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CCaattwwoorrllddwww.catworld.co.ukGIGVREEAAWTAYS 20 PAIRS OFTICKETSTO LONDON PET SHOW May 2015 Issue:446 £3.25Kitten SpecialFeline KITTEN PROOFfirst aid YOUR HOMEypMoraeukp’reaerseudre● GROOMING● FEEDING● ..CUDDLING5THCEARASABTTNOPRTOEYIKSSS ATOZ GIVEAWAY BREED 05 GUIDEBRITAIN’S FAVOURITE CAT MAGAZINE 9 770952 287125 >

contents 36 FELINE CYSTITIS FACTS4 MEWS ROUND 22 INSURANCE FOR CATS A valuable insight into this stress-The latest feline headlines Can we really a˜ord not to related disease insure our feline friends?8 BOOK REVIEWS 40 GORDY AND ME 24 CONFIDENT CUDDLESTwo great books for your wish list The cat with a sticky out tongue Teach children to pick up a kitten is spoilt10 THE LONDON PET SHOW properly and respectfully 44 LIONESSES RESCUEDTen reasons why the London Pet 26 FEEDING NATURALLYShow has something for everyone A daring rescue attempt in Peru Consider natural Cat & Kitten foods12 KATY EDGE from ORIJEN for feeding your kitten 47 FIRST AID: BE PREPAREDKaty and the animals are abandoned 28 NEW KITTEN DIET Know what to do whenfor a whole week accidents happen The correct type of diet for your14 START THEM EARLY new kitten is important 48 GROOMING KITTENSGet your kitten used to good habits 31 VETS CYCLE 800 MILES Six top tips for a healthy coatfrom the time you bring her home and a great way to bond Fundraising for cats on this year’s16 EUROPEAN SUCCESS Tour de Vet 2015 49 FIND YOUR IDEAL KITTENBritish company ProtectaPuss is 32 CANCER IN YOUR CAT Our A-Z of the breeds, theirgoing from strength to strength personalities and how to care for them Emily Fowler looks at the third most20 HELLO NEW KITTEN common tumour type in female cats 59 JUST FOR FUNTips for bringing home and 34 ARE YOU KITTEN PROOF? Enjoy our latest puzzle pagesettling a new kitten Make sure you have considered all possible home hazards CAT CLASSIFIED 726K6ITTENS FOR SALE Britain’s leading breed-by-breed guide to kittens for sale 76 BREEDERS DIRECTORY The UK leading directory of pedigree cat breeders 79 STUD DIRECTORY Find a suitable stud, together with details of parentage2 NOVEMBER 2013 catworld.co.uk

welcome 60 ASK THE EXPERTS IT’S KITTEN time again! Our kitten special is one of the favourite issues to put together as we can’t help but Your questions answered be bowled over by all the lovely photos and stories we receive. I hope you will agree that there are some stun- 63 DAISY COMES TO STAY ning kittens pictured in this issue. Life has become a little more mad We also need to remind ourselves how important it than usual for Libby Ru° e is to look after that new bundle of fluff and fun right from the start to make sure they live the happiest and 64 KIMS WORLD healthiest life possible. It’s heartbreaking to read stories from rescue charities about the number of kittens, and The latest adventures of Kim cats for that matter, abandoned literally on their door- and her cats step needing new loving homes. Armed with our kitten special you should have a great deal of the information 66 END OF LIFE CARE you need to put good ownership into practice. Vets2Home’s 24/7 service for If you’re still not sure which kitten is for you, the pets at the end of their life London Pet Show promises to be a good day out for all animal lovers and they have given Cat World 20 68 SHOW NEWS pairs of free tickets to give away to our readers! Then there are details of the numerous breed shows around Carole Kemp has results from the country where you can go along and see for yourself some recent shows how beautiful their cats are. 70 SHOW DATES And if you have all the feline company you need, have a go at winning a copy of anti-stress book Cat Forthcoming shows in the UK and Therapy, sit down and let yourself unwind... Ireland Till next month 82 PHOTO FINISH Jill Jill Mundy, Editor • [email protected]: Contributors: Write for Cat WorldJill Mundy Richard Allport, Alison Logan, Inga MacKellar,[email protected] Sonja K Steiner, Elaine Mead, Lorraine Schofield, ykotttWoonaauloulreeehw’nntrfeeeittlateearfadtmdolhfwgrreteooaewmybfoarsimsfiltlyplipooeneoaomgucfrk,i.taaciaiWnlcioilnsgunredtlitfacweorarhisbrraappiunrrtaedeetescoa@rswsisirao,a.slww.slSnyhSoriftdowiothioefarifwranycsnytonatout.tiocnsouo,t-jhdohw.euieaxineknvppk’deatohnulaodrve Katy Edge, Kim Rogers, Emily Fowler, Kim Houston,Media Consultant Libby Ruffle, Justyna RatczakMaria [email protected] Carole Kemp - Show ReporterDesigner: UK office:Wendy Crosthwaite PO Box 2258, [email protected] RH20 9BA Great Britain Tel: (01903) 884988 Subscriptions All editorial contributions in the form of articles, letters 1 year (12 issues): and photographs (b/w or colour print or transparencies) are welcomed by Cat World but cannot be returned UK £42.99 unless accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. iMAG £43 In any event the publisher can accept no responsibility Add the iMag Digital Library to your for loss or damage to contributions. All material accepted subscription for only an extra £38 per year. solely on the basis that the author accepts the assessment of the publisher as to its commercial value. All material Printed in the UK submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis that Distributed to the newstrade by Comag copyright in the work will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights world-wide, in all forms and media. MAY 2015 © Copyright catworld.co.uk NOVEMBER 2013 3

MEWSROUND CAT NEWS & GOSSIPAn un-bear-ably cute donationOver 300 teddies, donated by a cat lover to the UK’sleading feline welfare charity Cats Protection, will be soldto raise funds to help unwanted kitties across the UK. The cat-loving owner of this cuddly collection sadlypassed away recently and her family asked for the ted-dies to be donated to Cats Protection. The bears will besold through the charity’s shops around the UK, helpingunwanted cats find a better life. Pictured is curious cat Donald, investigating. Visitwww.cats.org.uk to see details of cats in need of homesin your area. YouTube film follows lionesses’ epic journey to Africa… with a little help from Peter Andre! Win tickets to the The Born Free Foundation has will encourage parents to London Pet Show released a heart-warming new educate their kids on where film which follows rescued wild animals belong.” With hundreds of different animals, ex-circus lionesses Maggie and amazing animal action displays and fun Sonja, as they start an idyllic Watch the uplifting and informative talks and demonstra- new life in Africa… with a little story of Maggie and Sonja’s tions, the London Pet Show is the ulti- help from singer and TV star, return ‘home’ to Africa mate day out for pet lovers, owners Peter Andre! at: www.youtube.com/ and families. watch?v=gBjmS5cORTA Viewers can now watch as Enter your feline friend into the Born Free Patron, Peter, meets Maggie and Sonja are GCCF Top Cats competition, with the feisty sisters at Heathrow Airport, and enjoying their new life at the awards for both pedigree and house- follow their epic, 6,000 mile journey from Shamwari Reserve and are becoming confi- hold cats. Visit other themed zones snowy Belgium to their idyllic new home at dent when visitors come by on a tour of the and see a whole variety of different the Born Free Big Cat Rescue and Education centre. “Maggie has even started to roar and animals from dogs to micro pigs to Centre at Shamwari Game Reserve in South she sounds amazing!” reptiles. And don’t forget to stop by Africa. You can read more about Maggie and the market place for some retail thera- Sonja and other big cats by vsiting www. py for you or your pet. Peter described meeting Maggie and bornfree.org.uk and reading the Big Cat Diary Sonja as “awe-inspiring” and used the oppor- 2015. Cat World readers have the oppor- tunity to highlight the wider issues sur- tunity to win a pair of tickets to the rounding animals in captivity, describing, the show, which takes place at ExCeL, difficulties which he and many other parents London on 9th and 10th May 2015. We face when explaining to their children why have 20 pairs of tickets to give away! zoos and circuses are wrong: Head to page 11 for full details. “It’s a tough one because as kids, we4 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk didn’t understand that animals shouldn’t live in captivity, so we can’t really expect our own children to feel any differently unless we teach them. Hopefully stories like this

Battersea urges owners Scientists reinforce health benefitsto consider their pets of human-animal interactionbefore smoking Researchers at the WALTHAM® Centre for Pet Nutrition, University of Montana and TheBattersea Dogs & Cats Home is urging Ohio State University have released new recommendations highlighting potential solutionsall owners to think about their pets to overcome both perceived and real barriers to pet ownership, enabling older adults tobefore lighting up, following recent spend more time with pets, enjoying the emotional and physical benefits that this bondingreports of the death of a dog due to experience can bring.passive smoking. Existing schemes to help older adults include financial help with adoption fees, home The effects of second-hand smoke delivery of pet food (such as Meals on Wheels for pets) and programs to help look afteron people are quite well publicised. or rehome pets if adults become unable to care for them. New solutions could includeHowever a lot of smokers don’t realise ‘pet-adoption prescriptions’ for older adults affected with grief or isolation, trial adoptionsthat it could also be damaging to their from shelters and guidance on pet species and breeds to match the individual’s needs.pet’s health. Dogs and cats whoseowners smoke are twice as likely to “Many older adults would love to spend time with a pet and would benefit greatlydevelop some types of cancers as from the positive effects the companionship brings, yet they worry about how theythose whose owners don’t. Smoking can afford or care for a pet,” said Sandra McCune, PhD, Scientific Leader, Human Animalcan also make symptoms of illnesses Interaction at WALTHAM®. “In many cases, these barriers are easy to overcome. We envi-such as asthma and bronchitis worse in sion a future in which fostering human-animal bonds is no longer seen as alternative carepets already suffering from them. but a standard of care.” Shaun Opperman, Battersea’sVeterinary Director, said: “At Batterseawe always advise owners not to smokearound their pets because they areequally susceptible to the diseaserisk, whilst generally being unable toescape it. “Cats particularly are at risk fromgrooming the toxins contained intobacco smoke off their fur; this cancause oral cancers. In addition, wesee frequent cases of cats with felineasthma, which can be aggravated bysecond hand smoke. In order to bet-ter protect your pets, take the sameprecautions as you would with a child- don’t smoke around them and keepthem away from second-hand smoke.”Cats love classicalIt is widely accepted that humans benefit from listening to music. An extensive body ofresearch indicates that these benefits extend even to patients under general anaesthe-sia and include reduced perceived pain, anxiety and stress. According to research published recently in the Journal of Feline Medicine andSurgery by veterinary clinicians at the University of Lisbon, music is likewise benefi-cial for cats in the surgical environment. But cats, it seems, benefit most from clas-sical music. The clinicians studied 12 female pet cats undergoing surgery for neutering andrecorded their respiratory rate and pupil diameter at various points to gauge theirdepth of anaesthesia. The cats, which had been fitted with headphones, weremeanwhile exposed to two minutes of silence (as a control), followed randomly bytwo minutes each of Barber’s ‘Adagio for Strings (Opus 11)’, Natalie Imbruglia’s ‘Torn’and AC/DC’s ‘Thunderstruck’. The results showed that the cats were in a more relaxed state under the influ-ence of classical music and concluded that the use of certain music genres in thesurgical theatre may allow a decrease in the dose of anaesthetic agent required,in turn reducing the risk of undesirable side effects and thus promotingpatient safety.The study can be read for free here:http://jfm.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/03/30/1098612X15575778.full.pdf+html catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 5

MEWS ROUND Choosing a rescue Move to stamp out rogue kitten online pet advertising If you have decided to adopt a rescue kitten, the same guidelines apply initially as DEFRA and the Pet Advertising Advisory when you are considering a pedigree breed - choose a kitten that is suitable for your group recently reported that over 130,000 home and your lifestyle. inappropriate adverts selling pets have been removed from different websites If at all possible, spend time at the rescue centre getting to know some of the kit- thanks to a set of agreed standards for tens and choose yours based on their temperament and personality. Talk to the cen- online pet advertising. Signatories to the tre staff and volunteers, as they will have a good idea. Some kittens may have spent standards, agreed in 2013, include lead- time with a fosterer and they will have a lot of knowledge about how the kitten has ing websites Preloved, Pets4Homes, and progressed. Friday Media Group. A subdued kitten, although beautiful, may not be a good choice as it could have The sector-led standards were agreed problems socialising and settling in to your home. by members of the Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) and aim to edu- Remember that the kittens probably haven’t had the best start in life and have cate website operators and the public arrived at the rescue centre for a myriad of reasons, from the death of their owner to about what they can do to help stop simply being unwanted. Some may have started life in a domestic environment while the misleading or illegal trade in pets and others could have been strays and used to living outdoors. imported animals. Many rescue centres offer plenty of advice and support in the first few weeks of Examples of changes websites have adopting your kitten. All should have their kittens neutered, vaccinated and micro- made recently to improve standards are: chipped and some may provide a ‘new kitten pack’ or early insurance cover. - The removal of adverts for illegal ani- mals such as dogs banned under Section 1 And finally, don’t be surprised if you go in with an idea of the kitten you would of the Dangerous Dogs Act; like to adopt but leave with something completely different - most of us will adopt - The removal of adverts for non-human the kitten that pulls at our heart strings - the one who chooses us! primates; and - The removal of adverts for pregnant Free cat care advice at London Pet Show animals. The UK’s largest cat charity, Cats Protection, will be helping people of all ages The standards state that websites learn about feline welfare when it joins the London Pet Show at the ExCel must undertake certain actions before London. advertising domestic pets. For example, PAAG signatory websites have commit- Cats Protection will be at the event, from May 9-10, with an expert speaker and a wealth of cat care advice for those looking to adopt a cat. The char- •ted to: ity’s Behaviour Manager Nicky Trevorrow will be giving free talks throughout Running automated checks for ‘black- the weekend on stress in cats and will demonstrate the unique Feline Fort®, a listed’ words/terms such as banned three-piece unit consisting of a cat step, table and hide that enables cats to breeds and filtering out inappropriate or express natural behaviours such as hiding. •illegal adverts for ‘dangerous’ animals. Staff will also be on hand to discuss cat welfare and how its education pro- Requiring all vendors to display a recent grammes can help future generations improve the lives of UK cats. photograph and the age of the animal that they are advertising, so that any wel- Emma Osborne, Cats Protection’s Events Manager, said: “We’ll be on hand to help visitors understand why neutering, vaccination, microchipping and healthy •fare issues can be identified. eating is so important for cats. Fortunately, there are many responsible own- Label clearly each pet advert to show ers who take an active interest in keeping their cats safe and healthy but we whether it is a private sale, a commercial also know we have a role to educate people of all ages about feline welfare.” sale or from a rescue/rehoming centre. As well as talks, the charity also offers free, curriculum-linked teaching PAAG Spokesperson Margaret resources for early years/foundation, primary and secondary school students. Donnellan said: “PAAG is delighted to To request a pack, email [email protected] or download for free at www. see the progress made by the classified cats.org.uk/learn websites who have committed to imple- menting the minimum standards. It is clear from the number of unscrupulous adverts blocked over the past twelve months that sites truly can improve their pet sections through proper commitment to animal welfare, and we would urge other classified sites in the UK to follow the committed sites’ example. “Although a lot has been done, we all acknowledge that there is more to do, and we hope that continued engagement will ultimately help to make the internet a safer place for pets and those looking to purchase a pet.”6 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

