FURR BABIES...

MORNING PICS & A RECIPE

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:39:18 GMT

Morning!
Came by to leave a few pics of the girls taken this morning.
And a yummy treat for your furr (feline or canine).
Keep them paws up y'all & WOOF WOOF!

Wheat-less Tuna Biscuits
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup oatmeal
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 small can tuna in oil , un-drained
1/3 cup water
Grind oatmeal in processor to make a coarse flour. Set aside in small bowl. In food processor, whirr tuna with the oil, and water then add all the rest of ingredient. Pulse til mixture forms a ball, Pulse to knead for 2-3 minutes. Knead on floured surface till it forms a soft ball of dough. Roll out to a 1/8"-1/4" thickness. Cut into shapes. Bake on lightly greased cookie sheet , at 350 for 20-25 minutes. Cool completely.

Note garlic in significant amts can be dangerous to pets. So, use sparingly. The sml amt used in this recipe (plus it's garlic powder, not raw garlic) should be safe.
It has long been said that garlic helps rid fleas & other vermin from pets, I used it a lot when I lived on the farm.

PLEASE VOTE & comment too

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 20:34:46 GMT

I have been approached by a furr lover to make a new journal for those that have furr babies that have gone on ahead to The Rainbow Bridge.
It would be interactive, much like the new journal These We Have Loved that Jeannette has just made for J-Landers that have lost loved ones.
But, there are already 2 Pet Memory Journals (and others), J-LAND PET MEMORIAL & Beloved Angels, so I question if another is really needed.
This J-Lander felt an interactive one where people could enter their own tributes & pictures would be nice, plus people could go there to ask for prayer for a chronically ill furr.
She asked if I could open up the J-Land Pet Memorial to the public, but it wasn't set up that way, sorry. To change it now, would take away from it's original design.
And prayers are always welcome here & Beloved Angels takes prayer requests too.
So, I leave it to you, do you feel another one is really needed?
Please vote, TY!

SOMETHING 4 OUR CAT FRIENDS

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:01:02 GMT

Hope you're had a nice wkend & off to a good start on a new week. The girls have been enjoying getting out in their little yard. :) And they love the fact that they have more room inside too. I love seeing my girls happy.
For you readers with feline furr babies, the girls thought we should post a little something for them re their specific health needs... so here ya go.
Hope you learn something you didn't know.
Have a great week. Keep them paws up y'all & WOOF WOOF!

Urinary Tract Problems in Cats
By Jean Hofve, DVM

What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder?

Few conditions strike greater fear into the heart of a cat guardian than "urinary tract problems." Myths and misinformation abound, and many people know at least one other person who has a cat with this problem or who has lost a cat because of it.

"Feline lower urinary tract disorders" (commonly referred to as FLUTD, LUTD, or FUS--feline urologic syndrome) come in at least three distinct varieties. All of them put together affect less than 3% of cats, but for those who are affected, it can be a major problem. Bladder diseases occur in both male and female cats, although males have a higher risk of life-threatening blockage of the urethra. It is usually first seen in cats between 2 and 7 years of age (though some very young and very old cats may develop signs). Episodes of FLUTD are usually triggered by stress,such as home remodeling, severe weather, or loss or addition of a family member.

What are the symptoms of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorders?

The clinical signs of all the FLUTD's are very similar. Cats may go to the litter box frequently, strain to urinate, pass very small amounts at a time, lick their genitals more frequently or more intensely than usual, or have blood in the urine. The cat may associate the burning sensation of cystitis (bladder inflammation) with the litter box itself, and look for another place to go where it won't hurt. This leads to squatting in corners, in sinks or tubs, on rugs, laundry piles, or beds.

Blockages can lead to kidney failure

Most cats brought to the vet for FLUTD do not yet have blockages. However, it's important to act quickly when you see any of these signs, because if a blockage does occur, the backup of urine toxins and pressure can lead to kidney failure and death in as little as 24 hours.

Cystitis and Bladder Stones

About two thirds of FLUTD's are classified as "idiopathic cystitis", meaning "bladder inflammation of unknown cause." It is rare for bacteria to be involved--most are "sterile" inflammations. Less common causes of these signs include behavior disorders, kidney stones, anatomical defects in the bladder wall, other systemic diseases, and bladder cancer.

