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THE BOMBAY CAT
bombay cat
The Bombay cat was first bred by a Louisville, Kentucky cat breeder, Nicky Horner. She wanted a short-haired, black-eyed, mini panther-like cat that could live at home. She was also inspired by the black leopard of India.
Brief History
The Bombay has no link to wild cats. In 1953, the Bombay was created through selective breeding. Horner bred a black American Shorthair cat to a Burmese female that was a Grand Champion show cat. After a few generations, the Bombay breed was formed. This black cat looked like no other domesticated cat and received CFA Championship status in 1976. This Bombay is now recognized by all cat breed associations. The International Cat Association recognized them in 1979.
Physical Features
The Bombay has a sturdy and compact body of medium height. Their coats are short, flat and black, displaying the Bombay’s muscular form. There is no paling along the black roots of the coat. Their eyes are either copper or green and their nose, soles and mouths are black.
Average Height:
8 to 10 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9 to 13 years
Temperament
The Bombay is extremely friendly. This breed needs one-on-one time with its cat parents and does not do well alone all day. Curling up on their owners’ laps for hours is not uncommon. The Bombay needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation. This breed is not very vocal.
bombay cat
Special Needs
Gingivitis: Regular dental care will reduce plaque development in your Bombay, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. Ligaments and bone are not yet affected. By including daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat. Consulting with your veterinarian for preventative cleanings every 3 months to save your Bombay’s teeth.
Sinus Problems: Viral infections are the most common causes of sinusitis in cats. Allergic sinusitis can occur seasonally or throughout the year. You cat may be exposed to indoor allergens like dusts and mold spores. Cats are prone to chronic nasal and sinus inflammation after severe acute viral infections. There may also be fungal nasal and sinus inflammation. Consult with your veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, and is common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease. (osteoarthritis) Symptoms include lameness that can be mild to severe. Cats generally need no surgery for hip dysplasia. Weight reduction can help reduce discomfort.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Turkish Van is quite a healthy cat — there aren’t many health issues that affect this breed. Despite this, the Turkish Van can suffer from a condition that is known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is an inherited genetic condition that require medical attention.
Exercise
When choosing cat toys for your Bombay cat, opt for toys that allow the entire family to play together.
The Bombay cat needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. This cat breed is well-behaved and does well with routine. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for keeping this playful breed stimulated.
Nutrition
All cat breeds need high quality fat and protein in their diets. They also need amino acids, including taurine that cannot be found in either human food or dog food. There are also numerous specialty diets for your cat that are formulated specifically for certain medical problems like urinary tract disorder, obesity, or kidney disease.
All cats do well by being fed twice daily. During kittenhood, kittens will need to be fed every few hours. Growing kittens need more calories, nutrients, vitamins, protein, and calories. Your Bombay should be able to enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet corner of the house. Some cat parents prefer to leave cat food out 24/7. Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Bombay.
Grooming
bombay cat
The Bombay needs daily grooming to remove shedding fur. Because this breed has a short and sleek coat, minimal grooming care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. The Bombay is a cat breed that is always clean and shiny. Regular brushing will keep the Bombay’s coat sleek and shiny. Healthy nutrition also contributes to good coat health in cats. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes.
The Bombay is terrific companion and loving addition to any home. Remember that they thrive on attention!
Are Human Shampoos Safe for Pets?
Do your dog’s feet smell like Fritos? Does your cat have litter clinging to his legs? These are signs your furry friend needs a bath.
CAT HEALTH: A CHECKLIST
All cat owners know cats are independent creatures and do not require a lot of your time. Cats love to sleep and hide in safe places; however, they also want and need attention. They need scratching posts, climbing towers, feeding, grooming and other loving care. Because of their independent nature and desire to be separated from human activity part of the time, many cat owners believe they do not have to interact with their cats on a daily basis. In reality, cats need daily attention from their human family to be at their best.
THE COCKAPOO
Widely regarded as the “first designer dog,” the Cockapoo is a cute, love-able dog. It has a bubbly personality and is quite comfortable in social situations — especially around children. The Cockapoo was created by crossing an American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. It embodies the innate and physical characteristics of both breeds. This little dog packs a lot of love and energy in a compact body.
Brief History
The Cockapoo was created in America in 1960 and went on to become one of the most popular mixed breed dogs in the world. Known as a Spoodle in Australia, it is a cross between two beautifully looking and social dogs — the American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
Due to their mixed heritage, Cockapoos are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a legitimate dog breed. Despite this, generations of this little dog have been developed by breeders over time with an attempt to finally establish them as an original breed.
cockapoo dog
Physical Features
The Cockapoo is an attractive little dog. It has a relatively soft coat of fur that does not shed, but requires regular grooming. The dog is small in stature and has smart, bright eyes. Their small size makes them the perfect dog for apartment and city living.
