Domestic Cat Breeds: A Guide for UK Pet Lovers

Have you always wanted a cat, but heard some breeds make better pets than others? Perhaps you’re eager to welcome a feline friend into your home but don’t know where to start. There are plenty of ways to learn about cats and find a breed that fits your lifestyle. The choice often depends on whether you want an indoor, outdoor, or indoor/outdoor cat. Cats that spend time outdoors need to be tough and smart to survive. Smaller cats can be prey for birds and other wildlife, so they are best kept indoors. Mixed-breed cats, like tomcats, are great at surviving outdoors and are excellent mousers. Let’s explore a few popular breeds to help you decide which one might be right for you.

Siamese

The Siamese cat can be a fickle creature, often requiring a lot of attention when they deem it necessary. They tend to be very vocal, which can be a downside if you prefer a quieter pet. However, Siamese cats are known for their intelligence and social nature. They typically bond strongly with one person and can be very affectionate. Their striking appearance—often white with brown ears and blue eyes—is instantly recognisable. You might remember them from the film Lady and the Tramp. Siamese cats are generally very social and may become destructive if left alone for too long. They “talk” a lot, often with a meow that resembles a baby’s cry, signalling their need for attention.

Persian

The Persian cat breed is one of the oldest and most beloved. These long-haired cats are known for their beautiful, shiny coats and soft, friendly nature. However, they can be prone to health problems, such as allergies, and require regular grooming to maintain their coat. Persians enjoy a bit of playtime, especially in a social setting, but they are generally more laid-back compared to other breeds. They come in a variety of colours, including solid black, white, and mixes of white and brown. The Himalayan is a popular type of Persian with a distinctive look. Persians love having other cats around to play with and are known to enjoy a cosy lap.

Manx

The Manx cat is distinctive for its stubby tail or lack of tail. This breed can sometimes suffer from health issues due to improper cleaning and lack of tail protection, but they are still a popular choice. Manx cats are highly intelligent and playful, often compared to dogs in their ability to fetch toys. They are very social and depend on human care, making them unsuitable for homes where they will be left alone for long periods. Manx cats thrive in homes with children and other pets to keep them company.

British Shorthair

A favourite in the UK, the British Shorthair is known for its dense, plush coat and round face. They are generally easygoing, making them ideal for families and individuals alike. British Shorthairs are not overly demanding and can be quite independent, but they enjoy human companionship and are often very affectionate. Their coats come in a variety of colours, with the blue (grey) being particularly popular.

Bengal

For those looking for a more exotic pet, the Bengal cat offers a wild appearance with a domesticated temperament. Bengals are known for their striking spotted or marbled coat and their high energy levels. They love to play and need plenty of stimulation and exercise. Bengals are also very social and form strong bonds with their owners, making them excellent companions for active households.

Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a large, laid-back cat breed known for its gentle and affectionate nature. Ragdolls are often described as “puppy-like” because they follow their owners around the house and enjoy being held. They have beautiful blue eyes and semi-long fur, requiring regular grooming. Ragdolls are great for families with children due to their calm demeanor and love of human interaction.

These are just a few of the many cat breeds available. There are dozens of breeds to choose from, and finding the one that fits your lifestyle is important. Cats are social and intelligent creatures, each with their unique personality traits. Remember, the phrase “you do not own a cat; it owns you” often holds true. Happy cat hunting!

Can Feral Cats Be Tamed?

Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

Feral cats are different from stray cats. Stray cats are usually the product of a person’s irresponsibility. Irresponsibility could be defined in two ways when it comes to strays:  dumping a cat to fend for itself and/or neglecting to spay and neuter their cats. Stray cats can be timid, but are often easily tamed. Feral cats are cats that were probably born to wild parents and are wild themselves. Feral cats have had no human interaction and are very difficult to tame.

