According to the CFA registration statistics for 2007, following is the ranking for the top ten most popular breeds.
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1. PERSIAN
Persians come in an astonishing number of colors, and have sweet, gentle, personalities.
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2. MAINE COON
The Maine Coon is well known for its loving nature, kindly disposition and great intelligence.
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3. EXOTIC
The Exotics are bred to meet the Persian standard in every way with one very special exception: they have a thick, dense, plush, short coat.
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4. ABYSSINIAN
In appearance, Abyssinians resemble the paintings and sculptures of ancient Egyptian cats which portray an elegant feline with a muscular body, beautiful arched neck, large ears and almond shaped eyes.
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5. SIAMESE
The sleek lines, striking color contrast, finely chiseled aristocratic heads, deep blue almond eyes, and short silky coats of the Siamese make them living art.
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6. RAGDOLL
The Ragdoll is a pointed breed; large, laid-back, semi-longhaired, with captivating blue eyes.
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7. SPHYNX
The Sphynx is a natural mutation, not always totally hairless. This is a substantial cat, medium sized and strong, with all colors and patterns possible.
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8. BIRMAN
The ideal Birman is a large, long stocky cat. It has long silky hair, not as thick as that of the Persian, and is of a texture that doesn’t mat.
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9. AMERICAN SHORTHAIR
This breed is known for its longevity, robust health, good looks, quiet disposition and amiability with children and dogs.
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10. ORIENTAL
With over 300 different colors and patterns to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find an Oriental that will tickle your fancy, either longhair or shorthair.
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A full listing of all breed rankings is available as a PDF file.
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We can all appreciate how stressful it is to move. First the tedious
process of finding the right home, then long hours spent sorting and
packing up all of your belongings, and finally months of unpacking. It's
enough to make anyone scream! If pets are part of your household it is
important to remember that moving can make even the most stable animal
extremely anxious, whether the move is to the house across the street or
halfway around the world.
Linda Case, an adjunct assistant professor who teaches companion animal
behavior and training at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary
Medicine in Urbana, Ill., explains that there are several simple and easy
steps every pet owner should take to reduce their pets' stress levels
during the moving process.
First and foremost, pet owners should check and double check that their
new home will accept their pets. Many apartment and condominium complexes
place restrictions on the number and size of pets that are allowed on the
premises. Similarly, if you own an exotic species or a hybrid animal you
should make sure that the state or county that you are moving to does not
have any laws preventing that animal from residing in that area.
With that matter settled it is now time for a trip to the veterinarian.
Before moving it is important to make sure that Fido or Fluffy is
up-to-date on any vaccinations and has a clean bill of health. It is also
a good idea to ask for a copy of your pet's medical records so that your
new veterinarian will have a complete picture of all of your pet's medical
conditions.
"If you are moving out of the state or country, your pet may need to have
additional vaccines or health certificates in order to travel into that
area," explains Case. Your veterinarian should be able to let you know
exactly what your pet will need in order to travel, but a call to your
regional United States Department of Agriculture office may be warranted
for questions that your veterinarian is unable to answer.
One of the most important things to remember when moving or travelling
with your pet is to have proper identification on the animal at all times.
Make sure that you have an ID tag with your new address and phone number
on your pet's collar. While at your veterinarian you may also consider
asking about placing a microchip in your pet. This is a quick way to
ensure that even if your pet is not wearing its collar it can be returned
home safely. Your veterinarian can place a microchip during your
appointment by injecting the chip under your pet's skin just like a
vaccine.
By now the moving process is most likely in full swing. According to Case
it is a good idea to board your pets during this time in order to make
this time go as smoothly as possible for all involved. This is especially
important if you have hired a moving company to help you pack and move
your belongings, since their presence can drastically increase your pets'
anxiety level. Also, there is always the chance that one of the movers can
accidentally let your pet slip out the door.
"The goal is to keep your pet's anxiety and stress levels at a minimum and
keep them as safe as possible while you move," says Case. "Sometimes the
best option is just to remove them from the situation entirely by taking
them to a boarding kennel or relative's house until you have transitioned
into your new home."
If you are making a local move Case also suggests taking your dog for a
walk by the new house so your pet can familiarize itself with its new
home. This may help transition your pet to the new location and can even
help you to meet some new neighbors!