Average Height:
14-15 inches
Average Weight:
12-24 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-20 years
Temperament
The Cockapoo has a cool and friendly temperament. It is slow to react aggressively and forgives quickly. Cockapoos love to show off their agility by running, jumping and rolling over. This dog enjoys human company and will also perform well around other dogs. The Cockapoo is often used as a therapy dog.
Special Needs
Since this dog is supremely social, it does not enjoy being alone for long periods of time. Cockapoos will develop social anxiety if repeatedly isolated. If you can’t be home enough to help your pup with this, consider adopting a companion for them.
Possible Health Concerns
The Cockapoo is generally a healthy dog. It may, however, develop some health issues. One of these is the laxating patella. This is a knee joint issue which affects many dog breeds.
In addition, Cockapoos can develop certain eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy where the retina gradually deteriorates over many years. This may lead to visual difficulty and eventually, blindness.
The luxating patella and Progressive Retinal Atrophy can be avoided through careful breeding.
One of the more attractive features of the Cockapoo is its floppy ears. Owners should also be aware that this feature will also make them prone to issues such as mites, yeast infections and bacterial infection as well. To avoid this, clean the dog’s ears every week.
Exercise
Being quite an active dog, the Cockapoo requires regular, consistent exercise. This is to prevent restlessness and ensure good overall health. Exercise can be accomplished through walks in the park, running through a doggy obstacle course or even a jog around the block. Two exercise sessions every day is ideal for the Cockapoo.
Grooming
The Cockapoo has an attractive coat that can be quite silky and curly. Regular brushing is necessary to keep it smooth and free of matting.
Well known for its lovely nature, beautiful coat and glitzy origin, the Cockapoo is a wonderful dog. They are known for being sociable and can fit in a variety of human and dog environments.
THE IRISH SETTER
irish setter dog breed
The Irish Setter is an aristocratic dog breed that originated from Ireland, and is part of the UKC, Gun Dog Group, and the AKC, Sporting Dog Group. This breed is believed to have been bred from English Setters, Spaniels, Pointers, and Gordon Setters during the 18th century. They were used to locate gamebirds, by using their sense of smell. Both Irish Red and White Setters are considered separate breeds today.
Brief History
During the 1800s, Irish huntsman bred the rangy “Red Setter” to cover flat countryside of the Emerald Isle. The Irish Setter’s kinsman from Scotland then bred the “Gordon Setter” to flush and retrieve game in rocky terrain. The Irish Setter is a hardworking dog breed that is both energetic and efficient in the Gun Dog Group. It is a good looking dog breed that is graceful, and gentle. This dog breed will show a hunter that he’s found birds by lying down on his belly. The Irish Setter has been a tremendous success in the show ring since the 1870’s.
Physical Features
The Irish Setter is a medium-to large-size dog breed that is lean and athletic in build. With a long, lean head, and almond-shaped brown eyes, the Irish Setter has long drop ears, and a black nose. There is delicate chiseling along the muzzle, around the eyes and along the cheeks.
Their tails are tapered to a fine point. They are rich red in color and aristocratic in build. Their coats are mahogany or a rich chestnut red. Their coat are flat and may have white markings on the chest, toes, and throat. This dog breed has an outgoing personality suitable for all family members, adults and children alike.
Average Height:
23-28 inches
Average Weight:
55-80 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Irish Setters are the quintessential family dogs. These pups need companionship, and plenty of mental stimulation. Gun dogs were bred to help hunters in the field, and to work together with people and other dogs. This breed adores children, and are the best companions for camping and hiking trips. They also enjoy swimming and boating. This dog breed is very active, and needs positive dog training and socialization from puppyhood to ensure that they are welcoming to everyone. This breed does not do well with apartment living, and is at its best with farms, and large gardens to play in. Active dog parents are a must because the Irish Setter.
Possible Health Concerns
The Irish Setter is a healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects Irish Setters. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly.
Hypothyroidism: This is a deficiency of the thyroid hormone, and can cause weight gain in the Irish Setter, as well as constipation, and cold sensitivity.
Osteosarcoma: This is a type of bone cancer that is on the rise in Irish Setters. It is mostly found on the dog’s limbs, although it can also be found on the shoulder at times. Most Irish Setters who are affected with osteosarcoma will get this between the ages of 7-10 years of age.
Entropion: This is an inherited eye condition. This occurs when the eyelid rolls inward causing the eyelid to rub against the cornea. This is a very painful condition that can lead to blindness. Surgery correction early on helps to correct this condition and prevent blindness.
Bloat: The Irish Setter is deep- chested, and thus more prone to bloat. Bloat is a life threatening emergency. It is caused by the twisting of the stomach, together with the accumulation of gas, with or without fluid. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian. Don’t wait for a few hours. This is a true emergency that is life-threatening
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of light-sensitive cells.
irish setter
Exercise
The Irish Setter needs daily exercise with plenty of off-leash runs to maintain a healthy weight and stay mentally stimulated. This breed enjoys training, and benefits mentally from all the positive attention it receives during positive dog training. The Irish Setter is a great running and hiking companion, and is also an excellent hunting dog.
