• About
  • Articles
    • Animals
      • Bees
        • Bees Used for Landmine Detection
        • Honeybee Facts
        • How to Help Endangered Bees
        • Loss of Bees Threatens Global Food System
        • Plants That Attract Bees
      • Birds
        • Bird Expressions Gallery
        • How to Attract Birds to Your Garden
        • Hummingbird Feeders
        • Hummingbird Gardening
        • Plants That Attract Birds
          • Plants That Attract Bluebirds
          • Plants That Attract Buntings
          • Plants That Attract Bush Tits
          • Plants That Attract Cardinals
          • Plants That Attract Catbirds
          • Plants That Attract Chickadees
          • Plants That Attract Doves
          • Plants That Attract European Robins
          • Plants That Attract Finches
          • Plants That Attract Grosbeaks
          • Plants That Attract Hummingbirds
          • Plants That Attract Jays
          • Plants That Attract Juncos
          • Plants That Attract Mockingbirds
          • Plants That Attract North American Robins
          • Plants That Attract Nuthatches
          • Plants That Attract Orioles
          • Plants That Attract Pine Siskins
          • Plants That Attract Sparrows
          • Plants That Attract Tanagers
          • Plants That Attract Thrashers
          • Plants That Attract Thrushes
          • Plants That Attract Titmice
          • Plants That Attract Towhees
          • Plants That Attract Warblers
          • Plants That Attract Waxwings
          • Plants That Attract Woodpeckers
          • Plants That Attract Wrens
        • What to Put in Bird Feeders
      • Butterflies
        • Butterfly Gardening
        • Butterfly Plants
        • How to Make a Butterfly Feeder
      • Cats
        • Big Cats and Small Wild Cats
          • Chinese Public Supports Tiger Trade Ban: 2008 Poll Shows Majority in China Against Legalizing Tiger Products
          • How to Help Endangered Wild Cats
          • How to Reduce the Risk of Cougar Attacks
          • Rare White Lion Cubs Born
          • Social Structure of Feral Cat Colonies
          • The African Black-Footed Cat: Felis Nigripes, One of the Smallest Wild Felines in the World
          • The Endangered Florida Panther
          • The Endangered Scottish Wildcat: Efforts to Save the Tiger of the Highlands
          • The Rarest Wild Cats in the World
          • White Tiger Facts
          • Why Lions Have Manes
          • Why Tigers Are Endangered
          • Wild Cats of Canada: the Bobcat, the Lynx, and the Cougar
        • Cat Breeds
          • 10 Unusual Cat Breeds
          • Abyssinian Cat Breed Profile
          • American Bobtail Cat Breed Profile
          • American Curl Cat Breed Profile
          • American Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • American Wirehair Cat Breed Profile
          • Balinese Cat Breed Profile
          • Bengal Cat Breed Profile
          • Birman Cat Breed Profile
          • Bombay Cat Breed Profile
          • British Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Burmese Cat Breed Profile
          • California Spangled Cat Breed Profile
          • Cat Breeds That Get Along Well with Dogs
          • Chartreux Cat Breed Profile
          • Chausie Cat Breed Profile
          • Colourpoint Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Cornish Rex Cat Breed Profile
          • Donskoy Cat Breed Profile
          • Egyptian Mau Breed Profile
          • Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Guide to Cat Breed Personality Traits
          • Guide to Cat Breeder Terminology
          • Guide to Cat Coat Colours, Patterns, and Markings
          • Guide to Cat Fur, Face, and Body Types
          • Himalayan Cat Breed Profile
          • How Many Cat Breeds Are There?
          • Javanese Cat Breed Profile
          • Korat Cat Breed Profile
          • Kurilian Bobtail Breed Profile
          • LaPerm Cat Breed Profile
          • Maine Coon Cat Breed
          • Manx Cat Breed Profile
          • Mythical Cat Breeds, Frauds, and Hoaxes
          • Nebelung Cat Breed Profile
          • Norwegian Forest Cat Breed Profile
          • Ocicat Breed Profile
          • Oriental Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Persian Cats: What Prospective Adopters Need to Know
          • Peterbald Cat Breed Profile
          • Pixie-Bob Cat Breed Profile
          • Ragamuffin Cat Breed Profile
          • Ragdoll Cat Breed
          • Russian Blue Cat Breed Profile
          • Savannah Cat Breed Profile
          • Scottish Fold Cat Breed Profile
          • Siamese Cat Breed
          • Siberian Cat Breed Profile
          • Singapura Cat Breed Profile
          • Snowshoe Cat Breed Profile
          • Sphynx Cat Breed Profile
          • Tonkinese Cat Breed Profile
          • Toyger Cat Breed Profile
          • Turkish Angora Cat Breed Profile
          • Turkish Van Cat Breed Profile
        • Cat Care
          • Adopting a Cat
          • Alternatives to Declawing
          • Are Poinsettias Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
          • Bad Breath in Cats and Dogs
          • Best Cat Toys
          • Can I Give My Cat or Dog Aspirin or Tylenol?
          • Cat Aggression Treatments
          • Cat Boarding Kennels: How to Choose the Best
          • Cat Fences and Enclosures
          • Cat or Dog Sprayed by a Skunk: How to Remove Skunk Odour
          • Cat Urine: How to Clean It and Get Rid of the Odour
          • Children and Cats
          • Clingy Cats: How to Reduce Separation Anxiety
          • Common Cat Allergies: Substances That Cause Allergic Reactions in Cats
          • Disaster Preparedness for Cats and Dogs
          • Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet?
          • Feliway for Cats
          • Foods That Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Free and Low-Cost Spay-Neuter Clinics
          • Halloween Cat Sacrifices: Real Danger or Urban Legend?
          • How to Brush a Cat’s Teeth
          • How to Cat-Proof a Home
          • How to Encourage a Cat to Be More Affectionate
          • How to Give a Cat a Bath
          • How to Groom a Cat
          • How to Help Fat Cats Lose Weight
          • How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat
          • How to Introduce a New Cat to a Resident Cat
          • How to Keep Cats and Dogs Safe During Winter
          • How to Play with a Cat
          • How to Prevent Cat Conflicts in Multicat Households
          • How to Prevent Hairballs in Cats
          • How to Protect Your Pets from Pet Thieves
          • How to Remove Glue, Paint, Oil, Varnish, Gasoline, Tar, or Grease from Cat Fur
          • How to Start an Animal Shelter
          • How to Stop a Dog from Attacking a Cat
          • How to Stop Cats from Catching Birds
          • Hypoallergenic Diets for Cats and Dogs
          • Indoor Cats: Can They Be Happy?
          • Living with Cat Allergies
          • Microchipping, Tattooing, GPS, and Collar ID for Cats and Dogs
          • Moving with Cats
          • Myths About Spaying and Neutering
          • Natural Anxiety Remedies for Cats and Dogs
          • Natural Flea Control for Cats and Dogs
          • Onions Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Pet-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
          • Pet-Safe Plants
          • Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Propylene Glycol Antifreeze Safer for Pets
          • Reasons to Keep Cats Indoors
          • Retirement Homes for Cats and Dogs
          • Spaying and Neutering Facts: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
          • The Benefits of Play Therapy for Cats
          • The Declawing Information Page
          • Tips for Finding Lost Pets
          • Travelling with a Cat
          • Your Life Can Improve With the Right Pet
        • Cat Charities
        • Cat Expressions Gallery 2
        • Cat Facts
          • Ailurophobia: Fear of Cats
          • Are All White Cats with Blue Eyes Deaf?
          • Are Cats and Dogs Colour-Blind?
          • Black and White Cat Facts and Photos
          • Black Cat Facts and Photos
          • Black Cats Less Likely to Be Adopted
          • Calico and Tortoiseshell Cat Facts and Photos
          • Can Cats See in the Dark?
          • Careers with Dogs and Cats
          • Cat and Dog Adoption and Euthanasia Statistics
          • Cat Coat Colour Linked to Temperament
          • Cat Colour Gallery
          • Cat Myths Debunked
          • Cat Statistics