Of course, not every move is going to be a local one. In regards to the
move itself, Case recommends avoiding putting your pet through a plane
ride if at all possible due to the risks involved. Regardless of the mode
of transportation, Case stresses the importance of proper and safe
confinement of the pet.
"Every animal that you travel with should be safely confined in a crate or
have some other method of restraint while in the car, in order to ensure
your pet's safe arrival at their new home," explains Case. "Cats should be
crated at all times and provided with fresh water and a litter box while
crated. Dogs should be confined either in a crate or by a specialized
travel harness."
While driving owners should make sure to stop frequently to let their
faithful companions use the restroom. This is especially important with
younger dogs that may not be completely housebroken. Make sure to set time
aside in your drive to let your dog run off some pent up energy at a rest
stop, while leashed of course, in order to keep your dog calm and yourself
sane during the drive.
Once your travels are finished and you have finally arrived at your new
home, Case recommends bringing the same bedding that your pet used at your
previous home and establishing the same, or similar, set up for your pet
to help your pet adjust to the new surroundings. For example, if your
pet's water and food bowls were kept in the kitchen at the old home try to
find an area in your new kitchen for it. Also keep the dog bed or cat tree
in similar places between houses.
"Dogs and cats are creatures of habit that thrive on routine. As a result,
the easiest way to prevent behavior problems like house-soiling, general
anxiety, and destructive chewing after moving is to keep your pet's daily
routine as constant as possible."
For more information and tips about moving with your pet, contact your
local veterinarian.
Author: Sarah Dowling
Source: Linda P. Case, MS
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Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that primarily affects humans, but the disease may also develop in cats and other animals that have been exposed to asbestos-a fibrous mineral that has been used in hundreds of construction materials. Not much is known about this cancer in general, and even less is known about its occurrence in cats. And because mesothelioma is so rare (even in humans), the disease often goes unrecognized or misdiagnosed in cats.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma in Cats
The symptoms of mesothelioma in cats may include:
- wheezing
- coughing
- breathing problems
- difficulty in moving
- sudden weight loss
In humans, mesothelioma takes decades to develop. However, in cats and other household pets, the disease develops more rapidly.
Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
As is the case with humans, mesothelioma is a result of exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and may enter the home by way of individuals who work with or near asbestos-containing materials.
Once the asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs or other internal organs, where thy initiate the cancer process.
Mesothelioma is a result of exposure to asbestos.
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Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma at this time, for human beings or for cats. Once a diagnosis of mesothelioma has been made in a human, the life expectancy does not generally exceed two years. The life expectancy of a cat is probably much less.
Feline Granuloma and Mesothelioma
There is another malady that a cat can contract that involves symptoms that may mimic those of mesothelioma. It's not cancerous, but it is considered a serious infection. Granuloma can be treated.
If your cat is showing signs of respiratory distress, has difficulty moving, or starts to lose weight rapidly, see your vet right away.
Preventing Mesothelioma in Cats
Asbestos is naturally present in every environment at a very low level, but it may be at dangerously high levels in homes and other structures that were built before the 1980s and are being remodeled. When as asbestos-containing product such as drywall, bricks, or insulation is disturbed (for instance, when it is being torn out), the fibers will probably be released into the air.
Keep your cat away from any potential source of asbestos, including construction or renovation sites in your neighborhood. If you're having remodeling done in your older home, consult an asbestos-abatement contractor and try to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure for your family and your pets when the work is being done.
Source: Mesothelioma Information & Treatment Center resource
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The CFA Foundation was established on June 22, 1990 by the CFA Board of
Directors as a forum to educate the general public about the
existence and history of the cat.
THE COLLECTION
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Early Cat Carrier, circa late 1800's
Wooden cat carrier used to transport a cat from England to the United States. Label reads "Valuable Cat - Please only feed and water."
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NEEDS
The Foundation, like it's counterpart The Dog Museum of America, has as it's mandate "the collection, preservation and exhibition of works of art and literature related to the cat." Each passing year sees more material destroyed because breeders and their heirs do not consider it as having value or interest. We welcome the opportunity to make that determination.
What are we looking for? Many of us have
collected cat memorabilia over the years. Some valuable, very valuable only
to us. Works of art, paintings, sculptures and other cat collectibles
(ceramic cats, cats as toys, cats at Christmas and other festivals, wooden,
metal, glass cats, and cats in advertising are a few examples) are all needed
to build a comprehensive collection of cat artifacts.
