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DON’T MISS ALL THE TOP CAT COLUMNISTS ... & TOP FELINE EXPERTSCat worldwww.catworld.co.ukUK’S FAVOURITE CAT MAGAZINE FOR OVER 35 YEARS £4.99 JANUARY 2017 ISSUE 466 Weight WATCH How to tell if your cat overeats Meet the Aristocats Why felines are boosting visitors to stately homesCOOLFNOTFAVERSECUSRAIEOTNS SensSaibtieorniaanl s 019 770952 287132 >RESCUE CATS ADVICE ON WINTER FEEDING Music for cats TOP COMPOSER WRITES

30 January 2017 ● Issue 466 theinsidetrack 36 WEIGHT WATCHING To reach us: Call +44 (0)1903 884988. 4 MEWS ROUND The dangers of obesity Or write to: The Editor, Cat World, PO Box 2258, PULBOROUGH RH20 9BA The latest feline news and gossip 40 CHARITY FOCUS Great Britain email: [email protected] 6 MUSIC FOR CATS How you can help Website: www.catworld.co.uk US office: Ashdown Inc., 68132 250th A top musician composes 44 RESCUE CATS Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944, USA. Tel: 507 634 3143 8 THE CATALIST Stories from the charities email: usoffi[email protected] More super cat-themed goodies 48 HEALTHY EATING Editor: Jill Mundy email: [email protected] 10 YEAR PLANNER How to prevent feline obesity Advertisement sales: UK office: Maria Fitzgerald Make 2017 a great year 51 CAT LADY INVESTIGATES Email: [email protected] US office: Sara Vix 12 HEALTHY EATING Aesop’s fables Email: [email protected] Design: Richard Jennings & Top tips from Burns Pet Nutrition 52 CURIOUS CATS Wendy Crosthwaite 13 ON THE EDGE A kitchen sink drama Subscriptions: UK: [email protected] Katy has babies on her mind 54 IF CATS COULD TALK US: usoffi[email protected] Published by ashdown.co.uk. ISSN 0961 - 0944 14 WINTER FEEDING Light hearted cat chat Distributed to the newstrade by Comag. Subscription prices: Healthier food from Forthglade 56 CATS ON THE COUCH One year: (12 issues) UK £59.99. European and worldwide prices will be 16 BOARDING HOUSE DIARY When enough is enough adjusted to local currencies. See online for details at www.catworld.co.uk or please Beauty and the beast? 58 CONFESSIONS OF A CAT LOVER call +44 (0)1903 884988. All of our sub- scriptions are handled by us at CW. 18 WINTER FEEDING Problems, problems, problems www.catworld.co.uk Looking after outdoor cats 60 KITTY COVERS Postmaster: Send address corrections to Ashdown Inc, 68132 20 PET CREMATORIA NEWS Bookshelf ideas 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944, USA. Canada Post Interna- tional Publications Mail - Sales Agreement No. 546038. Staffordshire scandal update 61 SHOW DATES All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. All editorial 22 CAT WARS Shows around the UK and Ireland contributions are welcomed by Cat World but material is accepted solely on the basis that the author accepts the as- The fur vs. feather debate continues 62 SUPREME ANNIVERSARY sessment of the Publisher as to its commercial value. All material submitted to the magazine for publication in 24 FELINE INTUITION Carole Kemp has it covered whatever form is accepted solely on the basis that copyright in the work will be vested in the publisher who assumes all Are cats ‘man’s best friend’? 64 PASHA & TANNI rights worldwide, in all forms and in all media. © copyright ashdown.co.uk 28 MODERN ARISTOCRATS In festive mood2 CAT WORLD Cats attract visitors to stately homes 66 GORDY & ME 30 BREED PROFILE An apple a day…has consequences Sensational Siberians 68 ASK THE EXPERTS 34 OBESITY WORRIES Help and advice BVA expresses concerns

afurrywarmwelcome 56 28 48 In my family we have so many birth- 3CAT WORLD days around the Christmas and New Year period which makes thinking of present ideas rather difficult at times. It’s ok if people can give you plenty of subtle hints - ‘The strap on my bag broke yesterday’ or ‘Have you seenthe jumper in the window of (expensive designershop!) - but if they have no ideas at all, then a lot ofthinking and soul searching (or do I mean internetsearching?) is needed. Do spare a thought and a little change from yourpurse if you can, for charities, who need our sup-port all year round. Our charity feature highlightsways in which you can help that don’t involve part-ing with cash too. Who can resist festive treats? It’s easy to getcomplacent about a few extra tiny morsels of foodbut they soon add up to lots of calories. And whatwe find delicious, isn’t necessarily good for us -or our cats! Don’t miss the top tips from pet foodmanufacturers for healthy eating throughout thewinter. Cats are loving, playful and intelligent. We mightthink we know them but I’m sure they could putus right on a few things, given the chance. We ask‘What would we think if cats could talk?’ Should webe worried…maybe. Wishing you all a very happy New Year! Jill & the team70 RESCUE CATS 70Some new arrivals at BCWR Want to write or report for CW? We’d love to72 NURSE’S NOTES hear from you. Email [email protected] issues73 SCOTTISH LYNXHighland Halloween happiness74 NATURAL HEALTHMore natural remedies76 FUN PAGECan you find all the answers?77 TIGER TRACKSOfficial opening by Olympic athlete78 BECOMING A BREEDERHand-rearing kittens82 TAIL ENDA special Snowball

THEMEWS ROUND OUR ROVING REPORTERS BRING YOU ALL THE CAT NEWS, GOSSIP, HEALTH AND MORE. EMAIL [email protected] APDwSaArdPse2t0S1u6rvivor Unique foster mum does a purrfect job A plucky cat called Arthur is one Conker, Pickle and Pumpkin, three tiny around the clock. As soon as Peppa saw of six pets who have reached the kittens, were abandoned by their moth- the kittens, she literally took them under finals of the PDSA Pet Survivor er. The future looked bleak when they her paws. Louise said: “We knew Peppa Awards this year. Arthur dragged arrived at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, had been a mother before and she’s a himself home with an illegal trap weak and just a day old, until a rather natural. She won’t let Conker, Pickle and clamped to his leg, which sadly unusual surrogate mum stepped in. Pumpkin out of her sight and is con- was so badly damaged that it Peppa the Pug was also found as a stray stantly cleaning them. It’s been lovely to had to be amputated. But Arthur and was being cared for by foster mum, see the four of them together, especially has recovered well with lots of tlc Louise Taylor, who took in the three knowing these three kittens had such an from vets and his owner, Gemma kittens as they required bottle-feeding unlucky start in life.” Harris.The speed of his recovery was remarkable and he was soon MDC help charities Planet Earth is huge dashing around on three legs! favourite with felines MDC Exports were thrilled to be able Actress Pam StClement helped to provide giveaways worth thou- Facebook is awash with photos of cats to select the finalists and said: sands of pounds at the recent Com- and dogs glued to Sir David Atten- “It was so difficult to choose one panion Animal Welfare Conference, borough’s latest wildlife programme near-tragedy over another; they held this year in Dubrovnik, Croatia. for the BBC, Planet Earth. Exotic birds, are all deserving of the PDSA Representatives working to control screeching monkeys and a fabulous Pet Survivor title. These pets are the stray and unwanted cat popula- jaguar are just some of the creatures truly brave survivors with loving tions met their international counter- that have had our felines pressing their two-legged owners and skilled parts to learn about best practice and noses to the TV screen, captivated by veterinary teams for support.” the latest techniques. the stunning film photography. If you’re going to be out more than usual over Vote for your favourite at MDC joined SNIP International and the Christmas and New Year period, www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor Cats Protection to donate thousands why not record the series and leave it of pounds worth of animal handling playing for your puss until you return?4 CAT WORLD equipment to worthy recipients.

Join the gang at Battersea for Knitting Kittens Celebrities launch ADI storeThere’s still time to join Battersea cats. abilities are welcome!”in the knitting fun at Team Leader at Bat- The time is 5.00 - Wildlife charity Animal Defend-Battersea Dogs & Cats ers International has launched aHome. Crafty cat lovers tersea’s Cattery, JoAnna 8.00pm and the admis- new online store with the help ofare invited to go along Puzzo, said: “Knitting Kit- sion charge of £2 goes musician Moby and comedianto the Home on Wednes- tens is a fun and relaxed to the charity. Just bring Ricky Gervais. With various giftsday 14th December for way for like-minded your own needles and to suit all tastes and budgets, yoursome social knitting, craftaholics to get wool - patterns and re- Christmas shopping will soonchatting to fellow cat lov- together over some tea freshments provided. be sorted. Products range fromers while knitting blan- and biscuits and get on cards and t-shirts to canvas prints,kets and toy mice for the with their knitting pro- www.battersea.org. candles and other household jects in our Cattery…all uk/support-us/events/ items and 100% of the profits go knitting-kittens-club towards the future care of rescued animals. See the full range at www.ad- international.org/store/uk/bAlraemlaen?dlords to PAWS FOR Supreme celebrity THOUGHTUK charity Yorkshire TV presenter and one-time DrCat Rescue is urging “Cats have it Who star Peter Purves is picturedall landlords to accept all — admira- judging the Household Pet sec-more pets into their tion, an end- tion at The Supreme. The show,properties in a bid to less sleep, which had a sci-fi theme for itsreduce the number and company 40th anniversary, is the pinnacleof cats and other pets only when they of the GCCF show calendar eachbeing abandoned when their owners aren’t want it.” year.allowed to have them in their rented home.YCR ownerSara Atkinson said: “Judging by the number of calls we Rod McKuen Read the full show report onare receiving from owners unable to keep their pet in page 62.a rented property, more pets are being shown the redcard by landlords. “Landlords have the power to give written permis-sion for a tenant to keep a cat regardless of what thecontract says. To be certain that the property is left ina presentable state, landlords can ask for a deposit tocover damage caused by a pet and also stipulate thatthe cost of professionally cleaning the property at theend of the lease has to be covered by the tenant.” 5CAT WORLD

SCIENCEThis is music to a catForget rock, folk or soul…American cellistand composer David Teie believes musiccan be tailored to have feline appeal BY CARLA GREENWOOD “The sounds are supposed to soothe cats and be on their wavelength. I usedM usic is a big part of our lives; different ‘purr’ instruments to create it can help us relax and un- sympathetic expression for cats.” wind after a long day, it canlift our spirits, and studies have shownthat listening to music can reduce anxi-ety and even improve memory. Turnsout that cats like music too and theyjust don’t like human music. A recentstudy published in the Journal of Ap-plied Animal Behaviour Science statesthat for cats to enjoy music, it has tobe species specific. Now, Americancomposer and cellist David Teie hasreleased an entire album of musictailored to the preferences of our felinefriends by focusing on factors such asa cat’s hearing range, vocal range andthe sounds to which they would beexposed in the wild. Previous stud-ies have shown that cats respond wellto classical music and is often usedin rehoming shelters to reduce anxi-ety. However, this new research couldprovide us with a greater understand-ing of our feline friends and there-fore help us to provide new forms ofenrichment.The appeal of music All animals are primed to respondto sounds; in fact this ability could becrucial to an animal’s survival. Suddenloud noises will often elicit a fight orflight response whereas calmer noises,like the sound of suckling young, canbe relaxing and comforting. In safecircumstances we can use our naturalsensitivity to sounds in a pleasant way– this is music. Cats respond to differ-ent types of music in much the same6 CAT WORLD