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rbeovokiewsCat Therapy100 anti-stress mysterious and friendly.colouring in pictures Simple, portable and easy to do - thisL et yourself be soothed by colouring A5 hardback book is perfect as a treat for as you rediscover your inner calm. yourself or as a gift for someone looking There is nothing more sooth- for a new meditative therapy. Relax anding than to caress a cat. Research is rediscover the joy of being creative.increasingly finding cause to recommendhuman-cat interaction as a way of reliev- Cat Therapy is published by Yellowing stress, particularly for the elderly or Kite and is available now, RRP £10.99disabled. Now there is another option -colouring in pictures is believed to relax Meet the illustrators: such as photography andand ease tension. Vincent Jaunatre comes traditional drawing. I’m absolutely passionate about Cat Therapy, a Yellow Kite book, con- from Nantes and works cats; I’m fascinated by theirtains 100 anti-stress pictures for you to both as an illustrator and mystery and grace, and thecolour in. Colouring in cats is an excel- a graphic designer. “My very special energy theylent art therapy intervention and offers work basically revolves have. Mitsou, my own littlean innovative form of stress relief. around music, skate board- domestic tiger, makes me extremelyDe-stress yourself and unwind by col- ing and urban culture. happy.”ouring in these feline-inspired designs. After all, cats as characters Charlotte Segond-RabilloudWith coloured pencils or felt tip pens, are integral to any city.” “As a textile designer, I’ve worked mycolour in this collection of 100 designs way around the fields of fine arts, decora-showing the cat in all its guises, both Lidia Kostanek origi- tive arts and pattern design for home and nates from Warsaw but interior decoration. I enjoy colours and has now settled in France. materials, words, emotions, and stories “Attracted by issues to do like the appealing, languorous story of with the condition of the cats.” human body and female identity during my deghree, I carried on with my artistic •WIN your own colouring book! research (drawings, engravings, collages). We have five copies of Cat Therapy When I came to Nantes, I started work- to give away. If you need a little more ing in a ceramic sculpture workshop. creativity and relaxation in your life, There is something feminine about cats all you need to do is tell us how that really appeals to me.” many illustrators were involved in creating the designs for you to colour Geraldine Meo is a graphic designer in and send your answer to editor@ who likes dabbling in everything; she catworld.co.uk by 30th May 2015. divides her time between book design, storyboards and illustration. Despite being allergic to cats, Geraldine tries her best to stroke them. “Cats are animals with an ego which makes them very funny at times and also terribly human.” Emilie Ramon is a textile and graphic designer. “My pop/retro Bohemian style draws its inspiration primarily from nature, from the 1920s to 1970s, from psychedelia and folklore from countries like Mexico. I love mixing techniques8 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

A-Z of Cat Healthand First AidThis book will be one that you reach for againand again, whenever you have any concernsover the health and wellbeing of your catA -Z of Cat Health and First Aid: and this revised and updated edition is perature for people – additional warmth A Practical Guide for Owners is sure to be received just as enthusiasti- is obtained from blankets, well-padded written by Andrew Gardiner and cally. warm water bottles or warm packs, ifwill be invaluable to anyone who owns needed. Food should be tempting andor is thinking of owning a cat or kitten, • The following extract is an example of within easy reach. There should also bewith more than 200 common conditions water and a litter tray nearby.explained in easy to understand terms the clear way in which the book is writ- Sick cats often have very poor appe-and advice for nursing or veterinary ten: tites. They may reject their usual cat foodtreatment. and attempting to force them to eat is There is a saying, ‘You own a dog, but pointless. Try any of the following, which Cats are now the most popular com- you feed a cat’ often seem palatable to poorly cats.panion animal in many countries and vet-erinary medicine has moved away from Any vet will tell you that cats can be • Tinned fish, especially sardines inviewing them as ‘small dogs’. Over the awkward patients. For one thing, their tomato saucelast 10 years there have been enormous dignity is lost and their instincts, too, can •••• Smoked hamdevelopments in the diagnosis and treat- be harmful. A sick cat may be bad tem- Prawns obtainablement of common cat problems. In A-Z pered and irritable or may crawl under Cooked chicken or fishof Cat Health and First Aid, Andrew a shed to sit the illness out (or, always Special convalescence foodsGardiner, an experienced and practicing the worry, get progressively worse). The from veterinary practicesvet, draws on these developments to pro- independence and even remoteness that Warming the food helps release aro-vide the ideal guide to the practical nurs- we value in healthy cats can become a mas which will tempt the appetite.ing and first aid that anyone can carry problem when they are not well, making Cats need to be checked on, unob-out at home to help their cat. feline medicine and treatment quite dif- trusively, every hour or so and often ferent from its canine counterpart. appreciate attention, stroking, gentle Cats are as varied and complex as grooming and bathing of the mouth, eyespeople and Andrew Gardiner provides This book, I hope, will give you a and nose with water and cotton wool.specific approaches to the common health good insight into cat health and behav- This frequently seems to improve theirproblems faced by cats, from cat flu and iour, and allow the most effective nursing demeanour significantly and many catsfeline enteritis to obesity and ringworm. and first aid to be supplied to the patient will eat during or after this treatment. ItThis revised and updated guide will under care. Use the book as a way of is an important psychological stimulationinform and educate any cat owner how understanding your cat and its illness orbetter to provide for their companion’s injury better. Use it to ask questions ofhealth. your veterinary surgeon or nurse about anything you don’t understand concern-• Over 200 common conditions fully ing the treatment they are proposing – and is all part of good nursing.explained they will be happy to explain. However, Andrew Gardiner•• Easy to follow alphabetical format by reading and using this book, your qualified in vet- Detailed cross-references to related own accuracy in describing erinary medicine fromproblems symptoms and making the University of• Up-to-date treatments and cat-friendly observations is likely to be Edinburgh and wasapproaches improved and your cat’s awarded a PhD from recovery helped as a result. the University of A-Z of Cat Health and First Aid General nursing of cats Manchester. He hasclearly explains what the owner can do many years experiencealongside the veterinary surgeon to give Sick, injured or recov- working in privatetheir companion the best chance of a full ering cats require peace practice, emergencyand speedy recovery. The first edition and quiet, well away from clinics and for nation-proved to be a definitive, practical guide bright lights, noises and al animal welfareand source of information for cat owners excited children or animals. charities. The best temperature is a pleasantly warm room tem- catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 9

TPHEETLSOHNODOWNWith hundreds of di˜ erent animals, amazingdisplays and demonstrations, here are ten reasons whythe London Pet Show has something for everyoneT he nation’s favourite pet show sponsored by Gocompare.com. know about dogs, cats, rabbits, chinchil- is gearing up to open its doors 1. Visit the show’s dedicated zones where, las, micro pigs, ponies, parrots, miniature at ExCeL London on 9 -10 within each area, you can learn about horses, hamsters, fish, geckos, and lots May. With hundreds of different each type of pet, meet a whole host of more! animals, amazing animal action displays different breeds and receive essential 2. Meet animal experts and celebri- and fun and informative talks and advice from the experts. From the cute ties including reptile expert, Crocodile demonstrations, here are the Top 10 and cuddly to the weird and wonderful, Joe and Channel 4’s Supervet, Noel reasons to visit the London Pet Show, you can discover everything you need to Fitzpatrick, who will present his won- derful SuperVet Live show in the Super10 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk Theatre, revealing the latest advances in the veterinary profession and recounting heart-warming success stories. After each show, Noel will be available for signings, photo opportunities and to answer any questions 3. Enter your feline friend in to the GCCF Top Cats competition. Top Cats is an exciting cat show open to members of the public. Both pedigree and house- hold cats will be able to enter this brand new feature, competing for certificates and rosettes in categories including Best of Colour, Best in Show, Friendliest Cat, Most Handsome Male, and as the finale, Best Household Pet.

4. Head to the Nerf Dog Activity well as bearded dragons, Spiney Tailed London PetRing to watch amazing agility, training Lizards, a Chuckwalla Lizard and Show ticketand obedience displays as well as Dog Leopard Geckos, while the Aquatics GIVEAWAYDancing, duck herding by expert trainer Area will feature beautiful fish andRichard Curtis and heats of the legend- aquatic set ups, with a wide array of col- T he London Pet Show,ary Scruffts competition. ourful and eye catching fish housed in sponsored by Gocompare.5. Join Hill’s School for Dogs, a brand beautiful aquarium surroundings. com and taking place on 9thnew feature for 2015, where even the 9. Meet some real life pony friends at and 10th May 2015 at ExCel London,most disobedient dog can become head The Pony Club Stables and watch dem- is the ultimate day out for pet lovers,pupil! With an entertaining and edu- onstrations on tacking up, grooming and owners and families.cational programme, you can learn all different riding styles throughout theabout how to train your dog and find the show weekend. Learn how to use the Cat World has 20 pairs of ticketsright diet to support a healthy and happy equipment and tools involved as well as to give away, offering free entry tolifestyle. From learning some of the basic mounting, dismounting and maintain- the UK’s favourite pet show.commands to seeing some of the most ing balance on The Pony Club’s specialentertaining dogs perform (including mechanical horse. From the cute and cuddly to thewinners from SuperDogs Live 2014), 10. Shop ‘til you drop at the Market weird and wonderful, the LondonHill’s School for Dogs is one feature not Place, where you can find a range of Pet Show is the place to discoverto be missed. treats, toys, food, clothes, gifts and sou- everything you need to know about6. Take a seat at the Zoflora Super venirs available to buy throughout the cats, dogs, rabbits, chinchillas, microTheatre, which will once again play host weekend. pigs, ponies, parrots, miniature horses,to an action-packed programme of events hamsters, fish, geckos, and lots, lotsincluding the exciting SuperDogs Live As well as providing a fantastic day more!competition and Supervet Live with out, the London Pet Show promotesChannel 4’s Noel Fitzpatrick, as well as responsible pet ownership and animal To help guide you to your favour-displays from incredible animals, from welfare with charity partners including ite animals, the show is divided intoparrots to performing dogs. The Rabbit Welfare Association, Cats dedicated zones. Within each sec-7. Don’t miss the bouncing bunnies, Protection and many more. tion, you can learn about each typewith the Rabbit Show Jumping. As of pet, meet a whole host of dif-one of the most popular attractions ferent breeds and receive essentialat the London Pet Show, this feature advice from the experts.is exclusive to the show and can’t beseen at any other event in the UK. The live features are not to be8. If you’ve got a passion for the missed. With Rabbit Show Jumpingweird and wonderful, head to the by Burgess, Nerf Dog Activity Ring,Exo Terra Reptile and Fluval Dog Dancing, Duck Herding, Agility &Aquatics experience. The Reptile Obedience displays, expert talks andArea will showcase a plethora of many more activities, the London Petreptiles, bugs, spiders and many Show provides an educational andexotic creatures including tree entertaining weekend for pet lovers.lizards, water dragons, giant tur-tles and a range of chameleons as Whether you want to treat your- self or your pet to a well deserved gift, or discover the latest gadgets and pet products, the London Pet Show’s Market Place is the ultimate shopping destination, with a fantastic range of treats, toys, food, clothes and souvenirs available throughout the weekend. • Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for? Send your entry today! Email [email protected] and put London Pet Show in the subject line. If you are not a lucky winner, you can book tickets by visiting www.londonpetshow.co.uk or calling 0844 581 4993. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 11