          • Cat Statistics: How Many Cats Are There?
          • Cat Years and People Years
          • Cats and Dogs Hurt by Recession
          • Debunking Anti-Cat Arguments
          • Declawed Cats More Likely to Be Surrendered to Shelters
          • Descriptive Terms for Cats
          • Do Cat People and Dog People Have Different Personalities?
          • Do Cats Dream?
          • Glossary of Cat Words
          • Health Benefits of Cat Ownership
          • How Do a Cat’s Senses of Smell and Taste Compare to Those of a Human?
          • How Fast Can a Cat Run?
          • How Long Cats Live
          • How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep Each Day?
          • How Powerful Is a Cat’s Hearing?
          • Hypoallergenic Cats
          • Impacts of Cats and Dogs on the Environment and Wildlife
          • Naturally Occurring Cat Breeds, Cross-Breeds, and Recent Mutations
          • Negative Cat Stereotypes Debunked
          • Neoteny – Why Adult Cats Retain Kitten Qualities
          • Polls Show Large Majority Against Declawing Cats; Majority Also Favours Anti-Declaw Laws
          • Reasons to Adopt an Adult Cat
          • Reasons Why Cats and Dogs Are Surrendered to Shelters
          • Study: Owning a Cat Cuts Heart Attack Risk by 30%
          • Tabby Cat Facts and Photos
          • The Social World of Feral Cats
          • Tortoiseshell Cats Are Nearly Always Female
          • Which Animals Hunt Cats?
          • Which Are More Intelligent – Cats or Dogs?
          • Which Are More Popular, Cats or Dogs?
          • Which Cat Breeds Are the Most Intelligent?
          • Which Make Better Pets – Cats or Dogs?
          • White Cat Facts and Photos
          • Why Are Female Cats Called Queens?
          • Why Are Male Cats Called Toms?
          • Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
          • Why Do Cats’ Eyes Glow in the Dark?
        • Cat Food and Nutrition
          • Can You Feed a Cat Dog Food? Can You Feed a Dog Cat Food?
          • Can You Feed Cats Tuna Made for Humans?
          • Cat Food Overview: Wet Food, Semi-Moist Food, Dry Food, and Raw Diets
          • Health Risks Associated with Vegan Diets for Cats
          • High-Carbohydrate Diets Are Bad for Cats
          • Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
          • How Much Food Does a Cat Need? How Much Should You Feed a Kitten?
          • How Often Should You Feed Kittens and Adult Cats?
          • Is It Safe to Feed Cats Milk?
          • Is It Safe to Feed Cats Raw Eggs?
          • Natural Diets for Cats, Home-Made Cat Food
          • Should You Feed a Cat Wet Food or Dry Food?
          • Vegan and Vegetarian Dogs and Cats
          • Veterinarian Statements on Vegan and Vegetarian Diets for Cats
          • What to Feed a Kitten
          • What to Feed a Pregnant Cat
          • Why Cats Are Natural Carnivores
          • Why Cats Need a High-Protein Cat Food
          • Why Won’t My Cat Eat?
        • Cat Health
          • Abdominal Swelling/Bulging Stomach in Cats
          • Aggression as a Sign of Illness in Cats
          • Arthritis in Cats
          • Bobcat Fever (Cytauxzoonosis)
          • Can I Get Toxoplasmosis From My Cat? Do I Need to Give up My Cat if I Get Pregnant? Do Cat Parasites Really Affect Personality?
          • Cat and Dog Symptoms: Third Eyelid Showing
          • Cat Coughing, Dog Coughing: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat Drooling: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat Having Accidents Outside the Litter Box: Medical Causes
          • Cat Howling: Why Do Some Cats Howl, Especially at Night?
          • Cat Limping, Dog Limping
          • Cat Not Grooming/Dull Coat/Dry Skin in Cats
          • Cat Symptoms Overview
          • Cat with Blood in Stool: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat with Blood in the Urine: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat with Red Eye or Eyes
          • Cat with Sores and Bald Patches/Hair Loss in Cats, Dog with Sores and Bald Patches/Hair Loss in Dogs
          • Cat-Related Health and Safety Myths
          • Cats Reduce Risk of Kids Developing Asthma
          • Causes of Breathing Problems in Cats
          • Causes of Increased Appetite in Cats
          • Causes of Itching in Cats and Dogs
          • Causes of Weight Loss in Cats
          • Charities That Help with Vet Bills
          • Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) – Kidney Disease in Cats
          • Constipation in Cats
          • Dental Diets for Cats
          • Depression in Cats
          • Diarrhea in Cats and Dogs
          • Endocrine Diseases in Cats: Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism, and Others
          • Essential Fatty Acid Supplements for Dogs and Cats
          • Eye Discharge/Runny Eyes in Cats and Dogs
          • Feline Calicivirus (FCV) in Cats
          • Feline Epilepsy: Cat Seizures/Convulsions
          • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
          • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Cat Herpes or Cat Flu)
          • Fever in Cats and Dogs: Causes and Treatments
          • FLUTD in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
          • Fundraising Ideas to Pay Large Vet Bills
          • Glucosamine-Chondroitin Supplements for Dogs and Cats with Arthritis
          • Heart Disease in Cats: Cardiomyopathy, Endocarditis, Myocarditis
          • Heartworm Infection in Cats and Dogs
          • Holistic Cat and Dog Care
          • Hookworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Human Pregnancy and Toxoplasmosis
          • Illnesses That People Can Catch from Cats
          • Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Cats
          • Intestinal Worms in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
          • Is Catnip Addictive or Dangerous?
          • Loss of Appetite in Cats
          • Lungworm Infection in Cats and Dogs
          • Poisoned Cat: Symptoms and Treatment
          • Required Vaccinations for Cats and Kittens
          • Ringworm in Dogs and Cats
          • Roundworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Signs of Pain in Cats
          • Skin Lumps and Bumps in Cats and Dogs
          • Sneezing and Nasal Discharge in Cats and Dogs
          • Tapeworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Using Pumpkin to Treat Constipation and Diarrhea in Cats and Dogs
          • Whipworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Why Cats Pull Out Their Fur: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats
          • Why Cats Vomit
          • Why Does My Cat Drink So Much and Pee So Often? Causes of Increased Thirst and Urination in Cats
        • Cat History
          • Cat History: Cats in Ancient Egypt
          • Cat History: Cats in Warfare
          • Cat History: Famous Ship Cats
          • Cat History: From Wild Cats to Domestic Pets
          • Cat History: The Black Plague
          • Cat Superstitions, Myths, and Proverbs
          • Famous Cat Lovers
        • Cat Psychology, Behaviour, and Communication
          • Can Cats and Dogs Be Friends?
          • Do Cats Feel Love and Other “Human” Emotions?
          • Do Cats Have Psychic Abilities?
          • Do Cats Like Music?
          • Guide to Cat Communication: Vocalizations and Body Language
          • How Smart Are Cats?
          • The Flehmen Response: Why Cats “Grimace” with Their Mouths Open
          • What Causes Cats or Kittens to Eat Dirt, Kitty Litter, or Plastic, or Lick Photographs?
          • Why are cats afraid of cucumbers?
          • Why Cats Fight
          • Why Cats Purr: How Purring Speeds the Healing Process
          • Why Do Cats “Sulk”?
          • Why Do Cats and Dogs Eat Grass or Houseplants?
          • Why Do Cats Go Crazy for Catnip, Valerian, and Mint?
          • Why Do Cats Gravitate to People Who Fear or Dislike Them?
          • Why Do Cats Have Accidents Outside the Litter Box?
          • Why Do Cats Hiss?
          • Why Do Cats Knead or Paddle with Their Paws?
          • Why do cats love boxes?
          • Why Do Cats Make Chattering Sounds When They See Birds Through a Window?
          • Why Do Cats Play with Their Prey?
          • Why Do Cats Play with Water?
          • Why Do Cats Roll on Their Backs to Greet People?
          • Why Do Cats Rub Against Things?
          • Why Do Cats Scratch Things?
          • Why Do Cats Suddenly Make Mad Dashes Around the House?
          • Why Do Some Cats and Dogs Eat Soap?
