FICTIONAL FELINES QUIZ
H o w w e ll d o y o u k n o w
y o u r fi c t io n a l f e lin e s ?
This quick quiz is designed to test your knowledge of fi ctional
cats throughout several decades - something to divert you from
the stresses of the festive season Author:Jameson
BY MARGARET BRECKNELL
hese days cats are to be found collection of fairy tales by French 12. Created by Jim Davis, this
all over the internet but our feline author Charles Perrault in the late pasta-loving comic strip cat is por-
friends have long played a part 17th century. trayed as being lazy and overweight
T in popular culture, providing 4. This naughty offspring of a but much loved by his hapless
inspiration for writers and cartoonists shopkeeper called Tabitha Twitchit owner Jon.
alike. Try this fun quiz and see if you is the subject of a 1907 book by 13. The leader of a gang of alley
can match the fifteen fictional felines Beatrix Potter. cats, whose main purpose in life is
listed with the brief descriptions given 5. Name of the black and white to outwit Officer Dibble in a popular
below. cat who is the companion of Leon- Hanna-Barbera cartoon series.
ard Rossiter’s character, 14. This marmalade cat is the
(a) BAGPUSS Rigsby, in 1970’s sitcom ‘Ris- hero of 19 children’s books by Kath-
(b) CHESHIRE CAT ing Damp’. leen Hale, written between 1938 and
(c) CROOKSHANKS 6. Alley cat who helps the 1972.
(d) GARFIELD Duchess and her kittens in 15. Black and white tuxedo cat,
(e) KORKY THE CAT the classic Disney film ‘The who is constantly outwitted by a
(f) MOG Aristocats’. yellow canary called Tweety Pie in
(g) MR JINKS 7. This cat, known for his the Looney Tunes series of animated
(h) ORLANDO distinctive grin and ability to cartoons.
(i) PUSS IN BOOTS disappear at will, appears in Lewis ● [email protected]
(j) PUSSY-CAT Carroll’s classic children’s novel, Twitter:@mabrecknell
(k) SYLVESTER ‘Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland’.
(l) THOMAS O’MALLEY 8. This hapless feline is peren-
(m) TOM KITTEN nially outwitted by mice Pixie and
(n) TOP CAT Dixie in the classic Hanna-Barbera
(o) VIENNA cartoon series.
9. Hermione Granger’s large
1. Much loved grey and white ginger cat in the Harry Potter series
tabby cat who appeared in a series whom JK Rowling describes as ‘part
of books by writer and illustrator, Kneazle’, a magical cat with a sixth
Judith Kerr. sense.
2. Appeared on the front cover of 10. Much loved old pink and
The Dandy’s first issue in 1937 and white striped cloth cat, who starred
has remained one of the iconic Brit- in one of the most popular chil-
ish comic’s best known characters dren’s TV series of all time.
thereof. 11. According to Edward Lear’s Answers
3. This character may have been nonsense poem of 1871, this feline 1 (f), 2 (e), 3 (i), 4 (m), 5 (o), 6 (l), 7
the subject of a 2011 animated film sets out to sea in a pea green boat (b), 8 (g), 9 (c), 10 (a), 11 (j), 12 (d),
but his origins date right back to a accompanied by an owl. 13 (n), 14 (h), 15 (k)
51
CAT WORLD
MEET THE BREED
Bold, beautiful, Burmese will melt y
It took a while for the Burmese to become established but once it did, it soon became
one of the popular breeds on the show bench
BY JILL MUNDY
ue to its unusual coat colour and around for hundreds of years in Burma, Siamese but a different breed alto-
subtle pattern, the Burmese has Malaya and Thailand, it seems the gether.
an appearance like no other breed was first introduced to the UK in As Wong Mau was the only kitten
D pedigree breed. The coat colour the late 1800s when it was known then of this type in the USA at the time, the
gradually pales from the extremities as Chocolate Siamese. Sadly there doctor mated her with a Sealpoint
(points) but in a much more limited was not a great deal of interest and Siamese imported from Thailand. The
way than with the Siamese. This means the breed soon disappeared across result was a litter of Sealpoint Siamese
the face, legs, ears and tail all change Europe. kittens and many people were scepti-
subtly to a lighter tone on the under- Fast forward to California in the cal. However, Wong Mau was then
parts. 1930s and an American doctor named mated to her son, Yen Yen, and this
Happy in the company of children Dr. Joseph C. Thompson who visited produced a much darker type of kitten:
or adults, the Burmese is a lively and Burma and came home with a kitten the Burmese had arrived.
energetic breed that will appreciate that westerners had never seen before.
lots of playtime and a variety of inter- It was smooth-coated and the colour BurmeseinBritain
active toys. of a walnut. She was named Wong Mau In 1946, Mrs Blanche Warren and
The exact origins of the Burmese and Dr. Johnson was determined to her husband registered their cattery
breed are unknown. While it has been prove that his kitten was not a type of name Casos Gatos, a name that was
52 CAT WORLD
mese will melt your heart
to become very famous across ‘the
Pond’. Mrs Warren was the breeder of
the first Burmese cats to win awards
in America, Yana Tansen Wat and Yani
Wat of Yana. It was when they sent two
male cats to England that the Burmese
breed arrived in the UK. Two Derby-
shire breeders took one of the cats
each, along with two females bred
in Massachusetts, and so Mrs Lillian
France and Mrs C F Watson laid the
foundations of the Burmese breed in
Britain.
All Burmese were brown until the ar-
rival of a blue Burmese in 1955 among
what should have been an all-brown
litter. Mr Vic Watson, founder of the
Burmese Cat Club in England in 1954,
fought hard for the right of the blue to
be recognised – a goal achieved in
1960. The popularity of the breed had
grown considerably when, in 1964,
53
CAT WORLD
MEET THE BREED
an accidental mating between a blue be very mischievous. Don’t be fooled the face tapers gradually to a blunt
Burmese female and a red tabby non- by that sweet expression but expect to muzzle.
pedigree produced the founder of the be entertained and become a source Ears - medium sized, being larger
red and cream lines – a tortoiseshell for their entertainment as they love than a British but not so large as a
half-Burmese. human company and like to be ‘help- Siamese or Oriental. In kittens the
Interest in new, exciting colours ful’ whenever possible. A good supply ears can often look too large because
quickly grew and eventually the cream of toys and games will be worth the the head has not reached its full size.
and blue tortie Burmese was added to investment. They also generally get Broad at the base and rounded at the
the list of recognised breeds, in 1971. along well with children, dogs and tips, set very well apart on a rounded
New lines had been imported from other cats. head, ideally with a good ‘dome’ in
Canada in 1968 which gave better eye between. Characteristically at a slight
colour and a brighter coat to those be- Standardofpoints forward tilt – something that seems to
ing bred in Britain. Chocolate and Lilac Body - Strong, muscular, and very add to this breed’s alert expression.
colours followed in 1972. solid. Males weigh between 11-14 In profile, head should show consid-
lbs with females considerably lighter erable depth from top of skull to lower
Breedstandard at 6-9 lbs. Medium length – neither jaw; the straight nose should show a
Strong, athletic and elegant, the elongated nor short. Chest should be
Burmese is classed as ‘foreign’ but is strong and rounded in profile, back
quite individual within that type. Of should be straight from shoulder to
moderate size and shape they are not rump.
as large or as chunky as the British Legs and paws - Slender legs
Shorthair and are shorter, heavier and should be in proportion to the body,
less sinewy than the Siamese. with hind legs slightly longer than the
They have a close, even and glossy forelegs; paws are neat and oval in
coat that is just perfect for stroking but shape.
they won’t often stay still for long. Play- Head - a ‘short wedge’, the shape
ful, energetic and extremely intelligent, of an equilateral triangle without any
they are very active cats and can also sharp edges. Wide at the cheekbones,
54 CAT WORLD
MEET THE BREED
distinct ‘break’, with a strong, firm chin. overall. Nose leather: warm chocolate blotched blue and pink.
Eyes - large, lustrous and expres- brown; Paw pads: brick pink shading Chocolate Tortie - Chocolate, with
sive, the eyes must be set well apart, to chocolate. shades of red. Nose leather and paw
the top line showing a slant towards the Lilac - Pale, delicate dove-grey with, pads: plain or blotched chocolate and
nose. Any shade of yellow is accepta- ideally, a pinkish hue. Nose leather and pink.
ble, from amber to chartreuse but with paw pads: lavender pink. Lilac Tortie - Lilac, with shades of
golden yellow preferred. As the eyes Red - Described as ‘tangerine’ in cream. Nose leather and paw pads:
are very susceptible to changing light the GCCF. Nose leather and paw pads: plain or blotched lilac or pink.
conditions, it is usual to try to judge all pink.
Burmese under the same light. Cream - Rich cream or pale apri-
Tail - Straight and of medium thick- cot colour with a distinct cream
ness at the base, tapering gradually to powdered effect or ‘bloom’ on
a rounded tip. The tail is required to be the ears, the top of the head
in proportion to the body length so that and along the back. Nose
when it is wrapped around the body, it leather and paw pads:
should reach the shoulder. pink.