ONTHEEDGE WITH KATY EDGE Abandoned for a whole week, Katy can’t bear the thought of being home alone but how on earth will the animals cope?A s I write this, I’m alone in they die of shock or heartbreak, as I but it can’t last. I’m sure they’ll under- the house. All alone. In what would fully expect them to do if I left stand if I ignore their miaows tomorrow suddenly feels like a very big the country for almost 200 hours? morning.house. Alone, that is, except for threecats, one dog, two chinchillas and a I’m 47 hours in and already there And another thing – I’d been look-tank containing twenty-three fish, five have been some dramatic happenings. ing forward to having the bed to myself,shrimps and one snail. The dog has been on the sofa (the dog hogging whichever side I fancy and is not allowed on the sofa), the cats have doing a starfish impression. But the My heartless, adventurous boyfriend stolen scraps from the table (the cats are cats, evidently trying in vain to recreatehas abandoned me, gone on a skiing not allowed food from the table) and the a world in which they have two lov-holiday ‘with the lads’ (jealous, moi? fish have been awake past 3am (the fish ing and heat-emitting humans, haveNever), so I am a ski widow. Or what- are required to observe sensible bed- plonked themselves in a line down theever the sub-zero-temperature equiva- times at all times, particularly on school middle of the bed. This has thwartedlent of a football widow is. For a whole nights). But I can’t say I’ve noticed any my limb-flailing efforts somewhat. Theweek. of the beasties looking especially dis- only thing that has prevented me from traught. pushing them aside is my profound When Phil announced his plan to go concern for their wellbeing and feelingsto France with some old school friends Quite the reverse, in fact: the cats of wantedness.for a few days, my first thought was (no doubt in a convincing display ofobviously not for myself (cough) but for self-reassurance or perhaps denial) Even now, the felines are snoozingthe cats. How would they cope? Would have been behaving as if nothing has in front of the TV, clinging desperately changed. While I appreciate this gallant to the semblance of a normal Sunday façade of bravery, clearly put on for my night. So realistic is their pretence, sake, I’m a little surprised that they still they’re even feigning contented snores. want their breakfast at 6am. Surely they It’s awful, it really is, what Phil has remember that it’s Phil who gets up at done to them. 6am and I usually lie in until 7.30 or 8? I’ve given in so far – anything to ease Of course I don’t miss him at all. their feelings of isolation and rejection – Deserter. Home-wrecker. Shmuck. I only think of the cats. I wonder how many more rules we can break in five days.12 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

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Start as you mean to go on Get your kitten used to good habits of eating, cleanliness and behaviour from the time you bring her home for maximum benefitY our new kitten is so cute that Vaccinations Claws you might just want to cuddle The first course of injections will A kitten kept indoors will need her and play with her but takingcare of the necessities can ensure a be completed by the time your kitten claws clipping by the time she is aroundhappy and healthy future. is around 12 weeks of age, followed 15 weeks old. Before then, gently mas-Feeding by annual boosters from your vet. It is sage your kitten’s toes and space the important to protect your kitten from toes apart slightly, to get her used to the Find a food that is suitable for kit- disease with these vaccinations, particu- process.tens. Ask the person you are acquiring larly if they will be around other animalsthe kitten from what they have been or allowed outside. When you do clip them, gently holdfeeding as this will probably be prefer- Neutering kitty close to you and soothe her. Pressable, at least to start with. Kitten food the paw pad between your thumb andhas extra nutrients to help growing To prevent unwanted pregnancies finger so the claw comes out and clipbones and teeth that may be lacking in and abandoned kittens, cats can be neu- near the tip to avoid damaging the moreother diets. tered from the age of 20 weeks. Speak sensitive pink part of the claw.Litter to your vet for advice or to book an Scratch post appointment. Hopefully your kitten will be litter Teeth A scratch post is a great way for atrained by the time you bring her home. kitten to sharpen their claws and alsoMake sure you place her litter tray away Dental disease is a major problem allows them to leave their scent mark.from food and water bowls. Place kitty for older cats so get your kitten used to Introduce the scratch post to youron the litter tray after every meal and having his teeth checked and cleaned kitten’s area as soon as possible so itpraise her when she uses it properly. She from an early age. Gum disease can becomes a familiar object and not some-should soon get used to the routine. lead to painful abscesses or tooth loss. thing new for her to fear.Socialising Special toothbrushes and toothpastes Grooming are available but start by getting kitty Kittens need to experience lots of used to having her head held. When she How frequently you groom and forsounds and smells, from other animals is comfortable with this, put a little of how long will depend whether your kit-and humans for example, before they the paste on your finger and allow her ten is long or short haired. Place her onare around eight weeks old to prevent to sniff it. If she is happy, put a dab of your lap so she can grip something andthem being frightened of them. If they toothpaste on her lips or gums. hold her firmly and confidently so sheare much older than this before they won’t feel scared. If she is very nervous,experience such things, they can often When your kitten is comfortable with you might need to ask someone to helpbe very fearful and may never become a this, rub a little toothpaste on to her you.confident cat. teeth or gums. After a few days, put theFleas and worms toothpaste on to a special cat toothbrush Brush or comb along the lie of the and again, allow her to sniff it, then lick hair, towards the tail. Gently clean eyes As kittens can become infected with it and then, hopefully, allow you to rub and ears with wipes or cotton wool.roundworms from their mother, they the toothpaste on to her teeth using the Showingare usually given worming treatment brush. It is a very gradual process.between four and six weeks old. Most If you are keen to show your newshould also be treated for fleas at this bundle of fun, most cat shows haveage too, especially if they are to be the opportunity for both pedigreeallowed outdoors. Any products used and non-pedigree cats to be shown.must be suitable for kittens. Starting early, from around 14 weeks, will encourage your kitten to become familiar to travelling and being in a pen, around other cats, at the shows.14 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

SPONSORSB O O K N O Wq2u0o%tinOgFF“CtiAcTkWetOsRwLhDe2n0” A perfect day out for cat loversWORLD OF CATS SUPERVET LIVE with Noel Fitzpatrick TOPCATS COMPETITION Follow us on londonpetshowwww.londonpetshow.co.uk – call: 0844 581 4993 Please note discount code is applicable to all advanced ticket types except VIP and Student tickets

European growthis cat’s whiskersEnterprising British company ProtectaPuss is goingfrom strength to strength in their bid to make all petcats secure and safe, here in the UK and worldwideF ollowing the successful launch of house territory, ProtectaPuss is now on its online shop to the UK market the search for worldwide distributors for in May last year, ProtectaPuss is its design protected fencetop bracketsnow looking to export its UK designed and – shortly to be released – patentedand manufactured cat containment enclosure systems.systems to cat lovers all around Europe.‘ProtectaKits’, which are available in ProtectaPuss started up three years10m, 20m or 30m linear lengths, have ago as an installation service for cat lov-proved to be a top seller amongst DIY ers looking to find the optimum balanceenthusiasts wishing to keep their cats between ensuring their cat’s quality of lifesafe from the dangers of roaming the and safety. The team have supplied andstreets. In a move to meet the increasing installed cat proof barriers in hundreds ofdesire of cat owners to keep their cats homes across the UK, protecting thou-securely contained within a garden and sands of cats from meeting the dangers of life on the streets. The main proportion16 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

of the clients are domestic cat owners,but ProtectaPuss also supplies cat breed-ers, catteries and cat charities, includingCats Protection Head Office. The onlineshop, which sells the cat containmentcomponents in DIY ‘ProtectaKit’ formatand is approaching its first anniversary,has already received orders directly fromDubai and Gibraltar, amongst otherworldwide locations. Keen to meet the needs of a largersegment of the cat-owning community,ProtectaPuss will be exhibiting its catcontainment solutions around Europe atpet shows in Belgium and Italy this sum-mer. Simon Davies, Operations Directorand the Head Designer at ProtectaPetLtd, says, “It has been a challengingdesign process to meet the needs of dif-ferent nationalities of cat owners: thereare multiple variations of fencing andenclosures in each country. Also, the planning laws vary from announced shortly after time of this arti- country to country and the cle going to print). components must be resistant to the different extremities of Eve Davies, Communications hot and cold weather.” Director of ProtectaPet Ltd, said: “British people are renowned for their Simon’s commitment to love of animals and, in many cases, we the welfare of cats through lead the way on issues of animal welfare. innovative design has been In the case of cats, Australia and New recognised in the form of Zealand are at the cutting edge of cat shortlisting for the award of safety and responsible cat ownership (it ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ is a legal requirement to chip cats and in the Sentinel Business prevent free roaming). In the coming Awards 2015 (winner to be decades, as roads become busier and the risks of diseases such as Feline HIV increase, I envisage that cat owners will increasingly look to control their pets’ territories. ProtectaPuss would be hon- oured to represent Britain’s love of cats on an international scale.” • Learn more: www.protectapuss.co.uk Facebook: /protectapuss Twitter: @protectapuss catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 17

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SAYNHEELLWO TKOIYTOTUERNBringing a new kitten home is very exciting. performing hunting behaviour may redi-Here are some tips to make this experience rect this on humans and attack handsas pleasurable as possible for you both and feet. By Justyna Ratczak, MCRVS In nature cats spend their time roam- ing, hunting small prey several times aS ome kittens are boisterous and idea to provide your new kitten with a day, grooming and resting so at home adapt to a new home straight away. room where the resources are and once they need to be encouraged to play sev- Some animals are shy and need the kitten settles in the room and wants eral times each day. The best way to feedsome time to adapt. The key is to let to explore, you can gradually give him the kitten is to mimic its natural behav-them settle in the new environment at more space. iour. This means the kitten should havetheir own pace. Call of the wild several small meals per day. Ideally cats should have measured dry food available Cats need a core territory. This is a Kittens need an outlet for naturalplace where they sleep, eat and can hide. behaviours. They should have several all day and they should just be ableThey should not be disturbed when rest- toys resembling small prey. The toys graze throughout the day.ing. Cats should have easy access to all should be rotated so the kitten does notresources like food, water, sleeping and become bored with them. Toys on rods Once the kitten is vaccinated,resting places and litter trays. It is a good are advised and toys that move on their microchipped and neutered you can own. Avoid playing with your kitten start letting the kitten out if your using hands and feet as this can encour- circumstances allow. Being able to age the kitten to attack you. Kittens who roam and be outside should provide are bored or do not have any outlet for enough environmental enrichment for the kitten but you still should play with the kitten at home. The best option is to install a microchip operated cat flap so it’s only your kitten who can get in and out of the house. There should be some plants – they can be in pots – near to the cat flap so the kitten can survey the environment before setting off. There is a continued debate regarding letting cats outside. Cats who go out are at risk of diseases, road traffic accidents, poisoning, etc. Cats naturally hunt and some organisations claim that cats reduce the population of wild birds. While keeping cats indoors prevents injury, the indoor environment may be too boring and stressful. It is possible to provide a sufficient indoor environment but it is difficult to provide everything that the cat needs indoors. It is even more difficult if there are a few cats living in the same house. Not all cats will be happy to be kept indoors. The decision must be based on the individual cat’s temperament, the amount of space and enrichment at home, and safety of the environment outside. Hunting and killing wildlife can be reduced by putting a (safely fitted) collar with a bell on the cat and avoiding letting the cat out in the early morning and at dusk.20 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Kitten welfare Kittens who are bored or do not have Kittens need to start their vaccina- any outlet for performing hunting behaviour may redirect this ontions at nine weeks of age. They also humans and attack hands and feet.need to be wormed and protected againstfleas on a regular basis. Most veterinary not be distressed by being in the carrierpractices offer free appointments with and with car travel.nurses to discuss nutrition, worming Getting to know youand behaviour. It is advisable to use thisopportunity to accustom the kitten with Gentle exposure to visitors will allowthe practice. Nurses can give the kitten the kitten to be sociable. Invite friendsa lot of attention and fuss and make theexperience nice. and children to visit you when the kitten is young but do not force the To make sure that the kitten is not kitten to interact with people. Letstressed by coming to the veterinary him approach people if he wants tosurgery you can start preparing the kit- and investigate. Cats are all differentten from a few weeks old. Get the kitten and some need more time than others toused to be picked up, check his eyes, become interactive.ears, coat, etc. Touch the kitten’s paws Cats can share a house with otherand get him used to having his nails animals but they need to be introducedclipped. Always keep the sessions short properly and they need their own spaceand reward the kitten with nice treats. and freedom. If you are consideringKeep the cat carrier in the living room more than one cat or other animals,and put some treats there. Once the kit- please seek professional advice before-ten is comfortable with going inside and hand to make sure that it is stress free forstaying in the carrier for some time you the kitten.can start closing the door. Then you can In summary, to encourage your newstart picking the carrier up, carry it and kitten to settle in as easily as possible, bethen arrange a short session in the car. aware of his needs and let him get usedThis will make sure that the kitten will to his new home and family at his own pace. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 21

treatment, the money put aside would soon erode away. If your pet was diag- nosed with thyroid problems or diabetes for example, both of which are long term conditions, this money would not last very long. Taking this into account, can we really afford not to insure?IFNOSURRCANACTES Think ahead When your your cat is fit and healthyWith the rising costs of veterinary fees,can we really a˜ ord not to insure our and you only visit the vets to get themfeline friends? vaccinated or neutered then you tend not to even think about things going wrong By Sonja K Steiner and the potential vet bills that could come with this.W hilst advances in veterinary Out of hours fees can be a lot higher medicine have given vets than daytime fees. This can be due to The best piece of advice is to be pre- access to new diagnostic the increased costs of providing a dedi- pared for the fact that at some point inprocedures, it means that the costs of cated veterinary team who are trained time, your cat will need medical carediagnosis alone can quickly run into and skilled in dealing with accidents andmany hundreds of pounds. We humans emergencies, working every night of from a veterinary surgeon. Can youare cushioned by the fact that we have the week, weekends and bank holidays. imagine how you would feel if youthe NHS and so are not aware of what Depending on the area you live, it can have not saved enough money orour treatment actually costs. When our cost from £100 upwards just to see an taken out insurance to help paycat has to have an MRI or CT scan, this emergency vet - and that is without any towards the cost of the treatment?alone can cost over £1000. treatment. You could be left facing a very difficult and heart breaking deci- Anyone who has read my articles Some people may decide they prefer sion to have your beloved pet putabout Willow in Cat World will know not to take out insurance and instead put to sleep.that I am an advocate of pet insurance money aside into a savings account each Having insurance for your catand for me it has been absolutely essen- month. If, for example, an owner putstial as without it, Willow’s treatment £20 a month away, they will have saved is an important part of responsible catalone would have cost over £7,000 and up £240 in one year. If their cat had to ownership. Caring for a cat is both funSuki’s over £2,000. see an emergency vet plus the cost of any and rewarding but if they are to suffer an illness or injury it can be very expen- sive, especially if you have to use an out of hours emergency vet. Having pet insurance means you can concentrate on what’s best for your cat rather than wor- rying about the cost of vet bills. Extra reassurance Pet insurance is there to cover the cost of vet fees for the treatments of illness and injury. Depending on your policy, benefits can also include covering the costs of advertising and rewards for lost and stolen pets, veterinary fees paid in any country covered by the Pet Travel Scheme and paying for looking after your cat if you have to go into hospital. A lot of policies now cover the cost of com- plementary therapies. Which policy? There are different types of insur- ances, so how do you know what is best for your circumstances and budget? Choosing the best policy for your needs can be difficult as there are literally hundreds of policies out there that vary hugely in price and in terms of what the policy actually offers. It is always worth asking friends or people you know which insurance company they would recom-22 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