SCIENCEt’s ears that was in the same frequency range search was conducted over the best and had similar tempos to those used part of a decade by Mr Teie in con- way as we do, with agitation or relaxa- in the natural communication of each junction with psychologists Charles tion depending on the style played for species. Snowdon and Megan Savage based them. at the University of Wisconsin. They Of course, the way in which a spe- found that cats showed a “significant In fact, there have been several stud- cies expresses enjoyment when listen- preference for and interest in species- ies over the last few years that have ing to music varies widely because appropriate music”, with the songs different animals interpret music in producing positive reactions from 77% suggested many animal species different ways. Imagine having ears of the cats that heard them. Positive including dogs, monkeys and that have the range and sensitivity of reactions included purring, moving to- birds, are able to enjoy a cat’s, and having whiskers that can wards, rubbing against, or sniffing the music as long as they detect the slightest air movement. With speaker as the music is played. The are exposed to the their finely-tuned receptors, there is research team working on the study right kind of mu- little doubt that cats are affected by wrote that these results “suggest novel sic. In each study music but how can we determine what and more appropriate ways for us- the animals they are feeling? ing music as auditory enrichment for responded posi- nonhuman animals.” David Teie is even tively to music The research working on developing music to excite cats in the same way as dance music The release of the ‘Music for Cats’ does for humans, by attempting to album in October this year by popular mimic the singing of mice! record label Universal Music, came about after a Kickstarter campaign The future raised hundreds of thousands of pounds and sold more than 10,000 ‘Music for Cats’ has already shown copies independently. Composer great promise in helping feral or David Teie, who plays in the National formally abused cats settle in to new Symphony Orchestra, told the Tel- surroundings. In fact, the music has egraph newspaper: “The sounds are already been made available for free supposed to soothe cats and be on at rehoming shelters, where David Teie their wavelength. I used different ‘purr’ claims it can cut down the time it takes instruments to create sympathetic for feral cats to interact with humans. expression for cats.” Anxiety is also a common problem among pet cats and can cause a The album launch took place at variety of health and behavioural is- Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium, a popular sues. Perhaps this type of music could cat café in Shoreditch, and it appeared be used more widely to help treat to go down well with many of the lo- stress and anxiety-related problems cal feline residents who promptly fell in our house cats, or to help nervous asleep! cats settle in to new environments? The possibilities are endless. The album was inspired by David’s theory that cats appreciate music However, it is worth noting that through the sounds they are exposed just like humans, cats have different to as kittens, such as their mother’s personalities and preferences. There- purring or birds’ chirping. The re- fore, the music is not guaranteed to elicit positive responses from all cats; indeed some cats may have no reac- tion to it at all. Despite this, the ‘Mu- sic for Cats’ album has proved very popular with the general public and has opened doors for further research into species-specific music as well as inspiring new ideas and approaches to animal enrichment. 7CAT WORLD

theCATWANT IT.. NEED IT.. LOVE IT.. WE SHOWCASE THE PURRFE Adorn yourself with felines If you like the look of this fabulous feline jewellery, Helenka White Design is the store for you. The pendants are made from polymer clay with sterling silver chains. Other items available include earrings, bangles and brooches. Contact Helenka at helen@helenkawhitede- sign.co.uk or see www.helenkawhitedesign.co.uk for the full range of items plus last order dates in time for Christmas. Price: from £8.00.LnoiownoAnrkDVthDe movieFollow the dramatic rescue of 25 lions fromcircuses in Bolivia and their incrediblejourney to freedom in the new DVD fromAnimal Defenders International. The filmhas received many awards and accolades,some unprecedented for an animal pro-tection film. View a trailer at www.lionark-themovie.com or to purchase a copy, visitwww.lionarkthemovie.com/news/lion-ark-the-movie-on-dvd/ Price: £8.00. End allergy misery The Qu-Chi acupressure band has been devel- oped to apply pressure to the LI-11 point on the arm, which acupuncturists believe can be used to help alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhini- tis, including pet allergies. Suitable for all ages. Price: £12.95 www.qu-chi.co.uk No Bend Pet Bowl If you struggle to bend down or are unsteady on your feet, this simple pet feeder will make feeding your cat much easier. Made from a lightweight and durable plastic in red, black or grey, the feeder bowl can be cleaned in the dish- washer. The easy-grip, twist-and-lock handle can be easily removed for cleaning and storing. Brilliant! Price: £14.99 www.designed2enable.co.uk8 CAT WORLD

TAL STECT PRODUCTS FOR YOU & YOUR LOVED ONE Cosy toes New from British designer Sophie Allport, her ‘Purrfect’ collection Available in three sizes to cover birth now includes this gorgeous key- to 18 months, these pink baby shoes ring. It makes a great little gift are made from soft leather and are for a friend and you’ll want one adorned with a grey suede cat. The of your own too, of course. Price: shoes have non-slip suede soles and £7.00 www.sophieallport.com gently elasticated ankles help them to stay on tiny feet. Environmentally Warm and dry friendly, non-toxic dyes are used for the leather. Price: £17.95 Make bath time adorable with this beauti- www.annabeljames.co.uk ful Cat hooded towel. Made from the softest organic cotton, the Liewood Cat Hooded Saunpimpoarltsthe Towel Sweet Rose can be machine washed on a low temperature (30 degrees). The dusky Find Christmas gifts for pink tone is subtly girly but not overpowering. animal lovers at the new Price: £34.00 www.themodernnursery.com online store from wildlife charity Animal Defenders CAT WORLD International. All profits go towards providing care for rescued animals. Find great cards, like the cat in the snow pictured here, canvas prints and more at www.ad-international.org/ store/uk/Deck the wallsCat lovers will adore this new feature wallpaper mural.The neutral black and white design with faint orangefreckles will easily blend in with your home or officefurnishings and will instantly bring a smile to your face onentering the room. Price: £25.00 per square metre.

FEATURECat World yearplanner for 2017 As we welcome in the new year, here are a few suggestions for things you can do each month to make 2017 a great year for your favourite felineJanuary spoil your favourite kitties with a treat bird activity as they start looking for to show how much you love them. It nesting sites. Clear a space on a win- The summer months seem far doesn’t have to be expensive - per- dowsill or provide a platform closeaway as we are invariably facing cold haps a new catnip mouse or food to a window where your cat can sittemperatures or weeks of rain. Take bowl will be all it takes to win them happily, looking outside and watch-the opportunity to cuddle up to your over. ing the birds fly by.cat more often, as long as she will al-low you to. Giving each other com- March Aprilfort and companionship will makethe long nights seem much better. The first signs of spring bulbs With the spring comes more hours appearing in the garden brighten of daylight and hopefully warmerFebruary everyone’s spirits and there is a lot of temperatures.You are likely to get out in the garden too if you have one. The month of Valentines Day - Encourage your cat to go outside with you and play a few games out there with her. Fresh air and exer- cise is the perfect way to banish the winter blues. May It’s about now that traditionally ‘kitten season’ starts. Use this as a reminder to check that all your cat’s vaccinations, flea treatments, insur- ance and, if she is microchipped, database details are up to date. If you’re looking to get a new kit- ten, Cat World’s ‘kitten special’ issue will give you an information about each of the breeds. June Dental awareness month - take your cat to the vet for a dental check to make sure there are no10 CAT WORLD

FEATUREsigns of tooth decay or gum dis- September gives you a reason to take a look atease. Regular cleaning of teeth from your cat’s weight, body shape, dieta young age really can prevent life It’s almost time to say goodbye to and lifestyle. Senior or overweightfrom becoming very miserable for summer. Make this an opportunity to cats can be prone to diabetes andyour cat in her later years. overhaul your cat’s grooming regime. once they have it, it can’t be cured Long haired cats will need more but has to be managed for life.YourJuly attention than shorthaired ones but veterinary surgery will have leaflets all lengths of coat will benefit from a if you are concerned about your cat Most summer plants are beginning little regular tlc. Invest in a new brush and what to look for.to flower now. As the temperatures or cloth and make plans to continuerise, make sure there are plenty of regular grooming throughout the This is also the month when fire-shady spots around your garden, coming winter when your cat is likely works are heard every night of theeither from the plants themselves or to spend more time inside with you. month it seems! Make sure your catby placing garden furniture or pots is inside before it gets dark and hassomewhere that will provide wel- October somewhere safe to hide if she is re-come shade for your feline compan- ally frightened. An old jumper at theion. Before winter arrives, dust off bottom of a cupboard or on top of the the radiator bed, dig out the warm wardrobe makes a soft spot for kittyAugust blankets or heater pads and check to stay until she feels happy to come everything thoroughly. If anything is out again. Peak holiday season. If you are worn or not working properly, thengoing away this year, make sure you ditch it and find or buy a new one. Decemberhave everything together for the per- Try animal charity shops for a goodson who will be caring for your cat in deal. Better to spend a little now to Christmas is coming…and so areyour absence. make sure kitty is safe and warm the visitors. Most of us are either wel- throughout the winter months. coming visitors to our homes or we If you have decided to take kitty are out and about more than usualwith you, ensure you have packed a November doing the Christmas shopping andfew of her favourite toys, a blanket being a visitor ourselves. Try to keepwith her own scent on it and any Pet diabetes awareness month your cat to her usual routine as muchmedication she may be taking. as possible. Catteries can get booked up a If you will be out for longer thanwhole year in advance so if you are usual, leave a light on when you leaveintending to go away in 2017 or 2018, and perhaps the radio so that shenow is the time to be doing some re- has some measure of company andsearch and booking your cat a place comfort until you return.in plenty of time. 11CAT WORLD

FEATURE 5 top tips for festive health and happiness Keep your cat feeling healthy and avoid Christmas catastrophe with these top tips from natural pet food manufacturer, Burns Pet Nutrition hristmas can be a challenging like humans, become couch potatoes. chairs away from the area. There are little tricks you can do to Holly, mistletoe and ivy are also toxicC time for cats. Familiar surround- ings turn into decorative assault ensure that Smokey gets exercise. to cats when ingested. courses with unexpected visitors ● Encourage an indoor treasure huntand peculiar noises at every turn. In – Spread cat kibble around the house NewYear’s resolutions?addition, excessive food consumption and encourage them to hunt. Don’t forget Smokeycan lead to blurred lines where diet is ● Devote time to play – Whether it’sconcerned. playing throw and catch with a jingle Ahead of Christmas, many of us will ball or creating a cardboard castle, set be making diet-related New Year’sDon’t fall into the“Just because aside 20 minutes a day for games. resolutions. Unsure whether your catit’s Christmas”trap ● Introduce a leash – Training your cat is getting the best possible nutrition? It to walk on a leash is a time-consuming might be time to re-assess. Humans are excellent at throwing but safe way to ensure he or she getscaution to the wind during the festive exercise without risking nine lives. For cats to thrive, we recommendperiod. From gallons of mulled wine feeding a low-fat, natural diet of pro-to one too many mince pies, the words Create a stress-free environment tein, whole grains and minerals. Burns“Just because it’s Christmas” legiti- Original Cat with Chicken & Rice is amise even the biggest glutton. Unfor- The hustle and bustle of frequent complete food made with controlledtunately, exercising the same attitude visitors plus a house full of decorations levels of protein and minerals. Contain-with your cat is likely to end in a bout and strange sounds can give your cat a ing seaweed, brown rice, chicken andof diarrhoea or vomiting. bit of a fright. Restore calm by desig- all eleven amino acids, the formula is nating an area for them to escape to designed to ensure that cats benefit There’s no reason why you can’t when things get rowdy. from all of nature’s goodness.slip Smokey some cold cuts of leanturkey but avoid plying your cat with Deck the halls cat-friendly Since 1993, Burns Pet Nutrition hasa host of new foods. A lot of the food built up a reputation as the go-to brandthat humans consume at Christmas is As any cat owner will know, a Christ- for pet owners who believe in a natu-unhealthy and will not agree with cats. mas tree covered in tempting decora- ral and healthy approach to nutrition.Fat trimmings in particular can cause tions is too much for their pet to resist. All products have been developed bypancreatitis, while bones can cause But did you know that real Christmas Veterinary Surgeon, John Burns whoobstruction or laceration of the diges- trees are actually poisonous to cats? founded the business on the belief thattive system. Try to keep your cat’s diet, The pine is highly toxic and can cause most pet ailments are a result of poorfood intake and routine as close to liver damage and even death.Yikes! diet. That’s why all Burns products arenormal as possible. natural, hypoallergenic and highly- If having a live Christmas tree is digestible.Avoid too much kittin’around unavoidable, keep the pines well hydrated to reduce the chance of pine We have a team of in-house nutri- Winter has a way of turning us all needles falling off and being ingested. tionists with over 50 years’ combinedinto hermits. When there’s gale force Spraying Bitter Apple or a diluted experience who are on hand to givewinds and monsoons outside, there’s vinegar solution on the tree’s base can free and impartial nutrition advice vialittle desire to leave the nest and chase work as a repellent and we’d recom- email, live chat or Freephone. Visitbirds. It’s no surprise then that cats, mend removing ‘launch pads’ such as www.burnspet.co.uk or call 0800 083 66 96 to find out more.12 CAT WORLD

