Your Pet Guide

Persian cat grooming

Whether you bought your Persian cat as a show cat or simply as a house pet, the fact is that Persians need more grooming than the average cat and that responsibility falls upon you.

Persian cats are not particularly easy to maintain, although the trouble is worth it when one considers their beauty. There is a whole host of merchandise available when it comes to pet grooming these days and you are free to buy as much as you like. Generally though, the bear essentials needed for grooming and bathing your cat include a brush, blunt ended scissors, toothbrush, shampoo, sponge or wash cloth and a few towels.

Before you begin grooming your cat its important to be organized. This will help you to relax and be in control of what you re doing during the whole process. Cats, like all other animals are sensitive to the emotions we give off. If you are nervous it is likely to make your cat feel the same way which in turn will end up making the whole bathing and grooming process a lot more difficult.

If you've just bought a Persian kitten you should aim to have it in the bath tub at the latest by three months of age. This allows your cat to get used to the process as it gets older making things easier for you. Once you've established a routine stick to it, that way your cat knows what to expect and will remain calm throughout the grooming process. You should try to give your cat a complete bath and trim at least once a week although with a Persian if you want to keep its coat in great shape then you really need to set aside a few minutes each day to comb out any matts in the hair.

Perhaps the hardest part of the grooming process, especially at the beginning is getting your cat in the bath. The sound of water gushing out of the tap in combination with the feel of being plunged into water can be enough to your cat into a nervous mood. The key is to do everything gently and slowly giving your cat ample time to become familiar with its surroundings. When you turn the tap on let it trickle out slowly so as not to make a loud sound.

Let your cat see the water before putting it in the bath tub and also make sure the water temperature is right. Ideally it should be lukewarm. Once in, you need to make sure that the water really gets worked into the hair so it becomes soaked. This can be done with your hands or with a sponge or wash cloth. The next stage involves applying the shampoo and working up sufficient lather to clean ant dirt from the hair of the Persian. Again this can be done with a sponge but be careful not to be too forceful in washing the cat. Finally the rinsing process is best done with a hose on low setting and you should start rinsing the cat's hair out from the head and work your way down to the tail end of the cat.

An ordinary hair dryer is sufficient to use when drying the hair of your Persian cat, although you should make sure that the setting is on low as otherwise you could cause unnecessary discomfort to your cat or even burning. Those willing ot spend the money will find that most pet stores sell dryers especially for cats which are generally lower in power.

Once thoroughly dry you are ready to place your cat on the grooming area and begin cutting away excess hair. The face, ears and back side of the Persian tend to be the three places where the most excess hair appears and consequently where the bulk of your concentration needs to be focused. Be especially careful when doing the ears however as it is easy to accidentally cut into the ear leather of your cat if you aren't careful. One way around this is to slightly wet the ears making the leather more easily distinguishable from the hair.

The next step in the grooming process is to trim the nails of the cat. This not only helps the cat look good but is also important for hygienic reasons. This part of the process needs to be done on a specially designated grooming space that is comfortable for both you and your cat. You have to be particularly careful when trimming the nails as in general Persian cats are very sensitive about having their feet touched especially for any prolonged period of time.

In general it is easier to clip the nails of a Persian cat while they are still wet, so you may want to run a damp wash cloth over their feet before you begin to clipping. The same is also true for trimming excess hair of the ears as when the hair is wet you can more easily distinguish between where the hair ends and the leather begins.

Persian Cat

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in breeds of cats, cat lovers, Persian and Angora breeds, Persian cat, pet cat, pet supplies | Posted on 9:49 PM

There are numerous breeds of cats for a cat-lover to choose from, but the most popular of all of the breeds is the Persian cat. The long fur and the regal persona of the Persian are the two main reasons why so many people seem to adore these affectionate and laid back cats.

The History of the Persian

Persians came to North America in the late 1800s and it didn't take long for them to become the favorite breed of cat lovers. At the same time, the cat was very popular in the UK and was the most commonly represented breed at the London Crystal Palace's first cat show. In the early 1900s, the Persian was already the most popular cat breed in the UK.

Before being introduced to North America and gaining popularity in the UK, however, the ancestors of the modern-day Persian were part of the Roman and Phoenician caravans that traveled to Europe. While traveling from Turkey and Persia, the cats were introduced to Europe in the late 1500s. These early ancestors later developed into the Persian and Angora breeds that are known to cat lovers today.

Recognizing the Persian Cat

Persians are one of the most easily recognizable of cat breeds, thanks to their long and full fur. The fur of the Persian tends to be quite thick and glossy, which helps it stand off from the cat's body and gives its body a rounded look. While many think of Persians as having white fur, the breed can actually be found in a variety of different colors.