Only about 20% of FLUTD cases involve bladder stones, about half of these are struvite, and half are calcium oxalate stones. Crystals are not the same as stones. Male cats who block usually do so with crystals held together in a gel-like matrix with mucus from the irritated bladder. This "plug" can get stuck at the narrow end of the urethra. Crystals may be present by themselves or at the same time as a stone. Occasionally, multiple types of crystals may be present at the same time.

Struvite, or "triple-phosphate" stones, are made from normal components of urine that clump together under certain conditions. Calcium oxalate crystals and stones, which were rare in cats 10 years ago, have become much more common due to increased feeding of highly acidified struvite-treatment diets. Some stones can be dissolved by diet, though it can take a long time. Any stone can be surgically removed, and sometimes this is the most expedient solution. Stones are usually diagnosed either by radiographs (x-rays) or, ideally, ultrasound (which can "see" stones that x-rays might not reveal, and provides valuable information on condition of the bladder and kidneys). Cats with FLUTD signs lasting more than a week in spite of treatment, or if the problem recurs after treatment is discontinued, should be evaluated for stones or other anatomic abnormalities.

Diet for Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder

There are many medical diets made to dissolve struvite stones and to prevent recurrence of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. These include Hill's s/d, c/d(s) and c/d(o), Purina CNM-UR, Waltham's Control formula, and others. These are only available through veterinarians since they create specific acid-base conditions in the cat's body that should be monitored by your vet. Canned versions of these foods are preferable to dry.

In one study, 60% of cats on a single dry food were symptom-free for a year, compared to 90% of cats eating one canned food. Homemade, organic, natural diets are always on the top of the "good" list for treating this and other chronic disease conditions, but only if they can be fed consistently. Diet changes must always be made gradually to minimize stress on the cat.

Diet is a component of FLUTD, though usually not the sole cause. Dry cat foods, particularly high-fiber "light" or "senior" foods, contribute to overall dehydration and high urine concentration. Cats with FLUTD should not be fed any dry food at all if possible. Canned or homemade foods help keep the urine dilute, minimizing irritation and the risk of crystal or stone formation. Feed in timed meals rather than leaving food available.

Treatment of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorders

Antibiotics are often used to treat feline FLUTD's and are a standard first-line of conventional treatment. Even though bacteria are rare, some antibiotics have anti-inflammatory or analgesic (pain relieving) effects. Other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as steroids, are occasionally used when there is severe inflammation. Urinary acidifiers are sometimes given if the urine pH is very high. Steroids and acidifiers should not be used long-term. The anti-depressant amitriptyline is commonly used as a long-term treatment, but its effectiveness and safety are being questioned. For male cats who block repeatedly, there is a surgery to widen the urethra. This is a last-ditch option, and some males will still block even after this surgery.

Many herbal and nutritional treatments have been tried with varying success. Certainly, antioxidant vitamins such as C and E, which are also helpful in times of stress, are indicated (Vitamin C as sodium ascorbate or Ester C, and Vitamin E). Other antioxidants such as BioSuperfood may also be helpful, because of their anti-inflammatory action. Herbs such as slippery elm, horsetail, and couch grass have helped some cats. Many cats have done well with Co-Enzyme Q10, which prevents inflammation at the cellular level.

Cranberry extract is beneficial for many animals, especially dogs, who tend to have actual infections of the bladder. Cranberry is thought to prevent the attachment of the E. coli bacteria to the bladder wall. Because bacteria are not present in most cases FLUTD, it may be less beneficial for cats. However, cranberry has still been helpful in many cases, even those without any evidence of bacteria. Cranberry capsules are available at the health food store (typically in 250 mg strength which is a good once-a-day dose for cats), and are very safe to give long-term.

Flower essences are often very helpful for FLUTD. Because the problem is so highly stress-related, addressing any underlying emotional imbalances and susceptibilities can be critical for long-term resolution. A specific formulation based on your cat's particular personality is best.