•The four main types of policy: mend. Whichever policy you decide to go Now Suki has reached the age of 10, I Lifetime/cover for life – this covers for, there will always be an excess to pay pay a fixed excess (per condition) plusvet fees up to a certain amount per for each condition. 20% of the cost of the fees. I also tookyear and, provided you renew your Kittens and senior cats out a separate policy with her veterinarypolicy every year, it gives you the practice that covers the cost of flea andsame amount of cover each year no Depending on your insurance compa- worming treatments and her vaccina-matter how many claims you make. ny, kittens can be insured from six weeks tions, plus we get discounts off the costIt’s usually the most expensive but it of age. The cost of the policy can vary of medications and a dental.does mean you are covered if your depending on whether you have a cross-cat develops a long-term condition breed or pedigree and how old they are. “As your pet ages, the premium andsuch as diabetes or kidney problems, Pedigree cats are normally more expen- policy excesses are likely to increasewhich could mean ongoing costs of sive to insure as they are more likely to because, like humans, the risk of illness£100 a month (daily insulin injections, suffer from specific illnesses. increases,” says the Association of Britishregular check-ups etc) for the rest of Insurers. The insurance companies will general-•its life. ly not cover any illness which starts in the Some people may struggle to get new Maximum benefit – this type of first 14 days of the policy nor will they cover for an older animal, though if youpolicy provides a maximum amount pay for any pre-existing conditions. This took out the policy when your pet wasof vet fee cover per condition. But also applies if you change your insurance younger, it can usually be continued withonce the financial limit has been provider, regardless of whether you’ve the same provider but this may well comereached, the condition becomes a ever made a claim. Preventative and rou- at a price.pre-existing condition and is exclud- tine treatments, such as neutering, vac- cinations and flea and worm control will There may be charities out there that•ed from future claims. also be excluded, as will anything related could help towards the cost of vet fees. Time limited – also known as ‘12 to pregnancy/birth. Also, if your cat was In the case of the PDSA, in order tomonth policy’. Again there is a maxi- injured before you took the policy out, qualify for veterinary treatment, you havemum amount paid per condition but they will not be covered either. to live within the catchment area and bethere’s also a limit of one year during in receipt of either council tax or housingwhich vet fees can be paid for each When your cat reaches a certain age, benefit.condition, after which it is excluded which is usually between eight and 10, you could well see an increase in the cost The worst thing you can do is noth-•from cover. of your cover. In some cases, premiums ing. If your cat is sick, then it needs vet- Accident only - covers treating have doubled in the space of two years erinary care. To do nothing is cruel andaccidental injuries, such as being hit and some owners say that as a result, they prolongs suffering in your pet. As muchby a car (although some policies also can no longer afford to insure their pets. insurance cover as you can comfortablycover illnesses that result from an afford will enable you to provide the bestaccident). care when you need it most. Prices vary from company to com-pany so it is important to do yourresearch. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 23

CCOUNDFIDDELNETS and therefore easy for anyone to pick up. Teach enthusiastic family andTeaching children to pick up a kitten properly friends to pick the kitten up properlyand respectfully will help the kitten to feel under your supervision - the new littlesafe and confident in their hands kitten in your family is relying on you to protect it.N ew kittens are so adorable nity. Encourage them to sit and watch that you can’t blame anyone the kitten first and learn about how it Hold the kitten firmly with one for wanting to pick one up explores and plays in its surroundings. hand and support their bottom with thefor a cuddle. While physical contact is other.important to create the bond between Kittens, like small children, needyou and your kitten, it should be done their sleep and spend a lot of time asleep Do not just hold them by the scruffwith respect for ‘personal space’ so that in order to grow strong. Don’t let any- of the neck or around the body, asthe kitten feels confident and safe when one disturb this vital time for them. although you may think you have a firmheld. grip, the kitten will not feel safe and Young children should always be supported and will wriggle and stress. If you have very young children liv- supervised when they are with a kitten.ing in the same home as the kitten, or This should ensure that the kitten is If you are walking around, hold theas regular, frequent visitors, they should not treated roughly or hurt by accident. kitten close to you but not too tightly.learn how to pick up and hold a kitten It will also help the kitten not to learn The kitten is likely to want to play andcorrectly. aggressive behaviour through defend- chew and wriggle and you may dropA waiting game ing itself and means adults can have them if you are at standing height. It confidence in the relationship between is much safer to be sitting down while Try to explain to the children that the two. holding the kitten. Who knows, a littlethey should resist the urge to keep How to do it cuddle may well turn into kitty feelingpicking up the kitten at every opportu- safe enough to cat nap in your arms. Your kitten is small and lightweight Short and sweet Make any physical contact holding or carrying a kitten fairly brief. A few strokes and a game with a toy will help make it a positive experience, as will a small food treat. Phase out food treats as the kitten gains confidence and grows older or they may associate and expect food treats with your contact. However, time and play is always beneficial to the relationship between you and this should be encouraged to continue.24 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Not in the shapeshe used to be? WEEK ™Trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. ©2015 CHALLENGEHelp your cat get back in shape with newHill’s™ Science Plan™ Perfect Weight50% of pets in Europe are at an unhealthy weight1 and this can impact bothquality of life and longevity. That’s why Hill’s is launching a 10 WeekChallenge together with New Science Plan™ Perfect Weight. It’s yourchance to win free food for 10 weeks while helping your cat reachhealthy weight for a longer, happier life2. Visit www.hillspet.co.uk/10WeekChallenge * Closing date: 19th April 2015. Participants must be 16 years of age to participate. For full terms and conditions please visit www.hillspet.co.uk/10WeekChallenge 1. PR Study, YouGov (EU, 2013); 2. Kealy et al., JAVMA (2002); Vet J (June 2012) - German AJ et al.

FneaetudraylolyurfokritltiefenORIJEN Cat & Kitten foods are the essential from a balanced natural diet.choice for feeding your kitten the nutrients It is widely known that cats arethey need - why feed anything else! obligate carnivores. They are naturalB efore you collect your kitten, it health, happiness, clear eyes and an hunters and, in the wild, all the nutri- is important that you research impressive glossy coat. ents they require are in the whole prey and decide what the best possible they catch and eat. ORIJEN adoptsfood available is for her. There are an Firstly, the ORIJEN range of cat and this Biologically Appropriate™ conceptenormous range of cat and kitten foods kitten foods are suitable for all breeds and, as such, their cat and kitten foodson the market and you will want to give and life stages from kittens, through are loaded with high inclusions of freshyour eagerly awaited kitten the very best adult to senior cats. As soon as you start meats plus richly nourishing liver, tripepossible start in life with a promise of feeding your kitten ORIJEN, they can and cartilage – all in ratios that mirror continue to enjoy it for life, benefitting the natural diet while excluding high-gly- caemic carbohydrates and plant proteins that simply don’t belong. The majority of the vitamins and minerals required are naturally present in the food. It’s really important, when faced with26 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

a mountain of cat food options, that you caught wild from the icy depths PAW POSTlook at the list of ingredients on the bag. of Canada’s abundant freshwaterORIJEN Cat & Kitten foods are 80% lakes. ‘Dead cat’ by the roadsidemeat, fish and eggs and make up the first16 named ingredients in the bag (e.g. You want to know where your Having lost a number of catsFresh boneless chicken 20%) - and they food comes from and how it’s from RTA’s, I always get upsetare all fit for human consumption! raised. Champion Petfoods think whenever I see the dead body of you have a right to know where the someone’s pet by the road side. A The biggest point of difference with ingredients in your cat or kitten’s food couple of weeks ago, my husbandORIJEN Cat & Kitten foods is that they comes from too. Jeff and I were travelling alongare prepared in the award-winning kitch- There are three varieties of ORIJEN a dark country lane late at nightens of Champion Petfoods in Canada. Cat & Kitten Foods. ORIJEN CAT when we spotted a small blackThey never outsource the production of & KITTEN, ORIJEN 6 FISH & shape in the middle of the road.their pet foods and they never prepare ORIJEN REGIONAL RED. They Pulling up by the side of the road,foods for any other manufacturer. All of are all suitable for all breeds and all life Jeff got out and, cradling it gently,the ingredients are sustainably raised and stages. set it down under the hedge.delivered authentically fresh from known ORIJEN also produce a range ofand trusted local farmers direct to the tasty, freeze-dried cat treats. ORIJEN “It’s OK,” he soothed, lookingkitchens. FREEZE-DRIED TREATS are 100% at my distraught face. “I’m sure it meat and 100% natural. Prepared with- was killed outright and didn’t suf- ORIJEN’s chicken, turkey, duck and out cooking or preservatives, ORIJEN’s fer unduly.”quail are raised cage-free on local farms, Biologically Appropriate™ treats featureclassified fit for human consumption, and 100% meat, gently freeze-dried to lock It was only when we got homethen delivered to their kitchens fresh and in all its natural goodness, for a pure and seeing that I was still weeping,whole. and natural treat your cat will truly love. that he confessed it wasn’t a dead Treats are available in five varieties – three cat at all…but an umbrella! ORIJEN’S ranch-raised Alberta red formula-matched which include Original,meats include Angus beef, bison, lamb, Tundra & Regional Red and two single- Carole Gasan, StroudHeritage pork, elk and wild boar, con- source protein which include Ranch-firmed fit for human consumption, and Raised Lamb & Alberta Wild Boar. • Do you have a short, humour-delivered fresh to Champion’s kitchens So, to provide the best start forfresh each day. your kitten, pop down to your local ous tale to tell? Send it to Cat pet speciality store and find out more. World and you could see it ORIJEN’s salmon, herring and ORIJEN is available in pet speciality featured in a future magazine.flounder are caught off northern stores throughout the UK and Ireland. [email protected] Island. The northern walleye, For a stockist search, please visit www.lake whitefish and northern pike are OrijenPetFoods.co.uk. Keep a look out A sorry tail for special offers and competitions on the ORIJEN Facebook Page, which can be A few people on the Face Book found at www.facebook.com/ORIJEN cat site Crazy about Cats have UK. suggested that I share the story of my cat’s recent tail injury. Beau came home one day with the skin and fur completely missing from his entire tail (called a degloving injury) and had to have spinal sur- gery at Oathall Vets in Haywards Heath to remove the entire tail bone. This photo was taken the day after. It’s been almost a month now and his injury is continuing to heal well. The vet couldn’t be sure how it happened, as he had no signs of an RTA, but couldn’t rule out that he got caught in some kind of ani- mal snare in the woods. Jayne Horan, Haywards Heath catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 27