In each future issue of Fanc-e-Mews, we will showcase a particular piece from the foundation's collection. If you are interested in contributing to the history of the cat fancy maintained by the CFA Foundation, please email CFA at cfa@cfa.org
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As spring continues to taunt us with its eminent yet seemingly elusive arrival, it is time to once again start thinking about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention measures for your four-legged companions. Since these pesky parasites can afflict anything from the smallest kitten to Great Danes it is important to understand how to safely and effectively protect our pets from these harmful parasites and the diseases they cause.
"Prevention is much easier, safer, and cheaper than treatment," says Dr. Allan Paul, a veterinary parasitologist at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana.
When it comes to fleas and ticks it is a common misconception that only outdoor cats and dogs are at risk for infestation with these bothersome parasites. While the risk for completely outdoor animals is higher, any pet that goes outdoors is at risk of coming in contact with fleas and ticks, even if it is only to frolic through the backyard or sunbathe on the porch. Owners should also be aware that indoor cats are still at risk for flea infestation if there is another animal in the house that is helpful enough to bring them indoors.
Prevention is much easier, safer, and cheaper than treatment.
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To keep your animals flea and tick free it is important that every pet in your household is on a monthly prevention schedule. Unfortunately for pet owners living in Illinois the mild winters that we have had over the past few years have made year-round flea and tick prevention almost a necessity. Fleas and ticks are extremely bothersome to pets and are carriers of other parasites and diseases, like tapeworms and Lyme disease, which can be extremely harmful to your pet. There are a wide variety of preventative medications that are available through your veterinarian.
With spring on its way this is now the perfect time to start thinking about protecting your pet against heartworm disease. The heartworm cycle begins when a mosquito bites an infected animal. As the mosquito feeds on the blood of the infected animal, immature heartworms, known as microfilaria, enter the mosquito. During several weeks of warm weather the microfilaria begin to mature within the mosquito, then are passed to another animal when the mosquito feeds again.
From the time of infection, it takes approximately six months for the microfilaria in the pet's bloodstream to mature to adulthood. The adult worms like to live near and in the heart, as the name heartworm implies. The majority of the adult worms are located in the pulmonary artery, the blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs.
The heartworms can grow up to 12 to 14 inches in length, causing irreparable damage to the heart. The extreme stress that the adult heartworms place on the animal's heart and other internal organs can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, fainting, fatigue, weight loss, and, if left untreated, eventually causes death from heart failure and other complications.
Though heartworm disease can be deadly, pet owners can easily and safely prevent heartworms in their animals. Among the most common methods of prevention are monthly tablets and chewables that are prescribed by a veterinarian based on the animal's weight. Topical monthly heartworm preventives can also be used. An advantage of many of the oral medications is that they also prevent intestinal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms.
Whenever possible, heartworm prevention should begin at a young age. Puppies and kittens should start receiving heartworm medication at between 4 and 8 weeks of age. In order to ensure the lowest chance of infection, it is also recommended that the pet then stays on this preventative year-round for life.
Dr. Paul explains that although the preventative medications on the market have proven to be extremely effective in the prevention of heartworm disease, they cannot be 100 percent effective. As a result, yearly heartworm tests are recommended for dogs older than 7 months; this simple blood test detects only the adult worms.
While the incidence of heartworm disease in cats is lower than that of dogs, cats are indeed susceptible to the disease. Unfortunately for cat owners, accurate testing and treatment for heartworm disease in cats is not available at this time, which makes year-round prevention key for the health and well-being of both indoor and outdoor cats.
If you have any questions about fleas, ticks, heartworm disease, or how to protect your pet against these problems, contact your local veterinarian.
Author: Sarah Dowling
Source: Dr. Allan Paul
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Product Review: Petmate Pet Steps
by Ed Foster
If your cat is elderly, like ours, and likes to jump on the sofa, chair or bed to relax but is now unable to do so because of arthritis or any other physical problem, then your solution is the Petmate Pet Steps. Featuring five-inch high steps to reduce strain on the joints of a senior pet, these steps are also the right-size to give smaller pets an easy-to-climb staircase. The steps give pets a generous 20 inch boost to reach a sofa or bed.
We have had the Petmate Pet Stairs for the last three weeks and our cat, who has very bad arthritis and was unable to jump up on the bed, now uses the Petmate Pet Stairs to easily climb onto his favorite resting place, our bed.