ON THE EDGETHE ADVENTURES OF TWENTY-SOMETHING CAT LOVER KATY EDGEKaty compares human babies and fur babies and ponders the implications of having 2.4 (fur) childrenO ne of my kittens with no for it!) Living with kittens your beloved spawn wins closest warning at all… or even adult cats you still a football game (territory cat-owning Sometimes two get all the drama: inter- spat), passes an examfriends is expecting at once! Imag- rupted sleep, toilet train- (successfully catches aa baby next month ine the trauma! ing (and related mishaps), spider), graduates fromand a few other You also have doctor’s appointments, university (learns how topeople I know with the added squabbles over toys … cross the road): check,four-legged children have dilemma of whether (and but, it seems, none of the check aaaaand check.also recently produced the when) to tell your bundle perks. (Try telling yourtwo-legged kind. As I shop of joy he or she is adopt- boss you were late to Adulthoodfor congratulations cards ed. Will Tigger work it out work because your pussand baby shower gifts, it’s for himself? Does young is teething and see how Like a kid, a cat is forgot me wondering how Fluffy realise her colour- sympathetic they are.) life. But with cats, the sadmuch easier it is to be a ing is nothing like mine or What’s more, it’s likely truth is that your life will‘mother’ to cats than it is to her father’s? you’ll have to deal with all probably outlast theirsactual human offspring. As these things for at least as and that brings its ownsomeone whose parental The birth long as it would take for list of upsets. While you’llresponsibilities are limited your human child to grow be happy to support yourto paws, tails and whisk- Women are always up, go to university, get well-adjusted adult caters, do I really have a complaining about the a job, have an existential with caring for its owncushy time of it? Here’s my pain of childbirth but crisis and move back in kittens (SO PROUD),analysis. have these people trod- with you again. climbing the career lad- den on a pointy cat toy in der (or tree), battling fleaConception the middle of the night or The terrible teens infestations (what? Human (worse) encountered the children don’t get fleas? Persuading your part- combined fury of claws Picking up the pieces #notevenachallenge!),ner you reeeeeeally need and teeth?* after your darling girl has there will be those hardera kitty in your life, espe- had her heart (or favour- times as well. And youcially if you already have *OK, OK, I may have ite mouse toy) broken by signed up for it all.four, is no mean feat. Plus, to give you this one. I the lad next door: check.with cats, the “it wasn’t have friends who are OB/ Buying extortionate new On reflection, both jour-quite planned” excuse is GYN doctors with toe- clothes (or collars, or neys are a rollercoasterfar less effective. curling stories to tell. beds) because yours is and while – on a serious Take this hot water bottle sooooo last season: check. note – I know makingThe pregnancy and these chocolates and Watching misty-eyed as new people is a Very Big we’ll speak no more of it. Deal, devoting your life Sure, nine months is *backs away slowly*a long time but it gives to caring for animalsyou ages to decorate the The early years who already exist andnursery, make a shortlist need a home is a greatof the best prams, find out Nobody gives new thing too. And theyour partner really wants cat owners time off best bit of all is thata daughter called Mildred, work on full or even you can do either oretc. Some people acquire partial pay. (Caternity both – if you’re brave leave! Let’s campaign enough… 13CAT WORLD

HEALTHY EATINGFORTHGLADE COMPLETE MEALS FOR CATS ith more and more cat owners for kittens 1-12 months, adult cats 1-7 WORLD20’ at the website’s checkout. years and senior cats from 7 years+. Please visit the website’s PromotionalW scrutinising ingredients on Terms and Conditions for further pet food labels, it comes as no ● Chicken & Duck – kitten details. surprise that natural pet foods ● Salmon & Turkey – adult cathave increased rapidly in popularity. ● Turkey & Duck- adult cat For those that want to give theirPursuing diets free from artificial col- ● Chicken & Duck – adult cat cat a little Christmas treat.ours, flavours and preservatives results ● Salmon & Chicken – senior catin far happier, healthier cats. Forthglade have also just launched This Christmas include your cats two new multi-packs containing 12 in the festive celebrations with Forth- Forthglade, based in the heart of delicious meals. The Fisherman’s Se- glade’s tasty turkey recipes. Popularthe Devonshire countryside, produces lection includes 4 x Salmon & Turkey, 4 festive favourites include Duck &100% natural foods for both cats and x Ocean Fish & Chicken and 4 x Trout Turkey for kittens aged 1-12 months,dogs using high quality ingredients & Duck. Whilst meat loving felines adult cats aged 1-7 years can enjoysourced from the UK wherever possible. will enjoy the Country Meat Selection Salmon & Turkey or Turkey & Duck, with x 4 Chicken & Duck, x 4 Lamb & whilst senior cats 7+ can will adore Free from nasties, the recipes contain Turkey and x 4 Turkey & Duck, both Lamb & Turkey. Available in convenientan impressive minimum meat content of multi-packs cost £8.75. 90g trays at £0.75 or in cases of 7x90g85%. With meals including fish, chicken, When changing your cat over to a at £8.75. Visit www.forthglade.com forturkey, duck or salmon, it’s easy to see different diet it is important for owners more details on the full range for cats.why even the fussiest of felines are to be patient as cats are notoriouslyleft pawing for more. Available in 90g fussy. A small amount of the new food ● Does your cat deserve 15trays for convenience, meals are hypo- should be mixed in with the original minutes of fame? Each monthallergenic, grain free and very gentle to food each day, in a gradual way, over a Forthglade run a competitiondigest - perfect for cats with sensitive period of a week or two. This helps the searching for the UK’s Cat of thetummies. The complete cat food con- cat’s tummy to adjust to a different type Month. Simply visit www.forth-tains omega-3 which can support a cat’s of food, avoiding an upset stomach, but glade.com for more informationimmune system and encourage healthy also helps ease a cat off previous diets on how to enter your purr-fectskin and coat. The meals also contain which may have contained sugar-rich pussy cat, you could even win aminerals, vitamins and prebiotics to aid gravy or jelly, plus additional non-natu- month’s supply of their deliciousnutrient absorption and increase ‘good’ ral flavourings. natural cat food.gut bacteria, as well as taurine which This month Forthglade are offeringis added as an essential amino acid to Cat World readers a 20% discount on For more information on Forth-further support feline health. their natural cat foods at www.forth- glade’s natural cat food visit www. glade.com. Simply enter code ‘CAT- forthglade.com To ensure optimum health at thevarying life stages, meals are tailoredto age, with specific meals developed14 CAT WORLD



HTHEOBOUASREDDIINAGRY Gently does it as far as senior cat Colin is concerned, while Sway is intent on taking in his new surroundings as only cats can BY DOMINIQUE URQUHARTA t first glance my Colin adores sleeping. bladder problem, began ously uncomfortable he latest house guest He has taken to curling up pacing the flat. He is des- is distracted by the lights looks like a bit of a on the rug in the centre perate to go to the toilet of the cars that zoom past bruiser. The side of of the room and snoozes but he just can’t perform below, like huge fire flies.Colin’s face is bashed in, gently throughout the day the function. As time worehis nose looks broken and and most of the night. He on Colin got increasingly Eventually and re-he is completely blind in also loves to eat but is frustrated and stood by luctantly, I leave him forone eye. He has a myriad sometimes thwarted by a the litter tray yowling at my own bed. He standsof health problems, most combination of his advanc- me. He clambered into purring as I stroke him,of which are the result of ing years and the onset his tray with the hope of his two hind legs stickinghim being abandoned on of senile dementia. On going to the toilet but was out at right angles, nearlythe street. approaching his food bowl so exhausted by the effort, buckling under the weight he is often gripped by the he ended up falling asleep of his enormous bladder. Colin doesn’t do much sudden realisation that he in there. I lift him out gentlybut what he does, he does hasn’t the foggiest idea to give him is medication. At 5am I wake to checkwith conviction. He paces where he is going. Having After swallowing his tablet up on Colin. He is sittingthe perimeter of my flat lost his purpose but totally Colin lay down on the rug on the rug by his blanketlike a prison officer secur- undeterred by this lack of next to me, his little paws looking much happier,ing the grounds. His body knowledge, he will forge resting over my leg, his having at last managed tois stocky and firm, a con- ahead. He is always pleas- eyes half closed. Thank- empty his bladder. Beforetrast to his flattened face antly surprised when he fully he relaxed a little. returning to bed I givethat resembles Bagpuss, chances upon his dinner. him a cuddle and an earlythe stuffed character from Later that night I pick breakfast and am reward-the 1980’s children’s TV Last night poor Colin, him up and take him to the ed by a rub of his sleepyshow. struggling with an ongoing kitchen window. Still obvi- warm head on my arm. Sway Sway the Siberian Forest cat, arrived one Monday evening with his owner Mark. First, one huge, soft, fluffy paw emerged from his basket followed by his little pink nose, sniffing the air. He was soon out and making swift circuits of the flat. His little face is set into a majestic mane of tawny fur. His tail could be some kind of forest fern, spring- ing up from the under-16 CAT WORLD JUNE 2016

“... a bit of a bruiser”growth and splaying like domain. He spent most of At bedtime I coaxed the quiet but plaintive meowsgrass in every direction. the evening on the bal- reluctant kitty in from the of Sway. He is wandering cony, watching fast cars balcony with treats. around the flat in the early Mark seemed reluctant speed by and tipsy people hours of the morning, sniff-to leave and picked Sway emerging from the bar Sway sprung onto my ing and marking objectsup to say goodbye. Then across the road. Every bed and as I drifted into with his scent.after putting him down, he now and then he would sleep the last thing I re-picked him up again. come back in and recon- member is Sway standing Sway carried on mew- nect with all the objects in on my legs, his sweet face ing through the night. I Once Sway and I were the flat, including me. and glorious mane looking lay back and listen to hisalone, he padded around down on me. meows and this time as Ipreoccupied with his new fall asleep I do not hear About 5am I wake, to piano scales but the voice what sounded to me in my of Sway, muttering to him- still half asleep state, like self as he potters happily piano scales being played around my apartment. repeatedly. “What’s that, Meow, a ‘Do, ra ,mi, fa, so, la , ti sheepskin rug, Sniff, never , do’, but as I listen, the seen one of those before, piano scales turn into the Meow, I might just have an- other sniff, Meow, and then THE CAT FACTS: a rub, Meow, and while I’m here, maybe just Meow, The Notting Hill Cat Company curl up on it, Meow, just Pampering Your Pets While You Are Away to make sure it’s asleep… email: [email protected] Mmmmm” web: www.nottinghillcatcompany.com call: 0781 354 7461 J U LY 2 0 1 6 17CAT WORLD

FOOD MATTERSFeeding outdoorcats in winterIf you allow your cat outdoors all year round, there aresome measures you will need to take with his food toensure he is kept healthy and safe BY CORINNE MANSFIELD intry weather keeps many of The best type of bowl to use outside more treats at this time of year - after is one made from a thick plastic. Thin all, humans usually go to town withW us indoors as much as pos- plastic can soon become brittle in cold all sorts of indulgent foods over the sible but cats who are free to temperatures and a metal bowl will Christmas and New Year period. roam will still want to spend freeze along with what it contains. Thissome time outside regardless. If you can be extremely dangerous as the Care must be taken with feedingleave food outside for your cat it is im- cat’s tongue can stick to the bowl if it tidbits to your cat as human food will,portant to take account of the weather comes into contact with it. on the whole, not do him much good.conditions. The occasional morsel of cheese is ok, If your cat is out and about as often as is a tiny piece of cooked chicken orShelter as normal, it may require more food tuna/fish. than normal if it is using up more ener- Although a cat’s winter coat will give gy to get around in snow, for example.a certain amount of additional warmth You should monitor your cat’s weightand protection from the elements, pro- if you are tempted to give additionalvide some kind of shelter for the cat’s food or slightly larger portions. Thefood and water for when they need it. risk being that your cat is not using as much energy as you think and then it Don’t make the shelter overly large becomes overweight or obese, lead-as it will be difficult for the cat’s body ing to health problems. We are veryheat to keep it warm. Placing straw lucky in the UK and most of us rarelyon the floor and adding a pillow case see enough snow to cause major dif-stuffed with straw or shredded news- ficulties.paper then sewn up along the openingprovides a comfy place to rest. Re- Turning this on its head, as it were,place straw and newspaper when they it may be that you are feeding the cor-become moist. rect amount in winter time and your cat does not require as much food duringFood and water the summer months when he may rest more on warmer days. Monitoring It is better to place food and water your cat’s weight is so important tojust outside the shelter. Water can be achieve a healthy weight according toeasily spilled and a wet floor or floor lifestyle.covering can freeze, making life veryuncomfortable for the shelter’s oc- Indoor cats will rarely need extracupants. It will also prevent the shelter calories over winter as they are muchfrom warming up as efficiently as it less active than a cat allowed to roamshould. freely outdoors. Wet food will be liable to freeze Treatsso place some dry food down too,remembering to stick to the correct You may feel like your cat deservesportion size and not doubling up!18 CAT WORLD

