Pakcu and Cat Show... CFA Show, Summit USJ - 13 April, 2008

Salam dan Selamat Sejahtera Semuer...
Ok, kali ni pakcu nak cakap pasal CFA show lak. This is my 1st time entering a CFA show. CFA show ni berbeza sikit dari MCC (Fife Show). CFA show ni pada pakcu baru la betul-betul International sebab participants dia dari serata dunia... walaupun tak banyak gak negara...hehe. However, the quality of the cats is excellent! Kalau nak tengok persian yang rated to be among the best in the world, korang kena tengok CFA show macam ni.


Walau bagaimana pun, untuk orang macam pakcu ni yang bawak kucing-kucing biasa, ada jugak dipertandingkan tapi semua dikumpul dalam satu kategori jer, iaitu Household Pet. Tak kira la kitten ker, adult ker, neuter ker, long hair short hair semua dalam satu kategori. Yang seronoknye kategori ni, walaupun kategori ni kucing-kucing mixed or kampong jer, tapi meriah dan di judge oleh pengadil international yang sama.
So sebab ini 1st time masuk, so Pakcu bawakler sekor jer masuk, kucing baru. Shorthair nama nyer Rimba Kencana.

Keputusannya... Alhamdulilah, ada lah dapat placing 2nd n 6th dalam in two out of four rings. 4 rings bermaksud 4 pengadil. N untuk setiap pengadil, dia akan pilih the best 10 HHP. So Rimba dari 4 pengadil tu, ada satu pengadil dpt no 2, satu lg pengadil dpt no 6. Dua pengadil yg lain, Rimba kecundang... hehe.
Rimba Kencana : 2nd and 6th Placing in HHP Category.

Pakcu and Cat Show... MCC International Cat Show, Mid Valley KL - 30 March, 2008

Salam dan Selamat Sejahtera semua...
Lama gak tak update pasal show ni.. hehe.
Ok, kali ni show di Mid Valley, KL. Show kali ni meriah jugak dan ada banyak gak kucing yang masuk. Seperti biasa Pakcu pun ada la bawak empat ekor, yang biasa pakcu bawak.

Keputusannya... Hehe, kali ni cuma ada sekor jer yang dapat placing. Yang lain tu, cuma menang ngiawww jer... hehe.
Argo Armani : 2nd Domestic Neuter Long Hair.

What You Should Know About Cats and Heartworms

Say heartworm and you probably think of dogs. But cats are susceptible to this infection, too. And once the parasites take up residence in kitty's heart, this difficult-to-detect infection may be life threatening.


The trouble is that many infected cats don't show symptoms. Other cats develop severe symptoms, but diagnosis can still be tricky. And although the heartworms often die off on their own (usually within 2 to 3 years), for many, especially older cats, the infection is fatal.

Heartworm Symptoms
For infected cats who do develop symptoms, here are a few that may appear:

Respiratory distress, such as coughing or labored breathing (often misdiagnosed as asthma)
Heart murmur
Lethargy


Lack of appetite and/or weight loss


Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting)


How It's Diagnosed
Studies have found that using all three of these not-always-reliable tests may increase the chances of an accurate diagnosis:
Chest x-ray
Antibody or antigen test
Echocardiogram
How It's Treated
Heartworms can't be cured, but symptoms can be managed. If your vet confirms a diagnosis, but your cat is not showing symptoms, ask whether it's best to wait for your cat to resolve the infection on his own (when the worms die off) or to try a treatment such as prednisone. Emergency measures such as oxygen support, intravenous corticosteroids, electrolyte therapy, and bronchodilators may be necessary in cats with severe symptoms.

Also, be aware that adulticide medications, such as melarsomine dihydrochloride, are often used to treat dogs but are very toxic and often fatal to cats and should not be prescribed.

How Cats Get Heartworms
Cats can't get heartworms from other cats. Rather, heartworm larvae are transmitted to cats via mosquito bites, so the risk is higher where mosquito populations are greater -- especially in hot, humid regions.

How to Help Prevent It
Whether you live in a humid or dry climate, ask your vet about the risks and benefits of a monthly heartworm-protection medication, such as ivermectin. Also, remove any containers of standing water from around your house; these are favorite breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Can Your Cat Be Allergic to You?