Nutrition
Each brand of dog food should be chosen with your dog’s age and specific health needs in mind. Consult with your veterinarian as to the best dietary option for your Irish Setter.
irish setter puppy
Grooming
The Irish Setter has a rich red, silky and soft coat. Grooming needs to occur daily with a soft bristle brush, and a metal dog comb to remove tangles and matting. Twice yearly dental visits are recommended for cleanings to prevent gum disease in your Irish Setter. Nails should be trimmed as often as necessary.
The Irish Setter is an affectionate and happy dog breed that is eager to please, and will easily adapt into your home. These pups do not do well alone at home all day, and need to participate in plenty of family activities. This breed is gentle and loving with children.
Poisonous Plants to Cats and Other Animals
Plants certainly make one of the prettiest home decorations. But did you know not all of them are safe for your pets? That’s true! The plants and flowers that you are using in your patios or to decorate our home interiors might actually be harmful to your little furry friends. If ingested, they may cause a lot of adverse reactions such as stomach upset, respiratory disorders or even death. As a caring pet owner, therefore, it’s your responsibility to know what plants are safe for your pets and what not, so you can protect them from any toxicity or mishap.
THE VIZSLA
The Vizsla, also known as the Hungarian Vizsla, originated from Hungary. In fact, ancestors can be traced all the way back to the 10th century, where they were the favorite hunting dogs of the Magyar tribes that lived in the Pannonian Basin. Regarded as ideal sporting dogs, the ancient Vizsla lines were kept pure for centuries.
Brief History
The Vizsla became more refined as a breed over centuries when the Hungarian nobles modernized them. They became well-known as an agile, all-purpose hunting dog. However, this breed narrowly avoided extinction after World War 1. The first of this breed was imported to the U.S in the 1950’s after being smuggled out of communist Hungary. They participate in many canine sporting activities today, and make good hunting and companion dogs.
Physical Features
This is a medium-sized, lean and muscular dog. This breed has a deep tapering muzzle and carries a narrow, powerful head. Vizslas typically have brown eyes, a brown nose and ears that are rounded at the tips. Their coats are short and smooth, and their tails are also docked. Some may have white markings on the chest and toes. The wire-haired Vizsla is more common in Europe, but can also be found in the U.S.
Average Height:
21-24 inches
Average Weight:
50-65 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
This good-natured dog is a good addition to any home with children. They’re an energetic and agile breed that has endurance, power and drive. They’re affectionate and gentle with family members. The Vizsla needs plenty of daily exercise, including frequent off-leash hikes, trips to the dog park and organized canine sporting activities.
This breed was bred to be a hunting dog, but also make good jogging partners. That said, young dogs should not run long distances until they reach 18 to 24 months of age. Older dogs must stay active, and need to have a job. An active family that enjoys being outdoors and partaking in lots of sports is a good match for this breed.
Special Needs
The Vizsla needs plenty of positive training starting at puppyhood. This breed is very intelligent, sometimes stubborn, and extremely active. It’s important to start a good positive training schedule with your puppy early on. An untrained dog can be hyperactive and rambunctious. This breed needs plenty of attention combined with exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
This breed may be susceptible to the following:
Cancer. Treatments for canine cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Eye Disorders affecting the Vizsla include entropion. Entropion is the turning in of the edges of the eyelid, so that the eyelashes rub against the eye surface. It is one of the most common eyelid defects in dogs.
Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary condition that affects this breed. HD is an abnormal development of the hip joint in medium and large dog breeds. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional factors, and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia. Consult with your veterinarian for expert advice.
Epilepsy is a brain disorder marked by sudden bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This results in recurrent seizures.
Exercise
Vizslas need daily exercise with plenty off-leash runs. This breed enjoys routine and benefits mentally from all the positive attention it receives during training. They also enjoy dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, dock diving, barn hunts, scent work, tracking and lure coursing.
This breed needs plenty of mental stimulation. Pet parents will need to combine dog training classes into their weekly schedule. Vizslas are good running companions and excellent hunting dogs.
Nutrition
Consult with your veterinarian as to the best dog food for your Vizsla. Every dog is different, and some brands will be better suited for certain dogs. When it comes to dog foods, understanding your pet’s current health and nutritional needs is paramount. And always remember to ask your veterinarian for advice before changing your dog’s diet.
Grooming
The Vizsla has a short coat that hardly sheds. Daily brushing with a rubber mitt or medium bristle brush will aid in removing loose hair and in keeping their coats healthy. Nails need to be trimmed regularly, with twice yearly trips for dental cleanings at the veterinarian. Ears should be checked for wax, dirt and signs of irritation.
WHAT ARE AFRICAN GREY PARROTS?
One of the most distinctive breeds of parrot is the African Grey. This gallant bird is known for its stand-out smoky grey tinted feathers that give it such an unusual appearance, and of course, it’s chatty persona.