Because feral cats are difficult to tame, thus making them undesirable indoor pets, there are many rescue organizations that are dedicated to the trapping and spaying and neutering of feral cat colonies. Many times, these organizations trap the cats, have them spayed and neutered and then release them near where they were originally found. Then, they dedicate themselves to providing food to these colonies.

Feral cats are everywhere. You can find feral cats in rural or farm areas, abandoned buildings and even parks and alleyways.  You might catch a glimpse of them, but chances are that you would not be able to catch them easily.  After all, they have not been around humans so any contact would make them shy away from you. If you have feral cats in your neighborhood, you may wonder whether these animals can be kept as pets.

Taming a feral cat can be a difficult proposition simply because they are not accustomed to humans. Depending on the level of their interactions with humans, some cats might be classified as semi-feral, total feral or even a converted feral cat.  Depending on what your cat is classified dictates your potential success in socializing it. In addition, it takes a lot of time, love and patience to tame these cats.

If you find a cat that is has been feral for a years, chances are that there is little to no chance of socializing it. With no human contact at all, these cats are overly independent and would never depend on a human for food or companionship. You might have better success with a cat that is semi-feral. In these instances, they have had some limited human contact. A converted feral cat would probably have the best chance at a normal life as someone’s pet. These cats were once domesticated, meaning that they probably started life as a pet and then was abandoned. The converted feral cat will more than likely eventually respond to human interactions such as love and affection.

If you want to attempt to tame a feral cat, remember that it can be hard work reaching out to the feral cat and getting them to trust you after being on their own. Sometimes, your efforts will not pay off for months, especially with older cats. If your attempts are a success, the rewards are well worth it because a strong bond can develop and loyalty and love is the reward. 

If you believe you have the time and the love to attempt to tame a feral, there are some things to remember. First, these cats see you as an intruder and are very likely to spit, hiss, bite and claw. This is a normal response as they are defending themselves against a perceived predator – you. If they manage to get in a few bites or scratches, you should apply first aid immediately. After you have successfully trapped a feral cat, your very first step is to get it to the vet for spay or neuter and to check for any diseases it may carry. This is a necessary step and an absolute must if you have other pets in the house. After you have arrived home with your cat, you need to let it adjust to you and the surroundings by giving it a small, safe place to stay. Allow the cat to stay in a small bathroom or laundry room, where it does not feel overwhelmed. You will need to take time every day to spend time with the cat and allow the cat to adjust to you.

Remember, not all feral cats can be socialized; however with love and patience, your time and efforts may be worthwhile.

It is always recommended to consult with experts or organizations experienced in feral cat care for guidance and assistance.

Welcome to a World of Purrr-fect Presents: Gifts for Cat Lovers

Are you on the prowl for exceptional gifts that cater to the devoted cat lover in your life? Look no further! Photo frames stand out as one of the most sought-after and affordable options in the realm of cat-themed presents. These frames not only offer an ideal canvas for cherished memories but also make for a purr-fect gift for any proud cat or pet owner. Multi-cat households, in particular, will revel in the chance to showcase their furry companions through these frames, immortalizing their beloved pets in picture-perfect moments.

Before delving into selecting the ultimate gift for a cat enthusiast, understanding their cat’s breed(s) becomes key. Whether they fancy tabbies, purebreds, calicos, Persians, or the ever-popular Siamese, discerning their preference helps in curating the perfect present. Some might even have a blend of different breeds, making it important to tailor your gift accordingly.

Another crucial aspect to consider is whether their feline friend roams indoors or enjoys the outdoor thrill. Unlike their canine counterparts, many cats relish outdoor escapades. Outdoor-loving cats complement owners who savor outdoor activities themselves. However, even owners of indoor cats might witness their pets yearning for outdoor adventures due to their inherent instincts.

Indoor cats, on the other hand, revel in a protected environment, shielded from common health issues prevalent among outdoor cats. Their litter-trained habits make them convenient companions for their owners. Thus, when selecting gifts, it’s wise to consider items designed to enhance the indoor cat’s experience such as cat scratchers, cat toys and cozy cat beds.