Coat - Short, fine, silky and lay- Blue Tortie -
ing close to the body. Satin-like to the Blue, with shades
touch, it has a luxurious gloss which is of cream. Nose
one of it’s striking features, as well as leather and paw
being indicative of good health. pads: plain or
White hairs can sometimes be seen
in the coat, although too many would
prevent a cat from becoming a Cham-
pion.
Colours
In all colours, underparts will be
lighter than the back but shading
should be gradual. Ears and face may
be slightly darker. Ten coat colours are
recognised:
Brown - A warm, rich, seal brown
with no visible barring, although
ghost stripes are permissible in a
kitten. Nose leather and paw pads:
rich brown. (Although called brown
in Britain it is known as ‘sable’ in the
American cat fancy).
Blue - A soft blue-grey with a dis-
tinct silvery sheen on rounded areas
such as face, ears and feet. Nose
leather: dark grey; paw pads: pinkish
grey.
Chocolate - a wonderful warm milk
chocolate, preferably evenly covered
Grooming
Regular hand grooming is all that is required for this easy-care cat. Breed-
ers recommend occasional brushing with a short bristle brush. On no
account should a rubber grooming brush be used as this can strip out the
coat. A wipe over with wet hands will get rid of any loose hairs and a quick
wipe with a chamois leather will add shine, although Burmese have a gloss
of their own.
55
CAT WORLD
COLDS & SNEEZES
W in t e r c o ld s a r e m is e r a b le ;
h e lp y o u r c a t c o p e
Keep winter snuffl es at bay for your feline by recognising the
signs and following the basic tips and advice here to help
them recover as soon as possible
BY MANDY WILLETT
ost of us, unless we’re very Cat‘flu could try encouraging your cat into
lucky, will suffer with a few This uncomfortable condition is the bathroom while you or another
sniffles before winter is over. usually caused by a virus and the cat family member has a bath or shower.
M Some of us are among the will have watery eyes and a runny The steam will help to clear the nose
hundreds of people to receive the ‘flu nose. As we know, antibiotics are although it may only last for a short
vaccine every year. For the rest of us, unlikely to be of much use unless time.
it is likely that we will have a full blown a secondary infection of some sort ‘Mucky’ eyes: Conjunctivitis can
cold that can make us feel very poorly develops. It is advisable in any case to be very painful and may mean that
for anything from a couple of days to a avoid antibiotics if at all possible. Your your cat won’t allow you to clean his
week or two. A blocked nose, watery vet may be able to prescribe some- eyes. A watery discharge should drain
eyes and a nasty cough are all com- thing to ease the symptoms and your away fairly easily but a thicker, sticky
mon symptoms of an upper respira- cat should soon feel much better, get discharge can be gently removed by
tory infection. their appetite back and drink normally bathing the eye area with a piece of
Our cats can suffer from this too once more. moistened cotton wool.
and may feel pretty unwell but unlike However, if a secondary, bacterial
humans, they are unable to tell us how infection does develop, it is usual for a Food
they are feeling, where it hurts, what course of antibiotics to be prescribed. As previously men-
is blocked, etc. Cats with the snuffles The symptoms of a bacterial infection tioned, a reduced
will have a fever, lethargy, sneezing, a include a thick, sticky discharge from sense of smell
blocked nose, watery eyes and even the nose and/or eyes. and generally
sore gums. In fact it seems to affect feeling
their whole body. It is quite likely that Howcanyouhelp? unwell
they will have a reduced appetite and As a cat owner, there is nothing
tend to drink less but this can make worse than knowing your cat is feeling
them become dehydrated and they poorly but being able to do something
may end up requiring urgent medical to alleviate the symptoms can mean
attention. you feel less helpless.
If you are worried in any way about Nasal discharges: A cat’s appetite
your cat’s health, you should contact depends heavily on smelling his food,
your veterinary surgery - they will first and foremost, followed by the
either offer advice over the phone or taste. A blocked nose will reduce
make an appointment with the vet if his ability to smell anything so
necessary. Don’t wait until your cat simply wiping away any nasal
is very obviously ill before getting in discharge with moistened cotton
touch…far better to act early and be wool can help the cat feel a little
able to have your feline friend feeling better. However, this is often sim-
much better in a shorter amount of ply not tolerated by a cat who is
time. feeling under the weather so you
56 CAT WORLD
COLDS & SNEEZES
can make a cat refuse to eat or cer-
tainly eat much less than usual. This is
obviously not in the cat’s best interests
but there are a few things you can try
to encourage your cat to eat.
l try gently warming a portion of wet
food (don’t make it hot) - this increases
the smell
l try feeding smelly food such as
pilchards or sardines
l offer a smaller portion than normal
so your cat doesn’t feel overwhelmed
l small pieces of cooked chicken or
a little wet food can be fed by hand.
Some poorly cats are more inclined to
eat from your hand than feed them-
selves from a bowl
l feeding little and often can success-
fully get enough nutrients into your cat
to help build up his strength
l liquid is also important and water is
preferred. Try dropping water from a
spoon or holding your cat to a running
tap. A water fountain is good if you
have one.
l if your cat is refusing to eat anything
due to an upper respiratory infection,
you could try giving a little milk. Be
careful not to give too much or your cat
could also end up with an upset stom-
ach. This should be a very short-term a high temperature and possible fever.
solution only as the cat’s usual food will Encourage this, as he is just follow-
be much better for him. ing his natural instincts to keep cool.
However, if you are concerned about
Fever the cat, consult your vet at the earliest
If your cat is unwell and you find him opportunity.
laying on a cool, tiled floor in
the bathtub, it is quite Inside/outside
likely that he has A poorly cat is likely to want to hide
away somewhere where he can find
peace and quiet. It is much better for
this to be in your home rather than in
an outbuilding or shed. Try to encour-
age your cat to stay indoors but if he
really wants to be outside to toilet, let
him go out or take him outside until
he is finished. It is not the best time to
be introducing a litter tray to a cat who
doesn’t normally use one and is feel- to help you care for your poorly cat if
ing unwell. they have a cold or cat ‘flu. However,
Try to make his cat bed and they should not take precedence over
space in your home as comfy as the advice of your vet or veterinary
possible as he may also have nurse. They will be more than happy to
achey joints - much like humans do advise you and you should be pre-
when they have the ‘flu. pared to take your cat to see them,
These guidelines are intended should they feel it is necessary.
57
CAT WORLD
HEALTH MATTERS
U p s e t t u m s a r e c o m m o n
o v e r t h e f e s t iv e s e a s o n
Whether it is eating something they shouldn’t or too much of
a good thing, cats are prone to an upset stomach but with a
few simple steps, they can soon recover
BY ALISON LOGAN
he commonest cause of a simple may have occurred, our priority is to
gastritis or upset stomach is di- ease the upset stomach whilst ensur-
etary indiscretion, ie your cat has ing your cat receives and retains nutri-
T eaten something which she should ents and fluids. fluid, has a poor appetite or is ano-
not have eaten. The same is true in rexic, is lethargic or if vomiting recurs
humans: consider how one feels if Howtotreat at any stage.
one has eaten too much or eaten food There is a very simple rule-of-
which is ‘off’ or has otherwise disa- thumb to treating a simple gastritis, Managingthediet
greed with oneself. which can also be applied to There are two aspects to be consid-
Cats are notorious for scav- the human scenario: feed little ered:
enging in accessible dustbin and often of a bland diet, after 1. Fluid
bags and they also have a a period of abstinence. It is im- Ideally, this should be oral rehydra-
tendency for seeking out food perative to ensure fluid intake, tion fluid formulated to meet the spe-
whether in a neighbour’s house however. cific needs of a cat. In an ideal world,
or catching it on the hoof, so to The advice of a veterinary two or three sachets would be handy
speak. surgeon should be sought at to keep in a feline first aid kit for just
Dietary discretion may also arise any time if you are concerned about this occasion.
inadvertently at the hands of an owner your cat, either over the telephone or Oral rehydration fluid will be of ben-
who puts odd bits of food during prep- in person at the veterinary surgery, efit only if it is drunk – it will do your
aration of the family meal or scraps left having made an appointment by tel- cat no good if it is left untouched. Oral
over from it, or other tit-bits, in the cat’s ephone if the practice you use works rehydration fluid is renowned for being
bowl. Raiding plates cleared from the on an appointment-only system. This is unpalatable – have you ever tried the
dinner table is also not unknown! particularly the case if your cat contin- version for humans?
However the dietary indiscretion ues to vomit, is unable to keep down If your cat refuses the oral rehydra-
tion fluid you have made up for her, or
if you have none to hand, then cooled,
Plan: boiled water is the alternative to offer.
l Twenty-four hours without food but in conjunction with point 2; Again, it will do no good if your cat will
l Offer a small amount of water or oral rehydration fluid at regular inter- not drink it.
vals; It is worth remembering that cats
l After 24 hours, and in the absence of any more vomiting, a tiny quantity are notoriously fussy about the na-
of an easily digested food can be offered every two hours or so; ture and source of fluid they drink.
l Over successive days, the quantity of food fed can be increased and Many cats are not even seen drinking
the interval between feeds increased until your cat is eating a meal two or because they take themselves off to
three times per day, probably after about three or four days; a favourite puddle or pond or other
l Wean your cat gradually back on to her usual diet over the next five source outside. Some cats will drink
days. water only from a running tap or a
glass – you would not believe some of
58 CAT WORLD
BEHAVIOUR
the stories I have heard in the consult- form of dietary management for a pre- aiming to start weaning back onto the
ing room! existing illness, and it becomes well usual diet after three or four days.