FOOD MATTERS Treats produced specifically for a reward following an energetic game these may not be necessary. Beforecats will include a balance of nutrients with a toy or for allowing you to put giving your cat supplements of anyrequired to maintain a healthy diet but him in a harness and walk around the kind, consult your vet.even so, moderation is the key. garden. Individuals Try not to give a treat just because Supplementsyour cat is asking for it but use it as a With all of the above, keep in mindreward for good behaviour. For a cat There are supplements designed that every cat is different and makethat has been less active than it should, to boost your cat’s diet during winter allowances for your cat’s age and usualperhaps because it is staying inside time but if your cat is fit and healthy lifestyle. If you are in any doubt, consultmore over the winter, offer the treat as and you are feeding a complete diet, your veterinary surgery for advice. 19CAT WORLD

FEATURE Pippa passes over Second ashes scandal Rainbow Bridge prompts guidelinesI BY BRIAN GIRVIN t is with enormous sadness Animal lovers can feel reassured as a pet crematorium I wish to announce that my owner is brought to justice for second year running treasured 22 year old cat Pip- pa has gone to Rainbow Bridge. BY JILL MUNDY Pippa featured in Cat World sev- eral times over the years and got a n organisation which into existence twenty years special mention for her landmark ago. Any crematorium car- 21st birthday. I worshipped her. A sets international rying our logo can guar- She gave me unconditional love standards for the antee careful handling and and got me through my father’s pet funeral industry dignified treatment through death by never leaving my side. has moved swiftly to issue every stage of the crema- guidelines to pet owners tion process. However, that Pippa passed on 18th Sept in the wake of a second protection does not come 2016 due to thyroid and kidney ‘ashes scandal’ at a Staf- from the law of the land but disease. It was just her time. I fordshire crematorium. from APPCC imposed standards.” cried so much in the vets that aw- Mr Mayles insists pet owners should ful day I lost her. Steve Mayles, vice chairman of the approach pet crematoria directly and Association of Private Pet Cemeteries not feel obliged to use third parties I’m celebrating the joy and hap- and Crematoria (APPCC), fears the such as vets to organise the arrange- piness she has given me by devel- shocking case could blacken the repu- ments for them. oping a Pippa memorial garden. I tation of the pet funeral industry. “That’s because even if a cremato- think it’s endearing to honour your rium is following the letter of the law, cherished cat with a headstone “This man should clearly not have it doesn’t necessarily follow that the for their final resting place. been allowed to continue in business, public would approve of its practices. as we said at the time. He has now There have been unsavoury press The photo of me holding Pippa offended again. I wish to make it clear stories about people being devas- was taken one day before she that he was not one of our members tated to learn when it is too late that died and was for my fiancee No- but I fear his deplorable behaviour their animals had been treated – albeit reen’s 50th birthday. could tar responsible operators with legally – like ‘a piece of waste’.” the same brush. That would be most His final piece of advice is simple: She said: “Pippa has been here unfortunate because our members “To the public we say ask your vet a lot for my 30th and 40th birthday, I have to adhere to a strict code of of questions about the pet crematoria just want her to be here for my conduct and operate with complete they deal with. Better still, go direct to 50th.” We know Pippa held on transparency.” the crematorium and ensure every- especially for Noreen’s birthday. thing is carried out properly. Our mes- His advice to pet lovers who care sage to vets is they need to be diligent She was one of the oldest cats about the way companion animals are when selling third party cremation in Belfast and I’m heartbroken treated after death is to be ‘exception- services to distressed clients. Pippa had to leave me but I’m ally careful’ when it comes to choosing The APPCC has the only code of making sure her legacy lives on. a pet crematorium. practice in the country that protects both the pet owner and the veterinary Search YouTube for “People may be surprised, even profession.” Pippa the Man Utd horrified to hear, that there is no ● For more information visit www.ap- cat and you will legislation which insists on pets being pcc.org.uk see over 100 of my carefully handled and transported with video uploads of dignity when they die – yet those fac- Pippa. tors can be of immense importance to their owners.20 CAT WORLD “That is a very big reason we came

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IN THE NEWSCat Wars: the caseof fur vs. feathersThe recently published book by an American scientist hascaused much controversy, claiming that our beloved felinesshould be restricted to preserve birds and some other species BY CARLA GREENWOOD ver 8.1 million cats live in our “fascinating, magnificent animals”. other ecologists have determined that Dr Marra admits that his ultimate outdoor cats are the leading human-O homes in the UK. For most of us influenced cause of dead birds. they are part of the family, yet goal is “hardly practical” but proposes sometimes we forget that they a range of measures to reduce the A natural instinct?are natural predators. In September environmental impact of cats, includ-this year a controversial new book ing keeping all pet cats indoors (or In the wild, cats are accomplishedby American Scientist Dr Pete Marra on a lead when outdoors), neutering predators. However, Dr Bradshaw,has sent fur flying with his radical or re-homing feral and stray cats and author of ‘Cat Sense’, regards the ideaideas blaming cats for the extinction euthanising those cats for which there that pet cats are killing other animalsof dozens of species of birds, reptiles is no other option. as highly doubtful, as most are just notand mammals. Now the author has very skilled at it. Although the instinctfound himself at loggerheads with However, Dr Marra’s claims have to go out and hunt is very much em-British conservationists over his call to been met with fierce resistance from bedded in every cat’s DNA, kittens stillremove all free-ranging cats from the both cat and conservation experts have to rely on their mothers to learnlandscape and to only let domestic who question the science behind his how to do it efficiently.cats outside on a lead. Is the problem conclusions, as well as his judgementreally as bad as Dr Marra claims? Are in exposing views that could cause an Dr Bradshaw cites research thatdomestic cats really a threat to our outbreak of cat persecution. shows cats fed a balanced diet are lessnatural wildlife? likely to go hunting; therefore the skill Dr John Bradshaw, director of the is less likely to be passed onto theirThe argument Anthrozoology Institute at the Univer- young. Cat food has changed mas- sity of Bristol and a leading cat behav- sively in the last 40 years, becoming The book ‘Cat Wars: The Devastat- iour expert says “I think the book is more nutritionally complete. “Before,ing Consequences of a Cuddly Killer’ very unhelpful for the British cat owner. we didn’t fully understand what catscalls for the free-ranging activity of cats There are lots of people out there thatto be controlled in a bid to conserve don’t like cats, so to give them an ex-global wildlife and prevent the spread cuse to do something nasty to a cat isof ‘deadly’ infections and diseases unforgivable.”such as toxoplasmosis. But given that cats in the UK are “From a conservation ecology per- responsible for killing 55 millionspective, the most desirable solution birds every year, according to a studyseems clear – remove all free-ranging conducted by the Mammal Society,cats from the landscape by any means does Dr Marra have a point? Shouldnecessary”, the author writes. we be keeping our cats under house arrest? Dr Marra claims to be able to Dr Marra, an ornithologist based at see the bigger picture. At his day jobthe Smithsonian migratory bird centre he and his team at the migratory birdin Washington, takes a bleak view of centre track the global movements ofcats but insists he is not a cat hater. birds and uncover the threats to their existence. He claims that himself and “I love cats,” he says, calling them22 CAT WORLD

FEATUREneeded” he said. destruction and climate change are prevent them hunting garden birds, So what about Dr Marra’s claim that far bigger problems facing our wild- perhaps we should be taking some life. Mark Avery, a writer and former responsibility for the behaviour of ourBritain’s 8.1 million cats are respon- director of conservation at the RSPB feline friends.sible for the death of 55 million birds stated: “While moggies kill millions ofevery year? Dr John Bradshaw paints birds in the UK, they are rarely threat- The simple fact is that hunting is aa very different picture of the hunting ened or endangered species.” natural behaviour for cats, so every cathabits of our feline companions. “Data owner should be aware of this and beshows that the animals pet cats kill are Dr Marra is not alone in his view able to deal with the consequences.sick and weak animals that are proba- on cats and steps are already being There are several things you can dobly doomed anyway. Then they’ll bring taken to control both feral and pet cats to try and reduce the impact on localthe kill home because they don’t really in other countries like Australia and wildlife, such as attaching a bell collar,know what to do with it next.” parts of America, including California changing their diet, keeping them and Alaska. Dr Bradshaw said: “Un- inside overnight or even trying out a Even the RSPB dispute Dr Marra’s like countries such as Australia or new cat toy to encourage them to ‘hunt’conclusions about the impact of cats New Zealand, where cats only arrived indoors.on Britain’s birdlife. A spokesperson for a few hundred years ago, they havethe charity said: “There is no evidence been a feature of British life for millen- In regard to feral cats, expertsto suggest that cats are the main cause nia. There has probably been time for agree on very little due to the limitedof decline in any bird species in the quite a lot of co-evolution”. However, amount of data available on feral catUK”. Indeed, when the 2016 State of with big names like Chris Packham populations and their habits. PerhapsNature report was released in Sep- and David Attenborough calling for there is scope for more studies to betember, cats didn’t even come close to owners to keep their cats indoors or conducted on feral cats before we takecracking the top 10 list of key causes to kit them out with bell collars to help such drastic action as proposed by Drof wildlife decline in the UK. Habitat Marra. 23CAT WORLD

BEHAVIOURA reassuring senseof feline intuitionAligning recent research and personal experience, thequestion is, should our cats really be given the title‘Man’s best friend’ rather than dogs? BY LORRAINE SCHOFIELD ats are generally seen as aloof happy or sad by noticing whether we pressions over time was demonstrated are smiling or frowning. Thus, accord- by the fact that when the cats wereC characters and, although most ing to the study which was carried presented with strangers, they showed definitely capable of affection, out at Oakland University in Roches- the same amount of positive behaviour are not seen as being as in tune ter, Michigan, USA, cats learn over regardless of whether the strangerswith their owners’ feelings as our time how to read their owners’ facial were smiling or frowning which seemscanine companions. However, I read expressions and this in turn affects to support the theory.with interest an article that I came how they respond to us. Apparently, aacross online, highlighting that recent smiling owner will lead to the cat re- Admittedly, as this US study onlyresearch has shown that cats may actu- sponding with positive behaviour such observed 12 cats and their owners,ally be more capable of picking up on as purring and rubbing against them its findings may not provide definiteour feelings than we realise and that or else sitting on their lap. Conversely, proof of a cat’s ability to read our facialthey are especially responsive to hu- a frowning owner will mean less overt expressions and further researchman emotional gestures. displays of affection. and larger scale studies are perhaps needed if we are to be convinced that Cats, it appears, really do pay atten- Furthermore, the fact that cats will cats really can discern their owners’tion to their owners’ facial expressions learn to read their owners’ facial ex- moods through their facial expres-and therefore can tell whether we are sions. However, although I am no animal behaviour expert, I really do believe that as our cats get to know us they do become more sensitive to our moods and respond accordingly. Tibbles, my senior puss of 14 years, seems very in tune with how I am feeling and always responds positively when I smile at him. Every morning, once I acknowledge him and smile at him, he responds with emphatic purring followed by vigorous licking of my face. I love how he then snug- gles up contentedly next to me in bed for what is always our special way to connect with each other each morning.24 CAT WORLD

