They might have an image of being too mysterious to understand, but one thing you have to get about cats: They’re not just small dogs who purr. Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori have the facts in this week’s Pet Connection newspaper feature:
Some people are born into cat-loving families, while others have cats thrust upon them. And then, of course, there are those who independently make the decision to take up life with a cat.
Cat lovers are members of an exceptional club. A relationship with a cat can be joyful, entertaining and sometimes frustrating, but in the end, it’s always rewarding. Life with a cat is special, if you know what to expect.
Cats are so connected to myths and misconceptions that it’s no wonder they are often misunderstood. I want to help you separate fact from fiction.
First and foremost, cats are not small dogs. When you are reading about different cat breeds or looking at the personality descriptions of cats at a shelter, you may come across some that are described as “doglike.” It’s true that some cats, like dogs, will follow you around, play fetch or go for walks on-leash. But that is where the resemblance ends.
Find out the most important ways cats differ from dogs here.
Dr. Becker also has some answers for a pet owner who wrote about problems giving pills to his pet:
One of the biggest problems veterinarians have in helping pets get better is, well, pet owners who aren’t able to give medication as prescribed. You’re in good company, since this problem is very, very common.Here are some strategies to make the pill-popping easier for you and your cat:
Pop and treat. Have your veterinarian demonstrate. Always start with a positive attitude and end with a treat and praise. You can find “pill guns” through pet retailers that help with getting the pill quickly in the right place.
Stealth. Perhaps the most popular method is to hide the pill in something cats love, although most cats figure this out soon enough and start eating around the pill. Try Greenies Pill Pockets — treats that are designed for pill-popping. They’re yummy little bits with pockets for hiding the treats. (Read more…)
Read this week’s entire Pet Connection here!
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