It is now possible to buy water foun- nigh impossible to generalise within A prescription diet is the ideal way
tains for those cats who like to drink the confines of these pages. to feed a cat recovering from simple
from a running tap but it is hard to ca- The young adult who is otherwise gastritis because she will be receiving
ter for those who like muddy standing well should respond to the dietary a balanced diet when she most needs
water. A syringe may be the only way management outlined earlier. There it. By definition, however, this is only
to persuade your cat to take in fluid but are two main sources of easily-digest- available from a veterinary surgeon.
do not let this become a battle of wills. ed food: Assuming that the cause of the stom-
If your cat steadfastly refuses to take in a) white meat (without skin) or fish, ach upset was not your cat’s usual diet,
fluid, and especially if she is generally cooked in the home in water (not with the aim is to ultimately feed your cat on
unwell, then she should be examined milk!), which will act as an additional her original diet again.
by a veterinary surgeon. source of fluid; This must be achieved through a
There are various ways of establish- b) prescription food formulated for gradual weaning process, whereby
ing the hydration status of a cat, the those individuals with an upset stom- a small amount of the original diet
easiest for an owner to assess being ach. is mixed in with the bland diet and,
skin elasticity - skin should return to The dietary requirements of a cat provided there is not a resumption of
lying flat after being picked up gently are such that problems can arise in a vomiting, the proportion of original
between finger and thumb if your cat surprisingly short period of time. A diet gradually increased whilst reduc-
is not dehydrated - although this is not veterinary student seeing practice with ing the proportion of the bland diet
necessarily very accurate. Ultimately, us found that her cat developed signs until it is just the original diet which is
rehydration with intra-venous fluid of taurine deficiency after just two being fed.
therapy may become necessary. weeks on fish alone as part of a dietary I cannot emphasise enough how im-
2. Food trial for allergies. I am therefore always portant it is to seek professional advice
The picture becomes complicated if wary of advising a white meat diet if you are at all concerned about your
a cat is on a prescription diet or other for longer than a week and would be cat at any time.
59
CAT WORLD
C A T S O N
C O U C H
THE
WITH LEADING BEHAVIOURIST INGA MACKELLAR
Cats love an easy life but that doesn’t mean they are easy-going;
making your home as suitable to their requirements as possible
will ensure a happy home for all
at owners often ask the whiskers. Therefore the cat-friendly they do not have free access to the
question “What makes a home needs to provide stimulation outdoors, in which case a cat flap is
C cat-friendly home?” From for all of these senses. a sensible solution. However, if the
the cat’s point of view, the things that The ideal situation is for the cat cat is anxious or there are problems
it wants the most are a reliable source to have access to a safe garden with with neighbourhood cats, then a
of food and water, the opportunity trees and plenty of bushes and long cat flap may make the cat insecure,
to hunt, a cosy place to sleep, a safe grass for the cat to explore. Tree which may lead to indoor marking
latrine area, access to vegetation and houses and platforms at different problems. If a cat flap is not avail-
areas to climb and scratch; and, if an heights give the cat wonderful view- able, many cats will learn to sit on
entire cat, access to mates. ing points over its territory, as well as a windowsill to catch their owner’s
Whilst most cat owners dislike a place to relax in total safety. Many attention to be let in. Providing an out-
their cat’s habit of bringing in dead cats also prefer to drink water from door shelter is a good idea for rainy
mice or birds, it is important not to puddles or streams (as tap water days when you may not be at home,
forget that cats are highly skilled contains chemicals which cats are not so that your cat has somewhere dry
hunters and their physiological char- keen on), so providing a small foun- and cosy to sit until you are able to let
acteristics are finely tuned for this tain easily accessed by the cat will be it in.
function. Even if cats are kept totally much appreciated. If your cat does not have access
indoors, they still maintain these basic To deter cats from killing too much to the outdoors, it is still possible
instincts which need to be fulfilled. wildlife, encourage them inside and for it to have a happy life providing
keep them in from dusk until dawn. it receives sufficient stimulation for
Actnaturally Feeding your cat extra food will not these hunting instincts. Take time to
Their acute hearing can detect stop it hunting. However, hunting regularly play with your cat using
sounds made by small rodents and instincts can be redirected. Other fishing rod type toys that will enable
their outer ears, which can swivel additions to the external environ- your cat to chase and pounce. Hiding
through 360°, enabling them to locate ment include providing a finely raked dry food around the house in activity
prey in all directions. Their sight al- flower bed or a sand pit for the cat feeders or in paper bags is an excel-
lows them to see in low light levels to use as its latrine. Many gardeners lent way to keep your cat active.
and pick up fine movements, which and builders will verify the fact that
is why they tend to hunt at dawn and these are favourites with all cats! Cats’entertainment
dusk. Their paws are used to touch Shelves and perches around the
and feel objects and are sensitive to Easyaccess house at different levels, with toys
vibrations. Further investigations are Cat flaps can be a contentious on ropes, will give your cat hours of
made with the nose and using the issue. Some cats will be frustrated if pleasure. Providing a window bird
Give your feline friend a cat-friendl
60 CAT WORLD
feeder will keep your cat amused but safe. They will often choose a se- reach the warmest spot.
without harming the birds. Running cluded spot away from the hustle and Owners, and particularly those
water can also be provided for your bustle of daily family life. Ideally, try who keep their cat indoors, need to
cat as indoor cat fountains are now to provide several resting places in be aware of safety for the cat. Care
easily available in pet stores and on different areas of the house, as cats must be taken, for example, around
the internet. There should also be a like to move around. Some will follow hotplates on cookers. Cats often suf-
variety of cat scratching posts avail- the sun during the day to get the sun- fer burnt paws as a result of jumping
able offering horizontal and vertical niest spot! up onto the cooker when it is still on.
scratching areas. It is also known that some plants are
As indoor cats tend to have less Safetycheck toxic to cats including azalea, ivy,
‘experiences’ in terms of scents such In households with young chil- laurel, mistletoe, oleander, philo-
as other cats or dogs etc. and invari- dren or other pets such as dogs, it is dendron and poinsettia – so special
ably become more dependent on particularly important that the beds care needs to be taken, particularly
their owners, they can become more are high up, well out of reach. Many at Christmas time when a number of
sensitive to changes in their environ- cats that I see tend to like the top these plants are in the home.
ment. So providing as much sensual of the kitchen units or the boiler, or For cats that do not have access to
stimulation as possible will help to even in the airing cupboard. Fleecy outdoor plants and foliage to nib-
prevent possible behaviour prob- radiator cradles are liked by many ble on, planting an indoor plant tub
lems in the future. cats but may not be high enough for for the cat is much appreciated. This
Cats will sleep in most places, families with exuberant larger dogs, can include plants such as cat mint,
providing they are dry, warm and such as Dalmatians, where the cradle cat grass and also a variety of herbs
is at dog nose height. For particu- such as parsley, sage and thyme.
iendly home larly cold spells, heated beds are These can all easily be grown from
seed so a regular fresh supply is
an excellent option and my cats will
guaranteed.
bundle on top of each other trying to
61
CAT WORLD
Petfriends
Another important factor in the
cat-friendly home is the number of
pets in the home – be it cat, dog or
other. If your cat is raised from an
early age with other species then it
will probably be happy to share a
home. But suddenly introducing a
dog, for example, into a household
where there has only ever been a
cat, can be very traumatic. Equally if
you have several cats, this can also
be very stressful for some of the
individuals.
Whilst I have visited some homes
where a number of cats happily co-
exist, there have been others where
the cats are very anxious. In many
instances their owners are totally un-
aware of the underlying friction and
stress that is occurring, as signals
may be very subtle. Just because
cats eat together does not mean that a distance apart and at different behaviour and general wellbeing.
they are happy to live together. heights. What a cat likes or dislikes will also
Always ensure if you have several Whilst the environment that the be affected by the breed of the cat
cats that they each have their own cat is provided with is extremely but it is important to remember that
space, and do not force them to feed important, how the cat’s owners some cats can be too overwhelmed
next to each other – place the bowls interact with it will also affect its with affection and attention which
can, in some instances, lead to frus-
tration and aggression towards the
owner.
Never try to force a cat to do
anything – they like to do things in
their own time. Special care needs
to be taken where young children
are in the household as, if the cat is
handled too roughly, this may result
in the cat becoming fearful and hid-
ing away. The ideal owner, from a
cat’s point of view, is someone who
is available to provide food when
needed, a soft knee to sit on and
someone to play with when the cat
feels like it. Many owners make the
common mistake of trying to push
the cat into doing something or
rushing it – cats need time. I have
been a lifelong lover of cats but am
very aware that most of my cats
could survive and do perfectly well
without me! I therefore just consider
it a privilege that they choose to
share their lives with me, and I try
to make my home as cat-friendly as
possible.