 Petmate's Pet Steps' sleek, sturdy design has 100 percent Olefin carpet and raised paw prints on each tread for maximum grip and comfort. These thoughtful features deliver a sure footing for all pets and peace of mind for pet owners.
The Petmate Pet Stairs are light, which makes them easy to maneuver around so they can be moved from room to room, with little effort. Using these steps has solved the "reachability" problem for our cat and, of course, for us. If your elderly or arthritic cat has trouble climbing up onto a favorite bed or sofa, these pet steps should be a welcome option.
Product Review: Petmate Round Heated Bed
by Carol Krzanowski
I recently had the opportunity to try out the new Petmate
Round Heated Bed with my cats. We all know how our
cats typically will seek out and find a nice warm spot
for napping, so I figured this new bed would be a hit. I wasn't
disappointed and all I can say is that my cats absolutely
love it! Actually, it is occupied most of the time; as soon as
one cat vacates the bed, another goes into it. At a size of 15"
x 15" x 5.5", it is a little small for my largest and oldest cat,
who tried to get into it on several occasions unsuccessfully.
But, he finally figured it out and squeezed himself into the
bed, all except his head, that is, which won't fit and has to
hang over the edge. He doesn't seem to care though, and it
is really comical to see him sleeping like that!
The bed is situated in our master bedroom, where we
happen to have a TV. I did notice that when the heating element
came on, it would interfere with the TV reception. I
wrote to Petmate about it and received an immediate reply.
The interference, or noise, is a common problem with TVs
and other sensitive electronics, and it is often caused by a
number of electrical items in the home including fluorescent
fixtures, electric light dimmers, fans, heated blankets,
aquarium filters, etc. However, this is easily remedied by
installing a plug-in noise filter in the outlet and then plugging
the sensitive item, in this case the TV, into the noise
filter - problem solved!
The heat is provided by a waterproof heating element,
somewhat like a miniature heating pad, which is inserted
inside the zippered bed cover. The cord, which is PVC coated
and chew-resistant, passes through a sewn opening in the
cover, so that the cover can be zipped closed completely
and the heating element cannot be pulled out. What I really
like about the heating element is that it provides an even,
low heat at 102 degrees that is safe for the cats. It has just
enough warmth to make the cats feel cozy and comfortable.
The bed cover is completely removable for easy machine
washing and drying too. I highly recommend this bed as a
great comfort product for the cats that is attractive and easy
to care for as well.
I should mention that Petmate also sells Stand-Alone
Heat Elements, without a bed. I don't have one yet, but I
think this would be a great idea for use with kittens, especially
newborns. Since the heating element maintains an
even 102-degree temperature, it would keep the kittens
warm without fear of overheating them, plus the chewresistant
cord would alleviate any worries that the kittens
might chew it when they get older.
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ABOUT THE CARTOONIST: Stephanie Piro is an award winning cartoonist, designer and illustrator. She is one of King Features' "Six Chix" team of women cartoonists, and
author of "My Cat Loves Me Naked". Her cartoons appear in newspapers, magazines, books and on greeting cards. Her popular cat designs are available on t-shirts and other gift items through her Strip T's Design Company website . E-mail Stephanie for info about using her cartoons or illustrations. See Stephanie's ad in the Fanc-e-Classifieds!
ABOUT THE CARTOONIST: Steve Langille, a resident of California, is the creator of a hilarious, single panel cartoon called "STRANGE BREED". Steve's cartoons are published regularly in the Sierra Star and Santa Cruz Mountain Times newspapers and he is doing the cartoons for a new book by Thomas Peacock. To see more of Steve's cartoons, visit his web site at www.strangebreedcartoons.com
ABOUT THE CARTOONIST: Award-winning cartoonist Jerry King is one of the most published, prolific and versatile cartoonists in the world today. His work has appeared in thousands of greeting cards, magazines, Web sites, books, newspapers, newsletters and children's books. His client list includes Disney, American Greetings, The United States Golf Assoc., and many others. Visit Jerry's web site at www.jerryking.com.
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State of the Limerick
(7, 8, 9)
by Betsy Stowe
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There once was a cat from Missouri
Who loved her treats so pure she
Ate right from the pack,
Be it box, can, or sack,
And was one happy cat, most assuredly.
A kitty from Illinois
Wanted to be a cowboy.
So he got him a hat,
Kerchief, rope, and all that,
And now he’s just overjoyed.