          • Why Do Some Cats Attack When Being Petted?
          • Why Do Some Cats Become Anxious or Phobic?
          • Why Do Some Cats Like Shoes, Socks, Feet, Bleach, or Chlorine?
          • Why Do Some Cats Prefer Dirty Water to Fresh Tap Water?
          • Why Does My Cat Pee on the Bed or My Clothing?
          • Why Some Cats Suck on Fabric, Wool, or Hair
        • Cat Training
          • Can You Train a Cat Not to Hunt?
          • How to Encourage a Cat to Use a Scratch Post
          • How to Keep Cats off Counters and Furniture
          • How to Keep Cats out of Plants
          • How to Leash-Train a Cat
          • How to Litter Train a Kitten
          • How to Stop a Cat from Attacking a Dog
          • How to Stop Cats from Fighting
          • How to Train a Cat or Kitten
        • Famous Cats
          • Cat Called to Jury Duty
          • Cat Placed Under House Arrest
          • Cat Record Breakers
          • Cats That Have Adopted Animals of Other Species
          • Christopher the Guardian Angel Cat
          • Cloned Cats
          • Colby Nolan – The Cat with an MBA Degree
          • Famous Cats: Cats with Jobs
          • Famous Cats: Feline Entertainers
          • Famous Cats: Great Feline Achievements
          • Giant Cat Prince Chunk Finds Loving Home
          • Hero Cats
        • Foster Kitten Photo Diary
          • Adult Cats Acting as Foster Parents
          • Bif and Buddies
          • Casper and Cadence
          • Chilly and Lilly
          • Five New Furballs: Serenity, Quest, Sherpa, Coda, and Cayoosh
          • Foster Kittens: Farley and Friends
          • Foster Kittens: Jenga, Eclipse, Valhalla, and Callahan
          • Foster Kittens: Max, Zack, and Roxie
          • Foster Kittens: Sage Bounces Back
          • Foster Kittens: The Dynamic Duo
          • Foster Kittens: The Fab Five
          • Foster Kittens: The Fantastic Five
          • Foster Kittens: The Fluffasaurus Rex and Friends
          • Foster Kittens: The Great Kitten Storm of 2012
          • Foster Kittens: The Saga of the Little Savages
          • Foster Kittens: The Space Crew
          • Foster Kittens: The Tumultous Triad
          • Gizmo’s Gang
          • Sir Shady, the Earl of Grey, Princess Fluffington and the Countess Hissyfit
          • Tesla and Tyax
          • The Checkerboard Kittens: Picatso, Pablo, Catisse, and Catson
          • The Comeback Kittens
          • The Foster Fosters
          • The Friendly Five
          • The Greatcoat Kittens
          • The Hoarder House Kittens: Rowdy, Scrappy, Ally, and Cory
          • The Lake Kittens: Duffey, Alta, and Skaha
          • The Mini-Me Kittens
          • The Star Wars Kittens
          • The Sunshine Kittens
          • The Sunshine Kittens: Golden, Raya, and Sola
        • Kitten Fight Club Gallery
        • Pet Product Reviews
          • 10 Pet Insurance Providers Ranked: Complete 2018 Comparison Guide
          • Reviews of Corn-Based Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Paper-Based Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Pine-Based Cat Litter
          • Reviews of Silica Crystal Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Wheat-Based Swheat Scoop Cat Litter
          • Save Money on Pet Supplies with Groupon Coupons
        • Pet Therapy
          • Animal-Assisted Therapy Providers
          • Pet Therapy Resources
          • Prison Cats
        • Pregnant Cats and Kittens
          • Answers to Frequently Asked Kitten Questions
          • At What Age Can Cats Start Having Kittens?
          • Can a Litter of Kittens Have More Than One Father?
          • How Can You Tell if a Cat Is in Heat?
          • How Long Does a Cat’s Pregnancy Last?
          • How Many Kittens Can Cats Have?
          • How Old Should Kittens Be When They’re Adopted Out?
          • How to Care for Cats During Pregnancy, Labour, and Birth
          • How to Care for Orphaned Kittens
          • How to Safely Remove Fleas from Kittens
          • How to Socialize a Kitten
          • Kitten Development and Care: Birth to 2 Weeks
          • Kitten Development and Care: Week 13 and Up
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 3 and 4
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 5 and 6
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 7-12
          • What Are the Signs of Pregnancy in Cats?
          • When Do Kittens’ Eyes Change Colour?
          • When Do Kittens’ Eyes Open?
          • Where to Adopt Kittens
          • Why Are Kittens Born with Blue Eyes?
          • Why Do Mother Cats Move Kittens?
          • Why Does a Male Cat Bite a Female’s Neck While Mating?
          • Will Handling Newborn Kittens Cause the Mother to Reject Them?
          • Will Tom Cats Kill Kittens?
        • The Cat Expressions Gallery
      • Dogs
        • 7 Great Ways to Care for Your Pet Dog
        • Amazing Dogs
          • Dogs Detect Cancer in People
          • Ginny – the Dog Who Rescued Cats
          • Seizure-Alert Dogs
          • Specially Trained Dogs Assist People with Parkinson’s Disease
        • Dog Care Articles
          • It Might Look Cute, But Being Overweight Is Hurting Your Dog
        • Dog Facts
          • Are Pit Bulls More Likely to Attack Than Dogs of Other Breeds?
          • Canine Aggression: What Causes Dogs to Attack?
          • Dog Breeds That Get Along with Cats
          • How Long Do Dogs Live?
          • How Old Is My Dog in Human Years?
          • The Effects of Pit Bull Bans: Does Breed-Specific Legislation Reduce Dog Attacks?
          • Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Attack?
        • Dog Health Articles
        • Dogs and Cats
        • Miscellaneous Dog Articles
      • Nutritional Health for Your Rabbit Friends
      • Predators of the Heart
      • Sharks
        • How to Reduce the Risk of Shark Attacks
        • Shark Finning Endangers Marine Ecosystems
        • Sharks Rarely Attack
    • Fitness
      • Can I do cardio and strength training on the same day? Should I do cardio or weights first?
      • Exercise Enhances Learning Ability
      • Fitness Resources
      • How Much Exercise Do People Need?
      • How Often Should I Change My Workout Routine?
      • How to Get Motivated to Start Running
      • Strength Training
        • Does Strength Training Cause Women to Bulk Up?
        • How Do I Get an Abdominal ‘Six-Pack’?
        • How Long Should a Strength Training Workout Be? And How Can You Tell if You’re Overtraining?
        • How to Start Strength Training
        • Sports and Bodybuilding Supplements
        • Strength Training for Weight Loss
        • Strength Training Health Benefits
        • Strength Training: Can I train successfully on a vegetarian or vegan diet?
        • Strength Training: Do I need to go to the gym, or can I get good results working out at home?
        • Strength Training: How can I get really big (without steroids)?
        • Strength Training: How Long Should I Rest Between Sets?
        • Strength Training: How Many Days a Week?
        • Strength Training: How Many Repetitions?
        • Strength Training: How Many Sets?
        • Strength Training: How should I warm up and cool down? And should I stretch before and after workouts?
        • Strength Training: Should I Do a Full-Body Workout or a Split Routine?
        • Strength Training: Should I Use Free Weights or Machines?
        • Strength Training: What should I eat before and after my workout?
      • Stretching Techniques
        • Basic Stretching Techniques
        • PNF Stretching
        • Risky Stretches That May Cause Injuries
        • Stretching for Sports and Flexibility
      • Weight Loss
        • How to Reduce Fat in Your Diet
        • Probiotics for Weight Loss
        • Why Most Dieters Fail
    • Food and Nutrition
      • Antibiotics in Food and Farming
      • Coffee
        • Is Coffee Harmful to Your Health?
        • The Health Benefits of Coffee
      • Cooking Tips
        • 10 Tips for Healthier Baking with Whole Foods
        • Cooking and Baking Ingredient Substitutions
          • Baking Substitutes: Dairy Products
          • Baking Substitutes: Eggs and Mayonnaise
          • Broths, Juices, Alcoholic Beverages, Sauces, and Condiments
          • Cooking and Baking Substitutions: Herbs and Spices (Including Onion and Garlic)
          • Fat Substitutions: Low-Fat and Vegan Options
          • Raising Agent Substitutions
          • Substitutes for Flours, Other Grains, and Bread Products (Including Gluten-Free Options)