Holistic veterinarians believe that FLUTD is a sign of underlying chronic disease. Homeopathy, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, western herbs, and other holistic therapies may be valuable in rectifying the hidden "causes" of FLUTD and bringing your cat's health into balance and well-being.

There are lots of diets and treatments out there. An individually tailored treatment program is needed for each patient.

THE WKEND IS HERE

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:01:32 GMT

The girls hope you liked their pics from the last post, (they're so vain, at least Angel is, LOL).
I added a note to the bottom of the last entry for anyone concerned re the garlic used in the treat recipe, as we received a question re that in our comments.
Wanted those that might have concerns to know, I feed everything posted to my girls. And all my ingredients were ran by a Vet yrs ago, prior to my girls eating it.
Be sure you always check with your Vet on ANY homemade treats or foods, never take mine, or anyone's word for a safety issue... if you have a concern of any kind. ;)
Better safe than sorry, if you don't feel good about it, don't make it.
And keep in mind smaller furrs can't tolerate what larger ones can, & some have digestive problems so be aware of your babies special needs. {{}}
We're just hanging out this weekend, hoping to play some outside if it doesn't rain.
Hope you & your companion have a beautiful wkend.
Keep them paws up y'all & WOOF WOOF!

JOKE 4 OUR FRIENDS!

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:25:29 GMT

Some ways strangers might know you have a dog:
1) You smell more like your dog than he/she does.
2) You put your hand in your jacket pocket and there's
dog treats inside.
3) You put your hand in your other jacket pocket and feel a plastic bag (stoop & scoop).
4) An exciting afternoon is going to the pet store to by your dog a new toy.
5) You haven't been to a certain store in a while because of their 'no dogs allowed' sticker.
6) Your most recent greatest achievement is having taught your dog to roll over or sit or lie down or what
ever you're currently working on.
7) You put more thought into your dogs diet than your own.
8) Your child/children do something really good and you automatically say 'gooood boy/girl'.
Have a good day tomorrow, & a wonderful wkend.
PAWS UP Y'ALL & WOOF WOOF!

STILL HERE :)

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:39:15 GMT

Hi guys! RUFF!! It's me, Monkee, here to tell you we all survived July 4th. :)

Angel barely made it, she's such a scaredy cat about loud noises, but Sweet Pee & I did fine. WOOF!

Mama had a grilled burger & hot dog, with chips & dip, & fruit canapes, with a brownie topped with ice cream. Yummy
She gave each of us a bite of the burger & hot dog, & a chip... due to Angel & Sweets getting upset tummies if they eat anything other than our regular food, a bite is all we're allowed. I can eat a whole plateful, but Mama says it's not fair to my Sisters. :( Bow Wow.
Oh, well...we had a fun time. We watched movies & Mama played tug of war & fetch with us. Then after dark, Sweets & I went out on the deck with Mama, & watched the neighborhood fireworks. Of course, Sweets is mostly blind & hard of hearing, but she never has been afraid of loud noises. Angel, mostly stayed shivering & whining on the other side of the bed with the TV turned up loud. Poor ole gal.
Hope you & your furrs had a good time too.
Keep them paws up y'all & WOOF WOOF!

From, Monkee

TY to Lori for our Siggy. {{}}

WHAT'S TODAY?

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 11:55:03 GMT

Today is Angel's BD! WOO HOO!!! WOOF WOOF!
CONGRATS to my big ole baby. :)
She's 13 yo today!
As any good "birthday girl", she's sleeping in this morning! LOL
No party, as we usually have, I've not been feeling well.
But, she'll still get a special treat, a long massage by Mama, & some extra time outside to play with her sisters. :)
If I remember correctly, last yr she was sick on her BD, & we had to postpone her party then, too.
But, made up for it later... as I hope we get to do this yr also.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you, dear Angel!
Mama loves you & would be lost without you guarding me, loving me, & listening to me when I feel like talking.
You're always there for me{{}}, TY!