62 CAT WORLD
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www.catworld.co.uk JUNE 2016 n CAT WORLD 83 83
JUNE 2016 n CAT WORLD
G O R D Y
&m e
G O R D Y M E
&
ELAINE MEAD SHARES HER EXPERINCES OF LIVING WITH A CHALLENGING SPECIAL NEEDS CAT
What is on the menu? One thing I know for sure is that
C O N F E S S I O N S mealtimes in this house are never straightforward!
C A T L O V E R y husband laughed the be treated as one would wish. In the right time. I swear she can hear
the fridge door open even if she is
other words, if she can swing a meal
other day as I gave all the
on the other side of the farm! Lunch
an hour early she will and Gordy
creatures in this house their
M evening meal. It has been
Freddy Bear never has lunch;
his way between legs and meowing
known that I talk to myself A LOT. is her willing accomplice, weaving happens approx 12.30pm.
More than the average person, ap- his screwed-up-face meow which is regardless of the weather he will be
parently. That has been suggested akin to finger nails being scraped out hunting for the morning. He is
by my husband and my daughter down a black board. an odd cat in that he will only stay
agreed with him but in my defence Breakfast is served at approx in when it is hot and by hot I mean
I spend most of the time on my own. 6.45am and supper or tea is approx a heatwave. Even if it rains he is
Working from home in my studio in 5.30pm. Lunch is only served to out. I do think he prefers the wetter
the garden means that other than the dogs and Gordy; they are on a weather for hunting. There is always
the few people I see when I am three meal programme as it is bet- dried cat biscuits available for all
walking my dogs, and if I am lucky ter for all of their digestive systems, the cats on the bookcase in the hall
I catch the postman for a quick chat Gordy because he is ‘sensitive’ and so he never goes hungry but then
(he lives near me and I see him on Iz because she is an old lady now. the wildlife he kills and eats sustains
his days off walking his dogs), I can Defi gets fed lunch on this system by him through to supper time. I spend
go all day without seeing a soul. default as he is a dog. Miss ‘Mudge a few minutes before supper calling
On weekends when my husband is is not supposed to have lunch but Freddy Bear as I go around collect-
working weird and wonderful hours has a magical way of appearing at ing bowls to be filled.
and my daughter is away with her With the exception of lunch time,
boyfriend, I literally see no one. It is Gordy eats on his special food
no wonder I talk to the animals. A catching bowl tray in the kitchen
regular, modern day, Doctor Doolit- on the table. He has to be on the
tle. table as the dogs eat in the kitchen.
So there I was, serving the even- Freddy Bear will not eat with Gordy
ing meal to the creatures whom I as he has no manners. Lunch time,
serve and happily chatting away to because Miss ‘Mudge is always
them whilst I was doing it. Meal time around, I point out to her that she
starts with me rounding up those has to eat with Gordy in the hall –
that haven’t presented themselves where her and Freddy Bear have
for food. This is normally just Freddy their meals – as she isn’t supposed
Bear who likes to stay on the bed to have lunch anyway, one must look
upstairs for as long as possible in after one’s figure. There is hope she
the afternoons. Miss ‘Mudge is never will teach Gordy some manners.
late for any meal and will be sat It hasn’t happened yet. He pushes
patiently in the corner of the hallway. everyone away from their bowl and
Gordy has been patrolling the house dribbles on the contents, hence
for a least the hour before meals Freddy Bear’s dislike at sharing
are due, encouraged by Iz, who in meals with him. Can’t say I blame
her dotage has become a diva dog him.
who thinks that with age one must For breakfast and lunch, Gordy
64 CAT WORLD n JUNE 2016
I have ever known. He has fine tastes
in food. It is another reason we buy
a variety of food. Regularly! So we
have this new food which he seems
to like, for the moment, in a tin; it has
the the look of very expensive pate
and he loves it. Freddy Bear and
Miss ‘Mudge have that for breakfast
but at supper time all three cats have
the cat soup. Currently in our larder
is pumpkin soup with either smoked
tuna or sea bream fish and chicken
soup with vegetables. For cats.
Thisiswhatthehusband
heard...
...after getting Freddy Bear down
from upstairs, which normally means
I don’t get a response of paws on the
stairs to my calling him so go up and
(and Miss ‘Mudge at lunch) have brand the last time he went shop- collect him from his waiting place at
chicken due to his sensitive tummy; ping. My husband filled the boot of the top of the stairs. He does like to
for supper I do share cat soup – my 4 x 4. He also might have added be taken to his meal whilst I chat to
bought cat food – with the three of a good ‘stack’ of tonic water for my him about time wasting and mak-
them. My theory is Gordy needs to evening gin so I can’t complain, as ing all the others wait. He is very
get at least some of the vitamins and I won’t need to buy tonic again until good and knows to not respond but
minerals that are put into commer- after Christmas! take the ‘nice’ telling off. I then go
cially prepared cat food that may or Now, Freddy Bear is a fuss pot. He about giving out various bowls to
may not be in ‘just chicken’. He does won’t eat the same food day in day various creatures in various places.
have the option to eat the dried food out. He likes variety and you never The dogs wait, patiently, watching
but he is a fussy boy and generally know when he will change his mind my every move just in case I drop a
avoids it. and go off a food he has been loving cat bowl of delicious goodness near
My husband buys in bulk. He for a while. He is the fussiest ex-feral them, which I never have but they
is the shopper of the house and
he thrives on getting good deals
– he used to be a little addicted to
watching those extreme couponing
programmes from the USA. Near us
is a sort of hypermarket-type ware-
house shop that sells everything
from gardening tools to kitchenware,
decorating materials, car spares, you
name it. That shop has something
you didn’t know you needed. It has
a pet section too. Rows of fish tanks,
equipment for fish tanks, horses,
dogs, cats and small pets like ham-
sters. In fact the only thing it doesn’t
seem to ever have is cat litter! The
only problem is, what they have
there is it.
It sells end of lines and the like,
at discounted prices. They had cat
food in tins on offer and a seafood
sauce sachet from a well known
65
JUNE 2016 n CAT WORLD
have their paws crossed it will hap- to the table and tell him that he has room, is howling with laughter and
pen one day. the same as the others and to not pointing out that the animals have
I take Freddy Bear and Miss make a mess if possible. This is a a better menu than we do and they
‘Mudge theirs, with Gordy follow- bit like telling a small child to not get better service than him. He
ing me close behind as he lives in play with their food as Gordy gets it also says they haven’t got a clue
hope he will be once again allowed everywhere! The dogs are then sat what I am saying.
to eat with the grown up cats. As next to their feeding station look- I disagree entirely - they under-
I am walking I am chatting away. ing like butter wouldn’t melt in their stand every word. I can tell from the
‘Stay there Iz.’ ‘Gordy wait there.’ mouths whilst I regale them with way they look at me. He normally
‘Freddy Bear, this way please; you what fabulous dry food they have then accuses me of being a batty
eat out here with Miss ‘Mudge.’ in their bowl, mixed with Hereford’s old cat woman.
‘Miss ‘Mudge have you washed finest spring water... from the tap! I do take offence at being called
your paws and whiskers ready for My husband, sitting in the living old!
supper?’ ‘Don’t look so worried
Freddy Bear, Gordy isn’t staying
out here with you, you can eat in
peace.’ ‘Now, ladies and gentlemen,
for supper tonight I have for you
chicken soup, with your favourite
vegetables, which are seasonal and
cooked in a delicate ‘au jus’ for a
delicious mouth watering meal. It
comes complete with a side of sea
food sauce. Enjoy.’
At that point I turn to grab Gordy,
whose nose is dangerously close to
Miss ‘Mudge’s bowl and she is not
looking impressed at spending an-
other meal time with him and I turn,
leave the hall and close the con-
necting door to the kitchen (which
is full glass so they can all see each
other). I then escort (carry) Gordy
66 CAT WORLD n JUNE 2016
P A W P O S T
Got something to share about your favourite feline? email [email protected]
were really worried but
thankfully she reappeared
while we were in bed,
slinking up the duvet and
settling down between us.
We were so relieved!