For those aiming to bring humor and excitement wrapped in a gift, consider the allure of catnip. This naturally occurring plant entices cats with its aromatic oils, eliciting playful and hyperactive behavior that promises amusement for both owners and guests alike. Catnip, often included with chew toys and play items, is completely safe for feline consumption, making it a win-win for both cats and their owners.

Moreover, a cornucopia of other fascinating gifts caters to aficionados of feline companions, ranging from personalized decorative mats adorned with captivating cat imagery to cat-themed videos, musical cat dolls, cat-shaped mailboxes, cat themed cozy blankets, toys, treats, and an array of goodies sure to delight any cat enthusiast. Exploring online options opens doors to a vast array of possibilities, ensuring that finding the quintessential gift for the cat lover in your life is just a few clicks away.

So, whether you’re seeking the best cat lover gifts, catnip toys for cats, or personalized cat-themed presents, this curated collection of gifts for cat enthusiasts is sure to leave cats purring with excitement!

The Cat’s Whiskers – And The Dog’s Too!

The Cat's Whiskers - And The Dog's Too!

Ever wondered why your pet has Whiskers – what they are for and what do they do?

Whiskers are a type of hair found on a number of mammals, they are typically characterised by their length. You will find them on cats, dogs, mice and rats as well as other mammals.

Tactile Vibrissae is another name given to these long hairs which grow around the muzzle, jaws and eyebrows and which are used as tactile organs.

These hairs are different to other hairs on your pets body because they are thicker and stiffer and more deeply implanted. The follicles at the base of these hairs are packed with blood and nerve rich endings which allow the vibrissae to work like antennas that are hugely sensitive.

Dogs and Cats don’t need to make full contact with surfaces to know that they are there. The vibrissae are also an early warning system that allows your pet to navigate, especially at night.

They provide an awareness of both size and shape that prevents your pet from colliding with objects that may damage it’s eyes or face, because vibrations travel down the hair follicle and send messages to the sensory parts of the brain.

The Whiskers also make your pet aware of blind spots and changes happening around them, as they can pick up slight differences in air currents which can alert them to any coming dangers. In cats, the whiskers also detect movement even when they are in hot pursuit which makes them such amazing hunters.

Cats also have special sensory organs at the ends of their whiskers that give them information about their own body and limbs and this, along with their vision, helps them make such death defying leaps from one place to another. If you trim a cat’s whiskers, they often will become disoriented and have trouble moving around.

Cutting a cat’s whiskers is like cutting off the ends of our fingers, and even though the whiskers will often grow back, they should never be cut.

Your Pets Are Just Amazing And Deserve The Very Best Of Care!!

Scamps and Champs offer a range of pet care services which are designed to support you and your pet.

Whether you need dog walking, pet visits, day care or home boarding we are here for you, and we work around your shift patterns, shopping days or get togethers. Discounts and packages available.

We also offer a fabulous range of Vet approved and Specialised Pet Food.

Call now on 0333 200 5827

How To Litter Train Your Cat or Kitten

How To Litter Train Your Cat or Kitten

Fluffy fur, hypnotizing eyes, and cute meows make our favourite feline creatures – cats – so adorable. However, things can get a bit messy if they refuse to use the litter tray and do their business around the house. For most cats, using a litter tray is a natural habit, that they learn as kittens, particularly after they pass the three-week point. Still, some kittens need a little encouragement and manual stimulation to get the hang of it. In contrast, adult cats may have an aversion to using the litter tray, especially if they associate the tray with a negative experience. Whatever the case, if you are finding it difficult to litter train your cat, these steps will help.

Choose the Right Litter tray

The first step to litter train your cat is to get the right support tools such as a litter tray and cat litter. Use a litter with very fine sand (think recreating nature) and avoid using clay litter as your cat may consume it, and have digestive problems. It is also advisable to use an unscented litter because ones with a heavy scent may discourage cats from usage. More importantly, select a tray that your cat can easily get in and out of. Sometimes, adult cats can stop using the tray because of an achy body, so consider using a low-sided tray for older cats, and for kittens who may not be big enough to climb into a bigger tray. Also, be consistent in what litter you use, as changing the litter could cause your cat to stop using the litter tray temporarily.