          • Substitutions for Chocolate, Raisins, and Peanut Butter
          • Types of Sugar, Liquid Sweeteners, Natural Sugar Substitutes, and Low-Calorie Sugar Alternatives
            • Liquid Sweeteners / Sugar Substitutes
            • Low-Calorie and Calorie-Free Sugar Substitutes
            • Types of Sugar and Sugar Substitutions
        • How to Choose, Store, and Prepare Garlic
        • How to Choose, Store, and Prepare Onions
        • Low-Fat and Fat-Free Baking Substitutes
        • Meat Safety
        • Slow Cooker Cooking Tips
        • Slow Cooker Safety Tips
        • Tips for Baking Bread with Whole Wheat Flour and Other Whole Grains
      • Food Facts
        • An Apple a Day: The Health Benefits of Apples
        • Anti-inflammatory Foods
        • Aphrodisiac Foods
        • Artificial Sweeteners Cause Weight Gain and Health Problems
        • Battery Cage Chickens
        • Best Natural Sources of Calcium
        • Chocolate’s Health Benefits
        • Egg Labels: Free-Range, Organic, and Omega-3
        • Food and Beverage Caffeine Contents
        • Health Benefits of Tomatoes and Other Lycopene-Rich Foods
        • How Long Baked Goods, Dry Ingredients, Canned Goods, Condiments, Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Eggs, and Dairy Products Keep
        • How much protein do I need? Will eating too much protein make me fat?
        • How to Store Fruits and Vegetables
        • How to Tell if an Egg Is Bad (Do Bad Eggs Really Float?)
        • Leafy Green Vegetables Protect Against Osteoporosis
        • Natural Food Sources of Probiotics
        • Nutrition Guidelines for Fitness: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats
        • Nutrition: Free Range vs. Battery Cage Eggs
        • The Best Antioxidant Foods
        • Whole Grains for Health
      • Herbs and Spices
        • Basil Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Black Pepper Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cardamom Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Chili Pepper Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cinnamon Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cloves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cumin Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Dill Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Fenugreek Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Ginger Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Mustard Seed Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Nutmeg Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Oregano Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Parsley Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Peppermint Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Rosemary Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Sage Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Tarragon Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Thyme Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Turmeric Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
      • Recipes
        • Cheddar and Chive Cornbread
        • Fast, Easy, Delicious Custard Pie
        • Free Gingerbread House Templates and Recipes
        • Healthy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
        • Herb Bread (Bread Maker Recipe)
        • Honey-Sweetened Berry Pie Recipe
        • Honey-Sweetened Challah Bread (Bread Maker Recipe)
        • Pumpkin Muffin Recipes
        • Slow Cooker Swiss Steak
      • Supplements
        • How Much Vitamin C Should You Take?
        • Should You Take a Probiotic Supplement? Probiotic Health Benefits
        • Vitamin D Facts and Natural Sources
        • Vitamin E Facts
        • Zinc Facts
      • Tea and Health
        • Green Tea Aids Weight Loss
        • Health Benefits of Caffeinated Tea
        • How to Increase Tea’s Health Benefits
    • Gardening
      • 10 Ways to Create a More Environmentally Friendly Garden
      • All About Basil: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking with Basil
      • All About Chives: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Chives, Storing Chives, and Cooking with Chives
      • All About Mint: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking with Mint
      • All About Sage: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Sage, Storing Sage, and Cooking with Sage
      • Beets: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Beets, Storing Beets, and Cooking with Beets
      • Carrots: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking
      • Causes of Cracking in Tomatoes
      • Choosing Containers for Container Gardening
      • Composting FAQ
        • Are black walnut leaves and hulls toxic in compost?
        • How can I keep pests away from my compost pile?
        • How do I add compost to my garden?
        • How do I create compost?
        • How long does composting take?
        • Is it safe to compost pet waste?
        • What are the benefits of composting?
        • What can I put in my compost pile (and what items should not be included)?
        • Why does my compost stink?
        • Why is my compost dry and cold (or soggy and muddy)?
      • French Tarragon: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking Tarragon
      • Gardening with Children
      • Growing Food in Containers
      • Heirloom, F1, and F2 Tomato Plants: A Quick Guide
      • How to Create a School Garden
      • How to Extend the Growing Season
      • How to Fix Brown Tips on House Plants
      • How to Get Rid of Garden Slugs: Natural, Non-Toxic Solutions
      • How to Grow Broccoli: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Broccoli, Storing Broccoli, and Cooking Broccoli
      • How to Grow Potatoes: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Potatoes, Storing Home-Grown Potatoes, and Cooking Potatoes
      • How to Grow Tulips
      • How to Keep Cats Out of Gardens
      • Ladybugs
      • Leafy Green Vegetables That Grow in Winter
      • Lettuce: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Lettuce, Storing Lettuce, and Preparing Lettuce
      • Natural Garden Pest Control
      • Onions: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking
      • Peas: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking with Peas
      • Radishes: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking
      • Root Vegetables That Grow in Fall and Winter
      • The Benefits of School Gardens
      • Vegetables That Grow During Fall and Winter
      • What Fruits and Vegetables Can I Grow in the Shade?
      • Why Are My Tomato Leaves Turning Purple?
      • Wildlife Gardening
      • Worm Composting: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
    • Mind/Body Health
      • ADHD
        • ADHD Diagnosis
        • ADHD Resources
        • ADHD Symptoms in Adults
        • ADHD Symptoms in Children
        • ADHD Treatments and Coping Strategies
        • Causes of ADHD
        • Health Problems Linked to Artificial Colours: Hyperactivity, Cancer, and Allergic Reactions
      • Anxiety and Panic Disorder
        • Anti-Anxiety Supplements
          • Chamomile for Anxiety
          • Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) for Anxiety
          • GABA for Anxiety
          • Gotu Kola for Anxiety
          • Inositol for Anxiety
          • Kava for Anxiety
          • L-Tryptophan for Anxiety
          • Lemon Balm for Anxiety
          • Lysine and Arginine for Anxiety
          • Magnesium and Calcium for Anxiety
          • Passionflower for Anxiety
          • Probiotics for Anxiety and Depression
          • SAMe for Anxiety
          • Valerian for Anxiety
          • Vitamin B for Anxiety
          • Vitamin C for Anxiety
          • Vitamin D for Anxiety
        • Anxiety Helplines and Forums
        • Anxiety Resources
        • Conditions That Often Occur with Anxiety
          • Asthma and Anxiety
          • Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Anxiety
          • Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Anxiety
          • Chronic Pain and Anxiety
          • Eating Disorders and Anxiety
          • Fibromyalgia and Anxiety
          • Hyperthyroidism and Anxiety
          • Hypoglycemia and Anxiety
          • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Anxiety, and Depression
          • Migraine Headaches and Anxiety
          • Nutritional Deficiency and Anxiety
          • Substance Abuse and Anxiety
        • Natural Therapies to Reduce Anxiety
          • Acupuncture for Anxiety
          • Anxiety Reduction Techniques: Turning Your Focus Outward and Cultivating Mindfulness