We know that cats can spark allergy and asthma attacks in some humans. But can cats be allergic to people?

Yes, they can, but it typically happens indirectly. Human dandruff can set off an attack in cats, but the more common culprits are household irritants such as dust, secondhand smoke, and kitty litters with a high dust content (especially when used with a covered litter box). All of these can trigger an asthma attack in cats that suffer from the condition or can put cats at greater risk of developing asthma in the first place. Cats with allergic rhinitis may also be sensitive to such allergens, which can heighten inflammation in a cat's upper airways. (Learn why smoking indoors also puts your cat at a four times greater risk of cancer.)

How can feline asthma be prevented?
Eliminating or minimizing possible household allergens is the first step to preventing the development of feline asthma or asthma attacks, which can be life threatening to your cat.

What are the signs?
If you notice any of the following in your cat, seek veterinary treatment right away:

His breathing is open-mouthed or shallow, rapid, and labored.
He's coughing or making wheezing sounds.

How is it diagnosed?
Chest x-ray
Lung-fluid sample
Bronchoscopy (A flexible microscope is inserted into the bronchial airways.)
Observation of symptoms

How is it treated?
The good news is that asthma may be reversible. Long-term treatment of chronic asthma includes medications that help squelch inflammation of the bronchial airways, opening them up and controlling mucus production. Emergency treatment of an acute asthma attack may require hospitalization and oxygen therapy in addition to certain medications. If your cat has been diagnosed with asthma, ask your veterinarian about the benefits and potential side effects of available drug therapies.

Cats and Diabetes

Cats and Diabetes -- Part 1 of 2: Prevention



November 14 is World Diabetes Day. To support this global awareness campaign, we're devoting both this tip and next week's tip to feline diabetes. The bad news is that incidence rates are on the rise. The good news is that having the disease doesn't always mean the end is near for your kitty. Diabetes can often be prevented -- and if diagnosed early, treated. But more on treatment next week. First, let's talk about prevention.


Stop Diabetes Before It Starts
Diabetes develops when the pancreas stops producing enough insulin or when insulin loses its ability to regulate blood sugar. This can happen for a variety of reasons. Here are some common risk factors, a few of which you have control over:


Obesity -- This is the number one preventable risk factor and occurs in roughly 35% to 40% of cats, significantly increasing the risk of diabetes. Don't let your cat become overweight. If he already is, ask your vet about a safe, gradual weight loss regimen. Learn why rapid weight loss could be fatal to your cat.


Diet -- Studies suggest that a low-protein, high-carbohydrate, kibble-only diet may increase feline diabetes risk, whereas the opposite diet (high protein, low carbohydrate, wet food) may help prevent diabetes. Related research also suggests a protective benefit from a high-fiber diet, but more study is needed.


Lack of exercise -- Sedentary cats may be more prone to obesity and insulin resistance. Keep your cat active with daily play sessions and games like these.


Pancreatitis -- If your cat has pancreatitis, ask your vet about regular diabetes testing.
Age -- Diabetes occurs more often in middle-aged or older cats. Most cases occur in cats 8 to 13 years old.
Gender -- More male than female cats develop diabetes.
Genes -- Some cats may be genetically prone to insulin resistance.
Breed -- Burmese cats may be at higher risk than other breeds.
Other causes -- Hormonal imbalances, certain medications, and stress may also increase diabetes risk.


Cats and Diabetes -- Part 2 of 2: Home Treatment

Part 1, we explored the risk factors for feline diabetes, including those that are preventable. Part 2, we'll focus on how to tell if your cat may have diabetes and, if diagnosed, how to effectively treat it.
Diabetes in cats cannot be cured. But with patience and commitment, it can be treated at home, even if insulin injections are needed. It's easier and less expensive than you might think, and the benefits are dramatic. One study showed that nearly 85% of diabetic cats treated at home achieved diabetic remission, so they no longer needed insulin and went on to live long, healthy lives.