BEHAVIOURCynics of course, may say that this is parents and like myself with Tibbles, fact that biologically a cat’s brain isjust an overt display of ‘cupboard love’ she too has been extremely consoled very close to the human brain. Appar-because as soon as I get up, Tibbles by the way that Salem has picked up ently, according to Nicholas Dodman,heads straight to his food bowl! Even on her distress and comforted her ac- who is an animal behaviourist chief atif this is part of the reason for Tibbles’ cordingly. Tufts University School of Veterinaryrampant affection in the morning, I still Medicine in Boston, USA, cats andfind it most enjoyable and I certainly Certainly it would appear that humans have almost identical brainfeel that it helps to strengthen the whether our own cats can read our structures in the area of the brain thatstrong bond between us. facial expressions or not there is no controls emotion. Furthermore, cats’ doubt that over time they become brains release neurotransmitters in a Indeed, 2016 has been a most dif- more in tune with us. This I definitely very similar pattern to humans whenficult year for me as in June my mum found to be the case with my dearly they are presented with informationsadly passed away after a long battle departed Suzy who lived from 1988 from their five senses. Moreover, inwith cancer. Ever since her death, I until 2009, reaching the grand old age terms of memory, cats have both ahave felt that Tibbles has sensed that I of 21. short term and a long term memoryhave been distressed as he has been and they are able to recall informationcuddling up to me much more on the She really was a most amazing cat up to 16 hours later which is often bet-sofa and has remained more closely who was with me through many peri- ter than human recall.at my side. Of course, in terms of the ods of distress and upheaval, includingtheory put forward by the researchers a miscarriage and later my divorce. Ultimately, research into how cats in-at Oakland University in the US, I have Throughout these times she was terpret and respond to our behaviourobviously not been smiling as much constantly at my side and would in fact is a truly fascinating topic. We may notand so Tibbles should have been spend every evening on my lap, as we yet have all the answers, even thoughless overt with his affection. However, really were soul mates. This certainly cats have been domesticated forI believe that having owned Tibbles seems to fit the theory of the study, that around 10,000 years.Yet, these studiessince he was a kitten, after such a long irrespective of whether cats can actu- may help us further explore the reasonperiod of time both owner and cat ally read our expressions, over time why cats and humans do get alongbecome more sensitive to each other’s they understand us more fully and are together so well. It may certainly proveneeds. I wrote earlier this year of a able to discern the subtleties of our to be the case that it is actually the catfriend of mine Susan whose 15 year moods and behaviours. that is truly a man’s best friend! Forold cat, Salem, likewise seemed to me there is no better companion thanpick up on her distress following the Interestingly, another piece of re- a loving, purring and utterly beguilingsudden and untimely death of both her search that I came across online stated cat. that perhaps the reason why we have such a strong affinity with cats is the 25CAT WORLD

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONModern day Aristocatsare stately attractionOwners of historic properties around the UK admit they areattracting more visitors due to the felines that live in andaround their beautiful grounds and buildings BY HANNAH BARRICK any of us joke about our cats beloved cats (quite substantial, when hunting mice and other small animals you think that, with the exception of a in the grounds. Of course, after see-M having very particular tastes species of wild cat found in Scotland, ing the many gorgeous and spacious with their food or sleeping cats are not native to the UK!). With rooms with their antique furniture, places, or seeming to have a statistics like these it is no wonder that along with countless potential cosy‘superior’ air about them. However, we jump at the chance to visit these sleeping places, why would a cat wantit seems that we may not be too far popular furry friends of ours, especial- to leave?from the truth, as a number of felines ly when it includes a beautiful statelyhave taken a liking to the vast space home with picturesque surroundings. Some of the resident cats in theseand comfortable lifestyle that stately homes are clearly characters who lovehomes have to offer, not to mention a These luxury–loving cats are also the limelight and attention, as can beconstant stream of adoring visitors to a sensation with the younger genera- seen from the photos taken of themlavish attention upon them. tion, appealing to children and teenag- posing in the grounds. One such cat ers and therefore attracting yet more is Craig, who lives at Gunby hall in The British National Trust are also visitors to the stately homes of the UK. Lincolnshire with fellow kitty frienddelighted at the new houseguests These pampered felines certainly Committee, who love posing for pho-that have decided to call many of the live up to our sometimes stereotyped to-shoots in the palatial grounds withstately homes they own home. Of view of them being associated with the house in the background. Thesecourse, having the cats around also luxury and wealthy homes – a conceptadds a new marketing strategy and an which may have derived from ancientextra incentive for visitors to drop by. Egypt and their worship of cats, withOur nation’s love of cats is certainly this wonderful domestic creature eveneasy to see, as the National Trust have often being depicted alongside Phar-said their resident cats are attracting aohs in Egypt hieroglyphics. Whateverhundreds more people to some of the reason, it definitely adds some funtheir stately homes each year. It’s also and warmth watching these adorablenot hard to imagine that the presence pets wandering around the housesof these furry felines and their quirky and grounds.characters adds warmth and makesthe buildings feel less like a museum It is hard to say what has attractedand more like a home. the cats to these impressive build- ings. One reason could be the wealth Maybe one of the reasons these of space in the grounds to explorecats have had such an impact is be- and stretch their legs, not to mentioncause of our nation’s obvious love of the many hiding places just waitingthese delightful creatures. The UK is to be discovered! Grand buildingsrenowned as being one of the most like these could definitely be classed‘animal loving’ countries in the world, as kitty heaven! They may even havewith approximately 40% of UK house- been attracted initially by the promiseholds owning a pet. It is estimated of excellent hunting opportunities,that eight million of these pets are our28 CAT WORLD

TOURIST ATTRACTION“It definitely adds some fun and warmth watching these adorablepets wandering around the houses and grounds.”two charismatic cats have a notable adventures living at Bishop’s Palace. adventures, the adoration and atten-following on several social media sites, Not only has the presence of these tion from the thousands of visitorsand manage to win the instant love of that arrive each day, or simply for theeverybody who meets them. The same sassy felines benefited the cats them- increased comfort and quality of lifecould also be said of Maisie, the eight- selves, but they have also benefited from living in such a grand place, theseyear-old resident kitty living in Bishop’s the stately homes where they reside! cats know what they want and have de-Palace in Wells. Maisie also seems to Like most cute, fluffy animals, the cats cided to go upmarket where the highhave a very social personality, loving provide a fun motivation for more peo- life is as appealing as their wonderful,to interact with visitors and enjoying ple to come and visit, even if it is only quirky personalities. Fun-loving felinesleading them around the grounds. to sneak a glance at the resident cats that settle for nothing except the best,She even has her own Facebook page as they saunter through the grounds. these kitties are truly modern dayalong with a book detailing her life and aristo-cats! So it seems that whether it’s for the plentiful space promising lots of fun 29CAT WORLD

BREED PROFILEThe cat that cameover from the coldWith its soft coat and affectionate personality thesensational Siberian will fill your home and warmyour heart, making it an ideal family pet iberian cats, although only in BY JILL MUNDY by’ body, they should feel a little hefty if you pick them up for a cuddle. TheS the UK for around 25 years, have pleased to help! Siberian has a more rounded appear- been in existence for at least a Kittens are a whirlwind of activity ance than its cousins the Norwegian thousand years, with the earliest Forest and Maine Coon and is a veryknown reference from 1000 AD. The and if kept as an indoor only cat, plenty strong and agile breed. Its substantialbreed joins the Maine Coon and Nor- of exercise and interaction is required. bone structure in the legs enables thiswegian Forest as the recognised trio of Even adult cats will enjoy fetching a cat to climb trees with ease and jumpforest cats. The breed originates from ball or small toy if you throw it for them. long distances - useful in its nativeSiberia and the region of the Taiga; If you have a garden, they can eas- forest environment as I’m sure you cantemperatures there range from an ily be trained to walk on a harness. It imagine.extremely chilly -54 degrees up to the would be advisable to add cat-proofdizzy heights of 30 degrees Celsius. fencing to your garden or an outdoor The Siberian’s recognised coloursThese extremes mean that the Siberi- enclosure if you want to allow your are brown, black (plus dilute version ofan is very adaptable, with a rich, triple- Siberian to wander ‘un-leashed’. blue) red (with dilute version of cream)layered weatherproof coat throughout and white. There are three main pat-the winter which becomes shorter and They are intelligent, caring cats who terns: Solids, Tabbies and Colour-less dense during summer time. are happy to curl up for a cuddle at the points. Patterns can be further en- end of a tiring, energetic day. hanced by a silver gene for smoke and The breed first appeared at cat shaded patterns. As Colourpointedshows in the 1870s but it wasn’t until Care cats are allowed in all colour variants2002 that the breed was brought to the and all colours and patterns are recog-UK from Russia. Since then the number The Siberian is classed as a semi- nised both with and without white, thisof breeders in the UK has increased longhaired breed that requires little provides a total of 124 possible colourand you can find details on the GCCF but regular grooming to prevent a mat- variations.website or through the Siberian Cat ted coat. A thorough but gentle combClub. through with a steel comb a couple of The Colourpoints are sometimes times a week should keep this under known as ‘Neva Masquerade’ whichPersonality control. refers to the river Neva in St Peters- burg where it is generally believed the Siberians are fun-loving felines with They are prone to moulting in breed originated.boundless energy. Extremely affection- spring and autumn when the coat mayate, they get on well with other animals need additional, even daily, brushing The Siberians’ eyes are large andand with children too, happily follow- or combing to prevent knotting and bright, contributing to its intelligent,ing their owners from room to room to hairballs. alert expression.ensure they get plenty of attention. Their unique coat has a topcoat of Kitten advice They love to be ‘helpful’ - if you long, waterproof guard hairs with aneed a hole digging in the garden, very dense, soft undercoat underneath. The Siberian Cat Club advises that ifbubbles decorating the kitchen or Their full ruff, fluffy breeches and big you are looking to purchase a Siberiansomeone to sit on the newspaper bushy tail are perfect protection from kitten, you should look for a reputableyou’re trying to read, a Siberian will be cold Siberian winds. breeder through them or another cat Appearance A large, heavily built cat with a ‘cob-30 CAT WORLD

BREED PROFILE 31CAT WORLD

BREED PROFILEclub. All breeders should be registered The GCCF standard of points states overall type is the overriding fac-with either the GCCF, TICA or FIFE. All that: ‘The Siberian Cat is a medium tor. The Siberian has a very distinc-kittens should come with their regis- to large semi-longhaired cat, solid tive weatherproof coat unique to thetration documents, a four generation with ‘heft’ rather than rangy. The most breed, and, as the breed originatedpedigree, vaccination card indicating important features are head type and as a natural outdoor cat in Russia, thethat they have had a complete course coat quality. The overall impression overall appearance of the Siberian Catof vaccinations and a health check should be of a cat with substance and should reflect this natural heritage. Thefrom a qualified vet. rounded contours. Larger animals cat should have an alert expression, are preferred, though females will be in good general condition and well Kittens will be ready to go at 13 be somewhat smaller than males, but presented.’weeks of age (not before!). Whenchoosing a kitten, check that they The Siberian was awarded Cham-look healthy and playful; you should pionship Status by the GCCF in Maybe able to handle the kitten and meet 2013.the mother of the litter. They shouldbe wormed and free from fleas or any Standard of Points (GCCF)other parasites. Be prepared to bepatient as there will be a waiting list for The Siberian matures slowly, notcertain coat patterns and colours. reaching full development until four or five years old. The cat should have an If you have an allergy, make sure you alert expression, be in good generalhave spent enough time in the house- condition and well presented.hold with both kitten and mother to seeif there are any adverse reactions. Then Head: Should be in good propor-visit your kitten as often as possible to tion to the body. It should form a short,form a bond and enjoy watching your broad wedge with rounded contours,kitten develop and grow till the day of with a slightly rounded muzzle andcollection. chin. The lower forehead should be slightly domed. The profile line shouldShowing your Siberian show a slight concave curve at the bridge with a nose of a harmonious When buying a kitten, if you are length.interested in showing, you will need todiscuss this with your breeder as the Nose should be of uniform widthcat will need to meet the standards set when viewed from the front. Whiskerby the governing council that they are pads should be moderately well devel-registered with: GCCF, TICA, or FIFE. oped and form a gentle, rounded line with the chin which should be slightly32 CAT WORLD

BREED PROFILErounded, neither receding or promi- proportion to the body, of medium silience of the dense undercoat whennent when viewed in profile. The muz- length with substantial bone structure a hand is placed on the coat. A longer,zle should be broad and rounded. and strength. The legs should be felt plentiful ruff is preferred. to estimate bone structure. Paws large, Cheekbones: The cheekbones are with toes carried close, rounded and Colour and pattern: The Siberian isthe determining factor in the head with well-developed tufts. A medium recognised in a wide variety of colourstype of a Siberian. The direction of the sized female with balanced bone and patterns, including colour pointed.cheekbone arch extends to the outer structure and proportions should be Chocolate, Cinnamon, Caramel andear base. Cheekbones should be low preferred to a giant male whose legs the according dilute colours (Lilac,set, very broad and connected by a are too long. Fawn and Apricot) are not acceptedgentle, rounded line to the whisker in any pattern combinations (solid,pads and chin, which produces the Tail: Should be broad at the base, bi-colour, tri-colour, tabby or colourdesired impression. of proportionate length and slightly ta- pointed). Burmese or Tonkinese colour pering towards the tip. It should reach restriction are also not accepted. Ears: Of medium size, rounded at the shoulder blade. The tail should bethe tip, set wide apart, the width of well furnished. Any amount of white is allowed,an ear or more between the ears. A (ie. white on paws, chest, belly, blaze,cat with higher ear set but a broad Coat: The texture and structure of locket, etc) on all patterns and coloursrounded head is preferred to a cat with the coat are important features of the including the colour pointed variety.wide set ears but a narrow head. Ears breed. However, allowance should be (The colour pointed variety can beshould be well furnished. made for kittens that may have softer called Neva Masquerade). Allowance fur, and for the seasonal moult. The should be made for belly spots and Eyes: Large, slightly oval shaped but coat is of medium length, with a very shading on colour points.with a rounded lower line, set slightly dense undercoat that is soft, fine andoblique and wide apart. Any shade is somewhat ‘springy’, covered by a Scale of Points 15allowed except that blue and odd eyed coarser, more substantial topcoat. The 10colours are allowed in white and van fur over the shoulders is shorter. Hair Headpatterned Siberians and only blue al- is firm to the touch and waterproof. Cheeks 5lowed in colour pointed Siberians. The Smoothly flowing guard hairs cover the Ears 5colour should be clear and bright as back, flanks and upper side of the tail. Eyes 35an indication of good health. Body 25 The underside of the body and Coat 5 Body: The body is rectangular in breeches have only undercoat which Overall condition 100format but not too long. The cat should is shorter than the covering topcoat. It Totalbe medium to large, well muscled and should be dense and plentiful. It mayheavily built with a broad chest. The be lighter in the summer but shouldneck should be short and substantial. still be present. One should feel the re- Legs and feet: Legs should be in 33CAT WORLD