One of the other distinctive features of the Persian is its face. The breed actually has two different facial types, but both include rounded ears that are small and set low on the cat's head. Persian's also have round, wide eyes and their chins are well-developed. The cheeks of Persian's are also full. Depending upon the face type, some Persians will also have a flattened look to their face. With these Persian's, the nose will be almost as high as the cat's eyes.

The Persian's Personality

Persian's have a very laid-back personality and are not as active as many other breeds. In fact, they tend to be lap cats that are very sweet-tempered and gentle. Still, they do enjoy playing for short periods of time. In addition, they crave attention and love to be cuddled and pet by their owners. They also tend to be very devoted, but demand a great deal of attention. For most pet owners, providing attention to these gentle cats is not a problem. Maintaining proper grooming, on the other hand, can be difficult!

Grooming the Persian

Persians have long and pretty fur that can be up to 8 inches long, which means it can easily become knotted and problematic if it is not properly cared for. If a pet owner neglects the Persian's fur, it can form into tight mats that need to be shaved. In order to prevent this, it is important to groom your Persian's fur for ten to fifteen minutes every day and to perform a more thorough grooming once a week.

Cat Breeds

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in cat breeds, cat care, pet care, pet cat, pet store, pet supplies | Posted on 8:47 PM

When you decide to get a cat for a pet, then there will surely be a number of things that you will have to consider. One of these pertains to cat breeds. This is because there are various cat breeds in the market, and choosing amongst the many choices can be confusing altogether.

Thus, it would be better do some research on the different cat breeds so that you can choose the best one for your family. This is because cat breeds do differ in terms of shapes, sizes, and demeanor.

One of the popular breeds is the Abyssinian, also known as the Aby cat. If you want to have a playful cat, then you should consider this breed because the Aby cat is very energetic and has quite the personality. The great thing about this cat is that it is also very loyal to its owner and it is also very attentive.

Another popular breed is the Balinese cat. Back in the day, the Balinese is known as the Longhaired Siamese cat simply because the markings on Balinese cats are quite the same as that of the Siamese breed. The only difference is that the tail of the Balinese is actually more plumed in appearance.

If you want a cat that is particularly attentive to you, then you should consider getting the Balinese because it does not feel any inhibition about giving attention to its owner. This is because the Balinese also enjoys having the attention of its owner. And since this cat is particularly energetic, make sure to leave it with a chew toy or a plaything when you go off to work. This way, your cat will be able to keep himself entertained.

The Manx is another breed that deserves mention. In appearance, you will definitely say that the Manx is just like any other cat. However, do not be surprised to see a Manx that does not have any tail. Because of certain mutations in this breed's spine, most Manx cats have very short tails, and some do not have any tail at all. Moreover, if you want to get a cat that you and your family can play fetch with, then the Manx is definitely the breed to get.

These are just some of the top cat breeds that dominate families today. If you are still not too sure which breed to go with, you can ask the help of your vet. This way, your very can help you decide which breed is the best for your family.

7 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Boas

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in boa constrictor imperator, boa constrictor species, Boa constrictors, common boa, home snakes, pet directory, pet snake, pet stores, red tailed boa | Posted on 12:32 PM

Boa constrictors are becoming more and more popular as pets, but how much do you really know about them? Here are the top boa facts I get asked about again and again...

What is the difference between a common boa and a red tailed boa?

Common boas (boa constrictor imperator) are a medium to large snake from Central America. Red Tailed Boas (boa constrictor imperator) are a slightly larger snake, with similar markings but a brighter, deeper red coloration on the tail. Both species are commonly kept as pets, but the true red tails are generally considered more desirable and thus are more expensive.

How big do boas grow?

Some boas can reach over 12 feet in length, while species such as the rosy boa only reach 24 inches as adults. The most commonly kept boa constrictor species tend to reach 8 - 9 feet in length as adults, with the males being a foot or so shorter than the females.

What should I feed my boa?

Boas are pure carnivores. They eat a selection of rodents and other mammals, birds and lizards. In captivity they can be fed exclusively on rodents such as mice, rats, and even rabbits for very large specimens. Most captive snakes are fed on frozen and defrosted prey.

How often should I feed my boa?

An adult boa should be fed every 12 - 14 days while new born snakes need feeding weekly. It is a fact that snakes are very prone to obesity in captivity so care should be taken not to overfeed.

Do pet boas need heating?

All snakes are ectothermic, which means they control their body temperature by using their environment. Since most boas come from tropical climates, you will need to provide heating to keep them successfully in captivity. A 'thermal gradient' where one area of the enclosure is warmer, while another is cooler, allows the boa to maintain an optimal body temperature. This is achieved with the use of one or more heat sources controlled by a thermostat.