There will no doubt be
more bags in your home
than usual at this time of
year. Please, please cut all
handles off bags at any time
Bag blunder before letting your cat play
Dear Paw Post with them. We were lucky Warming up works
I would like to pass on that Fliss suffered no more
a warning to other read- than a fright and that she Dear Paw Post
ers that comes from recent returned home safe and Romeo is my first cat so I’m learning as I go
personal experience. Our sound. It could have ended but loving every second of being a very new cat
cat, Fliss, loves to play in so much worse. We have owner. I was becoming a little concerned though
or just sit on a paper bag. certainly learnt a valuable that Romeo wasn’t eating as much as I was expect-
Yesterday she was play- lesson the hard way. ing and was worried that he might be ill. However,
ing with a paper bag that Nicola,Somerset I read in Ask the Experts from the November issue
had paper rope handles. In about Half-a-tin Harry and I can tell you that the
trying to get inside the bag, CW: Very wise advice advice really does work! I didn’t realise that the
which she often does, she Nicola. We’re so glad Fliss temperature of the food was so important to a cat
managed to get her head is safe and well. and once I started taking Romeo’s food out of the
through one of the handles. fridge so it was at room temperature before I of-
Unable to get it out again Pleasing Celtic fered it to him, he began eating every little scrap.
she panicked and shot out Connection Thank you Cat World for putting my mind at rest
through the cat flap, Dear Paw Post and saving me an unnecessary trip to the vet.
through the cat fl
ap,
‘wearing’ her Having seen Becca,NorthShields
bag, and into the the advert in Cat
darkness of early World for Celtic
evening. Connection cat sider purchasing the 400g big cats are endangered
I followed her food, I managed pack. I’m so glad I found species so it’s important to
outside and found
outside and found to make contact this advert. I’m always open continue to look after them.
her cowering with my local minded to exclusive and Theresa,London
under a bush. I stockist who unusual new cat foods that
managed to get are very kindly are not commonplace. CW: hank you for your let-
the bag off her sending me a I really enjoyed the ter Theresa. We hope your
head but she then couple of samples. I am October issue of Cat World, cats enjoyed the food sam-
took flight again. hoping to receive one each especially the article about ples. Celtic Connection is a
Despite calling her and of the different flavours caring for elderly cheetahs. holistic pet food made from
looking in the area outside - chicken and fish. If my I’m a member of the WWF ethically-farmed poultry or
our house, there was no cats enjoy tucking in to the and adopt Snow leopards fish and is grain and gluten
sign. My husband and I sample food then I will con- with them. Sadly all the free. See page 13.
67
JUNE 2016 ■ CAT WORLD
BEHAVIOUR
D o p la y w it h y o u r c a t b u t
d o n ’ t u s e fi n g e r s a n d t o e s
Kittens are socialised while with the breeder so don’t undo this
by encouraging bad behaviour at home; even if you don’t mind
a few scratches, it could upset another adult or child
t upsets me greatly when people Discouragethehabit
talk about cats in terms of them So we have established that some
being ‘naughty’ or ‘bad’. So much owners actually encourage their cats
I in cat behaviour is down to the to continue aggressive behaviour
way humans treat the cats in the first without knowing it. It is instinctive to
place and as a case in point I would pull our hand away if a cat is biting
like to tell you about a young lady who or scratching it, but they see this as
visited me to choose two kittens to re- encouragement, similar to the natural
place her old cat, which had recently stalker vs. prey incidents. However,
died. experts say it is best to let the hand
She was still upset at the loss of her go limp and firmly say “No” until the
cat but during our chat she mentioned her fingers. cat releases its grip. It is then best to
that the cat had not been very friendly Naturally I was horrified and ignore the cat until normal behaviour
and had always attacked people’s stopped her immediately. My visitor resumes. The cat will soon learn that
hands when they tried to stroke her explained that she had always done it will receive no attention by acting
or sunk her claws into their feet while this with her old cat and that she loved badly. However you should NEVER
they were in bed. to play pouncing games, particularly lose your temper or hit a cat. It will not
I was a bit concerned to hear this at her boyfriend’s hands, or at their understand why and you will dam-
and when I showed her the kittens, feet, which they wiggled under the age the trust and very bond of your
all became clear. The kittens she had duvet in bed. I had to explain that the relationship.
come to see were happily laying on cat was learning that hands and feet As cute as it may seem at first, do
each other in the corner of their play- were ‘prey’ to be attacked and that not encourage rough play, scratching
pen. I had socialised all of my kittens, this game, although meant as fun, was and biting. Be sure this is a rule for all
as I always do, and although they had teaching a serious skill and a bad family members and not just some.
the natural wariness of a meeting be- habit. Playing hunting games with your cat
tween kittens and strangers, they were If a cat or kitten feels it is being is important but you need to substitute
not aggressive or timid in any way. attacked by tapping fingers or claw any body parts for actual cat toys. It is
When my visitor bent down to greet hands, their natural response is one of far better that your cat sees a cat nip
them she wiggled her fingers in front defence and aggression. Sure, the cats mouse as prey, rather than your hand.
of their faces, teasing them and play- may learn to really love a game that When meeting new kittens, the cor-
fully making a claw hand right at their they will usually win but any visitors rect way to win a kitten’s confidence is
head height. The kittens immediately or children putting their hands near a by stroking them gently and reassur-
reacted by lashing out with their paws cat that has been encouraged to ‘play ingly and using a toy when they want
and rearing up to launch themselves at attack’ limbs will not. to play, instead of fingers.
“Playing hunting games with your cat is important but you need to
substitute any body parts for actual cat toys”
68 CAT WORLD
RESCUE CATS
GILBERT GETS A SECOND CHANCE
Born with a life-threatening condition that required major surgery and aftercare, an
independent charity has been grateful for all the help received to enable this to happen
BY JILL MUNDY
rom birth, Gilbert struggled so severe, surgeons predicted that he lowed after five weeks to remove the
with feeding, stunted growth and would not live past his first year of life splint. An examination immediately
showed signs of periodic respira- without surgical intervention. beforehand showed that breathing
F tory distress yet he was Due to generous donations and organs appeared normal. Based
described as a happy and en- and a discounted rate, Houn- on his improvement and recovery so
ergetic kitten. Cared for by the slow Animal Welfare Society far, Gilbert’s prognosis is very good
Hounslow Animal Welfare Soci- was able to allow the surgery and he is expected to be able to live a
ety, at four months old he was to go ahead. This included the long, healthy life.
referred to Hamilton Specialist use of an external splint or Carol Atkinson, Trustee and Treas-
Referrals where he underwent a corset. Sutures were used to urer of Hounslow Animal Welfare So-
CT scan. attach the sternum to the splint, pulling ciety, commented: “We are delighted
Results showed signs of pectus the sternum into the normal ventral beyond words that the procedure has
excavatum, a congenital condition that position. This increased the size of the worked and Gilbert can look forward
includes a narrowing of the rib cage thoracic cavity, releasing the pressure to a long and happy life. Not only are
and an inward curvature of the ster- on the organs. Radiographs taken after we impressed by the skill of the team
num, compressing his thoracic organs, the surgery revealed an ideal result, who operated on him and and the
resulting in respiratory distress. In showing the sternum in the proper kindness of the aftercare team, we are
severe cases it can be a life-threaten- position. Breathing rate was improved very appreciative of the discount given
ing condition. Gilbert’s condition was considerably. Further surgery fol- to our charity.”
69
CAT WORLD
CATS & BOOKS
N o t h in g b e a t s c u r lin g u p
w it h a c a t a n d a g o o d b o o k
Dark nights and cold winter afternoons are made for spending
quality time with your cats and a cat-themed book or two…
here are some favourites
BY LORRAINE SCHOFIELD
s an ardent cat lover as well which go with the tale are brilliant. aged only four, young Rex is already
as a self-confessed book- More recently, the book ‘Tabby a cat enthusiast.
Aworm it is not surprising Mctat’ by Julia Donaldson is my However, despite my extensive
that my bookshelves contain many favourite feline picture book and I collection of cat books, I always keep
books about cats. Indeed, I adore the beautiful illustra- my eyes and ears open for new ones
own all sorts of books about tions by Alex Scheffler which whether they are aimed at child or
cats, including famous cats complement the story per- adult readers. I enjoy nothing better
in history, books on cat care fectly. Therefore, now that I am than browsing through books in a
and behaviour, as well as cat a great aunt to my brother’s bookstore or checking out new titles
fiction books, meaning that I four grandchildren, I am online. It is probably true to say that
am never short of reading ma- further able to indulge my I buy most of my books online and if
terial. In addition, I also have various love of books and cats by buying my I spot a good one I will add it to my
children’s books about cats which are great nieces and great nephews cat wish list for future reference. Cur-
from my son’s childhood and which themed books. Indeed, ‘Tabby Mctat’ rently, I have around ten books in my
I treasure because they bring back is a firm favourite with one of my wish list that I intend to buy once I
happy memories and are a reminder great nephews who also has his own have read most of my existing books.
of how cats have always been a big tabby kitten named Tom; although One title that has caught my eye is
part of both mine and my son’s lives.
A great favourite children’s book
of mine is ‘Mog and the Granny’ by
Judith Kerr, in which Mog goes to
stay with the granny and Tibbles -
which is where my son chose the
name Tibbles for one of our cats.
