Pet Grooming Orange County

When Cats Don’t Get Along

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When Cats Don’t Get AlongLil Girl

Cats are extremely territorial creatures. It is not uncommon for cats to not allow another cat into their home. Just because a cat is sweet and mellow with you does not necessarily mean that they will be sweet to another cat. Unfortunately there is no training method to guarantee that a cat will ever get along with another cat. Sometimes they just need to be the only cat in the household. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of aggression and what causes them.

Territorial Aggression

Territorial aggression occurs when a cat feels that an intruder has invaded their territory. This type of aggression typically presents itself after a new cat comes home, a kitten reaches maturity or a cat sees another cat outside. Behaviors include stalking, chasing, ambushing, hissing, growling, loud meowing, squatting and preventing access to places such as the litter box.

Inter-male Aggression

It’s not uncommon for male cats to threaten and fight with other males in a household. This is more common with un-neutered cats. Cats showing inter-male aggression will stalk, stare, howl and puff up their fur. If one of the cats backs down and walks away, the other cat will probably walk away as well. However, if no one backs down the cats might actually fight. You can break up a fight by clapping loudly, throwing a pillow nearby or squirting them with water. However, never step in the middle of a cat fight.

Defensive Aggression

Defensive aggression occurs when a cat attempts to protect itself from an animal or human that it feels it cannot escape. The cat crouches with legs and tail pulled in under its body, its ears flattened against its head and it will roll slightly to the side. Approaching a cat in this posture is likely to cause it to attack.

Redirected Aggression

Cats with redirected aggression show aggression to another animal or human that did not initially provoke the behavior from them. This often happens when a cat sees another cat outside. Your cat is so worked up about the cat outside that when you try to pet it, it bites you. It’s important to respond to this type of aggression in a way that keeps both you and your cat safe.

Claws N Paws Day Spa has many wonderful cats looking for a second chance. Pictured above is Lil Miss. Lil Miss is a beautiful short hair cat. She was given up because does not get along with other cats. Please consider giving Lil Miss a chance at her forever home. For more information, please call 714-962-1005.

Summer Safety for Pets

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Summer Safety for Pets

Many pets enjoy the long days of summer. Typically this time of year means more time with their families and more excursions to their favorite places. However, summer also comes with its own risks for pets. It’s easy to keep your pet safe by taking a few precautions this summer.

Warmer temperatures mean an increased risk of fleas, ticks and mosquitos. Before you head out of the house make sure that your pet is well protected. If your pet isn’t using some type of parasite prevention now is the time to talk to your veterinarian about your options. While you are there make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, especially if your summer plans include traveling, boarding and exposure to other pets.

While out and about, make sure that you never leave your pet in a parked car for even a short period of time. Pets can develop heat stroke very quickly. If your dog is panting excessively or your cat is panting at all, you need to get them to a cooler area immediately. If heat stroke is allowed to progress it can cause pets to become anxious, defiant and vomit and collapse. Heat stroke should be considered a medical emergency.

One of the most common mistakes that pet parents make during the summer is not providing their pets with enough water. Even indoors pets require more water when temperatures are warm. If you are traveling with your pet make sure that you bring along bottles and a bowl. Offer your pet a drink frequently, especially at the beach where pets can swallow saltwater, increasing the chance of dehydration.

If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, there are still ways to keep your pet cool. Use fans to increase airflow, put ice in your pet’s water dish, wipe your pet down with a cool washcloth and leave the windows open, with screens secure. Remember, pets can easily fall out of high windows if screens are not properly secured.

Even though fur provides some protection against the sun, pets can burn just like people can. Keep sunscreen on your pet’s ear tips and nose and walk your pet early in the morning or later in the day.

More pets get lost during the summer than any other time of year. With so many people going in and out, doors and gates get left open and loud noises such as fireworks can cause pets to jump fences and run. Even if you do not plan to leave the house, make sure that your pet has a tag that includes your name, phone number and address. You should also consider getting your pet microchipped.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers professional pet grooming services in Fountain Valley, California. Schedule an appointment for your pet’s flea treatment or summer haircut today! We also offer cat only boarding in our state of the art facility next door. For more information, please call 714-962-1005.

Is It OK to Change a Cat’s Name After Adoption?

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Is It OK to Change a Cat’s Name After Adoption?

People often wonder if they should change the name of the cat that they adopt. Sometimes they do not like the cat’s name or they feel that it doesn’t fit the cat’s personality. Whatever the reason, it’s tempting to rename a newly adopted cat. So, is it ok to change a cat’s name after adoption? Absolutely! It’s fun and easy to train a cat to accept a new name.

While some cats recognize their names, others do not. If it’s not immediately obvious that a newly adopted cat knows its name, then renaming it will not be an issue. However, if the cat readily responds to its name then you will need to make a decision. Most evidence suggests that changing a cat’s name has absolutely no effect on its long-term health and well-being. Naming a cat something you like will strengthen your connection with your new feline friend.

When you adopt a new cat, your first priority should be to make it feel comfortable. Introduce the cat to your home slowly. If your cat seems stressed out, try using its old name to calm it down. After a few days you can start to use your cat’s new name. Cats are easily trainable and name recognition is an important part of the training process. Renaming your new friend will help you build your relationship from the ground up.

When looking for a name for your new cat, you might want to use a variety of different resources. Lists can be found online for popular names, and even the names of celebrity cats. You could name your cat for its appearance or personality or after a loved one. If you choose a name that is similar to its old one, then it will be easier for your cat to make the switch.

Remember that it will take a little time for your cat to learn its new name. Positive association can go a long way towards helping it learn. Try saying your cat’s name out loud before offering food, treats, toys and affection. Once your cat associates its name with good things, it will begin to come when you call.

The cat pictured above is Max. Max is available for adoption at Claws N Paws Day Spa. Max is a neutered male, approximately one – two years old. Please call 714-962-1005 to schedule a visit with Max.