Watch for These Signs
Early diagnosis and treatment may up your cat's chances for diabetic remission. If you notice your cat doing any of the following, have his blood and urine tested right away:

Urinating frequently
Drinking all the time
Eating way more than usual
Losing weight, despite increased appetite
Having bad breath
Acting sluggish and lethargic
Explore Treatment Options
Not all diabetic cats need insulin injections, but between 50% and 70% do. If your cat has been diagnosed with diabetes, ask your vet about the following in-home treatments:
Diet, exercise, and weight control. As with preventing the onset of diabetes, implementing these three factors, especially a low-carb/high-protein diet, is critical for managing high blood sugar and achieving diabetic remission.

Oral hypoglycemic medication or insulin injections. Some diabetic cats need oral medication only, but many others need insulin shots, at least temporarily. Some studies suggest that cats treated specifically with glargine (a type of insulin) may be most likely to attain diabetic remission.


*Note: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a warning on Vetsulin®, a different type of insulin drug. Read more about this FDA warning, and contact your vet immediately if your pet is being treated with this medication.)

In-home glucose monitoring. Because a cat's blood sugar changes with time and treatment, so will his need for insulin, making daily glucose monitoring vital. An accidental overdose of insulin can lead to extremely low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), a potentially life-threatening condition. Fortunately, in-home blood glucose monitoring is less expensive, more accurate, and way less stressful for your cat than in-clinic monitoring.

Do Cats Grieve?

Ever wonder if cats grieve after losing a loved one?
Although the scientific evidence is slim, people often notice changes in their cats' behavior following the loss of a human or animal companion.

It's not surprising when you consider the close attachments many cats form with both the people and the other pets in their lives. When these bonds are cut, cats are definitely aware of the loss, and they may grieve. In addition, because cats are so sensitive to change, moving, re-homing, or being kenneled during vacations can produce an emotional response similar to grieving.

Signs Your Cat May Be Grieving
Changes in these daily behaviors may signal your cat is reacting to the loss of a person, place, or pet:

Activity -- Paces restlessly in search of lost companion or hides and is lethargic.
Talking -- Cries for the lost loved one.
Attention -- Shuns affection or is super clingy.
Sleep -- Rests more or less than usual.
Appetite -- Is less interested in food. If your cat stops eating for more than a day, take him to the vet right away to avoid this potentially fatal disease.
Ways to Respond
If your cat is showing any of the above signs, here's how you can support him through the process:

Make an appointment. Have your vet examine your pet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Stick to your cat's normal routine. If possible, put off taking a vacation, remodeling, or hosting house guests.
Be attentive. Offer your kitty additional love, affection, and cuddle time.
Resist the temptation to quickly replace a lost pet. It won't alleviate your cat's grief. Wait until his behavior is back to normal.

How Can You Tell If Your Cat Has Arthritis?

Cats are experts at hiding pain, but that doesn't mean they're not feeling it. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and often painful condition that can be especially difficult to detect in cats. It involves damage and thinning of the cartilage that lines the joints, which may lead to the following behavior changes in your kitty:

Mobility
Hesitancy or difficulty jumping onto furniture, cat trees, window ledges, etc.
Trouble getting into and out of litter box
Drop in overall activity

Daily Habits and Behavior
Decrease in, or difficulty with, grooming
Loss of appetite
Sleep disturbance (sleeping more, or less)
Tendency to hide

Comfort Level
Limping; appearing stiff; exhibiting lameness (not common)
Showing discomfort when stroked or brushed
If you notice any of the above, have your pet checked out by a vet with whom you can discuss the following options:

Management and Treatment Options for OA
Home modifications: Put food, water bowls, and bedding in easy-to-reach places so your cat won't have to jump; build ramps or stairs leading to favorite perches; and use a litter box with low sides.

Medication: Ask your vet if meloxicam (shown in one study to improve OA symptoms), glucosteroids (to reduce inflammation), or a pain killer might provide some relief for your kitty. Never give your cat any type of over-the-counter human medication, including aspirin, which can be fatally toxic to cats.

Weight control: Overweight or obese cats may be at higher risk of developing OA. Your vet may recommend a gradual weight loss plan for your kitty. Rapid weight loss can be dangerous.
Homeopathic options: Inquire about moderate exercise, acupuncture, underwater or standard physical therapy, or supplements like chondroitin or glucosamine.
Diet: Specific brands of cat food that contain glucosamine or other ingredients may aid your kitty's joint health. Check with your vet.