Children’s stories are especially dear
to me because they capture the es-
sence of cats’ behaviour and also are
accompanied by charming illustra-
tions. The children’s book ‘Six Din-
ner Sid’ by Inga Moore is also a firm
favourite of mine. It tells the tale of a
crafty feline who has six owners who
live in the same street. I remember
my late mum reading this story to my
son when he was small and she too
thoroughly enjoyed it as the pictures
70 CAT WORLD
CATS & BOOKS
entitled ‘Bodacious: The Shepherd disaster. This is definitely on my wish feline tale: ‘A friend like Ben’ (Julia
Cat’ (Suzanna Crampton) which is list and as a tutor of English and histo- Romp) which is a real heart-warming
a true tale of a cat that lives with a ry, this is the kind of book that I would tale of an autistic boy and the special
shepherd on a farm in Ireland. Told, encourage my primary age students bond that he shares with former stray
from the cat’s perspective, this looks to read based upon the quality of the cat Ben.
to be a really interesting read as it writing and the favourable reviews Now that the dark nights have ar-
documents the seasons and routines that it has received. rived and it is cold outside, staying
on the farm as well as interesting tales In fact, as a tutor I have used feline in with a good book is a great way to
about the cat itself. tales within my lessons and some of keep the winter blues at bay. I per-
I love unusual stories about cats the teaching websites have schemes sonally do not like the dark nights of
and as a history lover as well as a of work related to feline tales. For winter nor the cold weather and so
cat lover, the book ‘Simon Ships out’ example, Anne Fine’s ‘The Diary of a I am hoping to spend some qual-
(Jacky Donovan) has also caught my Killer Cat’ is a great read and children ity time with my two cats Mia and
attention as again it is told from a cat’s love this story. Tuffy, the killer cat, Toby sat by my side as I indulge in
perspective but is also a true tale infuriates his owner with his hunting some feline fiction or true cat tales.
of heroic, feline bravery during the escapades which drive the dad mad Hopefully, in line with recent bolder
Second World War. Simon is actually but even more amusing is the arro- behaviour, Mia will sit contentedly
the only cat to have been awarded gant attitude of feisty Tuffy who fails to on my lap as, with the fire roaring
the Dickin Medal by the PDSA which see what all the fuss is about when he and maybe a glass of wine to hand, I
is the highest accolade for animal drags his prey through the cat flap on escape the cold outside with glorious
bravery. a daily basis. Basing lessons around a tales of felines past and present and
In fact, I have been surprised by good fiction tale not only encourages both real and fictional.
how many books are out there which children to read but can also make l ‘SixDinnerSid’publishedby
relate to the history of cats such as learning fun and enjoyable. Further- HachetteChildren’sGroup
‘Poor Puss, A social History of Cats’ more, for older readers, one of my www.hachettechildrens.co.uk
(Marilyn Crowther) which although favourite books is actually a true life -seeadonpage19
quite expensive, looks to be packed
with interesting facts and has some
beautiful illustrations. On a more
modern note, a new book entitled
‘Girls and their Cats’ (Brianne Wills)
presents modern women and their
relationship with cats in a positive
and contemporary way, showing that
a vast array of women from different
backgrounds and of various profes-
sions such as artists, writers and
musicians, are proud to be cat lovers.
The book is actually the work of a
photographer so stylish photographs
of cats with their owners, as well as
on their own, help to portray a posi-
tive feline/female relationship and so
aims to dispel the age old myth of the
crazy cat lady.
However, I am also a lover of cat
fiction and there are certainly many
good books in this genre. The writer
Michael Morpurgo has written sev-
eral books involving cats, such as
‘Kaspar the Prince of Cats’ which tells
the tale of a special cat of royal status
who seemingly survives the Titanic
71
CAT WORLD
T
NA U R AL
R
L
R
R
L
R
T
T
T
T
U
U
U
U
EEA
TT
H A L HHTH
A cat suffering from cat ‘fl u will usually respond to basic treatment and lots of tlc but
a particularly serious strain of FCV can have nasty consequences
at ‘flu has always of appetite, and mouth until symptoms resolve.
included two viruses, ulcers. Any cat affected by Aloe Vera gel - to use on any
C Feline Calici Virus ‘ordinary’ FCV may show those ulcerated or inflamed skin. This
(FCV) and Feline Herpes Virus signs but FCV-VSD affected soothes and relieves inflammation
(FHV). I have written about my cats also usually have incred- and promotes healing of damaged
views on over-vaccination before, so ibly high fevers (over 105° F); swell- skin.
I won’t bore you with all that again. ing of the head and legs, with fluid Co-enzyme Q10 - 30 mg daily
What I will do is look at just one of actually seeping through the skin; will help decrease soreness in the
those diseases and point out that loss of fur; and ulceration of the skin lips and gums, and increase the rate
vaccination sometimes gives a false around the ears, lips, nose, eyes and of healing of ulcers.
sense of security. feet. Some cats also develop chest
Feline Calici Virus (FCV) is a infections, jaundice, vomiting and Homeopathichelp
virus that is constantly undergoing diarrhoea. And then there are many ho-
rapid mutations. In effect, this means There is no specific treatment; all moeopathic remedies to help
that new strains of FCV are con- that can be done with conventional minimise the specific symptoms of
stantly appearing. These different medicine is the provision of fluids, the disease:
strains cause different degrees of food and general nursing care. Belladonna - The great homoeo-
illness, sometimes quite mild, some- Now, I haven’t seen a case of pathic fever remedy. Most helpful in
times more severe. FCV-VSD myself. In referral prac- the early stages of fever, before the
A particularly severe strain has tice, I simply don’t get to see acute physical signs have appeared. Of-
been identified. This strain is known or emergency cases. But the great ten a cat in need of Belladonna will
as FCV-VSD (FCV-associated viru- advantage of homoeopathy, and look frightened and almost afraid to
lent systemic disease). Cat ‘flu vac- natural medicines in general, is that move.
cines give no protection against this treatment is quite feasible just by Pyrogen - Another fever remedy.
strain – in fact in one study it was knowing the symptoms only. Pyrogen is made, of all things, from
discovered that vaccinated adult So, any cat affected by the signs rotting meat; so you can imagine,
cats were most severely affected, of FCV-VSD described above I’m sure, that this fits with the later
whereas kittens were likely to have would, apart from needing the intra- stage of disease, when the physical
only mild to moderate symptoms. venous fluids and intensive nursing signs are more apparent and it evi-
So what are the symptoms of care, also benefit, I’m sure, from dently looks as if the body is almost
FCV-VSD? The classic cat ‘flu some or all of the following: literally rotting away.
symptoms certainly occur in most Vitamin C - a good general im- Myristica - This is often known as
instances – discharge from nose mune system booster. For a week, the homoeopathic ‘antiseptic’, and
and eyes, loss 250 mg daily, then 125 mg daily is a useful back-up remedy when
trying to clear the body of infection the healing of the ulcerations seen in llings, jaundice and high tempera-
and sepsis. FCV-VSD. In fact, Acid nit. is particu- ture. Some of these remedies - such
Apis mel. - This remedy is larly good at healing ulcerations at as Lachesis (from the Bushmaster
derived from the honey bee. If a the edges of mucous membranes; snake) or Crotalus horridus us (the
bee stings you, you are pretty likely that is where dry skin meets moist Rattlesnake) - may well also be use-
to get a swelling at the site, so the skin, in other words at the lips, the ful but which one was chosen would
swelling and fluid associated with nose and the eyes - precisely where depend on the individual symptoms.
severe cases of FCV-VSD are quite many of the ulcerations of FVC-VSD I’m not going to suggest dose
likely to respond to Apis mel. occur. So Acid nit. would be expect- rates or length of treatment because
Acid nit. - Full name - Acidum ed to be a jolly useful remedy. these would depend on the indi-
Nitricum - or Nitric acid in English. Spider and Snake remedies vidual nature of the case. But if your
Following the homoeopathic man- - there are several homeopathic cat should be affected by FCV-VSD,
tra of ‘like cures like’; a splash of remedies made from snake and spi- I would strongly urge you to ask - or
nitric acid on the skin would cause der venoms. Many of these venoms insist that - your vet contacts the
erosions and ulceration, so in its cause destruction of body tissues nearest qualified homeopathic vet
homeopathic form it should assist in resulting in ulcerations, swe for advice on treatment.
VETERINARY
FLAT CHESTED KITTEN SYNDROME
When a tiny kitten wasn’t growing at the same rate as his siblings,
he was taken to the vet where an unusual diagnosis was given
BY JILL MUNDY
lat Chested Kitten Syndrome his growth. At the end of October he to a vet.”