Feeding yournew kittenThe correct type of diet for your new kittenis important and will help give him the bestpossible start to a healthy lifeT he amount of advice on what Brand or homemade? and attract flies, which will cause upset to feed a new kitten can be There is no reason why a homemade stomachs and even worms. overwhelming as it can comefrom friends, vets, advertising and even diet should not be fed to a kitten, pro- Dried food can be left out in a bowlproduct placement in supermarkets. The vided it is balanced. After all, that is how but needs to be carefully measuredanswer is simple - a balanced diet will cats fed before commercial diets arrived. according to the packaging. Some com-give your kitten everything he needs. The difficulty is in being sure the right plete dry foods are concentrated so canBalance is essential balance is being provided, with the cor- cause obesity if too much is eaten. You rect proportions of nutrients. will also need to make sure your kitten is There are six components to the diet; getting sufficient fluid if you are feedingprotein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, min- When such a diet is fed, vitamin and him dry food.erals and water. Health problems develop mineral supplements have a role to play,in response to deficiencies or excesses in since a homemade diet has not been ana- • You can vary the meals so the kit-any of the components of the diet. lysed to determine if and where it might be deficient and if so, to what extent. It is ten has a range of flavours eg: The first year of a kitten’s life is very best to ask your vet for advice as he will Breakfast - meatimportant. All the growth and develop- be able to determine what, if anything, is Lunch - egg or tinned/packet food orment taking place provide the founda- lacking. milky food if toleratedtions for the rest of its life. The different Tinned or dried? Dinner - meat or fishbrands of kitten food are all formulated Supper - egg or tinned/packetto meet the extra needs of a kitten’s body, Either method of feeding is fine, pro- food or milky food if toler-generally providing higher protein and viding it suits your kitten. Generally, cats atedenergy levels than diets for the mature prefer to eat several small meals a daycat. However, there are different ways of and if raised with food available all day,achieving a balanced diet. they will snack. In this respect tinned or pouch food is not appropriate as it will dry out28 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Fish - is good but should not be fed too frequently. insFuIVraEncTeOtPipsKittens with diarrhoea kidney, heart, liver (lightly cooked and Best for you There are three common causes for in moderation), raw mince of good quality. If you don’t have insurance coverdiarrhoea in kittens. for your kitten as part of the deal 1. Over eating. Kittens don’t have • Rabbit and chicken may contain with your breeder it is important to do your own research to find the bestbig stomachs so don’t need their bowls bones which are liable to splinter. cover you can afford that suits yourefilled once they have eaten a reason- Make sure you carefully remove all of and your kitten. Consider whether youable dinner. them before giving the meat to your want to include alternative or holistic kitten treatments; travel cover; help if your This is easily treated by fasting the cat goes missing, etc.kitten for one meal and feeding a bland • Fish - is good but should not be feddiet of cooked chicken or white fish and Pricerice until their tummy has settled again. too frequently. Try boned and cooked white fish, sardines or pilchards There are lots of comparison 2. A sudden change in diet is the websites these days but don’t forgetsecond common cause of diarrhoea. • Eggs - feed raw yolks (not whites) the good old phone. Give companiesIf you do decide to change from the a call and speak to someone aboutfood suggested by your breeder or want or cooked (scrambled) whole eggs. what you want your insurance policyto try different brands, introduce the to cover. It is sometimes possible tonew food gradually by mixing a small • Some breeds will tolerate milk but it have a package ‘tailor made’ to youramount of it with the kitten’s current requirements but this may come atfood. This will give their gut a chance can be unsuitable for others. Ask your an additional cost. Ask about excessto acclimatise. breeder for advice. Remember though charges and look out for discounts that milk is not to be given in place of from insurance providers too, particu- 3. Another common cause of diar- water - just as an extra treat. larly for multi-cat households.rhoea is lactose intolerance. Once akitten has got used to solid food it does • Fresh clean water must be available Life covernot need milk in its diet anymore andmay lose the ability to digest the milk for your cat at all times. The earlier you insure your kit-sugar. Simply remove milk from the ten, the less chance there is of beingdiet but be sure to replace the fluid loss • All cats enjoy chewing grass. restricted by ‘pre-existing conditions’.by offering plenty of fresh water sourc- If you only think about insurance oncees. A pet water fountain is a really good If you are keeping your kitten your kitten shows signs of being ill oridea as it mimics running water. indoors or have no access to fresh is involved in an accident, you may not grass, you can buy commercially get cover. As long as you renew the As with all health problems, if the produced cat grass. Some garden policy each year, these things shoulddiarrhoea does not resolve itself then centres and pet shops sell the be covered for the whole of the cat’syou need to take your kitten to a vet seed or you can purchase cartons life. Make sure when you are doingbefore the kitten becomes too weak or of ‘ready to grow’ cat grass such your research that you consider insur-dehydrated. as Pussy Lawn, available from vari- ance for your cat as he gets older - ous outlets. some companies have restrictions.Fresh food advice Indoor cats If you are feeding fresh food, here While you may think the risks ofare some tips. More information can be illness and accidents are greater forfound on the GCCF website. cats allowed outside, indoor cats can still be prone to illness and diseases• Meat - Rabbit, chicken, turkey, beef, such as diabetes or arthritis. Taking out insurance cover before signs of theselean mutton, good horsemeat (if avail- develop will ensure you will be able toable), fresh meat scraps from the table, give your indoor cat or kitten the best possible care if the need arises. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle It is important that you take every care to keep your kitten or cat in good health. This will include appropriate vaccinations and annual dental checks. Failure to do this could put your cover at risk. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 29

30 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Vets cycle 800 milesfor Cats ProtectionAcclaimed vet professionals will be o˜ eringexpert sessions about feline welfare on thisyear’s Tour de Vet 2015T wo veterinary professionals are He said: “I do feel slightly crazy for feat in a different region in 2015, this gearing up for this year’s Tour doing it again but it combines my pas- time raising money for feline welfare. De Vet 2015 – a gruelling 800- sion for cycling and my love of workingmile bike ride to give expert talks and with new people. I’m looking forward I hope that by participating I will haveworkshops and raise funds for Cats to giving the talks and workshops. This the chance to offer whatever internalProtection. year I’m really honoured to be joined by medicine CPD topics clinics wouldMike Brampton, Managing Director Margie. She is a world expert in feline like and to help teams rethink how theyof Thames Medical, and Dr Margie welfare and this is a great opportunity work with, and think about, cats.Scherk, Co-editor of the Journal of for veterinary practices to access an “By working together, we can makeFeline Medicine and Surgery, will expert of the very highest calibre. the clinic experience less stressful forbe setting off an the epic journey in “The riding day after day can be our feline patients, their owners and theMay. The pair are offering veterinary tough but it’s also a good time to reflect veterinary team. Behaviour problems arepractices the chance to book a session and plan how to make our talks even the number one reason for relinquish-for continual professional development more fun, enjoyable and informative.” ment of cats. By giving the veterinary(CPD) training for staff on a range When Mike cycled his first Tour de team and caregiver the right tools, weof specialist feline topics as they cycle Vet last year he raised £5,000 for the can keep cats in homes and out of shel-from Cornwall to Sussex, possibly via charity Canine Partners and hopes this ters. It seems fitting that the charity ofBirmingham. year’s fundraising efforts will raise twice choice is Cats Protection.”Fees are negotiable and tax deduct- that for Cats Protection. To find out more about sessions orible as all proceeds will go to Cats Margie, who founded the Feline to book a session at your practice, emailProtection, the UK’s largest feline wel- Internal Medicine folder on Veterinary Mike on [email protected] orfare charity – with the pair aiming to Information Network (VIN), is an call 01903 522 911 or visit www.tour-raise £10,000. devet.co.uk/2015 for more Mike Brampton, information.Managing Director of “I love to cycle and when I heard that Cats Protection’s RegionalThames Medical, said Mike was cycling across England last year, Fundraising Managerthe aim of the tour was I got the crazy idea that we should repeat Jenny Lewis said: “Miketo improve feline welfare and Margie are taking onby raising money for Cats a truly grueling challenge,Protection and providing the feat in a different region in 2015, this not only to raise money forquality, bespoke CPD to Cats Protection but also toveterinary staff on areas time raising money for feline welfare” improve feline medicine inincluding nutrition, blood the UK. We are immenselypressure, anaesthesia, acclaimed international grateful for their efforts and wish theminternal medicine, and expert in feline medi- the best of luck on their travels.”behaviour. cine and co-editor of To find out more about CatsMike, who devised the Journal of Feline Protection, please visit www.cats.org.and cycled his first Medicine and Surgery uk or ring the Helpline on 03000 12Tour de Vet last year, is She said: “I love to 12 12.an Honorary Member cycle and when I heard We are sure Cat World readers willof the Association of that Mike was cycling appreciate the efforts Mike and MargieVeterinary Anaesthetists across England last year, are making on our behalf as cat loversand inventor of the CAT I got the crazy idea that and owners. Please show your supportDoppler BP system. we should repeat the and help keep their wheels turning. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 31

Cut the risk of cancerin your catEmily Fowler looks at the third most commontumour type in female cats, available treatmentsand what signs owners should be aware ofM ammary tumours account cats with compromised immune sys- mary cancer. “This is an awful disease for 17% of all cancers in tems such as FIV+ cats. Female cats because it’s usually detected relatively late female cats, and although the who haven’t been spayed are also more in the disease process which worsens theaverage age of cats that develop them is at risk and, as Elise Robertson, (BS overall prognosis, despite what you thenbetween ten and twelve years old, they BVetMed MACVSc (Feline) DipABVP do to treat it” said Elise. So, what shouldcan develop in cats as young as nine (Feline) MRCVS), American Board you be looking for as a cat owner?months old all the way up to elderly cats Certified Specialist Feline Practice says: Symptomsin their twenties. Feline mammary cancer “Hormonal fluctuations associated withresults in tumours in the cat’s mammary repeated seasons may influence the devel- Signs of feline mammary cancerglands which are incredibly invasive and opment of tumours in cats.” include swellings or lumps around yourcan spread quickly around the rest of cat’s mammary area or a change in shape,the body and, while it’s more common Studies have shown that cats that are size or texture of nipples. The first signin female cats, in rare cases males can spayed before they’re one year old show of mammary cancer in our cat Looby wasalso develop mammary tumours and the a decreased risk of developing mammary a change in one of her nipples. It becamedisease is even more aggressive when this tumours and in fact, cats that are spayed harder and started to twist slightly, andhappens. before the age of six months are a whop- when she had exploratory surgery the vetCats that are most at risk discovered a malignant tumour under- ping 91% less likely to neath it. If the tumours aren’t treated and As well as female cats develop them. If that’s removed early enough, the skin aroundin general, Siamese cats not a case for getting the area can eventually become ulcerated,and domestic short haired your cats spayed as soon which will be unpleasant for both youcats show an increased as your vet recommends and your cat.risk of developing mam- it, I don’t know what is! Treatmentmary tumours, as well as Early diagnosis is The initial treatment is usually a so important when it lumpectomy to remove the tumour fol- comes to feline mam- lowed by a histological examination of the tumour to discover whether it’s malignant (cancerous) or benign. The vet may decide to remove the entire mam- mary chain to try to stop further tumours developing in the remaining mammary tissue. Looby had to have a further surgery six months after the initial tumour was removed, because she had developed another tumour, and this time her entire mammary chain was removed on one side. A radical mastectomy of this type is obviously a much more invasive sur- gery than a lumpectomy, so it’s much harder on the cat and involves a longer recovery time. While chemotherapy is a possibility as part of an overall treat- ment plan, and may shrink tumours in32 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

50% of cases, there haven’t yet been any Beautiful Bella,published studies that evaluate the trueeffectiveness of chemotherapy in cases of the kebab stick catfeline mammary cancer. Elise also advisesthat: “Other therapies such as radiation, As warmer weather approaches and we dustimmune therapy and hormone therapy o˜ our barbecues, please make sure youhave not been shown to improve survival clear up absolutely everything after usetimes in cats with mammary carcinoma.”Prognosis C ats Protection’s Birmingham The vet stated that if the stick, Adoption Centre has thought to be from a kebab, had If your cat develops mammary cancer, ensured that a young female encroached much further downthe prognosis depends on a number of cat has eight of her ‘nine lives’ still Bella’s intestines, then the conse-factors including the size of the tumour, intact after a routine spay procedure quences would surely have beenwhether the cancer has spread to other uncovered an amazing discovery. fatal. “So Bella had a very luckyareas and the extent of the initial surgery, escape - if we had not opened hermeaning how much tissue was removed “Little Bella came in to the up, we never would have found suchfrom the mammary chain. Sadly, because charity as a stray at the beginning a potential threat to her life,” addedthis type of cancer isn’t usually detected of the month,” said Bryan Cross, Bryan.until it’s quite advanced, the average life who works full time as a Cat Careexpectancy of a cat with mammary cancer Assistant at the centre. “She is a Bella has recovered well from heris only one year from the detection of a fairly young cat, around 18 months ordeal and is a sociable and friendlymalignant tumour. old. She is black and white and very girl. She would be best suited to aAverage survival time beautiful. As with all cats that come couple or a family with older chil- to us, we booked her in with our dren. Tumours less than 2cm in diameter veterinarian to be vaccinated and– Over 3 years (female cats), 14 months spayed.” If you would like more infor-(male cats) mation about Bella, or to find out However, whilst Bella was under more about the large number of cats Tumours 2-3cm in diameter – 2 years anaesthetic, the vet noticed an and kittens that the Birmingham(female cats), 5 months (male cats) unusual object in Bella’s stomach. Adoption Centre have available, Upon further examination, and please visit www.birmingham.cats. Tumours over 3cm in diameter – 4-12 the decision to explore with further org.uk or call 01564 822020. Formonths (female cats), less than 2 months surgery, a very sharp, flexible stick other areas contact www.cats.org.uk(male cats) - three inches long - was discovered Tel: 01825 741219 to be lodged in her colon. Above: Bella means beautiful – This Because feline mammary cancer is so friendly, sociable girl is now lookingeasy to miss, it’s important to get into a for a forever home.routine of checking your female cat, as Left: The stick found in Bella’sa woman would do herself. Elise recom- stomach was three inches long.mends regular veterinary examinations Below: Bella in recovery.that include a full physical exam, as wellas cat owners making sure they knowwhat ‘normal’ feels like on their cats,so that they’re more likely to notice anyabnormal lumps or changes as early aspossible. “Unfortunately, by the time acat is taken to the vet, most present withaggressive tumours at a very advancedstage and thus the overall long termprognosis is worsened.” We were lucky that Looby lovedtummy rubs, so we were in the positionto notice something suspicious quiteearly on and the cancer was caught whileit was still in a fairly early stage, whichmeant that we were able to have longerwith her than the average survival timewould suggest. Unfortunately her cancereventually spread to her lymph nodesand started to cause problems for herand affect her quality of life, so we had tomake the kindest decision for her. If you do find anything suspicious, nomatter how small, make an appointmentwith your vet to get it checked out. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 33