Put the Chill on Cat Stress

How to Spot Stress in Your Cat
Eat, sleep, groom, pounce -- repeat. Sure, their lives may seem carefree, but cats get stressed out just like we do. And though the causes may differ, the effect on your kitty's physical and emotional health can be just as harmful.
How can you tell when the tension level is hitting high? Look for behavior changes like these:


Hiding or acting withdrawn
Appearing lethargic or depressed
Eating much less or much more
Being irritable, aggressive, or destructive
Having litter box problems, including urine spraying
Acting skittish
Pacing, talking/meowing excessively, or otherwise seeming restless
Trying to escape
Grooming excessively


Such changes warrant a trip to the vet to rule out any underlying diseases. If your pet is given a clean bill of health, consider these possible culprits:
Household changes. A new roommate or spouse, frequent guests, a new cat or dog, the death of a family member, a grown child leaving home, or even a vacation can induce anxiety in your cat.

Sibling rivalry. Conflict (especially if it's ongoing) between two or more household cats is a recipe for anxiety.
Stress level of owner. Cats are very tuned-in to their humans, so your stress can become your cat's stress. Family arguments, lack of patience, and even unexpressed tension can increase your kitty's stress level.
Moves. Cats fear change, including a new home. Make the transition less upsetting for your cat with these tips.

5 Stress Soothers
Help calm your kitty by offering the following:

1. Attention. Spend extra time playing, petting, and offering love and reassurance.
2. Privacy. Set her up in a quiet, secluded room with food, water, bedding, and toys.
3. Safe havens. Provide safe hiding places and an elevated cat tree or tower.
4. Comforting calmers. Ask your vet about pheromone products, such as Feliway.
5. Distraction. Turn on soothing music; a television at low-volume; or a fan, which provides white noise.

Pakcu dan Cat Show...MCC International Cat Show, 07 Jan 2008, South City Plaza, Seri Kembangan.

Salam dan selamat Sejahtera semuer...
Ok, hari ni pasal Cat Show pertama tahun 2008. Di anjurkan oleh Kelab Kucing Malaysia, bertempat di South City Plaza. Plaza tu kalau dari tepi highway boleh nampak, tapi nak masuk tu tak tau. Sesat jugaklah mula-mula tu.
Seperti biasa, show ni satu ring dan kali ni Judge dari Finland kalau tak silap Pakcu ler. Dan kali ni pakcu tak bawak banyak, 2 ekor jer iaitu Raldo dan Argo.

Keputusannya : Alhamdulilah...
Ini lah pertama kali pakcu masuk International Cat Show and menang Best Kategori. Yang lepas-lepas tu. ada lah dapat placing, tapi bila compete for Best Category, semuanyer kecundang... hehe. Tak tau lah apa tuah kali ni, tapi no sangkar Argo tu no 88. Raldo lak, kali ni macam biasa, bagi sokongan moral jer pada adik-adik dia...hehe. Time dia nak menang dah berlalu kut... tak kuat dah aura dia.. hehe.

Argo Armani : 1st Domestic Neuter Longhair, Best Pet Neuter - (Kategori ni dipilih dari semua kucing neuter yang dapat 1st longhair and shorthair, termasuk yang pedigree sekali)... Argo ni temperament dia bagus, tak meragam dan rasanya pandai gak bodek judge...hehe.

Kittens For Sale

Salam dan Selamat Sejahtera semuer..
Ok, hari ni pakcu bukak la labels ni pulak. Ini disebabkan ramai yang bertanya, pakcu ada jual kitten tak? Pakcu sebenarnyer lagi senang kalau korang datang terus kedai pakcu and enquire, tapi ramai yang kata jauh... nak tgk pic dulu...huhu... hehe. Ok, la sebagai memenuhi permintaan kawan-kawan, inilah kitten yang sekarang start hari ni baru pakcu open for booking. Siapa cepat dia dapat...

Kitten ni umor dalam 2bulan lebih sikit, mixed persian (domestic long hair), scheduled release lepas 3 April 2010, complete dengan 1st vaccine and deworm.

Harga? Hehe... dalam RM 350.00 jer..