Do pet boas need special lighting?

While many reptiles need broad spectrum ultra violet lighting to simulate sunlight, boas are mostly nocturnal and do not require it. Some keepers provide a small light for the purpose of better viewing their snakes, but this does not affect their health.

Why does my boa soak in his water bowl?

All reptiles shed their skin periodically. When about to shed, snakes need a higher humidity and will deep out damp places, or even water. Soaking like this is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about if your boa sheds a few days afterwards. Other possible reasons for soaking however are overheating and a mite infestation. Be sure to check your thermostats to ensure that the temperature is correct. Then check for mites which are small spots which may appear to move, and will be more prominent around the head. Mites can be treated quite easily but it is advisable to consult a vet before commencing treatment.

Exotic Pet Snake For Beginner

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in Ball pythons, Burmese pythons, care of snakes, exotic animals, exotic snakes, pet directory, pet supplies, snakes and pythons, snakes as pets, snakes species | Posted on 7:10 AM

Having exotic snakes as pets is becoming common nowadays. This is primarily because many people who have been taking care of one assert that snakes are attractive and can be quite tame, contrary to popular belief.

In spite of this, snakes remain to be not for everyone as care of snakes is quite complex. Just like in the case of having other types of exotic animals, commitment is very essential.

Thus, prior to acquiring one, it is best to have the right information about them such as behavioral characteristics, dietary and habitat requirements, and other pertinent details. Only after which should you decide if you really are capable of having one.

There are several snakes species may be considered as pets but the most common are garter snakes and pythons. For first-time owners that are inexperience with snakes, corn snakes, king snakes, and ball pythons are, in fact, most suitable as these are gentle and meeting their diet and environmental needs is not as difficult as for some other species. These snakes are relatively small. Ball pythons tend to difficult to feed, because sometimes they stop eating for months at a time. If you are interesting in acquiring a ball python, make sure it is captive breed, and used to feed with killed prey.

On the other hand, if you are a beginner, don't think about acquiring Burmese pythons, red-tailed boas, tree boas or pythons, water snakes and other wild caught snakes as pets, as they can really be dangerous especially when not handled properly. If you choose Burmese pythons and red-tailed boas, you may require assistance for handling and feeding, due to their size and strength. Tree boas and pythons tend to have very strict temperature and humidity requirements, and water snakes have very specific care requirements too. Wild caught snakes tend to be nervous, prone to illness, and difficult to feed in captivity.

The appropriate diet and living area vary with different species. Generally, though, in creating an artificial environment for them, take note of security as they tend to get out of any enclosure. Check for gaps and the strength of the habitat itself.

Otherwise, you shall be putting others in danger as well as incurring liabilities. Also, check if there is enough space for them to move around. The size of the space must correspond well to the size of your pet.

As all snakes are carnivorous, rodents like mice and rats are the best food for them. It is recommended to give them pre-killed ones so as to protect them from possible injuries caused by their prey when alive. This especially happens when the prey is given to them while they are not yet hungry and unwilling to attack. On your part, it would likewise be more convenient to have these killed rodents in a freezer than keep another habitat just for them. Snakes like anacondas and reticulated pythons aren't recommended as pets, as these snakes are huge, have poor temperaments and potentially dangerous.

Snakes care, no matter what you choose as your pet, has indeed never been easy. For pet snakes, your responsibility doesn't end when you have chosen the species. You should be familiar with appropriate care and feeding, the behavioral characteristic, and the commitment to keep the pet. It is actually just the beginning of a long-term complex relationship.

Taking Care of Ball Pythons

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in Ball pythons, pet, pet store guide, pet supplies, pet supplies guide, python regius, royal pythons | Posted on 5:54 AM

Ball pythons or python regius are found along the edges of Western and Central Africa's forest lands. They are either on the trees or grounds. Although they are termed as royal pythons in the European countries, they are referred to as ball pythons in the US because of the curling habits. They tend to curl up and pull their heads firmly in the center when nervous.

Ball pythons are crepuscular, meaning they are more active at dusk and dawn. Similar to most pythons, ball pythons are gentle and curious snakes. They also have anal spurs like the ones found in boas.

These lone claws that appear on the sides of their vents are formerly their hind legs. The snakes lost their legs in evolution millions of years ago. Males possess longer spurs and smaller heads compared to the females.

If you plan to have one as a pet, it is best to buy a captive-born. If not, then go for well-feeding juvenile, adult or sub-adult breed.