(FCKS) is a little known condi- weighed just 75g - much less than his It was then that the vets confirmed
Ftion that generally causes the brother who was 1.2kg. Stuart’s rib cage was not normal and
kitten no pain but does hold back their Lydia Jones, from Cotswolds Dogs diagnosed him with Flat Chested Kit-
development. Characterised by a flat- and Cats Home said: “Stuart’s mum, ten Syndrome.
tened rib cage, the condition has been Sasha, came into our care and vets Lydia added: “While it sounds
seen in many cat breeds but accord- suspected she may have been preg- uncomfortable the vets told us that
ing to iCatCare, is more common with nant. We waited to see and, low and he isn’t in any pain and that he should
Burmese, Bengals, Oriental Longhairs behold, four kittens later arrived. grow out of it and lead a normal,
and Oriental Shorthairs. One was sadly stillborn but the healthy life. It has meant he’s devel-
When a female cat was taken in to other three appeared happy and oped a lot slower than his siblings and
care at the RSPCA’s Cotswolds Dogs healthy. When they were a few weeks has needed some extra care. He’s con-
and Cats Home, it would lead to FCKS old they started walking and we no- siderably smaller than his brother and
being diagnosed for one of her kittens: ticed Stuart’s rib cage felt different to sister - Sidney and Sadie - who have
Stuart Little is 10-weeks-old but his brother and sister’s so we took him since been rehomed.
looks much younger. The kitten - who
was born at the RSPCA’s Cotswolds
Dogs and Cats Home in Cambridge Kittens affected by FCKS will present to the vet with signs of:
- has an unusual condition called flat l weight loss or failure to gain weight
chested kitten syndrome which has l failure to suckle from the mother
left his rib-cage deformed and stunted l increased respiratory rate and effort
74 CAT WORLD
T
S H O W D A T E SS
S H O W D A E
CLUB EVENTS FOR YOU DIARY
DECEMBER
DECEMBER07 Eastern Longhair & Semi Longhair Short Haired Cat Society
National Cat Club & All Breed Cat Club Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Wodson Park Leisure Centre, Ware, Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE Hertfordshire SG12 0UQ CV8 3FL
Tonkinese Breed Club JANUARY11 Snowshoe Cat Society
Bracknell Leisure Centre, Exotic Cat Society Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Bagshot Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE Tydd St Giles Community Centre, Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
Broad Drove East, Wisbech, CV8 3FL
Colourpoint & All Breed Society of Cambridgeshire PE13 5LN
GB Rex Cat Club
Bracknell Leisure Centre, JANUARY12 Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Bagshot Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE Cameo Pewter & Smoke Society Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
Gnosall Village Hall, Lowfield Lane, CV8 3FL
Trans-Pennine Oriental & Siamese Gnosall, Stafford ST20 0ET
Cat Club JANUARY25
Stockport Masonic Guildhall, JANUARY18 Celtic LH & SLH Cat Society
169-171 Wellington Road South, Colourpoint Cat Club Chepstow Leisure Centre, Welsh
Stockport SK1 3UA Grange Hall, Coventry Road, Street, Chepstow NP16 5LR
South CV47 1QA
DECEMBER14 TICAUK
Scottish Cat Club Colourpointed British Shorthair DECEMBER14-15
Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility, Club Spoticat
1 O’Donnell Way, Motherwell, North Sports Connexion Leisure Club & Coventry, Warwickshire
Lanarks. ML1 2TZ Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
CV8 3FL JANUARY10-12
Rex Cat Association LondonCats
Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Egyptian Mau Society Esher, Surrey
Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
DECEMBER21 CV8 3FL
Maidstone & Medway Cat Club
Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot LaPerm Cat Club
Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
JANUARY2020 CV8 3FL
JANUARY04
Capital Long Hair All Breed Cat Midshires Siamese Cat Association
Association Sports Connexion Leisure Club &
Wodson Park Leisure Centre, Ware, Venue, Leamington Road, Coventry
Hertfordshire SG12 0UQ CV8 3FL
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these dates, please do check shows before travelling.
75
CAT WORLD
A
S K the what dosage to give. Can anyone at
Cat World help?
X P E R T S Bach flower remedies so hopefully
A:There are in fact 38 different
E
you have been given some initial
advice as to which ones might ben-
efit Bonnie. If not, then the first step
would be to get advice from a vet
LET THE CATWORLD TEAM OF EXPERTS HELP WITH YOUR PROBLEMS with knowledge about Bach flower
therapy. Giving the wrong one won’t
be harmful but it will be a waste of
money and your time.
Scratch-freemedication? in their arms, the other can give the Most good health food stores sell
Q:I have to administer eye drops to medication. Bach Flower remedies, as do phar-
my kitten but it is proving extremely If you are really struggling, book an macies and holistic vets. They are in
difficult as she bites and scratches appointment with your veterinary liquid form and are usually supplied
me every time. Is there an easy way nurse so she can show you her tried with a dropper.
to do this? The vet doesn’t seem to and tested methods. An important Dropping directly into the cat’s
have any trouble at all. part of the veterinary team, the mouth is probably the best option,
nurse may be willing to share her rather than diluting in water and
A:Ah the power of a vet! It is actu- secrets with you…if you ask. offering sips several times a day, as
ally quite common to find that your you would for humans.
vet can give medication to your cat Flowerpower If your cat won’t take the drops by
quite happily yet at home, the cat Q:Our cat Bonnie has a habit of mouth then you can try adding a
will have none of it. over-grooming and I have read that drop to a small amount of food or
It is often difficult for us as owners Bach flower remedies can help. I’m water, as long as this is eaten or
to use adequate restraint with our really keen to give them a try as drunk soon afterwards.
cats in such circumstances as we are nothing else seems to work but I’m A holistic vet will be able to advise
scared of hurting them. Usually we not sure where to get them from and you about the number and frequen-
are gently stroking our cats, but giv-
ing medication needs a firm hand.
Your veterinary nurse will be much
more used to holding a cat firmly
while doing something against the
cat’s wishes.
The best advice is to try to have
someone there to help you. One
person should hold the cat with her
tail against them and their arms
running along the length of the cat’s
body towards the head. Ask them to
hold the cat’s forelegs in their hand
so that they are unable to lash out
and scratch the other person, who
should then be more easily able to
give the medication.
Kittens are a little more difficult - as
you have discovered! Wrap the kit-
ten in a blanket or old towel, keep-
ing legs and paws inside, and while
one person holds the kitten firmly
76 CAT WORLD n JUNE 2016
owned several cats through my life
and all have been quite placid crea-
tures. When I lost Tabitha earlier this
year I thought my other cat, Timmy,
would be lonely so a few months
ago I adopted Taz. She seemed to
settle in really quickly but now the
shorter days are here and the cats
are indoors more, she is being very
aggressive towards Timmy. I genu-
inely haven’t experienced this be-
fore so I’m wondering if she has an
aggressive breed in her make up.
A: There really is no such thing as
an aggressive breed or even an ag-
gressive cat. Cats become aggres-
sive because they are in a highly
emotional state, be that scared or
feeling threatened. Taz might ap-
cy of drops but Bach Flower rem- are more skittish and unpredictable, pear to be aggressive because
edies are safe to give over a long only learning balance and climbing she is finding it hard to deal with a
period of time if necessary, until the skills as they mature. particular situation.
symptoms disappear. So do check The first thing to check is that the If you are at home with the cats,
with a holistic vet first and hopefully roof garden is properly fenced off. try to observe what circumstances
Bonnie will soon be breaking her There should, of course, be ad- make her aggressive and hopefully
habit. equate fencing to keep humans safe it should be relatively easy to rectify.
but you might need to ensure there If you are leaving the cats at home
Catsonahotflatroo are no gaps or holes that a kitten on their own then it will be more
Q:I am excited to be moving in the could easily get through - they can difficult to work out the root of her
next few weeks to a flat that has ac- squeeze into the tiniest of spaces aggression. Perhaps there is a new
cess to a roof garden. My current flat sometimes. cat in the neighbourhood that has
is in an old house conversion and If you are able to, it would be a good access to your garden or passes
not really suited for keeping ani- idea to add an overhang, inwards, close to a window where Taz sits. It
mals. The fact that the new one has which will make if difficult for a cat could just be that she isn’t used to
a roof garden means I can consider to climb up and onto the top of the being indoors for so long and wants
having cats again. I would prefer fence. to be outside. Some cats just like be-
to get a couple of kittens who are Any kittens should probably be kept ing outdoors, whatever the weather.
litter mates, so that they get used to inside until they are 3-4 months old. You may have to consider letting her
where they live from the word go. Introduce them to the garden one out more often or for longer peri-
I am having slight reservations the at a time and once you do let them ods to see if this helps. When they
more I think about it though, won- go outside together, stay out there are indoors, I wonder if they have
dering how safe the cats will be as with them for the first few weeks to separate areas and scratch posts,
the roof garden is above the second supervise. This should hopefully be etc. Don’t forget that cats are very
floor. How old should kittens be a good thing as we will be welcom- territorial so providing Taz with ac-
before being allowed access to such ing Spring days by then. Good luck cess to a different room where she
a space? with your move and enjoy your new has toys, a scratch post and litter tray
feline friends. if necessary may be all you need
A: Once the cats are adults, you to do to make her less aggressive.
should not need to be concerned Aggressionsession It needs a bit of detective work on
as they are very sure footed and Q:Are some cats naturally more your part but hopefully you will soon
natural climbers. Kittens, however, aggressive than others? I have have a calmer home situation.
77
JUNE 2016 n CAT WORLD
SAPPHIRE & SPARKY
S a p p h ir e a n d S p a r k y g e t
r e a d y f o r C h r is t m a s
As anyone with a cat knows, boxes of baubles and other
decorations are an invitation to cause mayhem…
Sapphire and Sparky really enjoy this time of year
BY CATHERINE POOL
apphire and Sparky start their bauble at a time or the whole box is multicoloured flashing and sparkling
Christmas on December 1, overturned and the entire collection lights and I do have to agree with
when their red Christmas beds is scattered around the living room, them – the tree looks beautiful.