A black cat from Tennessee
Thought, “I need me a goatee.”
So he cried, “Got milk?”
Then he drank his fill.
Now he thinks he’s Sean Connery!
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Betsy Stowe is an award-winning freelance writer and photographer. Betsy is a member of the Cat Writers' Association and the Dog Writers Association of America. She is the author of CALICO TALES AND OTHERS, a collection of her poems and photos of her beloved adopted stray cats, who have lived with her on farm and in town.
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Petmate's Cat Window Perch Has Kitty Sitting Pretty
ARLINGTON, Texas - Petmate's® new Cat Window Perch is the perfect place for finicky felines to lounge in luxury. The elegant faux leather seat provides pets with a comfortable retreat and pet parents with a tasteful accessory that blends into any home.
 Cats will curl up for hours on the comfy Perch that comes topped with a thick foam cushion wrapped in a faux sheepskin cover. Fashionable accent stitching along the side of the faux leather Perch adds a touch of style that pet parents will appreciate. Clean up is easy because the leather wipes clean with a damp cloth and the cushion cover is machine-washable for easy care.
Petmate's Perch securely attaches to any indoor windowsill and the durable, solid wood construction is sturdy enough for even tubby tabbies and supports up to 25lbs.
The Cat Window Perch is a product of Petmate®, a company that encourages responsible pet ownership through the marketing of quality pet products that make pet parenting more enjoyable. Call 1-877-PETMATE or visit www.petmate.com for more information.
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NO MORE CATNAPS!
New Multi-Sensory Cat Wubba Toy Perks Up Even the Most Jaded Feline
Cats are clever, active creatures – as long as they want to be. Otherwise, they can sleep the day away. Now, the KONG company has given cats a reason to rise and shine, with the new Cat Wubba. Though inspired by the Wubba for dogs, the toy is uniquely appealing to a cat's senses, engaging even stubborn cats in hours of play.
 Like the original, the Cat Wubba features a distinct shape that rolls easily and fabric tails that positively flutter. A bat from a cat or some help from a person creates unpredictable movement, which keeps cats interested visually.
The Cat Wubba contains catnip, with a smell that is irresistible to many felines, practically driving them wild. An affected cat plays with the source of the catnip aroma, moving it around with his paws, but the effects can wear off within a few minutes. However, since the other qualities of the Cat Wubba appeal to other senses, cats will stay interested longer than with toys that rely solely on catnip.
To appeal to a cat's sense of hearing, the Cat Wubba has a rattle on the inside and crinkle fabric in the tail. Both sounds are similar to the high-pitched calls of mice and other small prey, reminding cats of their natural hunting instincts.
The Cat Wubba is available with or without a teaser pole, so that people can play along with their feline companions. It's available in three bright colors: purple, blue and pink.
For more information, contact the KONG Company at 303-216-2626 or visit www.kongcompany.com
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Petmate's New Microban Pet Bedding Helps Everyone Rest Easy
ARLINGTON, Texas - Petmate's® new Pet Beds with Microban® antimicrobial protection are helping pets and pet parents rest a little easier. The innovative bedding prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes - an area of increasing concern among pet parents.
All four of the new deluxe pet beds feature built-in Microban antimicrobial protection to keep the resting places cleaner and fresher. And while each of the beds has a removable, machine-washable cover, the protection won't wash or wear away even after repeated use.
 Petmate has thoughtfully included pet beds sized to fit just about every pet and breed in the collection.
Large dogs will love the plush Suede & Terry Pillow that features a generous 36" x 45" size with a comfy terry top and rich suede bottom.
Medium-sized dogs will fit nicely on the 36" x 27" Gusseted Deluxe Pillow that features a chenille stripe along the side and bottom and a rich terry top.
Smaller animals can get plenty of snooze time in the cozy Deluxe Oval Bed. The 18" x 14" bed has a lush terry lining and chenille stripe outside panel.
Petmate even considered senior pets in designing the bed lineup.
Its Orthopedic Bed is just right for elderly animals and provides a little more support for aching joints and muscles. The luxurious bed has a terry top and a suede side and bottom panel. It measures 30" x 40" to give pets plenty of room to stretch out.
The Pet Beds with Microban® antimicrobial protection are a product of Petmate®, a company that encourages responsible pet ownership through the marketing of quality pet products that make pet parenting more enjoyable.Call 1-877-PETMATE or visit www.petmate.com for more information.
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