Plan Where To Place the Litter tray

The litter tray location and availability can be a crucial element in encouraging your cat to use the tray. So, remember not to hide the trays. Do not place them in cupboards and corners as cats do not like to feel cornered or trapped during toilet time. Some owners like to put the litter tray in the bathroom. Also, provide some light -ambient or night light -so they can see and find their trays. Avoid setting up a litter tray where many things can distract them from their primary focus, such as rugs, carpets, or beddings. Spreading out the trays throughout your home and at least on every floor can also go a long way to stimulate litter tray usage as it will make it easy for your cat to access the trays. Always place the tray a good distance away from their food and water bowls.

Give your cat a Tour of their new toilet.

After you have effectively set up the litter trays, the next step is to introduce your cats to them. Show your cat the locations of each litter tray, let your cat sniff them and then gently place your cat in the tray. They may immediately start pawing at the litter or even using the litter tray. But, If they don’t, run your fingers through the clean litter to illustrate the pawing action. If at initial introduction, your cat refuses to use any of the trays, try placing it in one of the trays each time they eat, drink, or wake up from a nap, until they begin using it on their own.

Keep it Squeaky Clean.

Scoop your cat’s litter tray after every elimination. After scooping, add some clean litter to maintain a litter depth of 2 to 3 inches to give your kitty ample room to dig. Cleaning is essential during training to prevent your cat from developing an aversion to its litter tray. If your cat starts using the litter tray consistently, you can scoop daily instead of each time it uses the tray and periodically empties all of the litter in each tray, clean the boxes, and fill them with clean litter.

Conclusion

Reinforcing good habits during training is also a tested and trusted method to encourage your cat to use litter trays say experts. For instance, when your kitten uses the litter tray appropriately, reward them with their favorite treat to create a positive association with the activity. And if your kitten makes a mistake, do not scold or raise your voice, but calmly clean up the mess with an enzymatic cleaner and do not react in any other way.

Scamps & Champs offer cat visits when you have a long day or as an alternative to a cattery. We feed the cats, clean litter trays, give fresh water and lots of fuss and attention.

Wedding Chaperone Service

If you can’t imagine your big day without your furry friend by your side then Scamps and Champs Dartford have the answer for you!

Our dogs become a member of the family and at Scamps and Champs Dartford we believe you shouldn’t have to leave them behind on your wedding day, which is why we offer a pet chaperone service.

Our pet chaperone service is completely tailored to both your needs and the needs of your dog. We will sit down with you and put together a bespoke plan together that fits perfectly around your wedding day. Whether you want your dog to just be a part of the wedding photos, walk down the aisle with you or maybe even be the ring bearer, we can work with you to make it happen. You just need to let us know what your dream day would involve, and we will do our best to ensure your dog can be a part of it.

No one wants the added stress of worrying whether their dog is being well looked after on their wedding day, but with our pet chaperone service you can feel reassured that your dog is being given the love and attention they deserve. This will leave you free to enjoy your special day.

After pick up by our pet chaperone we can offer various services from ensuring your dog is walked, taking your dog to be groomed to make sure they look their best for the wedding photos and ensuring they are fed and looked after, which can include an overnight stay in a loving home. We will try and keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible for them to avoid any unnecessary stress and help your special day be equally enjoyable for them.

If your special member of the family is not a dog, then don’t worry as our pet chaperone service covers all animals and we will do our best to ensure that no matter how big or small your pet is we can involve them in your wedding day. We love all animals here at Scamps and Champs Dartford and know that your wedding day would not be the same without your pet.

So, if you are in and around the Dartford area and would love your pet to be a part of your special day then please do get in touch.