FEATUREBVA WARNS OF NEW OBESITY CONCERNS VA’s Voice of the Veterinary Pro- BY DEBBIE GRAINGER Professor Susan Dawson, President of the British Small Veterinary Associa-B fession survey polled over 1,600 poor health and limiting their lifespan. tion (BSAVA) added: “It really is vital vets across the UK, asking which Many owners also give their pets that vets and pet owners work together welfare issue concerned them human food as a treat; however one to help animals stay healthy. All com-most. Almost two-thirds of companion human biscuit can equate to a whole panion animals deserve a nutritionallyanimal vets cited obesity or overfeed- packet when fed to an animal, due to balanced diet; in fact it is a requirementing. As with humans, obesity is a very their smaller body size. of the Animal Welfare Acts…BSAVAserious health issue for pets and can strongly recommends that bodyweightlead to life-long and life-threatening Gudrun Ravetz, President of the and body condition are monitoredillnesses such as heart disease, breath- BVA, said: “Obesity is a potential regularly and diets modified to main-ing problems, diabetes and arthritis. killer for pets and we know more and tain a healthy weight. Talk to your vet or more practices are seeing overweight vet nurse – they can help.” If owners fail to follow or understand animals coming through their doors.pet food feeding guidelines, provide Many owners show love for their pet Any pet can become obese and it istoo many treats and snacks or their through food, but often this is a case therefore very important to understandcats suffer from a lack of exercise, the of killing with kindness - most animals how to feed them correctly. If ownersconsequences can be disastrous for would instead enjoy playing or inter- are in any doubt about their pet’s dietour nation’s pets. Although many peo- acting with their owner just as much as or unsure of the right food or portionple believe they are being kind to their getting a treat. It’s also vital that owners size for their animal, they should speakanimals by providing treats and bigger understand how to correctly feed their to a local vet who will be able to advisefood portions, they are instead, unin- pet and how to recognise a healthy them.tentionally, contributing to their pet’s body shape, which is something your local vet is well placed to help advise.”34 CAT WORLD

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Use Snuggle Safe™ anywhere indoors Heater guards are available, please see our website or15” x 10” Medium comforter £42.99 or out, even in the car. phone for further information.15” x 20” Large comforter £50.99 Normally £22.99 Special Offer Only £17.99 500mm Ecoheater £29.99 Visit us online at www.grangepetcentre.co.uk 1000mm Ecoheater £34.99 HAMWICK HIDEAWAY C60 1500mm Ecoheater £42.99THE SEVERN SUITE CAT HOME £221.00 Carriage £55.00 BUILD YOUR OWN CAT HOME OR RUNOverall Size: 9’3” long x 4’0” wide x 6’1½” highHouse Size: 4’0” wide x 3’0” deep x 3’0” high Overall Size: 7’6” long x 3’0” wide x 5’1½” high We have an enviable selection of panels that are allFramework: 38mm x 38mm planed timber. House Size: 3’0” wide x 1’3” high x manufactured in our own factory. The benefit of theseHouse area: is clad with 12mm x 100mm 1’3” deep raised 1’0” with legs panels is that it is possible to design your own cattery,tongued and grooved boarding. run, pen etc. If the panel you require is not shown pleaseThere are two access doors and a two way magnetic pet THE HAMWICK IS AN INEXPENSIVE RUN AND contact us, as the diverse number of panels we producedoor. The roof is covered with bitumen felt. SHELTER PROVIDING A SECURE AREA run into hundreds.A glass window is at the front of the house.Run area: The run is covered with The above has been treated with red cedar wood preservative - this is an additional cost. All planed timber1/2” x 1” x 19 gauge galvanised Twilweld. Panel 6’ x 3’ - ½” x 1” 19G C39 ARUN CHALET galvanised wire £18.45 eachOnly £379 Carriage £55.00 Superb value at only Door Panel 6’ x 3’ - ½” x 1” 19G galvanised wire £32.85 eachThe above has been treated with red cedar wood £401.00 Carriage £55.00 Carriage £45.00 on any quantitypreservative - this is an additional cost Overall size: 9’0” long x 4’9” wide x 6’0” high YOU WILL BE AMAZED AT THE CAT HOMES, RUNS, PENS, House size: 4’9” wide x 3’0” deep x 6’0” high BOOKS AND ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE AT VERY MODERATE The above has been treated with red cedar wood PRICES IN OUR FREE ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. preservative - this is an additional cost. PLEASE SEND £1 STAMP FOR YOUR COPY Carriage terms on accessories - orders over £75.00 free delivery. Orders under £75.00 add £5.50 Excludes Scottish Highlands & Lowlands & Offshore Islands, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Isles of Scilly & Isle of Man MASTER CARD AND VISA WELCOME. ALL CARD HOLDERS CAN PURCHASEBY MAIL OR TELEPHONE BY QUOTING CARD NUMBER - OPEN 9.00am - 5.00pm DAILY 35CAT WORLD

WEIGHT WATCHWatching your cat’s weiWith obesity one of the major veterinary concerns thesedays, how can we manage our cat’s diet effectively andprevent them from becoming overweight? BY SONJA K STEINER eline obesity is the most com- put biscuits out for their cat to ensure they have food during the day andf mon of all nutritional disorders the bowl may be topped up when and many cat owners may not they return. It has to be acknowl- fully appreciate or understand edged that every cat is different;that if their cat is overweight this can some cats are more gluttonous thanhave a detrimental effect on their others and some cats simply eat outhealth and potentially lead to serious of boredom but the result is the samehealth implications. It could be that - a cat who has consumed more thansome owners may be unaware that they actually need. Also, an indoor cattheir cat is a tad overweight until it is will usually not burn off as many calo-mentioned by a veterinary surgeon ries as a cat who ventures outdoors.or veterinary nurse or they simplythink that a couple of pounds will not Treatsmake a difference but from a healthpoint of view, size does matter. A Treats are another way of add-couple of pounds is the equivalent of ing calories to your cat’s diet sonearly 1kg so if your cat weighs 5kg if you are inclined to feed themand their ideal weight is 4kg then that a treat or two, try to ensure thatextra kilo equates to 25% over that the treats you feed are spe-weight. A cat is considered obese cifically formulated for cats andif its weight is about 20% over their you include it within their dailyideal weight. If your vet or veterinary feeding ration. It is amazingnurse mentions your cat’s weight, it how, over a period of time, theshows they are concerned. extra calories contained within the treats add up. An obese cat is less likely to wantto move around as much so conse- There is no doubt that catsquently will not be burning off calo- know exactly how to wheedle aries. Whilst Bagpuss and Garfield are treat out of their owners; it couldcute, they are defined as overweight be a little meow or a look fromand if we are honest, a fat cat is not an those adorable eyes but eitherattractive sight. way they are intelligent enough to know that it could earn thenThe cause of obesity a treat and owners see that as a way of interacting and demon- The most common cause of obe- strating their affection for theirsity is overfeeding and the way cats beloved cat. Some owners feedare fed plays a vital role as many are their cats milk, cheese, chocolate orfed on an ‘as and when basis’. Dry other human food, none of which arefood is more convenient, especially suitable for a cat and can make themwhen owners are out at work, so they36 CAT WORLD

WEIGHT WATCHeight can prevent illnessill. Many cats cannot digest cow’s time at a neighbour’s house andmilk and chocolate contains theobro- they get another feed there. Unlessmine which can be toxic to them. your neighbours have a cat flap that is controlled via a microchip then itA cat’s diet is very difficult to stop a cat going into another house, especially if the Cats require a high protein diet owners are out at work all day. If youand synthesise it to use as energy. A do know your cat is getting fed by alot of dry foods are high in carbohy- friendly neighbour then it would bedrates. Nature did not intend for cats worth speaking to them about yourto be carbohydrate eaters as they concerns.do not have carbohydrate digestingenzymes in their saliva to begin the Health problems in andigestion in the mouth. Therefore in overweight catmost cats the carbohydrates are con-verted into fat as opposed to being Weight gain can come from aburned off for energy. variety of factors such as age, body type, environment, genetics, inactiv- Whilst Willow has never been ity, overfeeding and reproductiverelegated to the ‘fat cat club’ by his status. Being overweight can have a veterinary nurse Louise Mohan, I did detrimental effect upon a cat’s health, ultimately reducing both the length have to watch his weight as he was and quality of its life, so by overfeed- on a mix of complementary wet ing there is a risk that you could be food and complete dry food. If I killing your cat with kindness. They are likely to be more prone to illness- had fed Willow the amount that es such as arthritis, diabetes, heart was suggested for his weight disease, kidney disease, liver disease on the back of the packet, even and urinary system disorders, which taking into account that he is a could affect their quality of life. house cat, I would have ended You may notice your cat having up with a seriously obese cat. shortness of breath after exercise and Willow has since moved onto they are at a greater risk during an- a complete wet food and even aesthesia and surgery. An overweight though his weight has re- cat has decreased flexibility and this mained the same, his vet Mark can prevent them from being able to Buxton commented how he thoroughly groom themselves which looked and felt leaner. can cause skin problems and lead to a matted coat which may require Whilst an owner may be veterinary intervention. very careful in how much their cat is fed according to their ac- Arthritis is more commonly seen tivity levels and age, we have to in cats over the age of ten, so a cat bear in mind that some cats are carrying extra weight can make an greedier than others and once already painful condition worse as it they go outside their owners puts pressure on the joints, resulting have no knowledge as to wheth- in a reluctance to exercise causing er their cat is venturing into the yet further weight gain as the cat house a few doors along through an open cat flap to sneak a few biscuits or whether they spend 37CAT WORLD

