WHY DOES MY CAT DO THIS ?

WHY DOES MY CAT DO THIS ?

LICKING OR CHEWING PHOTOGRAPHS/PLASTIC BAGS :
This is a difficult behavior to explain, and some cats are more prone to it than others. Most feline behaviorists have come to believe that some cats find a slight odor to the plastic and/or film surfaces simply irresistible, and also that the coolness and texture of the plastic and/or film must feel and taste good on the cat's tongue. It may also be another form of trying to "nurse" - sort of a feline "oral compulsive" behavior.

RUBS HIS HEAD AGAINST YOU/YOUR SHOES :
Your cat has special scent glands located in various parts of his body, including the area underneath the skin on his chin, and the area around his eyes. When your cat rubs up against you with his head, he is actually "marking" you with his own scent, as a signal to other cats that he is claiming you as "his"! You will probably notice that when your cat is doing this behavior, he is in a loving, peaceful and contented mood. The scent glands around his face release what are known as "facial pheromones", sometimes dubbed "happy hormones"! You should feel honored when your cat does this behavior to you as it is demonstrating his deep affection for you. Rubbing his head against your shoes is also a marking behavior - perhaps your cat is trying to cover up the scents from where you have been during the course of the day (which of course will be on your shoes) with his own scent, signifying again his "claim" on you.

CONSTANTLY MAKING NOISE OR MEOWING :
Some cats, of course, are definitely "talkers" and are very vocal all the time! However, if your cat has been checked out by your vet and there are no medical problems, and he is really trying to get your attention with his constant meowing, it's time to start paying close attention and try to figure out what it is your cat is trying to tell you! He is possibly hungry; possibly lonely; his litter box is possibly not clean enough for his liking; there may be changes in your home or personal routine that are upsetting to him. Remember - your cat has feelings too, and you should try to look at things from HIS point of view - not

Translator : http://www.wattanavet.com
Translator : http://www.hamsteronline.org
Date : 1/10/2007

Hamster Care Guide

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Below are some important tips on how to take care of your hamsters.

1. Hamster loves to exercise. They are naturally energetic and will do a lot of running. So make sure you provide all necessary equipment such as hamster wheels or adequate size of running space for them to
   
   
2. Hamsters are nocturnal creatures (active at night) so they need peace during the day to sleep. It is highly recommended to place the cage away from draughts and direct sunlight.
   
   
3. The cage floor should be covered with adequate layer of bedding. You can use the commercial wood shaving as they are absorbent and nontoxic.
   
   
4. Hamster also needs privacy during their resting time. Build them a simple small room for them to sleep. A small box will be a good idea.
   
   
5. Feed your hamsters adequately. Make sure they have enough food and more important water supply.
   
   
6. Wash the hamster cage once in a week. Keep the cage clean to prevent any infection risk.
   
   
7. Bathing your hamster are not recommended. Don't worry, they can clean themselves.
   
   
8. Build a good relationship with your hamsters. Talk to them, hold them and playing with the will keep the hamsters happy.

by : Amy Cheung - Pets.ca writer
picture : www.hamsteronline.org
site : http://www.myhammie.com

Hamsters

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Hamsters
Hamsters are one of the most popular pets because they are small, adorable and do not have the long tail like mice and rats. The hamster is a nocturnal animal, which means it is most active at night. They are solitary rodents with a lifespan of 2 to 3 years. They come in many types, such the Teddy bear and Chinese, with the most common being the Golden (or Syrian) type. Housing two or more adult hamsters together will always result in fights, regardless of sex.

Contrary to their name, ‘pocket pets’ should not really be kept in your pockets. Housing is an important consideration because their little cage is essentially their entire world. The environment that you provide for them greatly influences their behaviour and well-being. Temperatures at about 21 degrees Celcius is ideal (i.e. normal room temperature for humans). It is best to place the hamster’s cage in an area that is free of drafts. Although they cannot tolerate cold, they also cannot tolerate temperatures above 32 degrees Celcius. Keep in mind hamsters will hibernate if temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celcius.

Ideally, the cage should be made of metal so it cannot be chewed, but suitable cages can also be made of plastic. The cage should include a running wheel that allows the hamster to exercise freely and a nesting area with cotton or other soft bedding material. Hamsters also enjoy exploring tubes which can be made of plastic or toilet paper rolls. Remember to purchase a cage with good latches to keep openings securely locked, because hamsters make good escape artists. At least once per week, all old bedding should be removed and replaced with fresh material.

Hamsters are omnivorous, which mean they eat both meat and vegetables. Pre-mixed hamster food can be purchased at any pet store and often consists of various seeds, corns, oats, wheat, and pellets. Hamsters enjoy fresh vegetables, but they must be given in moderation. Variety in the hamster’s diet is important. Do not feed your hamster chocolate or other excessively sweet or salty foods. Ensure fresh water is available at all times. Having the water in a drip bottle that can be attached to the side of the cage is best to keep the water from getting contaminated with food or shavings. Hamsters often store food in their cheek pouches for eating at a later time.

Despite their popularity, hamsters may not make the best pets for young children. They have a tendency to bite more than other small rodents and are less interactive. When compared with other small rodents, they are more difficult to train and do not have a tendency to form close bonds with their owners.

by : Amy Cheung - Pets.ca writer
picture : www.hamsteronline.org
site : www.pets.ca