-6242, kimberly.rawlings@fda.hhs.gov, Michael Herndon, michael.herndon@fda.hhs.gov Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA FDA Expands Its Warning about the Risk of Botulism Poison ing From Cert ain Castleberry Food Products and Dog Food The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expanding its July 18 warning to consumers. This expansion is for consumers and pet owners regarding canned food products and dog food produced by Castleberry Food Company of Augusta, Ga., due to the risk of botulinum toxin. Castleberry is expanding the recall to include all of the following canned products with all "best by" and code dates, and FDA is warning consumers not to purchase or eat any of the canned products listed in the table below. Hot Dog Chili Sauces SIZE UPC CODESAustex Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce 10 OZ 30300-97101 Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce 10 OZ 30300-99533 Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce 10 OZ 30300-00...

Cat Predicts Deaths Of Nursing Home Patients
2007-07-26 11:25:00
Click on this link interesting video of this cathttp://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player /popup/?rn=952695&cl=3469606&src= news
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Taking Your Cat On A Plane
2007-07-09 13:13:00
Before flying with your cat, take the necessary steps to be fully prepared. Many necessities for air travel can be addressed long before leaving the ground. Book tickets according to seasonal temperature variances. Most airlines do not have temperature controlled cargo areas and do reserve the right to refuse animal service if the conditions are too extreme. During summer months it is best to fly at night, while in winter it is best to fly during the day. Double check airline policies. Cover yourself by documenting all conversations, including a list of whom you spoke with, where and when. Visit your cat's veterinarian a few days before you leave and ask for a current health certificate and an updated vaccinations certificate for your cat. Airlines and some county, national park and border patrol officials may require proof of an up-to-date health certificate. Get an airline-approved crate. Some airlines allow owners to carry small crates for tiny cats, as long as they fit unde...
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What you should know about traveling with your pet
2007-07-05 15:54:00
Planning and Preparation Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets. Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals, like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some dogs and cats cannot withstand the rigors of travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. If this is the case, discuss options such as using a reliable pet-sitter or a clean, well-managed boarding facility with your veterinarian. If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate. Find out in advance if the pet is welcome. The same goes for hotels, motels, parks, and campgrounds. Always check whether pets are allowed or kennel facilities are available. If the pet must be left alone in a hotel room, place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid and the front desk. Consider bringing along a portable kennel for use in hotel rooms or the homes of friends or relatives w...
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CFA Championship Class
2007-06-20 15:16:00
The majority of cats start their show careers in the Kitten class, and once they reach the age of eight months advance from there to Cham pion ship Class (described here) or Premiership Class. All cats entered in the show compete against other cats of the same breed and sex and color for awards. Every registered cat over the age of eight months starts its show career in the Championship and Premiership in the OPEN class. A first place award (blue) in the OPEN class is accompanied by a red/white/blue Winners Ribbon. Once a cat has collected six of these winners ribbons, it becomes a Champion. At its next show it will be eligible to compete against other champions for points toward the Grand Champion title. After a judge has handled all of the open cats in a breed, division or color grouping, he judges the champions in that group. He then awards first, second and third place ribbons to the three best males, and to the three best females. Next, the judge moves on to the Grand Champions...
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CFA Kitten Class
2007-06-20 15:15:00
The KITTEN competition is for unaltered or altered, pedigreed kittens between the ages of four and eight months. Kitten s compete with other kittens of the same breed, sex and color for first, second and third place ribbons. Each color group is also awarded Best of Color and Second Best of Color, and each breed is awarded Best of Breed and Second Best of Breed. When all kittens have been judged, the judge will call back kittens for his/her Top 10 Kitten Final. In an Allbreed ring, all kittens entered in the show compete for the finals, while in a specialty ring only the Longhair or the Shorthair kittens compete.
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Cats an Alzheimers Disease
2007-06-20 15:13:00
Ageing cats can develop a feline form of Alzheimer's disease, a new study reveals. Researchers at the Universities of Edinburgh, St Andrews, Bristol and California have identified a key protein which can build up in the nerve cells of a cat's brain and cause mental deterioration. In humans with Alzheimer's disease, this protein creates ?tangles? inside the nerve cells which inhibit messages being processed by the brain. The team says that the presence of this protein in cats is proof that they too can develop this type of disease. By carrying out post-mortem examination of cats which have succumbed naturally to the disease, scientists may now be able to uncover vital clues about how the condition develops. This may eventually help scientists to come up with possible treatments. Researchers already thought cats were susceptible to dementia because previous studies had identified thick, gritty plaques on the outside of elderly cats' brain cells which are similar to those found...