Is your home items on show that may be harmful,kitten proof? such as hairspray or dye, deodorant, sun tan cream or lotion and nail varnish/You might think your house is ready for a remover. If you’ve been using heatedkitten but be sure you have considered all tongs or hair straighteners, shut thepossible hazards and potential accidents door and keep kitty out of the room until they have cooled down.N o doubt you have all the hotter than it looks. If your kitten seems The bathroom - is not an unusual place essentials ready and waiting to like your worktops, try providing to be joined by your kitten if you allow for your kitten’s arrival but space on a high shelf for him...he may it. Many like the running water and willthere may be hidden dangers that need just be keen to see what’s going on. even join you in the shower. However,to be taken care of to prevent a potential it is possible for a curious cat or kittendisaster. There are numerous things A utility room, if you have one, is to drown in the toilet bowl so ask familyaround our home that we use on a daily often where the tumble dryer and wash- and friends to keep the lid closed at allbasis. Not all of these are harmful to cats ing machine can be found, if not in the times when not in use. Invest in a lock-but many are and some may be more kitchen. Check inside before using and able medicine cabinet to safely store allobvious than others. Playing it safe will empty them thoroughly when they have medication, including paracetamol andcut the risk of you wishing you had kept finished then close the door to prevent tubes of medicated creams or ointments.something away from prying paws. curious kittens climbing inside, particu- These can be chewed through by sharpThe kitchen - is somewhere many people larly while the machine is still warm. little teeth.site food and water bowls so your kitten Store a hot iron in a safe place when you Windows, stairs and doors - also needwill be spending a fair amount of time have finished with it. a bit of thought. Indoor cats will stillhere. Be sure to store all cleaning prod- The lounge - if you decide your kit- benefit from fresh air so fitting windowucts such as washing up liquid, bleach, ten will be allowed in, will need to be screens will be a safe way of having apolish, etc in a secure cupboard. If any kitten-proofed. Provide a scratch post window open in warmer weather, pre-of these items get spilt accidentally, to prevent your three piece suite being venting a kitten suffering a nasty fall.always clean them up immediately to used instead and secure wires from elec-prevent them coming into contact with trical equipment with cable ties. A stair carpet will help to stop alittle paws. boisterous kitten from slipping as he Many cats like to sit close to a source charges up and down the stairs. You It is clearly not a good idea to of heat so use a fire guard in front of a may want to block gaps in higher ban-encourage kitty on to kitchen worktops real fire or powerful heater. Try using a nisters to prevent an unexpected fall.for hygiene reasons but particularly if radiator bed if kitty seems keen.you have a ceramic hob that could be The bedroom - may seem a less likely Some cats are timid and if you have place for hazards but not if you have a garden visited by other cats in the neighbourhood, a window screen or film at low level might help your kitty feel less threatened. If you are allowing your kitten outside, a microchip catflap in the door is a good investment to allow him safe passage and keep intruders out. The garage or garden shed - is another source of danger with items such as anti-freeze, slug pellets, petrol, paint and tools - saws, lawnmower, etc. Check machinery before using it and rock the car bonnet before starting the engine, particularly in colder weather. A timid kitten may also find a nice corner of a shed or garage to hide in so always check thouroughly before lock- ing the door. The garden - is a beautiful place. You may allow your cat to roam free or you might invest in a cat pen or run for a kitten you intend to keep indoors. Provide shade, plants that are not toxic to cats and access to fresh water. Keep all tools, chemicals and bulbs etc. locked away. With a little preparation and care, your home will be a place for your kit- ten to enjoy without giving you cause for concern.34 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Order online now. Available from Amazon, A – Z of Cat HealthKeep your cats and kittens safe. the Book Depository or any and First Aid good bookshop at £14.99.Keep your cats and kittens safe. Also available as an ebook is a fully illustrated guide to the practicalOrder online now. solutions that anyone can carry out to keep their cat healthy.www.cataire.co.uk Andrew Gardiner provides detailed helpCataire Screening for 200 common cat illnesses, as well as advice in the event of accidents, for every- thing from coat contamination and fleas to spaying and urination problems. Each illness is explained, with details of first aid and nursing care that can be carried out at home, along with a full guide to the treatment your vet might follow. 50mg solution for cats 50mg solution for cats solution for cats 50mg solution for cats 50mg solution for catsWHAT IS THIS MEDICINE? WHAT IS THIS MEDICINE? 50mg solution for catsEach pipette of product contains 50mg of the active ingredient Fipronil.Other ingredients are Butylhydroxyanisole (E320) [0.1 mg per pipette] and solution for catsEOatchherpiinpgertetedioefn5pt0srmoadrgeucBtuctoylnhtyadinrosx5y0amngisoolfeth(Ee3a2c0t)iv[0e.1inmgrgedpieernptiFpieptrtoen]ial.ndButylhydroxytoluene (E321) [0.05 mg per pipette]. Butylhydroxytoluene (E321) [0.05 mg per pipette].WHAT IS THIS MEDICINE USED FOR?Johnson's fipronil Spot-on is used for the treatment of infestations by fleas WHAT IS THIS MEDICINE USED FOR?[Ctenocephalides felis]. The product shows immediate effect against fleasand persistent activity against new infestations for up to 5 weeks. Johnson's fipronil Spot-on is used for the treatment of infestations by fleas • vet strength flea control available from local pet shopThe product shows acaricidal efficacy with killing effect against ticks • same active ingredient as the market leader[xodes ricinus] within 48 hours. [Ctenocephalides felis]. The product shows immediate effect against fleas 50mg 50mg • for cats & kittens over 8 wks of ageHOW DO I USE THIS MEDICINE? and persistent activity against new infestations for up to 15 weeks.Read the package leaflet before use.For External Use Only. Do not remove the pipette from the sachet until use. The product shows acaricidal efficacy with killing effect against ticksHOW SHOULD THIS MEDICINE BE STORED? [xodes ricinus] within 48 hours. kills fleas kills fleasThis medicinal product does not require any special temperature storage HOW DO I USE THIS MEDICINE? & ticksconditions. Store in the original container in order to protect from light andmoisture. Read the package leaflet before use. • 3 treatments & ticksFor External Use Only. Do not remove the pipette from the sachet until use. solution for cats giving up to solution for catsUSER SAFETY WARNINGS. 15 weeksTreated animals should not be handled or played with until the application HOW SHOULD THIS MEDICINE BE STORED? protectionsite has dried. Therefore evening application is recommended. Treatedcats should not be allowed to sleep with owners, especially children. This This medicinal product does not require any special temperature storageproduct can cause mucous membrane and eye irritation. Do not get theproduct on your skin or in your eyes or mouth. If skin contact does occur, • 1 treatmentconditions. Store in the original container in order to protect from light andwash it off quickly with soap and water. In the case of accidental eyecontact, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with clean water. If eye moisture.irritation continues seek medical advice and show the package leaflet to giving up toUSER SAFETY WARNINGS.the doctor. Do not eat, drink or smoke while using this product. Washhands thoroughly after use. People with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) Treated animals should not be handled or played with until the applicationto Fipronil or any of the other ingredients should avoid contact with the 5 weekssite has dried. Therefore evening application is recommended. Treatedproduct. West Midlands B75 7DF, UK Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd., Sutton Coldfield, Distributed by: The Marketing Authorisation Holder is: West Midlands B75 7DF, UK Johnson’s Veterinary Products Ltd., Sutton Coldfield, Distributed by: The Marketing Authorisation Holder is: cats should not be allowed to sleep with owners, especially children. This Tel: +44(0)121 378 1684 [email protected] Norbrook Laboratories Limited, Station Works, Newry, Tel: +44(0)121 378 1684 [email protected] Norbrook Laboratories Limited, Station Works, Newry,FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY. Co. Down, BT35 6JP United Kingdom Co. Down, BT35 6JP United KingdomKEEP OUT OF THE REACH AND SIGHT OF CHILDREN. protectionproduct can cause mucous membrane and eye irritation. Do not get theFOR SPECIAL WARNINGS AND DISPOSAL - Read the package leaflet product on your skin or in your eyes or mouth. If skin contact does occur,before use Vm No: Authorised veterinary medicine – general sales list AVM-GSL Vm No: AVM-GSL wash it off quickly with soap and water. In the case of accidental eye Authorised veterinary medicine – general sales list contact, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with clean water. If eye irritation continues seek medical advice and show the package leaflet to the doctor. Do not eat, drink or smoke while using this product. Wash hands thoroughly after use. People with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Fipronil or any of the other ingredients should avoid contact with the 1 3 product. treatment for cats weighing over 1kg treatment pack for catsKFOEERPAONUIMTAOLFTTRHEEARTEMAECNHTAONNDLYSw.IGeHiTgOhFiCnHgILDoRvEeNr. 1kg FOR SPECIAL WARNINGS AND DISPOSAL - Read the package leaflet pack before use FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY - 1 pipette of 0.5ml FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY - 3 pipettes of 0.5ml FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY - 1 pipette of 0.5ml FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY - 3 pipettes of 0.5ml forB.N.: cats weighing over 1kg 1pack forB.N.: cats weighing over 1kg 3pack EXP.: treatment EXP.: treatment protection protection203v2isi2t-w5wwA.JjvMp.cCoa.utk oWr ocarlll0d12118357x81126894.J5ohAnWso:nx’s Vet1e8ri/na2r/y1P5rodu1ct2s:L4td1. SutPtoangCeold1field, West Midlands B75 7DFEco-litter that answers ÖkoPlus - the UK’s top selling the call of nature. natural clumping eco-litter Absorbs odour totally Very easy to scoop It’s soft on paws 100% natural organic fibre Light to carry Economical-lasts 3 times longer So easy to dispose-100% biodegradable 10 & 30 Litre sizes Buy online www.petfoodwarehouse.co.uk Call 0870 24 22 437 Pick up ÖkoPlus from Jollyes, Pets at Home and all good pet retailers. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 35

HEALTHTop tips on dealing withFeline Idiopathic CystitisJames Kyffin, eterinary Technical Manager at Protexin, offersa valuable insight into this stress-related disease and practicalmanagement suggestions for anyone with a cat affected by itF eline Lower Urinary Tract Disease layer appears to be defective and deficient. more damage it can do. This is why one (FLUTD) is the term used to of the management techniques for FIC is describe any condition that affects • Changes in the way the cats process to make the urine less concentrated/morethe bladder or the urethra of cats. This can dilute.include bacterial infections of the bladder, stressful situationsthe presence of stones or crystals in the Stress plays a key role in the develop- There are certain individuals that arebladder or congenital problems where the more at risk of developing FIC than oth-anatomy of the urinary tract is abnormal. ment of FIC and can act as a trigger for ers. These are usually young to middle-In cats less than 10 years of age, the most an episode of FIC. There is evidence to aged cats that are overweight and leadcommon cause of FLUTD is Feline suggest that cats with FIC do not handle a sedentary lifestyle. They often haveIdiopathic Cystitis (FIC). The word stress in a ‘normal’ way. A stress response restricted access to the outdoors and use‘idiopathic’ implies a disease of unknown would normally result in increased lev- an indoor litter tray. The problem seemscause and, despite ongoing research, there els of both cortisol and catecholamines to be more prevalent in households withis still much to learn about this disease and (adrenaline and noradrenaline). Cats with more than one cat.effective treatment options. FIC have increased catecholamines but cortisol remains low, and therefore these The clinical signs seen in cats with It is believed that FIC is due to: cats do not show a ‘typical’ stress response. FIC are similar to other cases of FLUTD and can include:• Abnormalities of the protective glycosa- • Compounds within the urine that can • Dysuria – Difficulty urinatingminoglycan (GAG) layer irritate the sensitive bladder lining • Stranguria – Pain on urination or There is a mucus layer that lines the Urine naturally contains many com- •straining to urinateinside of the bladder and this layer is pounds that have the potential to be Pollakiuria – Increased frequency ofcomposed of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). noxious to the sensitive bladder cells and,This GAG layer protects the sensitive when combined with the breakdown of the •urinationbladder cells from the damaging effects GAG layer, this has the potential to cause Periuria – Urinating in abnormalof the urine. In cats with FIC, this GAG irritation and inflammation of the bladder wall. The more concentrated the urine, the •places more noxious it can be and therefore the Haematuria – Presence of blood in •the urine Overgrooming – typically of the perineum, inner aspect of the thighs and abdomen It can be difficult to confirm that a cat is suffering from FIC and the diagnos- tic tests are aimed at ruling out all other potential causes of FLUTD. Some cats may only ever suffer from a single episode of FIC while oth- ers may have recurrent problems during their lifetime, which seem to be exacerbated by periods of stress. Over half the cats diagnosed with FIC will have more than one episode within a 12 month period. The management of FIC is36 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