Love, Mama

HAPPY 4TH FROM THE FURRS

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 13:01:30 GMT

All of us here, hope you & yours a happy holiday weeked!
Angel, WOOFS wishes to remind you about loud noises & some furrs. As, she is very afraid of them! So, please think of your furr baby during the fireworks, & put them in a safe place, turn a TV up loud, & give them some extra lovin. :)
Sweet Pee, RUFFS for those of you that have furrs (like her) that are shy or distrustful of strangers, to please place them in a back bedroom if you expect company this wkend. As we don't won't anyone to get bit out of fear!
Monkee (who takes it all in stride), BOW WOWS just have fun & enjoy the time together!
KEEP THEM PAWS UP Y'ALL & WOOF WOOF!

GIVING MEDS TO YOUR PET

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:25:30 GMT

After years of experience, thought I'd include instructions on how to get your furr to take meds.

HOW TO GIVE A CAT A PILL:
1. Pick up cat and hold it in the crook of your left arm as if holding a baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat's mouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in right hand. As cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouth and swallow.
2. Retrieve pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in left arm and repeat process.
3. Retrieve cat from under the bed, and throw soggy pill away.
4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm, holding rear paws tightly with left hand. Gently force jaws open and push pill to back of mouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.
5. Retrieve pill from the aquarium and cat from top of wardrobe. Call spouse from garden.
6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front and rear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold head firmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pill down ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.
7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Make note to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shattered figurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.
8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head just visible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, force mouth open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.
9. Check label to make sure pill not harmful to humans; drink 1 beer to take taste away. Apply Band-Aid to spouse's forearm and remove blood from carpet with cold water and mild soap.
10. Retrieve cat from neighbor's garage. Get another pill. Open another beer. Place cat in cupboard, and close door on neck, to leave head showing. Gently force mouth open with dessert spoon. Flick pill down throat with an elastic band.
11. Fetch screwdriver from garage and put cupboard door back on hinges. Drink beer. Fetch bottle of scotch. Pour shot, drink. Apply cold compress to cheek and check records for date of last tetanus shot. Apply whiskey compress to cheek to disinfect. Toss back another shot. Throw Tee shirt away and fetch new one from bedroom.
12. Call fire department to retrieve the **** cat from across the road. Apologize to neighbor who crashed into fence while swerving to avoid cat. Take last pill from foil wrap.
13. Tie the little monster's front paws to rear paws with garden twine and bind tightly to leg of dining table. Find heavy-duty pruning gloves from shed. Push pill into mouth followed by large piece of filet steak. Be rough about it if necessary. Hold head vertically and pour 2 pints of water down throat to wash pill down.
14. Consume remainder of scotch. Get spouse to drive you to the emergency room, sit quietly while doctor stitches fingers and forearm and removes pill remnants from right eye. Call furniture shop on way home to order new table.
15. Arrange for SPCA to collect the "mutant cat from hell" and call local pet shop to see if they have any really small hamsters.

HOW TO GIVE A DOG A PILL
1. Wrap pill in bacon.
2. Toss in the air.

Have a good rermainder of the week. Keep them paws up & WOOF WOOF!

2 FURRS GO TO THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:51:54 GMT

Daphne, a 15 yo furr of Lori's, has gone to the Rainbow Bridge.
She will be missed, & is there now playing with Bonez, who went earlier to make a spot for her.
Lori has a private journal, but please remember this family in prayer.
God bless.

Also, another dear furr, Sandy, has taken the journey, her family has no journal, but needs our prayers.
She has joined her longtime friend Shy at the Bridge.
Where both romp, & await for their families to join them someday.
Please say prayers for Ulla & Don, as they struggle to know life without little Sandy by their sides.
But remember, she is by your side Ulla, in spirit & memories, & will always be in your heart.
God bless.

A little something from Sandy for her family...

Just a little Poem
from our Sandy
Just wanted to let you know that I made it home. The journey wasn't an easy one, but it didn't take too long.
Everything is so pretty here, so white, so fresh and new I wish that you could close your eyes and that you could see it too.
Please try not to be sad for me. Try to understand God is taking care of me...I'm in the shelter of His hands.
Here there is no sadness, no sorrow, and no pain. Here there is no crying and I'll never hurt again.
Here it is so peaceful when all the angels sing. I really have to go for now... I've just got to try my wings.
by Sandy's family.
(Sent to us by Ulla's friend Maria)