WEIGHT WATCHbecomes less active. then persuade your cat to go inside to fed should be for their target weight; As a cat gets older its metabolic get the weight of both together, then always follow veterinary advice. simply deduct one from the other.rate slows down so this, accompanied There are many prescriptionby a decrease in activity, can lead to Body scoring veterinary diets that are specificallyobesity. for weight loss and are balanced Body condition scoring is the most to maintain nutrient balance so it is Lack of exercise and the same accurate way to determine how much important to follow the instructionsamount of calories fed will no doubt fat your cat is carrying. Different web- given by the veterinary professional.lead to weight gain and whilst many sites have slight variations, with one It is difficult to achieve a safe weightcats like to spend a lot of time curled scoring from 1-9 and others 1-5. The loss in a cat without veterinary super-up on a comfy cushion next to the ra- best way to tell if your cat is over- vision purely because the way a cat’sdiator they also like to have stimulation weight is to look at their body shape body works is complex.and exercise so anything you can do and assess the body fat. Can you eas-to encourage your cat to run around ily feel your cat’s ribs? Does your cat There may be owners who do notwill benefit them in the long term. have a pot belly? Looking from above want their cat to move onto a veteri- can you tell if they have a waist? nary diet and if this is the case then it The way the body works changes is important that before any dietaryin overweight cats. Once they are If they do not and have a well cush- changes are made you take adviceoverweight the working speed of ioned ribcage then it is time to look at from the food manufacturer as to whatthe body slows, leading to reduced your cat’s diet. An ideal body condi- is the best way forward for your cat.exercise endurance and stamina and tion is where your cat’s ribs can be For example if you currently feedthey become less active, resulting in felt without any excess fat covering four sachets and you are planningfewer calories needed to maintain the and the waist should be easily visible to reduce this, although you will becorrect weight. when viewed from above, almost like reducing the calorific content your an hour glass shape, and the abdo- cat consumes, how will you know if Obesity associated insulin resist- men should be tucked up towards the they are missing out on vital vitamins,ance is the most common cause of pelvis when viewed from the side. minerals or taurine? If you can, trydiabetes in cats. Symptoms include to split their food into several smallincreased appetite, thirst and urina- Vet check feeds during the day. Cats shouldtion, weight loss, vomiting, poor coat not lose more than 1 – 1.5% of initialcondition, dehydration, weakness Before your cat embarks on a weight per week.in kind legs and bad breath. Whilst weight loss program, an overweightthese can be indicative of other con- or obese cat should be examined by If you were to change brands, thenditions, diabetes can be confirmed or the vet in the first instance. The vet in order to avoid stressing your cateliminated with tests run by your vet. can ensure there are no underlying it is advisable to slowly introduceUnfortunately diabetes as a result of problems present and can ask about the new food over a period of a fewobesity is on the increase in our feline their feeding habits and how much days. However this process can takefriends. exercise they get in order to rule out longer depending on what your cat any medical conditions that may con- is currently being fed to what you areHow can you tell if your cat is tribute to obesity. proposing to feed them. For example,overweight? if you are changing from a low meat Losing weight gradually content diet which may contain sug- It is a good idea to weigh your cat ars to a high meat content diet whichon a regular basis as this will help Weight loss should be done under contains no grains or sugars thenyou to monitor any weight gain or veterinary supervision and moni- please allow up to a month for yourweight loss (which can be a sign of tored over a gradual period of time. cat to get used to their new diet. Ofillness); however this alone will not Putting your cat on a crash diet to lose course some cats will readily eat whattell you if your cat is overweight. weight quickly can lead to hepatic you put in front of them whilst othersThere is so much variation between lipidosis which is a life threatening are notoriously fussy.the different breeds and ages that it liver disease.may be difficult to ascertain what is Commercial pet food is eitherright for your cat. I am very lucky as Your veterinary practice can de- classed as complementary or com-Willow will just sit on a the scales but vise a weight loss plan which is safe plete; whichever you choose, alwaysmany cats will not be so accommo- and suitable for your cat. For example provide fresh, clean water whichdating so the most accurate way is to if your cat weighs 6kg and its target should be changed daily.weigh your cat basket or carrier first, weight is 5kg, then the amount being38 CAT WORLD

WEIGHT WATCHExercise and play time one biscuit at a time to encourage TOP TIP them move a round more; the stairs Trying to persuade a cat who loves are an ideal way of doing this. Taking the medicinenothing more than curling up on theirfavourite cushion to exercise and Many cats enjoy being taken for a We frequentlyplay can be a challenge but it can be walk on the lead so you could try this have to givedone. Every cat is different so buy with your cat; anything that can slowly our cats hair-toys that you think will stimulate them. increase their activity level can only ball treatmentMany cats enjoy chasings lights and be positive. It is worth considering in the form ofwill run from one end of the room that an older cat may not be able to a messy, stickyto another. If they are unfit then it is exercise as much as a younger cat. paste which theyadvisable to build up their exercise will not tolerategradually so they don’t get exhaust- Obesity is easier to prevent than mixed with food.ed. Also, the last thing you want is for to cure but it is never too late and al-them to get out of breath or overheat. though it is a slow process, requiring So I bought a cheap pack of patience and commitment as it may lolly sticks and put a dollop of If your cat is fed biscuits then con- take several months, it is well worth paste on the end, which the catsider putting some into a toy or throw the result in the end. licks off, then the stick is thrown in the bin ready for a clean one next time. Success! Lucy Travell, Barnwood CW: What a great idea Lucy! I’m sure other readers will find your tip very useful. If you have a top tip to share with readers about any aspect of cat care, please email jill.mundy@ ashdown.co.uk Use antibiotics wisely The BVA has announced that veterinary and human medical practitioners have joined forces in a combined campaign to high- light the correct and appropriate use of antibiotics. A ‘One Health’ poster will be in doctors’ and vets’ waiting rooms to ensure people know they should complete a course of antibiotics if prescribed for themselves or their pet and not to take antibiotics for illnesses against which they have no effect. British Veterinary Association President, Gudrun Ravetz, said: “The UK veterinary profession is committed to the responsible use of antibiotics, and BVA supports all of the great work already being done by the profession to reduce the use of antibiotics across all species.” 39CAT WORLD

CHARITY FOCUSShowing support forfelines in needAt this seasonal time of year our thoughts often turn to thosewith little money or possessions so what better time to con-sider animals needing help at rescue centres and sanctuaries BY JILL MUNDY very day the letterbox brings ter of your local newsagent or corner donated to a charity when they have shop in which you can give your loose died. Legacies from wills make upE a handful of leaflets about one change. There are other ways in which around half of all monies donated to charity or another and the TV you can donate money too: animal charities which of course they fundraisers such as Children in are extremely grateful for and reallyNeed or Comic Relief regularly ex- Sponsorship - Most of the larger couldn’t survive without. If you haveceed the previous year’s totaliser. One charities offer a sponsorship scheme already made a will but would like today we may see a similar fundraising which involves setting up a direct debit add a donation to an animal charity,programme for animals in need but at with your bank. The charity will usually you can make a change to your will bypresent each of the animal charities offer you the chance to choose one of adding a Codicil.must do their best to raise their profile the cats in their care to sponsor andin a bid to persuade the public to do then an amount decided by you is Donating timewhat they can to help. transferred to the charity every month. If the cat you have been sponsoring For those who don’t have much Over the next few pages you will finds a new home, you will then be money of their own, or who findfind stories from several rescue asked to choose a new cat to sponsor. themselves with plenty of free time,centres and charities who sadly have volunteering to help at a charity shoptheir work cut out and are constantly Many of these schemes send an or rescue centre is a great way of help-frustrated by the number of unwanted, email to you giving some background ing the charity and also meeting newabandoned cats and kittens being information about ‘your cat’ which will people. It doesn’t need to be a hugebrought through their doors every be followed by regular updates. number of hours.You might be able toweek. It’s heartbreaking to read some serve customers in the shop or workof the stories but the truth is we can’t One-off donation - You could de- behind the scenes sorting throughall adopt every kitten we see peering cide to organise a fundraising event the bags of clothing and homewaresfrom a magazine or website. But there yourself, such as a sponsored walk or that are donated by the public. Orare plenty of other ways in which we coffee morning and donate the money you might be willing to spend the oddcan help to give these abandoned cats raised to your chosen charity. Take a morning or afternoon with a collectingthe best care possible until they do look at some charity websites for other tin at your local supermarket. Many catfind a loving new owner or if they have ideas - some organise exciting events sanctuaries will be glad of a little helpto remain a permanent resident at the such as cycling from Lands End to John with administration tasks or simply justrescue centre. O’Groats for example or a skydive or visiting some of the cats and spending parachute jump. time with them. Any amount of timeDonating money you can give will be very much ap- Gift Aid - If you allow the charity to preciated. Call in to your local animal No charity would want or expect claim gift aid on your donation, they charity shop/sanctuary or look thema person to give more than they can will be able to claim back the amount up online.afford but no matter how small the do- of tax that will have been deductednation, ‘every little helps’, to quote the from your donation.You will usually Fosteringslogan of a well-known supermarket. need to tick a box to agree to this.Donations are welcome online or you With so many cats ending up atmay find a collecting box on the coun- Legacy - Many animal lovers, if they are able to, make it known in their will that they want a specific amount to be40 CAT WORLD

CHARITY FOCUSrescue centres, they often are at risk ofturning abandoned pets away whichnone of them want to do. For this rea-son, most charities will have a networkof foster carers who are willing to lookafter a cat or kitten in their own home.You generally get a pack from thecharity with some food, a litter tray, lit-ter, cat bed and other items, for as longas you have the cat in your care.Youmay need to be prepared to give a catmedication as often they have healthissues from being abandoned or foundin a bad way. You must also be prepared to partwith that cat or kitten when there isspace for it at the rescue centre or if itmoves on to a new forever home. Mostfosterers find what they do extremelyrewarding and some regularly meet upfor social events in their area to sharestories, and concerns; they also makelasting friendships and offer eachother support if it should be needed. Animal charities receive no govern-ment funding so have to rely heavily ondonations and other forms of help fromanimal lovers. If you decide you canoffer some help, no matter how much,they will be extremely grateful andyou will get plenty of satisfaction fromknowing you are doing what you can tohelp animals in their time of need.Animal charities receive no government funding so have to relyheavily on donations and other forms of help from animal lovers. 41CAT WORLD

RoseValleyMists Send our friends & supporters best wishes for Christmas & A Happy Healthy New Year for 2017We thank The International Cat Association Judges (TICA) for their support in awardingthe title of The Western Europe Regional Award Winner 2015 -2016 Australian Mist toour beautiful girl: Champion RoseValleyMists BathshebaPure Australian Mist kittens available to suitable homes December/January onwards.Telephone: 01189 811109 or email: [email protected] www.katsacute.co.uk

Photo by Chrissy Russell

CHARITY FOCUS Rescued mum takes in tiny orphaned kitten Loose change When a tiny orphaned kitten arrived at The Mayhew Animal can make all Home recently, a wonderful mother cat accepted him into the difference her litter and brought him up as one of her ownW orld Animal Friends BY JILL MUNDY is a small UK-based charity that funds espite already nursing four of the Vet Team unfortunately could only animal rescue overseas. “I started give her medication directly to the the charity myself in 2010 and d her own kittens, one-year-old eye and would have to wait until her since then we have raised more rescue cat Carrie, who is blind in kittens had been weaned off her milk than £100,000, organiser Lynn one eye, quickly stepped up to until they began full treatment and any Maguire told us. become a surrogate mum for ten-day- procedures. old Spiro, who was found as a stray “We currently support small without his mum and was desperately After two days at the Home, Carrie animal shelters and independ- looking for some feline, motherly love. gave birth to six little kittens. Sadly two ent animal rescuers in Romania, of the kittens passed away very shortly Bulgaria, Bosnia, Serbia, Greece, The Mayhew’s Animal Welfare Offic- after birth and could not be revived. Cyprus, Egypt and Ukraine. ers were first alerted to Carrie when Thankfully, Carrie’s other kittens, a concerned member of the public named aptly after famous Carries’ The money we raise is used to called to say they’d spotted a heavily such as, Fisher, Bradshaw, Mulligan buy food, vaccinations, neutering pregnant, stray cat with a bad eye liv- and Sissy (Spacek), were all healthy and veterinary treatment. ing in North London. and happy. This Christmas we are again The Officers brought Carrie straight Two weeks later, The Mayhew’s Ani- having our ‘Donate a Dinner’ back to the Home, where Mayhew mal Welfare Officers were called out appeal where we ask people to Cattery staff immediately settled her to rescue ten-day-old black and white donate just £1 to feed a homeless into a warm and comfortable cat cabin kitten, Spiro, who was found aban- cat or dog at Christmas. and the Vet Team gave her a thorough doned in a garden without his mum. examination. Spiro was too young to be left on his People can donate one din- own outside without a mum and would ner or lots of dinners and we are Straight away the Vet Team spotted not have survived if he had been left grateful for every single donation that Carrie’s right eye was in a bad much longer, so the officers brought we receive. state; it was inflamed and there was a him straight back to the Home, where layer of scar tissue overlying the eye the Vet and Cattery Team could care We are a small charity and – it was evident she could not see out we run on a voluntary basis with of it. The team suspected it had been for him. 100% of donations being used to caused by an ulcer in the eye, Being so young, help homeless animals.” most likely as a result of a feline the Mayhew’s cat- People can Donate a Dinner by virus, which most tery team knew visiting the website: www.world- domestic cats that for Spiro to animalfriends.co.uk or by send- would normally be able to grow ing a donation to WAF, Kerpses, be vaccinated up into a healthy, Trolliloes Lane, Cowbeech, East against. normal adult cat, Sussex BN27 4JG he would need ei- As Carrie was44 CAT WORLD heavily pregnant ther hand-rearing and due to give or a surrogate birth at any time, mum. Though The