HEALTHaimed at addressing the underlying factorsthat are thought to contribute to the dis-ease. As there are many separate factors,there isn’t one single ‘cure’ for FIC; ratherit is a combination of medicines, dietchange and modifying the cat’s environ-ment that help to manage the condition.Dietary Modification of fresh water. Consideration should be others dislike the noise produced by the Changes to the cat’s diet revolve given to the type of bowl used (plastic, motor. ceramic, glass, stainless steel), the locationaround increasing the water intake. This of the bowl and whether to use tap water The use of flavoured waters (e.g.acts to create dilute urine and encourage or allow rainwater to collect. Individual chicken, tuna) can make drinking moremore frequent urination. Dilute urine is cats have varying habits and it is important appealing for cats, although always checkless irritating than concentrated urine and to discover what your cat’s preferences that no onion or garlic was involved in thetherefore is less inclined to stimulate pain are. Some cats find water fountains very production of the liquid or stock. Somefibres and cause discomfort within the appealing, with the constant flow of the people have found that making ice-cubesbladder lining. water allowing for good oxygenation, while of flavoured water and adding these to the drinking water daily is an effective way of There are many ways to increase a encouraging the cats to drink.cat’s water intake, the most common is toswitch from a dry diet to a wet diet (tinnedor sachets). Although there is variationbetween diets, generally speaking,dry diets have a moisture content ofaround 10% moisture while wetdiets are around 80%. The keyfactor here is the amount of mois-ture ingested by the animal andtherefore any wet diet will be suitable,whether this is a specific urinary diet or asupermarket-branded diet. It is always important to make changesto the diet gradually over several days byadding small, but increasing, amounts ofthe new food to the existing diet. It is alsopossible to add extra water to the diet tofurther increase the moisture levels. Other ways to increase water intakeinclude allowing access to a good supply Environmental Modification Stress is an important trigger factor for cases of FIC and modifying the cat’s environment to reduce stress is vital in the management of the disease. Taking a holistic view of the cat’s environment can help identify potential sources of stress. Consideration should be given to the cat’s food and water sources, the litter tray, their interaction with the humans in the house- hold and also how they interact with other cats, either in the house or outside. Cat’s generally prefer to eat and drink in quiet surroundings away from excess noise and traffic, in a location where they are able to observe their surroundings and can’t be surprised or startled. They also prefer to have separate areas for eating and drinking. Cats (understandably!) do not want to eat or drink near their litter tray. The same general rules apply for using litter trays as well; they prefer somewhere catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 37

HEALTHquiet and relaxed, where they will not be relationship they have with other cats in management of FIC. However, FIC is adisturbed. Consider trying different loca- the household. There should be enough potentially painful and distressing diseasetions, size and shape of litter trays, and sleeping areas, scratching posts, food and painkillers (analgesic) can providedifferent types of cat litter to obtain a bet- bowls and water bowls for all the cats in relief from a cat’s showing evidence ofter understanding of your cat’s preferences the house to avoid conflict and competi- being uncomfortable. Speak to your veteri-and therefore which option is the least tion for such resources areas. Each cat in nary surgeon to decide on the best coursestressful for them. There should be at least the house should also receive adequate of action.one litter tray for each cat in the household time to play, allowing them to express theirplus one extra; for example, a house with normal hunting behaviour.three cats should have four litter trays. SupplementsLitter trays should be cleaned regularly. Further information on environmental Dietary and environmental modifica- modification can be found on the ‘Indoor tions are the main-stay of management The most common cause of stress in Pet Initiative’ webpage developed by the for cats with FIC but the use of dietarycats is conflict with another cat. It can be Ohio State University (https://indoorpet. supplements can be very useful in certaindifficult for humans to detect the under- osu.edu/). cases. The use of dietary supplements incurrents of feline behaviour and the subtle FIC centres around the use of glycosami-body language that can indicate hostility noglycan (GAG) supplements and thesebetween cats. For any cat suffering from PharmaceuticalsFIC, consideration should be given to the There is little evidence to support are available as oral or injectable forms. the use of pharmaceutical drugs for the The most commonly used GAG supple- ments are N-acetyl D-glucosamine and Hyaluronic acid, and these act to repair the defective GAG layer that lines the bladder. As an aid to the management of stress in susceptible cats, there are dietary sup- plements that claim to reduce anxiety and stress. These supplements are not a replacement for the modification of the animal’s environment but can allow the cat to manage any stresses more effectively. L-tryptophan is often Each cat in the house should found in combination also receive adequate time to with GAG supplements in products intended for the management of FIC. play, allowing them to express L-tryptophan is an amino their normal hunting behaviour. acid that is converted in the brain to Serotonin, which acts to regulate stress levels and manage anxiety. Alpha- casozepine is derived from milk protein and also acts to reduce stress, although it does work via a different mechanism than L-tryptophan. Summary Young to middle-aged cats showing signs consistent with FLUTD are likely to be suffering from FIC, and diagnostic tests should be undertaken to rule out all other potential causes. As FIC is a compli- cated condition resulting from several dif- ferent factors, there isn’t one single ‘treat- ment’ that works. Effective management of FIC involves increasing the cat’s water intake, modifying the cat’s environment, providing pain-relief and using suitable dietary supplements. By addressing these separate factors, the majority of cases will improve significantly. As cats get older, their symptoms do tend to lessen and many cats will ‘grow out’ of the condition altogether.38 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

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GORDY&ME WITH ELAINE MEAD LIFE WITH AN ADORABLE CAT WHO JUST HAPPENS TO HAVE SPECIAL NEEDSIt is firmly established that the Black and SilverBritish Short-haired Tabby cat with a stickyout tongue is spoilt!G ordy Towers, the monolith that on sticks, balls of every colour, sparkle the best space on the rises from floor to ceiling in our and size, both with and without annoy- sofa for a snooze as hallway between the kitchen ing tinkly bells. We even have stored befits her status as theand the living room, the same fluffy in the cupboard a desk fan that plugs lady of the house, beingstructure that has stopped the window into the laptop for when the heat of the eldest pet at almostcleaner, mid-mop, only for him to knock summer comes and Gordy nine years old.on the door to enquire: “What is that becomes too warm for his Bargain buymonstrous building?” And “Does it have own comfort. With all of Gordy Towers, whilstwindows that might need cleaning?” If these toys and equipment, not yet creaking underso, he is willing to offer a discount. The Gordy will still play fight the weight of an excess ofcat tree that puts other indoor cat play with Defi over the owner- cat toys, is filling up itscentres in the shade and which is slowly ship of either the blankie hidey hole sleeping areasbecoming festooned with glittery baubles or Teddy, both belonging quite nicely.(Christmas gifts) and stuffed fish that to the separation anxiety Jim, the husband, took a trip aroundare full of that aphrodisiac cat nip scent, riddled Golden Retriever. our local Home Bargains shop andwhich fails to raise a reaction in our little Teddy nor blankie are found a box of cat toys for the affordablecat whose hormones have never really no longer white and price of £1.99; it was purchased and pre-kicked in. His urine doesn’t smell, even fluffy, irrespective of the sented to the cat of the house for perusal.though he still retains all his own fluffy amount of times they We are now on our third box.baubles and we have been saved from all have been through the There are various items in the collec-manner of bad cat behaviour that usually boil wash cycle in the washing machine tion; some balls - with and without dis-follows around a fully operational tom the smell being somewhat ‘scented’ but tracting rattle, a hessian style star, a weirdcat, although Defi might complain that only coveted by a small dribbly cat and long, fluffy sausage in brown which looksthe biting game Gordy favours with him the big wussy guard dog of the house. disturbingly like a forgotten poo left tois demonstrating that he is actually a true The remaining dog, a female Golden go fluffy behind a hedge somewhere andtom! Retriever, Izabel is more known to rise a few other bits and pieces that appar- above playing with all toys in favour of ently appeal to the average mog. Gordy We have fluffy dangly toy things has paid none of the above any heed what so ever, no matter how many times we have dangled them in front of him. In this bargain box of fun are two small mice with little pink noses, each one with a soft body and a gentle tinkle when shaken violently. Gordy loves them. He comes alive chasing these fake rodents around the house, crashing into furni-40 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

ture, dogs, castles, litter trays and legs. Gordy has determination which is Train kittyHis vision and attention is completely never dimmed, a tenacity I so admire, to scratchconsumed with ‘Mousey’, as they have all and so using the litter box, a covered cavebeen named, Mousies being the collec- style affair, Gordy jumps onto the top, Ascratchtive noun bestowed upon the group. pausing only to stop long enough to push post may the vent lid into the litter box, thus leav- be an unfamiliar Mousey, when not being batted ing it in place for later when he will visit object for your kitten. Encouragearound the house, lives on the top the toilet and pee in the up turned vent its use early and gently or it mayplatform of Gordy Towers – only the cup. This, I am sure, he does on purpose stand in the corner of the roomPenthouse for Mousey. At first I was to make me curse. From his vantage untouchedputting Mousey out of the way of Izabel point on top of the litter box Gordy canand (mainly) Defi, the latter shamed make the small leap upwards, not too dif- All kittens and cats scratch. Ithimself by stealing the original stuffed ficult when your natural leap is vertical is a way of getting their claws intoy and jealously shredding it into tiny anyway, to land on the first floor. This great condition and one of thepieces, leaving fluffy entrails throughout manoeuvre has been perfected over time ways in which they mark theirthe kitchen. Gordy did retaliate by sitting and from the first scrabbled landing it’s territory. Between their toes theyon Teddy and refusing to give him back. now a honed and ‘Gordy eloquent’ leap have scent glands that leave aPutting Mousey out of Defi’s way when and land. trace of the scent behind in everyhe is not being played with by Gordy has scratch, a communication withproved to be a good thing. Next it’s the wing steps up to the final other cats. Here are some tipsAnother level floor and the retrieval of Mousey. With to encourage your new kitten the treasured rodent in his mouth, Gordy to scratch his post and not your Gordy has learnt how to climb. dives to the floor - another, thankfully, The cat castle is two tiers high, three practised move so we no longer crash •furniture.including the platform on the floor. land from the 4ft-plus height - and then Make sure the scratch post isThere is a ladder up to the first floor. the bashing of Mousey behind the sofa.. sturdy and tall enough for a cat toGordy jumps through the ‘step-gap’ or castle.. door.. can commence. My favour-drapes himself artfully between the rungs ite game with Mousey is when Gordy •to scratch when fully stretched.and is perfectly poised for a photo shoot bats him through the flap of the litter box If your kitten has his own,(it’s one on my favourite pose shots of and he quickly follows by diving through dedicated room or space for thehim, definitely top on the cute list). From the door, litter is sprayed out as he first few weeks, place the scratchthe first level, steps are positioned in a charges to get his mouse and returns tri- post there from the outset so itwing shape up and out to the second umphant with Mousey and a mouthful offloor and then the final turret is above litter, his little face lit up and enigmatic. •becomes a familiar object.that. Gordy can’t use the ladder, other Too much of a good thing Cats often like to scratch whenthan to look cute and so the dilemma waking, so it can be a good ideafor him is how to reach the Penthouse After a couple of consecutive nights to place the post close to the kit-level? I watched him and almost heard of disturbed sleep and a very grumpythe cogs turning in his little brain. He cat the following morning, Mousey now •ten’s bed.may be retarded in his learning but he sleeps in a cupboard that paws cannot Encourage your kitten to makeis not stupid, finally starting to attempt open but during the day both my boys contact with the post by playingto wash himself at the grand age of two walk around the house carrying their with him using a toy that he likesand he isn’t very good at it, falling over, favourite toys; Defi with Teddy andpredictably, when trying to reach his back Gordy with Mousey. •and touching it around the post.end so he gives up but the front left paw If your kitten is happy to beis very clean and why bother when there If you can’t find the bargain box of cat handled, hold him close to theis a big Golden with a big tongue (Defi) toys in the shop, it’s because we have a post and gently stroke their pawsjust waiting to play mum and clean those stash here in the cupboard. I do however down its length, getting him usedscruffy whiskers for you? have several hundred balls, un-used, with and without an annoying bell! •to how the surface feels. Rubbing the post with catnip should also encourage your kitten to get closer to it. If your kitten is happy to touch the post, give him lots of praise and maybe a small food treat. In time, your kitten will hope- fully be happy to use the scratch post without your encourage- ment. If, while he is learning, he scratches your furniture or anoth- er inappropriate place, don’t scold him but take him to the post and put his paws to the surface again. Remember that each kitten is an individual and will learn at his or her own pace. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 41

ROSEVALLEY MISTS centrestarOur cattery has invested in the best Australian Mists, being highly titled in Australia before arriving in the UK. From May 2015 the Mists will have Championship status with The International Cat Association which means worldwide recognition for this wonderful breed. Kittens available. Hampshire/Berkshire borders.Contact Valerie King on 0118 981 1109 or email: [email protected] www.katsacute.co.uk

Many thanks to the TICA board of directors all over the world for their support.See http://www.tica-uk.org.uk/html/shows.html for the 2015/2016 show season.

