Frequently Asked Questions
What Is FIV?
Foods that are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats
Is That Plant Safe for the Cat?
Ready to Adopt?
How to Keep Your Cat Healthy
What if Your Cat Goes Missing
Coat Maintenance
FIV is a lentivirus, a slow-progressing virus that can compromise a cat's immune system, reducing its ability to fight off illnesses. The virus has a long latent then progresses so slowly that it may never affect a cats. FIV cats can live just as long and as healthy as Non-FIV cats and ultimately die of the same causes as Non-FIV cats. The virus cannot be passed to humans or other animals.
Some of the most toxic food for cats include onions & garlic, raw eggs & meat, chocolate, alcohol, grapes and raisins. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps, especially around the holidays, as these may contain potentially toxic ingredients. If you think your cat has eaten something toxic, call your veterinarian immediately.
Having indoor plants can be beneficial for humans; they look nice, purify our air, and help us breathe easier. But some of these same plants have potential to be deadly for our feline counterparts. In some cases, only a single part of the plant is poisonous to cats (e.g. roots, leaves, seeds, sprouts, etc) but to be safe, we are ruling out the entire plant for your cat’s safety. If you find that your cat has eaten any part of these plants bring them in to a veterinarian immediately for evaluation. Symptoms of toxic plant ingestion include: Vomiting Lethargy Diarrhea Drooling Nausea Weakness
Before you bring home your new member of your family remember to have already purchased a litter box and litter, canned and dry food, and glass bowls for that food and water (some toys wouldn’t hurt either). If all of that is in order you still may not be sure what to do with your new bundle of joy once you’ve arrived home— especially if you have children or other pets to introduce your new cat to. Here are some pointers and other very detailed information on how to handle those first few days and weeks. If you have further questions you can always reach out to the adoption coordinators and the shelter.
Feeding cat your at a proper diet will help keep her coat healthy, but grooming is also essential. Keeping your cat’s coat healthy and mat-free is your responsibility. Cats keep themselves clean by licking, so baths are generally unnecessary, but regular grooming with a long-tooth, stainless steel cat comb for longhairs, or a short-tooth, stainless steel cat comb or slicker brush for shorthairs, helps control shedding and prevents your cat from swallowing too much hair. “Hairballs” form in the stomach and are usually passed or coughed up without trouble. But in extreme cases, large hairballs can be life threatening and require surgery. Regular grooming—especially of longhaired cats and particularly in hot weather—is the best prevention. One of the most important rules when it comes to grooming your cat’s coat is to never use scissors to remove a mat, regardless of how careful you may be. Cats have thin skin that can easily be nicked or cut without you realizing it, and the resulting wound could become infected and form an abscess. If your cat has a mat that cannot be removed by combing or brushing, try a mat splitter or a seam ripper. You can work out the mat by tearing it through the middle and up toward the end of the mat, away from the cat’s body. If your cat has too many mats and is not amenable to being groomed at home, consider having her professionally groomed by a veterinarian or reputable groomer. Regular grooming sessions are a great way for guardians to bond with their cats. Many cats enjoy the grooming process and look forward to time spent with their guardian. So, in addition to helping keep your cat clean and mat-free, grooming also can be an enjoyable way for you and your cat to spend time together.
Pro Advice for Finding a Lost Cat (They May be Closer Than You Think) Finding a lost cat might take some work, but it’s not an impossible task. Start your search at home before you start making signs and knocking on neighbors’ doors.
A healthy cat is a happy cat! Whether your buddy is a playful kitten or a seasoned senior cat, here are 10 ways to keep your cat healthy. 1. Groom your cat regularly You might be thinking, “but don't cats groom themselves?” While cats are known for their cleanliness, some extra help from you can take their health and hygiene to the next level! Short-haired, medium-haired and long-haired cats can all benefit from regular brushing.