          • Breathing Techniques for Anxiety
          • Cardio Exercise for Anxiety Reduction
          • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Anxiety
          • Dietary Changes That Reduce Anxiety
          • Expand Your Comfort Zone to Reduce Anxiety
          • How to Become More Assertive to Reduce Anxiety
          • How to Get Better Sleep
          • How to Reduce Stress
          • How to Worry Less
          • Increase Negative Ions to Reduce Anxiety, Enhance Mood
          • Learning About Panic Disorder and Anxiety
          • Lifestyle Changes That Reduce Anxiety
          • Massage for Anxiety
          • Meditation for Anxiety
          • Progressive Muscle Relaxation for Anxiety and Stress
          • Realistic Thinking for Anxiety Reduction
          • Social Contact and Support to Reduce Anxiety
          • Systematic Desensitization for Anxiety
          • Visualization Techniques to Reduce Anxiety
          • Yoga for Anxiety
        • Panic Attack Symptoms
        • Panic Attack Treatments
        • Playing Tetris May Reduce PTSD Flashbacks
        • Quick Help for Panic Attacks
        • What Causes Panic Attacks?
        • What Is Panic Disorder?
      • Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome
        • Asperger’s Syndrome and Anorexia
        • Asperger’s Syndrome and Face Recognition
        • Asperger’s Syndrome and Wayfinding
        • Athletes with Autistic Spectrum Disorders
        • Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome Resources
        • Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Sports
        • Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Crime, and Violence
        • Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Empathy
        • Conditions That Often Accompany Asperger’s Syndrome
        • Do Vaccines Cause Autism?
        • Girls with Asperger’s Syndrome
        • Music Therapy for Autism
        • Myths About Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome
        • Positive Traits of Asperger’s Syndrome
        • Sensory Issues with Autistic Spectrum Disorders
        • Treating Autism with Vitamins and Supplements
          • Amino Acids for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Calcium for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Carnitine for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Dimethylglycine (DMG) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Ginkgo Biloba for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Glutathione (GSH) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Inositol for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Iron for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Melatonin (the Sleep Hormone) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EFAs) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Oxytocin (the Love Hormone) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Piracetam for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Probiotics for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Secretin for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Selenium for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • St. John’s Wort for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin A/Fish Oil for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin B12 (Methyl B12) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin B3 (Niacin/ Nicotinic Acid/Niacinamide) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid/Calcium Pantothenate) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and Magnesium for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin B9 (Folate/Folic Acid) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Vitamin D for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
          • Zinc for Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome
      • Depression
        • Depression, Anxiety, and Panic Disorder
        • Light Therapy for Non-Seasonal Depression
        • Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)
      • General Health Topics
        • Active, Overweight People Are Healthier Than Thin, Sedentary People
        • Can You Catch Diseases from Toilet Seats?
        • Do You Need Special Soaps to Kill Germs?
        • Does Vitamin C Cure Colds?
        • Education Linked to Longevity
        • How to Reduce the Risk of Catching a Cold
        • Laughter and Health
        • Light Therapy for PMS and PMDD
        • Music and Epilepsy: Seizure Reduction Through Music Therapy
        • Music for Healing
        • Shinrin-Yoku: The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Forest Bathing
        • Should You Really Feed a Cold and Starve a Fever?
        • Why Women Live Longer Than Men
      • How to Reduce or Stop Drinking
      • The Joy of Decluttering: Increasing Well-Being by Making More of Less
      • The RICE Protocol: Should You Rest and Apply Ice to an Injury, or Use the MCE, MEAT, or METH Strategies?
    • Psychology
      • Animal Hoarding
      • Colour Psychology
      • Cyberchondria
      • Depression Caused by Fear of Crime
      • Dream Psychology
      • Music Psychology
        • Does Listening to Country Music Really Increase the Risk of Suicide?
        • Music and Personality: Traits Associated with Musical Preferences
        • Music Psychology and Consumer Behaviour
        • Music Psychology FAQ: Answers to Common Questions About Music’s Effects
        • Music Psychology: Classical Music
        • Music Psychology: Heavy Metal Music
        • Music Psychology: Jazz Music
        • Music Psychology: Rap Music
      • Psychology of Attraction
        • Danger and Adversity Alter What Men Find Attractive in Women
        • Do Opposites Attract?
        • Hungry Men Find Heavier Women More Attractive
        • Men and Women Want the Same Things in a Romantic Partner
        • Men Are Attracted to Smiles, Women to Expressions of Pride and Shame
        • Men Like Smart Women
        • People Wearing Red Are More Attractive to the Opposite Sex
        • Personality Traits Really Do Affect Perception of Appearance
        • The Smell of Pumpkin Pie Is an Aphrodisiac
        • What Women Find Attractive in Men
      • Psychopathy/Sociopathy
        • Animal Cruelty Linked to Violence Against People
        • How to Protect Yourself from Psychopaths
        • Media Glamorization of the Psychopath
        • Psychopathy, Sociopathy, and Antisocial Personality Disorder: Quick Facts
        • What Causes Psychopathy?
        • What Is a Psychopath?
      • Research Links Car Colour and Personality
      • The Benefits of Environmental Education
      • The Social Psychology of War and Genocide
  • Contact
  • Fun Stuff
    • Astrology
      • Astrological Signs of Famous People
        • Famous Aquarians
        • Famous Aries
        • Famous Cancers
        • Famous Capricorns
        • Famous Geminis
        • Famous Leos
        • Famous Libras
        • Famous Pisces
        • Famous Sagittarians
        • Famous Scorpios
        • Famous Tauruses
        • Famous Virgos
      • Astrology Careers by Sun Sign
        • Aquarius Careers
        • Aries Careers
        • Cancer Careers
        • Capricorn Careers
        • Gemini Careers
        • Leo Careers
        • Libra Careers
        • Pisces Careers
        • Sagittarius Careers
        • Scorpio Careers
        • Taurus Careers
        • Virgo Careers
      • Astrology Elements & Qualities
      • Astrology Love and Friendship
        • Aquarius Love and Friendship
        • Aries Love and Friendship
        • Cancer Love and Friendship
        • Capricorn Love and Friendship
        • Gemini Love and Friendship
        • Leo Love and Friendship
        • Libra Love and Friendship
        • Pisces Love and Friendship
        • Sagittarius Love and Friendship
        • Scorpio Love and Friendship
        • Taurus Love and Friendship
        • Virgo Love and Friendship
      • Astrology Love and Marriage
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Aquarius
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Aries
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Cancer
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Capricorn
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Gemini
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Leo
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Libra
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Pisces
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Sagittarius