Mayhew try to do everything they can CHARITY FOCUS adopt him for a lifetime of love.to step into the mum’s paws, there is Every year The Mayhew’s Animalnever a real replacement for a caring, eye doesn’t seem to bother her at all,feline mother, and so the team decided especially since she had lost vision Welfare Officers and Vet Clinic re-to see if Carrie would take Spiro under in it before she came into our Home. spond to hundreds of animals in need;her wing. One eyed cats can still absolutely live please consider a donation to help happy and fulfilling lives.” them help even more animals. The Mayhew’s Head of AnimalWelfare, Gillian Notton, said: “We sus- As soon as Carrie recovered and If you are interested in adopting apected that Carrie would make a good started showing off her friendly and cat like Spiro please visit their websitesurrogate mum as she has such a affectionate nature, she found a home for details of cats currently looking forgentle, caring temperament. As her kit- in no time at all. Little Spiro however is a home.tens were a very similar age to Spiro, still waiting for that special person towe also knew that her milk would beat the right stage for his developmentand that the others weren’t old enoughto push him out of the litter. “We slowly introduced Spiro to thelitter and, despite the other kittenshissing at him at first, Carrie did notseem upset and appeared happy towelcome Spiro into her litter. Afterabout ten minutes, Spiro settled downand joined the other kittens sucklingfor milk. Thankfully Carrie did notseem to mind, happily taking on theabandoned kitten.” Staff checked in on the litter everyfive or ten minutes throughout the dayand night but Carrie seemed relaxedand happy with the little addition to herfamily. Spiro was completely settledinto the litter within 24 hours. Over the next few weeks Carriebrought all five kittens up as one family.Once they were old enough, the kittenswere able to leave their mum and wereneutered, vaccinated, microchippedand given a final health check by theVet Team, before they were ready tofind new homes. Once Carrie’s kittens had flown thenest, the Vet Team were finally able toproperly attend to her health needsand treat her eye. The topical treat-ments and anti-inflammatories Carriehad been given whilst nursing herkittens had sadly had no effect and thedifficult decision to remove her eyewas made. Mayhew Vet, Dr. Áine Maguire, said:“If we were to leave the infected eye,it’s probable she would have devel-oped Glaucoma, which would havebeen very painful and uncomfortable. “Carrie recovered from the opera-tion very quickly and living with one 45CAT WORLD

CHARITY FOCUS Was little Arthur Appeal to protect hurt deliberately? newborn kittensT iny kitten Arthur was only around four months old when The UK’s largest charity is hoping to persuade the he was found abandoned Government to change laws to offer greater protection near Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in to newborn kittens being bred in poor conditions London in a cat carrier at the be- ginning of October. The poor little eading charity Cats Protection exist in some cases, particularly mite was in a terrible condition, with within membership organisations severe burns around his mouth. L has launched the True Cost of like the Governing Council of the Cat Kittens campaign in a bid to Fancy (GCCF) that register pedigree It was lucky Arthur was discov- get the current law changed breeds and advise on welfare, Cats ered and brought into the world- to protect young kittens from being Protection wants to see new regula- famous charity when he was. Upon sold sick and underage. The char- tions that better protect cats and closer inspection, staff from Batter- ity believes a growing commercial kittens from those who put money sea’s Veterinary Hospital realised his market means kittens are being bred before welfare.” fur was crusted over and his tongue in poor welfare conditions, sold for was completely swollen and ulcer- amounts ranging between £50 and Jacqui continued: “The law relating ated. The vets believed he may have several hundred pounds and result- to the selling of cats and kittens dates been covered in a caustic substance ing in hefty veterinary bills for the back to 1951 and is no longer fit for and burned his mouth and tongue new owners. purpose. The way pets are sold has trying to lick his coat clean. completely changed since the 1950s Cats Protection is asking for the and far fewer cats are sold in pet Arthur was given a thoroughly law on pet sales to get tough on peo- shops. The commercial market today good clean and a feeding tube was ple putting money before the kittens’ chiefly operates through home- inserted to help him eat and drink. welfare. Cats Protection’s Advocacy based breeders placing advertise- After some careful TLC from Batter- Manager Jacqui Cuff said: “While ments on classified websites that sell sea, Arthur was soon happily eating there have always been individuals everything from fridges to felines. on his own and feeling like a king prepared to cash-in on the appeal again. of a young kitten, it is the growth of “The commercial breeding and the internet and social media over sales of cats and kittens is a growing A purrfect knight in shining tabby recent years which has made access problem and updating pet vending armour! Fit, healthy and raring to go, to kittens quicker and easier than laws would be a huge step towards Arthur was soon seeking a loving ever before. All too often, unsuspect- safeguarding feline welfare, so we home. ing purchasers buy kittens which are welcome the current DEFRA review sick and in many cases younger than of animal establishment licences.” Battersea’s Head of Catteries, eight weeks old – the age at which Lindsey Quinlan, said: “Arthur was they’re ready to leave their mother. Members of the public are being really tiny and in a bad way when he Having been separated from their asked to back the campaign by urg- arrived at Battersea. We were all re- mother too soon, these kittens lack ing their own MP to seek assurances ally worried about him when we first the essential nutrients to develop from DEFRA that new licensing regu- found him but the vets did a great properly, can be prone to disease lations and conditions on pet vending job in getting this brave little warrior and illness and are often poorly will address the problem of kittens back to full health.” socialised. being sold sick and underage. For further information on Batter- “While we know that there are For further information, please vis- sea Dogs & Cats Home please visit responsible sellers and that good it: www.cats.org.uk/truecostofkittens www.battersea.org.uk practice and high welfare standards or follow the campaign on Twitter on @CPadvocacy #TrueCostofKittens46 CAT WORLD

CHARITY FOCUS Tugging on the holiday heartstrings The animal charities in the UK do an amazing job but other countries, many with popular holiday destinations, do not seem to have the same concerns for the welfare of strays BY SINEAD JAKES was staying at the Crowne Plaza there were any animal res- ing at the same time!) and cue centres locally where asked, if I paid for Daisy,i in Muscat. On the first day of my I could get her safe and would they take her in, treat stay I noticed a tiny kitten spring medically treated. In the her, and keep her till they out from behind a hedge near my meantime, two pest control found her a home or until Isun lounger. She was a playful little traps had appeared be- could get her to the UK andthing (tri-colour, pretty) but looked hind the hedge on the cliff keep her as my own.very, very thin and approximately five top. That was it - I HAD toweek’s old. There was no sign of her do something and quick! They explained it wouldmother or of any siblings; she was just cost OMR 250 (£500) asall alone. The only clinic/sanc- they were so full and strug- tuary I could find was gling for funds. I said I She would beg for food at the tables Muscat Vets. I called them would get her to the clinicbut no one was willing to give her any and explained how Daisy (I named the next day. Daisy the kitty spent atid bits, so I began to feed her from the her Daisy!) was on her own living in night in the Crowne Plaza with me – Ihotel’s buffet. Lucky for her, fresh fish the grounds of the Crowne Plaza and couldn’t risk her being taken away inwas on the menu every day! The more asked if they could take her in. They the meantime….pest traps, eeek!I fed her, the more she loved me and were full to capacity as was Elke, the So the next day, after lots of tears, II was struck by how affectionate she owner and vet at the clinic, who takes took her in to Muscat Vets, a mile awaywas, considering she was apparently cats in all of the time. I came off the from where I was staying. Sadly it willso young. I would put little plastic pots phone and wondered what else I could be almost impossible to find reason-of water down by the hedge where do for this lovely little kitten; I so badly able homes for her locally as there areshe lived a few times a day, plus fish or wanted to bring her home to the UK just no interested adopters. With thechicken. After eating, or whenever she with me. So I rang them back, thinking economic crisis in Oman most expatssaw me, she’d come out and climb on of those horrid pest traps (emotions have left or are leaving and they areme, play and be affectionate…she was grabbing hold of me and blubber- usually the main adopters.adorable! I would love to get Daisy to the UK and I’m in touch regularly with the vet I fell in love with her. So I continued checking her progress and I’m goingfeeding her three times a day. The to bring her over here when she’s 4-5waiter saw me playing with her one months old – the vet is helping me withday and told me she had first ap- the cost and they are now persuad-peared at the Crowne Plaza a week ing me to bring her friend too whichago, apparently ‘half dead’. Then he would be at no additional cost to me!mentioned that cats who are found in I desperately want to keep Daisythe grounds are usually caught by pest myself but will probably need to findcontrol personnel, put in cages and a UK home for the other kitten. Pleasetaken “far away”. I began to worry; contact me if you can help: daisyres-it was Monday and I was leaving the [email protected] to go to another resort on theWednesday, so I researched to see if 47CAT WORLD

HEALTHFeed a healthy diet for a healthy cat Overeating or eating the wrong type of food can lead to weight gain; follow this sensible advice for getting your cat back into shape BY YOLANDA WESSELS ne of the most frequent issues burn. Often cats are kept indoors due O cat owners are faced with in today’s life is obesity in their to safety hazards outside; therefore, cats and various health issues being confined, they are exposed to as a result thereof. According to a less exercise as when they would be study in the USA, 57% of their cats free to roam to their heart’s desire are overweight. Even if your cat is as outside. little as 20% overweight, it can lead to health issues such as Diabetes Melli- Because they are mainly or exclu- tus, Arthritis, heart problems, urinary sively indoors, they tend to eat larger tract infection, breathing problems amounts or more often out of bore- and hepatic lipidosis. dom, especially if they have perma- nent access to food. The primary reason why cats become obese is quite obvi- Sterilisation and castration reduces ous: they consume more the cat’s metabolism and it’s vital that calories than they the kilojoule intake be decreased otherwise they will rapidly gain weight. Many owners are uncertain about portion size and how many times per day a cat needs to be fed. Cats are also very manipulative creatures and they will try their luck for a little more food! As cats age, they also need less kilojoules as they are less active. The ideal weight The ideal weight of a fully grown adult cat (approximately 12 months) will depend on the gender and breed. Male cats are bigger than females and mixed breed cats tend to gain weight more easily than thoroughbred cats.You should always be able to feel the cat’s hip and ribs and not see48 CAT WORLD

HEALTHit. The waist should be clearly visibleand the belly, from the ribcage to thepelvis, must be slimmer. A veterinar-ian will confirm if your cat is over-weight after a thorough examinationand being weighed. Blood and urinetests will also be done to confirm ifthe cat’s hormone levels are normaland no physical or metabolic imbal-ances present.Diet consumes correspondingly with her balls. Try to get her to interact with energy levels. Weigh your cat once you by playing games. In nature, cats Follow a diet plan where the cat per month; if there isn’t any differ- are supposed to catch ten mice perwill lose weight gradually. If there is ence, she is still consuming more day to be able to survive; therefore ita drastic reduction in food intake it than she should. The ideal, healthy remains important for them to ex-can lead to a potentially life threaten- weight loss program will help her to press their natural skill, and in thising condition, hepatic lipidosis. It is lose excess weight gradually over a instance, to lose weight too.essential that the cat does not lose period of time to reach and maintainmore than 2% of her body weight per her ideal weight. When she reaches In order for the cat to partake in aweek. The diet must be specifically her ideal weight, adapt her food so successful weight loss programmeformulated for active weight loss, that her weight will remain stable. Al- and achieve positive results, you asotherwise essential nutrients can ways remember that your cat needs her owner will have to be dedicatedbe lost in the process. Remember a good quality cat food - do not settle and well enlightened to assist in giv-that cats are carnivores and need for less. ing her exercise and the correct fooda diet rich in proteins and fats with portions. Continuous monitoring oflittle carbohydrates. That is why you Exercise her weight is essential; it will also notshould avoid giving your cat treats always be easy to persuade her toas these snacks are usually high Along with her newly adapted diet, participate in activities, as cats preferin carbohydrates, which actually she needs adequate, regular exercise to mostly sleep during the day. Sheencourages cats to eat even more. (especially if she is only indoors) to may also express very finicky behav-The diet should consist of 35-45% shed the excess weight. An excellent ior whilst adapting to a new diet.protein, 20% fat and a small percent- way to encourage her to exercise isage of carbohydrates to be able to with interactive toys that mimic prey, Keep focusing on the end resultreach her ideal weight and to main- like a laser light, feathery toys or where she reaches her ideal weighttain it. More fibre in her diet helps her and can lead a healthy, active life.to feel fuller for longer as it providesvolume and takes longer to digest.Healthy weight loss program Cats do not adapt easily to change,so when you switch over to a newdiet, you should introduce her to thenew food by mixing the old diet withthe new one and gradually increas-ing the new diet, whilst lessening theold one. Read the feeding instructionson the label as you need to ensureyou give the correct amount. It’s bestto give two to four small portionsthroughout the day and remove thebowl after eating so that no food isavailable continuously. Take note ofthe amount of food (kilojoules) she 49CAT WORLD

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