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CFA Top Ten Breeds
2007-06-20 15:09:00
PERSIAN MAINE COON EXOTIC SIAMESE RAGDOLL ABYSSINIAN BIRMAN AMERICAN SHORTHAIR ORIENTAL SPHYNX
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CFA Show Rules
2007-06-20 00:09:00
CFA Show Rule s cover all aspects of managing a cat show, exhibiting and judging. The requirements for entering and exhibiting at a show, detailed information on how to run a show, and the specifics of judging are all included in this booklet as well as information on scoring and Regional/National Awards. It is strongly suggested that anyone showing their cat be familiar with the Show Rules. The Show Rules may be purchased for a $5.00 fee. You can order the Show Rules online using a credit card, or by mail from: Cat Fanciers' Association P.O. Box 1005 Manasquan, NJ 08736-0805

History of the Abyssinian Cat Breed
2007-06-18 22:06:00
An exact history of the Abyssinian is still really an open debate. However there are a few theories about the Abyssinian history. One of the most popular theory is that the Abyssinian came from Egypt. It is well known the Egyptians thought highly of cats and they where a very important part of Egyptian life. Images that resemble Abyssinians have been found in Egyptian?s tombs. There is a report of a cat named ?Zulu? brought back to England from Egypt in 1868 that closely resembles the Abyssinian breed. Abyssinia (which is today modern day Ethiopia ) has many rivers and streams that connect to the Nile, which would further explain the breeds attachment to Egypt. It would be very easy for this breed to travel up and down the Nile. References to Abyssinian maidens who owned this breed, where supposedly highly desirable marriage partners. There is another theory that the breed originated in England. The theory is that the British started the breed by selective breeding. This would make ...
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Getting a new Kitten -- Tips for Kitten proofing your home.
2007-06-18 22:05:00
When bringing a new kitten into your home keep in mind that they will be very playful and curious, which as we all know can at times get them into trouble. That?s why it is very important to kitten proof your home as much as possible. When you are in the process of kitten proofing your home keep in mind that a kitten has a much lower vantage point than you. Try an visualize what your kitten sees from his/her vantage point. Okay lets take a look at some ideas to kitten proof your home. Make sure to secure all screens on windows, many kittens will enjoy sitting in a window and a loose screen can lead to a fall. Always make sure all cleaning supplies, paint, disinfectants, etc, are kept out of your kittens reach. Make sure to keep toilet lids closed. Kitten s are attracted to the water and may want to drink from the bowl. The lid could close trapping your kitten, not to mention the chemicals used to clean the toilet bowls are not healthy for your kitten. House plants are another potenti...
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What you should know about traveling with your pet
2007-06-14 14:08:00
Planning and Preparation Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets. Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals, like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some dogs and cats cannot withstand the rigors of travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. If this is the case, discuss options such as using a reliable pet-sitter or a clean, well-managed boarding facility with your veterinarian. If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate. Find out in advance if the pet is welcome. The same goes for hotels, motels, parks, and campgrounds. Always check whether pets are allowed or kennel facilities are available. If the pet must be left alone in a hotel room, place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid and the front desk. Consider bringing along a portable kennel for use in hotel rooms or the homes of friends or relatives w...
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Interested in a career in Veterinary technogoly here is some information an
2007-06-14 13:59:00
In recent years, the profession of veterinary medicine has become ever more sophisticated and complex. The public expects state-of-the-art veterinary care for its animals. To provide high quality service, today's veterinarians utilize the skills of trained professionals known as veterinary technicians. If you care about animals, enjoy working with your hands, are good at basic math and decision-making, like working with people and handling a variety of responsibilities, then the challenging career of veterinary technology may be just right for you.Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe veterinary technician is an integral member of the veterinary health care team who has been educated in the care and handling of animals, the basic principles of normal and abnormal life processes, and in routine laboratory and clinical procedures. All veterinary technicians work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. While a veterinary technician can assist in performing a wide variety of tasks, ...
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Managed Care for companion animals.
2007-06-13 17:14:00
Managed health care for pets could be coming soon. Managed care for people, according to an American Medical Association policy, is "those processes or techniques used by any entity that delivers, administers, and/or assumes risk for health care services in order to control or influence the quality, accessibility, utilization, or costs and prices or outcomes of such services provided to a defined enrollee population." Managed care in human medicine is generally part of a health insurance program. Now managed care in veterinary medicine appears to be taking its own shape. Pethealth Inc., provider of PetCare insurance, and USA Managed Care Organization Inc., a preferred provider organization for people, have announced plans to offer a form of managed care for cats and dogs by creating the USA Pet Health Network. Mark Warren, Pethealth president and chief executive officer, said pet owners would participate by paying for an annual membership card. Then, network veterinarians would char...
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