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Scorpio
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Taurus
        • Love, Marriage, and Compatibility for Virgo
      • Astrology Moon Signs
        • Moon in Aquarius
        • Moon in Aries
        • Moon in Cancer
        • Moon in Capricorn
        • Moon in Gemini
        • Moon in Leo
        • Moon in Libra
        • Moon in Pisces
        • Moon in Sagittarius
        • Moon in Scorpio
        • Moon in Taurus
        • Moon in Virgo
      • Astrology Sun Sign Compatibility
        • Astrology: Aquarius Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Aquarius Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Aries
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Cancer
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Gemini
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Leo
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Taurus
        • Astrology: Aries Compatibility with Virgo
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Cancer
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Leo
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Cancer Compatibility with Virgo
        • Astrology: Capricorn Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Capricorn Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Capricorn Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Cancer
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Gemini
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Leo
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Gemini Compatibility with Virgo
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Leo
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Leo Compatibility with Virgo
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Libra Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Pisces Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Sagittarius Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Sagittarius Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Sagittarius Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Sagittarius Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Scorpio Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Scorpio Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Scorpio Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Scorpio Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Scorpio Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Cancer
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Gemini
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Leo
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Taurus
        • Astrology: Taurus Compatibility with Virgo
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Aquarius
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Capricorn
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Libra
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Pisces
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Sagittarius
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Scorpio
        • Astrology: Virgo Compatibility with Virgo
      • Astrology Sun, Moon, and Ascendant
      • Astrology: The Aspects
      • Astrology: The Houses
      • Astrology: The Planets
      • Astrology: What Are Angular Planets?
      • Sun Sign Personalities
        • Aquarius Personality Profile
        • Aries Personality Profile
        • Cancer Personality Profile
        • Capricorn Personality Profile
        • Gemini Personality Profile
        • Leo Personality Profile
        • Libra Personality Profile
        • Pisces Personality Profile
        • Sagittarius Personality Profile
        • Scorpio Personality Profile
        • Taurus Personality Profile
        • Virgo Personality Profile
      • The Moon’s Influence on Personality
      • What is Mercury Retrograde?
    • Christmas
      • 10 Reasons to Buy a Real Christmas Tree Instead of a Plastic Tree
      • 10 Tips for a More Environmentally Friendly Christmas
      • 12 Environmentally Friendly Gift Ideas
      • Are People More Likely to Commit Suicide During the Christmas Holiday?
      • Christmas Cat Craft Ideas and Free Cat Photos and Other Graphics
      • Christmas Crafts and Freebies
      • Gifts for Cats and Cat Lovers
      • Gifts That Help Animals
      • Gingerbread House Photo Galleries
      • How to Make Mulled Wine
      • The History of Santa Claus and His Reindeer
      • Why Are Holly and Ivy Associated with Christmas?
      • Why Are Poinsettias Associated with Christmas?
      • Why Are the Christmas Colours Green, Red, and Gold?
      • Why Do We Celebrate Christmas?
      • Why Do We Decorate Christmas Trees?
      • Why Do We Fill Stockings at Christmas?
      • Why Do We Give Gifts at Christmastime?
      • Why Do We Kiss Under the Mistletoe at Christmastime?
    • Fun Animal Stuff
      • Cat Agility Contests
      • Cat Quotations
      • Dancing with Cats/Painting Cats
      • Dog Quotations
      • Free Cat Knitting Patterns
      • Free Cat Lesson Plans
      • Free Cat Quilting and Sewing Patterns
      • Free Doghouse Plans, Free Cat Tree Plans, and Free Cat Enclosure Plans
      • Hilarious Gifts for Cat Lovers
      • How to Build a Dog House
      • How to Make Cat Toys
      • How to Make Cat Trees, Beds, and Scratch Posts
      • Most Popular Cat and Dog Names and Weirdest Pet Names in 2010
      • Names for Cats, Dogs, and Other Pets
      • Names for Groups of Animals
      • Pet-Related Holidays
      • Weird Science with Animals
    • Halloween
      • 10 Halloween Party Ideas for Adults and Teens
      • Free Halloween Clip Art, Photos, Fonts, Animated Graphics, and More
      • Free Pumpkin Carving Patterns
      • Halloween Costumes for Cats and Dogs
      • Halloween Food
      • Halloween Pictures
      • Halloween Symbols – Frequently Asked Questions
      • How Did Black Cats Become Associated with Halloween?
      • Poisoned Halloween Candy and Razor Blades in Halloween Candy – Real Threat or Urban Legend?
      • Quick, Easy, Inexpensive Halloween Costumes
      • The History of Halloween
      • Traditional Halloween Party Games and Activities
      • Why Do We Carve Pumpkins for Halloween?
      • Why Do We Trick or Treat?
      • Why Do We Wear Costumes on Halloween?
    • Online vs. Live Casinos: What’s the Difference?
  • Home
  • Privacy
  • Terms of Use
  • Writer Resources
    • Beautiful Words
    • Frequently Confused Words
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with A
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with B
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with C
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with D
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with E
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with F
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with G, H, and I
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with L
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with M, N, and O
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with P
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with Q and R
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with S
      • Frequently Confused Words: Words Beginning with T-Z
    • Funny Words
    • Grammar and Usage Guide
      • Grammar, Usage, and Spelling FAQ
      • Me vs. I vs. Myself
      • One Word or Two?
      • Should I Add s, es, or ies to Make a Word Plural?
      • Should I Use Amid, Among, Between, Amidst, or Amongst?
      • Should I Use Hang, Hung, or Hanged?
      • Should I Use He and She or They? Subject-Verb Agreement
      • Should I Use Lie, Lay, Lain, Lied, Lying, or Laying?
      • Should I Use Rise, Risen, Rose, Rising, Raise, Raised, Raising, Arise, Arising, or Arose?
      • Should I Use Sit or Set?
      • Should I Use Wake, Woke, Awake, or Awakened?
      • Should I Use Which or That?
      • Should I Use Who or That?
      • Should I Use Who or Whom?
      • Should I Use Will or Would?
      • Subject-Verb Agreement Issues
    • How to Write Web Content That Brings Traffic: 12 Simple, Effective SEO Tips
    • Intelligent Words
    • Punctuation Guide
      • Punctuation Guide: Apostrophe (‘)
      • Punctuation: Colon (:)
      • Punctuation: Comma (,)
      • Punctuation: Exclamation Mark (!)
      • Punctuation: Hyphens and Dashes (-) (–)
      • Punctuation: Parentheses ()
      • Punctuation: Period (.)
      • Punctuation: Question Mark (?)
      • Punctuation: Quotation Marks (“)
      • Punctuation: Semicolon (;)
    • Style Guides with Examples
Metaphorical Platypus

Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) – Kidney Disease in Cats

Kidneys regulate electrolytes and eliminate waste products. With CRF, kidney function is diminished, so waste accumulates in the body, poisoning the cat. If the condition is detected early and treated, cats may have many happy, active years before they succumb to the condition.

Cats can get CRF at any age, but it’s most common in older cats. Abyssinian, Balinese, Burmese, Maine Coon, and Russian Blue cats have a slightly greater risk of developing CRF than other breeds.

Causes of Chronic Renal Failure in Cats

In addition to environment, age and genetics likely play a role in the development of CRF. Other possible contributing factors include high blood pressure, acidified diets that are low in potassium, and dental disease. Regular dental care can help prevent the development of bacteria in the mouth that contributes to CRF.

Symptoms of CRF in Cats

The earliest symptoms of CRF are increases in both thirst and urination. Cats with more advanced CRF will have some of the following symptoms:

  • Nausea/gagging/vomiting/gastritis
  • Drooling
  • Licking lips
  • Dehydration
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Muscle loss
  • Lethargy/depression
  • Weakness
  • Oral ulcers
  • Noise sensitivity
  • Ammonia smell
  • Dull coat
  • Constipation

At the later stages, cats may experience detached retina, very low body temperature, coma, or convulsions. Many older cats develop hyperthyroidism, which can make CRF symptoms less noticeable initially.

Other Conditions That May Occur with CRF

There are a number of conditions that often occur in conjunction with CRF, including:

  • Anemia – Causes weakness and loss of appetite; symptoms include pale or bluish nose, gums, or tongue. Treatment options include medication and transfusion.
  • Constipation– Caused by inadequate water consumption. Treatment includes adding more fiber to the cat’s diet, adding water to the cat’s food, and/or administering subcutaneous (Sub-Q) fluids (which are injected into the scruff of the neck).
  • Dehydration – You can check for this by pinching a bit of skin on the cat’s neck – if it doesn’t immediately fall back, the cat is dehydrated. Dehydration can be treated by encouraging the cat to drink more or administering Sub-Q fluids.
  • Hypertension – This serious condition can cause more kidney damage, cardiovascular problems, blindness, and seizures. Diagnosis can be made by a veterinarian, and the condition is treatable with medication if discovered early on. In some cases, blindness can be reversed if the cat receives medication within approximately 24 hours of onset.
  • Hypokalemia – Caused by potassium depletion, symptoms include muscle weakness, difficulty in holding the head up, stiffness, tiring easily, and difficulty moving. Veterinarian-prescribed potassium supplements can be used to treat the condition.
  • Hyperkalemia – With this condition, excess potassium can lead to heart failure and other problems. Owners may accidentally cause this by overdosing their cats on potassium if they attempt to supplement without guidance from a veterinarian.
  • Mouth and Tongue Ulcers – These contribute to weight loss and speed a cat’s decline. Bad breath may be a symptom. Ulcers can be treated with antibiotics and other medications.
  • Stomach problems – Nausea, vomiting, and stomach irritation are common in CRF cats, and can contribute to anorexia and weight loss. A veterinarian can prescribe medications that will alleviate nausea and other stomach problems.

Older cats should be tested regularly for CRF during veterinary check-ups. Common at-home CRF treatments include dietary changes and Sub-Q fluid therapy. In the case of life-threatening dehydration, cats may require intravenous (IV) fluids. These are administered by a veterinarian, and most cats receiving them must stay in the hospital for 1-5 nights. Once the cat is rehydrated, she can usually come home, but her owner may need to administer subcutaneous (Sub-Q) fluids at home.

Many cats with CRF suffer a crisis in which they become very ill, appear to be at death’s door, and then bounce back completely for quite some time. Eventually these crises get closer and closer together, and the owner must decide when it is time to say goodbye. In the interim, with proper treatment, a CRF cat can enjoy a high quality of life.

How to Administer Sub-Q Fluids to Cats with CRF

Owners inject fluids into the scruff of the cat’s neck using a home injection kit comprising an IV fluid bag, tube, and needle. While Sub-Q does not repair kidney tissue, CRF cats receiving fluids live longer and feel better.

Ideally, you’ll have a two-person team so that one person can distract the cat with toys, food, or petting while the other does the injection, but the procedure is manageable with one person. When administering Sub-Q fluids at home, first check for holes in the IV bag by gently squeezing it—a hole means that the fluid is contaminated.

Fluids can be heated slightly by running warm water (body temperature) over the bag to make the injection more comfortable for the cat. Fluid should not be warmer than tepid as this could be dangerous, so owners who choose to warm fluids should be very careful not to warm them too much. A microwave should not be used because it heats unevenly.

Hanging the bag high above the cat helps the fluid flow more quickly. Very squirmy cats can be wrapped in a towel to prevent them from accidently dislodging the needle. Staying calm during the procedure will help your cat to stay calm as well.

Have a favourite treat or food on hand to give to the cat during or immediately after the injection to create a positive association with the procedure. Cats that know they will soon receive a reward tend to be better behaved.