In selecting a ball python, select one with a firm clear skin, clean vents, round-shaped body, and clear eyes. When handled, it should actively flick its tongue.

In selecting a housing for your hatchling, a 10 gallon glass tank with a hinged glass top and fixed screens should do the trick. Take note that snakes are regarded as escape artists. Ball pythons are cunning and powerful in breaking out. Hence, for a young adult, you need a 20 gallon glass tank. For a full adult, you need a 30 gallon glass tanks already..

When selecting an appropriate substrate, you can initially use paper towels. It can be easily replaced or removed when soiled. If your Ball Python is imported, you would need to monitor its feces and check it for mites.

Once established, use a fir bark or shredded cypress. Never use aspen and pine shaving because this can lodge in your snake's mouth while it eats. It may cause respiratory and other serious problems.

You need to monitor these shavings closely. When it gets wet and soiled, pull it out immediately, to prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria.

Place a hiding area for your ball python. You can buy a half-log at any pet store. An alternative can be an upside down plastic opaque container or an empty cardboard box.

Keep the tank warm, 80 to 85 degrees F in the daytime. At night, keep it at 73 to 75 degrees F. You can buy reptile heating pads at any drug store. As an alternative, you can buy incandescent light bulbs in metal and porcelain reflector hoods. Never use a hot rock because bBall pythons are prone to thermal burns.

Make sure your snake gets ambient humidity. You can check this using a hygrometer. Get this up to 50%. When your snake sheds, it needs higher humidity. You can increase the enclosure humidity to about 60-65%. By bathing your snake in a warm bath when its eyes clear, they will completely shed in 24 hours.

For hatchlings, you can feed it with a 10 day old mouse. For the larger ones, you can feed them larger pinkie rats or pre-killed mice.

Always provide a fresh bowl of water inside the tank.

Ball Pythons can live for many years. Amidst coming of age, they need to remain active and alert. In captivity, most snakes die for reasons related to their care and maintenance. Some causes include contact with lighting and heating elements, improper temperature, lack of needed veterinary treatment and care, no access to regular water and careless handling among others.

Adopt A Monkey

Posted by floristmontreal | Posted in adopting any animals, babies monkey, being primates, monkey as a pet, monkey vendor, monkeys | Posted on 5:35 AM

There are many stuff to deem when adopting any animals, not just monkeys. If you think of adopting a monkey as a pet, costs sometime to understand more about the requests of monkeys will profit both you and the animals. For indeed, there are responsibilities as a monkey possessor. Sometimes, monkeys are just like little children. They necessary a lot of your time and awareness and to take good heed of them, you just have to place their wants above all moreover.

Nevertheless what are some of these requests? The wants of a monkey are very parallel to the wants of a small little outcome. That's because monkeys, being primates, part many smiliar characteristics with being beings. To be a monkey vendor, it takes more than just feeding the monkey food and providing shelter.

For example, a babies monkey definitely wants education. It needs to be qualified what is the right thing to do, and what is not. And like being beings, they happen practice from a very little age. These routine cultivate to twig with the monkeys as they grow elder. So if undesirable behavior are not corrected early, you as the monkey holder may face behavioral troubles with the pet later on.

Also, shoulder in thinker that although the monkey regularly grows elder and mature, and haughty that it is well skilled, it will still want a carnival quantity of time and awareness. That's because monkeys are by scenery lively animals. And due to this nature, they expect party and plenty of play time to be delighted. And just like a creature being, if they are showered with dearest and are exultant most of the time, they react very differently and they also cultivate to be better. Still, being animals with an instinct for hurt, monkeys still get into agitate every now and then. That means as a monkey owner, if you to be very enduring with them.

Having said that, many people like to own monkeys as pets because they are very jolly animals. They like the company of creature beings. They are active, vigorous, and greatly responsive to people. Most importantly, they have childish actions that can make people laugh. For these reasons, monkey owners are more than willing to forgive and disregard about the wicked stunts that monkeys come up with every now and then. A juvenile incident, a brief laugh, and everything is water under the passage. And being adorable looking little creatures, perhaps that's why it's relaxed to plunge in worship with a little monkey.

In any casing, do remember that there are fun moments and tiresome moments when care a monkey as a pet. Don't just think of the fun moments. Spare a thought for all those wearisome time as well, but don't be scared of a few tiresome moments. For all you know, it's usuall because of these tiresome moments that earn you and your monkey nearer together. Ultimately, it's about developing a great relationship with your pet monkey, and all great relationships doesn't come from all good. There has to be some good, and some bad in any prolific relationship. So don't just be your monkey's warden. Be it's best colleague, and it will indeed reciprocate and be yours as well.