Understanding Animal Behavior

by Donna-Marie on November 3, 2008

I was just reading a very interesting post at Critter Comments all about understanding animal behavior.

This is a great post about why some animals behave totally different to others while in the exact same situation. If you have any interest in animals, this is definitely worth the read.

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Cats Behaving Badly

by Donna-Marie on October 30, 2008

When you adopt a cat or kitten you will soon discover it is fond of scratching your furniture, particularly the lounge suite, and clawing at your best curtains.

As annoying as this may be to you, it’s a natural habit for cats to scratch and claw.

The best way to deter this unwanted behaviour is to firstly purchase a quality scratching post and place it somewhere that your cat can access it easily – perhaps near the lounge or curtains it’s clawing at.

Next, encourage your cat to scratch this and reward it when it claws its scratching post. Keep a spray bottle of fresh water handy (the type many hairdressers use) and have it set to spray a light mist. Every time your cat goes to scratch the lounge or climb the curtains, squirt the water at it. A light mist of water won’t hurt your cat but they generally don’t like it and will soon learn what they can and can’t claw.

Warmly,

Donna-Marie

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How To Test Your Dog For Fleas

by Donna-Marie on October 27, 2008

Sometimes it can be difficult to see fleas on your dog, particularly on black dogs. Yet fleas are much more than just a nuisance for your pet and it’s important to treat them as soon as you are aware they are there.

A simple way to check for fleas on your dog is to wet a piece of paper – A4, letter or foolscap size is good – and then place it near your pet. Ruffle your pet’s fur for about a minute, making sure the paper is directly below the area you’re ruffling.

You may notice some fleas drop onto the paper but more likely, there may be small red spots appearing. These are much easier to see if the paper is damp. These red spots are actually the fleas’ droppings.

If you’re not using the damp paper method and are checking your dog for fleas, you will often find them hiding in areas that are more likely to be moist and warm – around the base of their ears, in the groin and armpits.

There are many varieties of flea treatments available but if your dog is less than six months old, make sure you use something that’s specifically suitable for puppies. You should also treat their bedding and outside areas.

If the fleas persist, please speak with your vet for advice.

Warmly,

Donna-Marie

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