Although it sounds intimidating, as these pictures indicate, it’s actually quite a simple procedure and a veterinarian can provide guidance and training, working with you for the first few injections until you’re comfortable doing it alone. You can view a video of Sub-Q fluid administration here.

Sub-Q fluids may be given once a week, every other day, or daily, depending on the severity of the CRF and the cat’s tolerance of fluids. Directly after injection, most cats have either a “camel hump” on their backs or a water pouch on their tummies or legs. This can last for up to 24 hours, but may recede more quickly.

Dispose of used needles in a sealed container that is labelled so that no one will accidentally open it up and stick themselves. Needles should never be used more than once, and if the needle becomes contaminated (you accidentally drop it on the floor or the cat squirms and it falls out), start fresh with a new needle.

Mistakes many people make when first administering Sub-Q fluids include accidentally pushing the needle right through the cat’s fold of neck skin and out the other side or jabbing themselves with the needle. Also, if the owner accidentally hits a muscle, the cat will react and the liquid flow will stop. With a bit of practice, the procedure gets much easier and mistakes are less likely.

Special Diets for Cats with CRF

While dietary changes cannot reverse kidney damage, they can slow the progress of the illness and improve your pet’s quality of life. In some cases a veterinarian may recommend a diet low in salt, protein, and/or phosphorus, though not all veterinarians agree that a low-protein diet is beneficial, and new research suggests that the risks of low-protein diets may outweigh any benefits they might provide (Hines, 2011).

Some cats with CRF refuse food, particularly if a new food is introduced. Switching a cat’s diet should be done a little at a time, mixing ever-increasing amounts of the new food in with the old food until the cat is eating the new diet. This may take up to a month if you have a very finicky cat. Cats with CRF should be weighed frequently to ensure that they are eating enough.

Adding a small amount of pumpkin to a CRF cat’s diet is a good idea, as it remedies the constipation that often accompanies kidney failure and may provide additional health benefits as well. Approximately one tablespoon per day is often sufficient, though some cats may need a little more. Use pure canned pumpkin, not pie filling.

Appetite Loss in Cats with CRF

Some cats lose their appetites completely with CRF and require appetite stimulants, or even syringe-feeding by hand or via a tube introduced into the stomach in extreme cases. However, many owners are able to coax their cats to eat with favourite foods and treats. CRF cats should be given healthy treats that are low in sodium. But in the case of a cat that isn’t eating at all, if “junk food” treats are the only thing she’ll consume, they’re better than nothing.

Heating food slightly and adding water, tuna juice, clam juice, beef broth, or chicken broth can encourage cats to eat. If using broth, make sure that it doesn’t contain onions, as they are toxic for cats. Broth should also should be salt-free (avoid bouillon, which is very salty).

Many cats love “people tuna.” Canned tuna designed for humans is not nutritionally complete for cats, but it’s okay to mix a little in with regular cat food to encourage a sick cat to eat, or give it as a treat from time to time. Some cats respond to a little catnip mixed into their food as well.

Other tricks that are particularly beneficial for older cats include cutting food into smaller pieces, putting it in a mound rather than flat in the dish, and putting the food dish on a stand so that it’s slightly higher. Hand feeding or placing food on the cat’s paws or mouth works with some cats.

Additional Hydration for Cats with CRF

It’s critical to ensure that cats with CRF take in plenty of water. Bowls of water should be provided at multiple locations around the house to encourage the cat to drink, and you can mix a little water in with the food as well. As most cats prefer free-flowing water, investing in a fountain-type cat water dish is a good idea.

Hemodialysis to Treat Kidney Disease in Cats

Cats that suffer renal failure may be treated with hemodialysis, which involves inserting a catheter into the cat’s jugular vein, extracting blood to pass it through an artificial kidney that filters waste products, and then returning the blood to the cat. This takes 3-5 hours, and approximately 3 sessions are required per week.

There are not many veterinary facilities equipped to offer hemodialysis for cats at this time. For more information on hemodialysis and a list of facilities that offer it for pets, see veterinarian Wendy Brooks’ Kidney Dialysis, Is It For Your Pet?

Kidney Transplants for Cats

A kidney transplant can add 2-6 years to a CRF cat’s life, though this will vary depending on the age of the cat at the time of the transplant. One cat has survived for 10 years after a transplant.

As with any surgery, there are a number of risks, both during the operation and afterward, but feline kidney transplants have advanced to the point where 80-90% are successful. However, at this time there are not many facilities that offer the procedure.

There are ethical issues surrounding feline kidney donation. Generally, donors are shelter cats, and the shelter will only allow the donation to proceed if owners of the recipient cat plan to adopt and care for the donor cat. Ideally, the sick cat gets a life-saving donation, while the shelter cat receives a loving home for life.

Cats undergoing kidney transplants require 1-3 weeks of intensive in-hospital care after surgery. When the cat is able to come home from the hospital, close monitoring, follow-up veterinary care, and medication are required. Cost ranges from $4,500-$8,000.

Other CRF Issues

Some CRF cats with low potassium levels experience muscle weakness that can make climbing and jumping difficult or painful. If your cat appears to be having trouble, adding ramps or stepping stools so that she can reach her favourite perches can be helpful.

Cats with CRF usually need to have their litter boxes changed more often as they urinate more frequently. If you have a CRF cat, you may find that you go through kitty litter more rapidly than in the past.

CRF cats should have up-to-date ID tags and a microchip implant if possible, as they need a higher level of care than healthy cats. If lost, a CRF cat could become very ill or even die quickly without proper nutrition and hydration support.

For more information on cat symptoms, medical conditions, and treatments, visit the Cat Health and Safety page. For a full list of cat articles, see the main Cats page.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for veterinary consultation and care.

Reference: FelineCRF.org: Comprehensive information on CRF causes, symptoms, treatments, and care, as well as information regarding kidney transplants


2 Thoughts on “Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) – Kidney Disease in Cats”

  1. Kathy on March 20, 2018 at 12:03 pm said:

    Corrected post…please delete previous.
    ———————
    Excellent summary article. I could not bring up the link you’ve listed for “Feline CRF Information Center”(www.felinecrf.COM)

    However I cannot recommend highly enough
    Tanya’s Comprehensive Guide to
    Feline Chronic Kidney Disease
    @ http://www.felinecrf.ORG

    It IS unbelievably comprehensive, well-researched, and indispensible. I haven’t found any other site that is comparable. AND even Vet’s and Vet Schools have recommended it! (See bottom of home page)

    If anything it may be too much info for some. The first couple months after my cat was first diagnosed it was incredibly helpful to get as much info as I could to understand CRF/CKD and how I could help her. (I was especially having problems getting her to eat!).It was comforting to find answers to my MANY questions, and possible solutions to problems that came up.

    Well-organized, incredibly well-researched (w citations!), and considered the go-to site for this disease.

    Reply↓
    • Jennifer Copley on March 20, 2018 at 12:45 pm said:

      Thanks for drawing my attention to the dead link! I believe the original Feline CRF Information Center link pointed to Tanya’s site, but the site URL may have changed since this article was written. I’ve updated it so that it points to Tanya’s site.

      Reply↓

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

© Copyright 2021 - Metaphorical Platypus
Infinity Theme by DesignCoral / WordPress