S are brought out along with their needing to be retrieved. Of course Sparky tries to climb up the tree a
Christmas blanket. Their seasonal the cats disagree with me on this couple of times and Sapphire keeps
catnip toys come out of the cupboard, and for them it is a great game! They batting the branches. They both enjoy
which consist of a Father Christmas watch me put the baubles on and pat the thrill of actually knocking a deco-
toy and a Christmas Tree shaped toy; each one gently just to check, sniffing ration off the tree, running off with it
the cats go berserk chasing them the branches with approval. and playing. After the first couple of
excitedly around the house. They Once all the decorations and lights days, the cats settle down and the tree
insist on hanging up their ‘Kitty has are on the tree, I prepare Sapphire becomes part of the furniture, with
been good all year’ stockings by the and Sparky for the ‘Big Lights Switch only an occasional bauble dash.
fireplace too. On’. The cats are mesmerised by the I always buy Sapphire and Sparky
Next, Sapphire and Sparky like
the Christmas Tree to go up and they
absolutely love jumping in and out
of its storage box, pouncing on the
baubles and running off with them.
I unfold and position the Christmas
tree with a captive feline audience
watching my every move; they can-
not resist going up on their hind legs
and patting the branches with their
paws. The tree is usually up after my
second attempt. (Yes, the cats knock
it over straight away.) Next I need to
decorate the tree which is even more
of a challenge with two cats ‘helping’.
Sapphire and Sparky do not want to
miss a second of this annual cere-
mony and they cannot contain them-
selves as they dive into the boxes of
decorations and bag of tinsel. One or
two baubles have become so ‘cat-
handled’ they have been donated to
their toy basket!
I have learned to get out one
78 CAT WORLD
SAPPHIRE & SPARKY
‘ The cats are mesmerised by
the multicoloured flashing
and sparkling lights ‘
a stocking of cat toys first and hide Sparky always have a fight. I think all
them away; they usually get a new the excitement and tension has hit
bed or scratching post and toys too fever pitch and they have a big fisti-
and special food. The cats love it if cuffs around the room. Half an hour
Christmas shopping is delivered in later, it is all forgotten and they are
a box. It doesn’t matter what is in the both cuddled up together on their
box – it is getting IN the box that they reindeer blanket, so I join them for a
love and playing in any paper pack- ‘Christmas Eve cuddle’.
aging. “Have you been good?” I en-
When I start wrapping Christmas quire. The cats blink at me and purr, opened and are our ‘paper monitors’,
presents Sapphire and Sparky are in which I translate as “Yes”. “You must chasing after torn and discarded
their element, getting over-excited as go to sleep now, and wait for Father wrapping and jumping in any box
they slide under the sheet of paper Christmas” I continue, as I point at they can possibly squeeze into. Last
and pounce on it. Sometimes they their stockings. The cats close their but not least, there is a Christmas
jump on my lap and start to get in the eyes and drift off in to their Christmas Day ‘bauble dash’ to attend to and an
present that I am wrapping. I just have dreams of turkey and celebrations. evening run up the tree by Sparky,
to wait until they are asleep before When the Big Day arrives, the with Sapphire miaowing and observ-
wrapping bigger items, as they keep cats are not disappointed and they ing.
leaping all over me, scrunching the explore their kitty stockings and gifts; Sapphire, Sparky and I wish all Cat
paper and adding cat hairs to the gift! they have turkey for lunch and tea; World readers a Merry Christmas
On Christmas Eve, Sapphire and they supervise all the presents being and a Purr-fect New Year!
79
CAT WORLD
RESCUE CATS
ALL THERE IN BLACK AND WHITE
A group of black and white cats rescued in Kent have been given starry-eyed names and are
hoping visitors will be star-struck by their beauty and take them home
BY JILL MUNDY
alloween may be so last are often under-socialised with people indicates a cat is not socialised with
month but that doesn’t mean and so to go from what is essentially a humans and encourage them to find
Hthere aren’t still lots of black cat colony in a home to an owner-pet alternative homes where they can be
or black and white cats needing new situation does not suit them. happy, such as farms, smallholdings
loving homes. RSPCA Canterbury and “Sadly, when someone comes to and gardens with a shed.
District branch are specifically look- look round an RSPCA centre, no one Tara added: “These cats have plenty
ing for outdoor homes for some cats wants the cat that hides away and of character! Cat Damon was ‘Bourne’
who came to them from a group of 40, retreats or the one that hisses when to be an outdoor cat, Fuzz Aldrin just
all found at one property. The star- someone passes by, which is such needs his space, all Leopardo DeCa-
studded six have been named Colin a shame because although they are trio wants is to be king of the world, Mr
Feral, Leopardo DeCatrio, Ebenflea- never going to be a lap cat, they could Meowgi says there’s no such thing as a
zer Scrooge, Fuzz Aldrin, Cat Damon be very happy in an alternative home.” bad cat and Ebenfleazer Scrooge says
and Mr Meowgi. Tara Luxford, deputy ‘Bah! Humbug’ unless you promise to
manager at the branch, said: “What we Meetingtheirneeds give him a home before Christmas.”
find with cats who have come from a In 2018, Canterbury RSPCA took Please contact RSPCA Canterbury
property with a large number of other part in a programme alongside Inter- and District branch on 01227 719 113
cats is that even though they have lived national Cat Care which trained staff to if you think you may be able to help
in a home environment before, they recognise the specific behaviour that rehome any of these cats.
80 CAT WORLD
cats online
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and all at your fi ngertips ★BREEDS ★TOYS & MUCH MORE
Feline Astrology
Ancient wisdom adapted for modern cats by a
doctoral researcher in metaphysics. Astrological
charts and text in the form of a beautiful,
laminated poster, with a choice of three sizes.
astrofeline.co.uk
BREEDS
▲
THE MAINE COON The British Ragdoll
CAT CLUB Cat Club
Mitted Bicolour Colourpointed
GCCF AFFILIATED, ESTABLISHED 1985 (Founded 1987)
For general information about Members of the GCCF
the breed or the club, We are a friendly and active club that
contact Linda Swinburn on caters for everyone with an interest in
Ragdoll cats, from the potential pet
0161 7662674 owner, to the show scene, to the
UKRagaMuffin most professional breeder.
For details of kittens available
Please contact Anne Bradley:
CatSociety countrywide, contact 01627 425929 or Margaret Lynch:
Sarah Holden on 07720 773718 0161 248 8940 (evenings).
For Authentic RagaMuffin kittens after 7pm please For rescue or re-homing,
please contact Anne as above.
Phone 01737 485755 Or visit the club’s web site at See our website for more information:
www.ukrmcs.co.uk www.maine-coon-cat-club.com www.tbrcc.co.uk
81
CAT WORLD
CATTY CHATTER
A
T I L END
Getting to the pointy end of the issue;
Francis Bailey has his eyes on Ghengis
I the whiskers draw back, behind, then it will flick likes to sit in the win-
was talking to my son chief. The eyes narrow,
Normally Ghengis
forward again. This
on the telephone.
Suddenly I heard
can go on for a minute
and loom large over his
him call out to his wife: his ears seem to grow independent swivelling dow and monitor the
world around him,
“Angela! Move - Ghen- face, giving it an arrow- and acts as a warning ears moving constantly,
gis has got his pointy like appearance. system that Ghengis is flicking and swivelling.
face on.” His ears resemble about to pounce. The Something will draw his
I knew exactly what a pair of radar aerials strange thing is, Ghen- attention and they rock
he meant. Ghengis (full locked onto a target and gis is profoundly deaf. up then flick back as
name Ghengis Khan’t on seem perfectly co-ordi- He has no hearing at all if something is behind
account of being neu- nated with his eyes. One and yet his ears behave him, yet his ears are no
tered) is very beautiful. or other ear will swivel like they are finely tuned more than decoration.
He has enormous round round as if checking to every minute sound. Ghengis is adored
eyes with an appealing and has had more love
expression that beguiles poured over him than
the unwary, for Ghengis many a pet - yet he has
lives up to the first part never heard any of it. He
of his name. lives in his silent world,
Dangling fingers and unaware of our fond
bare feet are his speci- murmurings or exasper-
ality, particularly when ated scoldings. He is
the owner is having good natured, despite
a snooze on the sofa. his playful antics and
Houseplants don’t stand recognises a familiar
a chance, nor do cur- hand, even though he
tains, fringes, frills or has never heard the
anything else that dan- voices of the family that
gles, rolls or even dares love him so much.
to move. At the moment,
Long and sometimes Ghengis is staying with
painful experience has me while my son is on
taught my son and his holiday. Actually, he is
family to recognise the watching me as I type
early warning sign of and has honed in on my
danger - the pointy fingers. Oh - there’s the
face. Without doubt, the pointy face and swivel-
shape of his face alters ling ears - I’d better sign
prior to a spot of mis- off before it’s too late!
“He lives in his silent world, unaware of our fond murmurings”
82 CAT WORLD
TM
For cats who live life on the wild side.
84 CAT WORLD
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