FLIROONSMRECSCIRUCEDUSA tip o˜ from the public sparked a daringrescue attempt in Peru which successfully ledto the retrieval of lionesses and other animals P H O T O S : A N IM A L D E F E N D E R S I N T E R N A T IO N A LP iura, Peru - Animal rescue charity be vigilant for any circuses defying the Top: A lioness from ADI’s Operation Lion Animal Defenders International law. Following a tip off, ADI had been Ark in Bolivia relaxes in her US sanctuary (ADI) and Peruvian authorities trailing the circus for over a week while home.SERFOR, ATFFS, the National liaising with the authorities in preparation Above: DI Vice President Tim Philips looksPolice and department of Piura have for the seizure in March. over a sedated lion in a travel crate who hassuccessfully raided an illegal circus been rescued from the circus as part of ADI’sfollowing a public tip off, rescuing The circus suddenly moved off, with Operation Spirit of Freedom.three lionesses and two monkeys as part vehicles leaving in different directions.of a collaborative effort to enforce the Thanks to an ADI team, the vehicle withcountry’s ban on the use of wild animals the animals was stopped just outsidein circuses. ADI has now removed 24 Sullana, north of Piura.lions from Peruvian circuses and has inits care almost seventy animals rescued The three lionesses, called Africa,during ADI’s Operation Spirit of Kiara and Muneca, and two monkeys,Freedom. Valeria and Valentino, were taken to the ADI Operation Spirit of Freedom rescue ADI urged members of the public to centre near Lima, where they will join 21 lions and other wild animals who have44 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

Above: ADI President Jan Creamer andADI Vice President Tim Philips inspect abeastwagon with lions.Above right: Lioness Amazonas relaxes ina holding cage in the ADI Operation Spirit ofFreedom rescue centre, Lima, PeruRight: After being separated by the circus,lioness Kiara is reunited with her cubs Mahlaand Sarc in ADI’s Operation Spirit of Freedomrescue centreBelow: This old circus lion was just knownas “Blind” - ADI have named the gentle giantJoseph and are desperate for funds to get him toa new life.Below right: Lion Rey before being rescuedfrom the circus by ADI’s Operation Spirit ofFreedombeen saved from circuses and the illegal constructed by ADI in the Peruvian the animals - the largest single cost willwildlife trade during the groundbreaking rainforest at Pilpintuwasi in Iquitos and be the flight to the US.rescue mission. A further nine lions are IkamaPeru. A total of 33 lions, includingin ADI’s custody in Colombia. nine from a circus in Colombia, will fly ADI President Jan Creamer said: on the biggest airlift of its kind to The “This was a wonderful day but it meant ADI will be relocating all of the ani- Wild Animal Sanctuary in the US. bringing our rescue team and trucksmals to permanent homes in the coming loaded with cages up to Piura then travel-weeks. Native wildlife will be rehomed ADI is funding all rescue operations ling through the night with our preciousin jungle habitats which are being in Peru and the huge cost of relocating cargo back to Lima where we will have five more mouths to feed and three more travel crates to build. We urge people to please donate to help this mission.” • www.ad-international.org/ FreedomAppealUK catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 45

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hopefully feels less stressed. If you have to pick the cat up, scoop them around back and front legs, avoiding their stomach area if you can. If you are in any doubt or feel unhappy doing this, call some- one more qualified to help such as your local animal welfare organisa- tion.Fpriresptaariedd: be Assist It is always advisable to haveKnowing what to do when accidents the number of your local out-happen means your cat gets the best of-hours vet handy. If youchance of a swift recovery feel the cat needs veteri- nary help, call them andN o cat owner wants to have further damage. explain the situation. They to deal with an injured or If the wounds are less severe, see may be able to give you sick cat but sometimes it isinevitable. Having a pet first aid kit and ‘Some common cocerns’. advice over the phone but willa little basic knowledge can make a big Restrain also be aware of what to expect shoulddifference. you have to take the injured cat to theCalm If at all possible, keep the cat shut surgery. in one room or outdoor space such as Some common concerns: An injured cat will quite likely also a shed, from where they are unable to Fightsbe a scared cat and may not be keen to escape.be approached. Stay calm and clear the If the injuries are thought to resultimmediate area of anyone who doesn’t The next step would be to get the from a fight with another cat, the firstneed to be there and try to remove any injured cat in to a carrier or box but this thought is to clean any wounds tonoise. Talk to the cat soothingly in a may not be possible. Line the carrier prevent infection. However, cats canquiet voice and approach carefully. A or box with an old towel or newspaper. be affected by some antisceptics andfood treat may help to gain their confi- If you think the cat is very frightened, anything left on their coat may then bedence. cover the whole carrier with a towel so licked. The best suggestion is to bathe the cat has privacy and the wound very gently with a solution Consider your safety too and of 5ml (1 teaspoon) salt to 500ml warmprotect your hands, face and arms. water.If the cat is aggressive and you get Stingsscratched or bitten, seek medicaladvice as soon as possible. Cats are inquisitive creatures and will happily swipe at a flying insect that Try to ascertain that the cat is comes close. Although stings are notbreathing and the airway is clear. usually dangerous, some cats may suffer an allergic reaction, in which case you Apply pressure to any serious must consult your vet urgently. Alsowounds to try to stop the bleeding. consult your vet if the sting is in theHowever, you should not continue cat’s mouth. Otherwise, bathe the areaif the cat struggles as you may cause with iced water. If you know for sure the sting was from a bee you could bathe with a weak solution of bicarbonate of soda; simi- larly a certain wasp sting can be bathed with a dilute solution of lemon juice or vinegar. Sunburn You should take every care to pro- tect light-skinned cats from hot sun, although most are intelligent enough to stay out of it and seek shade. If they do get burned or overheated, bathe with cold water for several minutes. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 47

TOP TYIPOS FUORRGKROITOTMEINNGFollow our six top tips for a healthy coatand a great way to bond right from thestart for the best looking kitten in townK itten care should start from the Longhaired kittens actually need to following bathing, when they run a day you bring your kitten home. be groomed to prevent their fur becom- risk of colds and respiratory infections. Start the grooming as a game ing matted. Use a wire comb to groom, Keep your kitten in a warm, draughtand use a soothing voice to put the as this will get down to the bottom of free environment for 24 hours afterkitten at ease. This way your kitten will the coat, whereas the brush is more of a bathing.soon relax into being groomed and it finishing touch.should become a pleasurable, bonding Take care: If showing your kitten, bathe it sevenprocess for both of you. days before show day. Use a quality1: Ears should be given a weekly clean Do not over groom, especially short- shampoo and conditioner manufacturedwith a dry cotton bud. Be VERY care- haired kittens, as this may tear or dam- for cats and kittens. NEVER use wash-ful not to clean deeper than the cotton age their hair strands, leaving a poor ing up liquid.bud end itself, or use ear wipes and soft finish on the coat. How to wash your kittencoat wipes, which also clean the ears. 5: Eyes can be cleaned with specially2: Between five and six months of age formulated stain remover that is chemi- Stand your kitten in water only, upyour kitten will change its milk teeth to cal free and designed for daily use with to the top of his legs to gain his confi-adult teeth. Practice cleaning his teeth pets. Soak a piece of cotton wool and dence. Avoiding the eyes and mouth,with a finger brush or a small, soft bris- cleanse under each eye with two sepa- gently allow water around the ears, thentle toothbrush. Treat this as a game and rate dry pieces of cotton wool or tissue. towel dry.try to clean your kitten’s teeth once or Clean each eye individually to preventtwice a week. cross contamination and possible eye After a while, when your kitten is problems. more confident and happy with this, you Special animal toothpaste and finger 6: If you want to show your kitten then can gently dry the fur with a warm, butbrushes are available from your vet or you will need to get it used to bathing never hot, hairdryer.local pet store. Don’t forget to be very at an early age. Ideally, you can startgentle, so as not to hurt the teeth or this two weeks after their inoculations. If your kitten is distressed at anygums. Cats have a 24 hour perspiration period time, obtain soft coat conditioning3: If you are keeping your kitten as an wipes, which will clean and conditionindoor cat, they will require their claws your kitten’s coat without the need forcutting every six weeks or so. If you water.don’t do this, the claws will continue togrow and curl back into the paw pads,which will become a nasty problem.Special scissors are commercially avail-able and safe to use. If your kitten will be allowed to roamthen do not cut their claws once theystart going out as they are needed forprotection against other animals.4: Shorthaired kittens should begroomed too and will enjoy this activityas a social game. Use a gentle bristlebrush which massages and removesloose hairs. This is especially importantto help remove hairs and prevent hairballs.48 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk

KITTEN SPECIALFidinedalykoiuttren being handled by young children and will not be bothered by noise.A new pedigree kitten is exciting but chooseyour breed carefully. Consider your home, All breeds need grooming but somefamily and lifestyle before making your decision require much more care than others. If you do not feel you will have the time andA new kitten will be your breed more suitable? Do you work regular patience needed to groom a longhaired responsibility for life so you need hours or will you be with it during the cat, especially a heavy, long coated cat to be sure you are able to properly daytime? Do you have small children or like the Persian, then cross it off your list.care for the breed you choose. Some need other pets..? Longhaired and semi-longhaired catsmore entertaining than others; some aren’t should be groomed regularly and somehappy to be left on their own all day and It’s probably a good idea to start by shorthaired varieties need more care thanothers need a certain amount of regular making a list of what you would like and you might expect. If you or any familygrooming. It’s important to take time to what you think might be possible. Think member is sensitive to the dander on catconsider all the options carefully before about size, temperament and care. When hairs, then you might prefer a shorthairedmaking your decision. making the final decision, two of the main or smooth coated variety. factors are often personality and hair How much space do you have? Is there length. If you have a family at home, you Our handy A-Z guide to many of theroom for an active kitten or is a quieter must be sure that the breed will tolerate popular breeds gives a brief description of each one to help you make that final choice. Find out which cats are more suit- ed to the elderly, the disabled or families with young children; those who love atten- tion and those who prefer a little peace and quiet. Do remember that each kitten is an individual, as is your family situation, and use this only as a guide. Talk to breeders or breed clubs for more detailed informa- tion. Whatever your decision, we hope you will have a long and happy relationship with your new kitten. catworld.co.uk MAY 2015 49

KITTEN SPECIALABYSSINIAN scratch, they make great pets for children Bengal will happily jump onto a worktop Abyssinians (or Abys, as they are of all ages. Kittens are very lively but the or your shoulder and ‘help’ with tasks. mature cats usually a lot calmer. They love However, they can also enjoy a roll on theknown) are intelligent, independent cats to be with humans and are often happy to floor to entice you to stroke them and willwho like exercise and will spend long peri- remain indoors. be happy to curl up on your lap when theyods outdoors if allowed. They may look feel so inclined.like a mini puma but their exact origin is Grooming: Very easy to look after asunknown. Extremely affectionate, they the coat is short and glossy At least fourth generation from theendear themselves to their owners by way original cross breeding with the domesticof a gentle head-butt and a trill of greeting • Happy to be indoors, children or disabled cat is the usual recommendation for housewhich is unmistakably different from the pets.usual miaow. friendly, tolerant. BALINESE Grooming: Very easy to care for; brush- They make a perfect companion for ing occasionally to help control ingestionanyone living alone as they are very loyal, A Balinese is almost identical to the of fur and the formation of fur balls is allalthough they are not really a lap cat, Siamese in every way (except for the semi- that is required.being rather active and athletic. A large long coat). An entertaining, outgoing andarea for exercising would be desirable as talkative breed, they get along well with • Sociable, intelligent and mischievous, needsthey remain playful as adult cats. other cats, dogs and enjoy the company of an active family. Friendly and loving, they space. Be warned that Abys are enthusiastic make great pets for children and will adapt BIRMANhunters and if allowed too much freedom well to apartment living, often happyoutside, could reward you with freshly to stay indoors. However, they are very Birmans are the perfect choice if youcaught mice! inquisitive and will need to know what’s want a devoted pet and are good for any- going on. one living on their own. They make excel- Grooming: The uniquely ticked Aby lent companions and although the kittenscoat is short and lies so close to the body They are available in all the Siamese demand plenty of exercise, they becomethat a daily comb through with a fairly fine pointed colours, from rich dark seal points less active as they get older. They aretoothed comb will keep this breed looking to pastel patterned tabby and tortie points. happy to keep themselves amused so areits best. ideal for someone who wants only one cat. Grooming: Easy, requiring only mini-• Children and dog friendly, companion cat, mal attention Grooming: Daily grooming may be required to remove any shedding longactive, independent, likes to be outdoors. • Children and dog friendly, happy indoors, hair, especially during the warmer springASIAN and summer months, when moulting. needs entertaining - possibly another feline. However, this is fairly minimal as the coat Asians are wonderfully playful and BENGAL is remarkably silky. The snowy white pawsactive, energetic and entertaining and may get grubby and therefore need extramake good house cats. They appreciate With a wild ancestry from the Asian attention.company and will get on well with all Leopard Cat, the stunning Bengal isfamily members including small children, intelligent and alert but also rather mis- • Companion cat, loyal, Active, single person.dogs and other animals. chievous. It may take you twice as long as it should to do your housework but you BOMBAY Closely related to the Burmese, the will never be bored with a Bengal around. The British Bombay is a Self blackAsian has proved a popular shorthair and They need quite a lot of space version of the Asian and is relatedthere is a host of colours. The Bombay is in which to exercise as to the Burmese. Affectionate,the self black version, sporting a glossy they are quite boisterous friendly and intelligent, theyblack coat and golden eyes. The silver and as kittens are usu- make excellent companions.Burmilla, developed as a hybrid from an ally extremely active. A They don’t like to be on theiraccidental mating between a Burmese and own however and will oftena Chinchilla Persian, is extremely popular follow their ownerand has a very friendly nature. The semi-longhaired Asian or ‘Tiffanie’ comes in allcolours. Grooming: The smooth, silky coatis very easy to groom and care for. Theglossy all-black coat of the Bombay ben-efits from a polish with a silk cloth.• Good family pet, children and dog friendly,active.AUSTRALIAN MIST Of Australian origin, this breed is acombination of Burmese, Abyssinian andAustralian Domestic shorthair cats. Fullof fun, they have the loving personality ofthe Burmese mixed with the lively intel-ligence of the Abyssinians. Very tolerantof being handled without a tendency to50 MAY 2015 catworld.co.uk