1 January 2011 Last updated at 08:38 Help
Saturday, 26 March 2011
Bomb accused wife recalls blast
8 February 2011 Last updated at 18:10 
Victoria Fabian suffered leg injuries in the blast The wife of a former soldier accused of trying to murder her by booby-trapping her car has described the moment an explosion ripped through her vehicle.
Nicholas Fabian was a reservist in the Army for 10 years
Victoria Fabian suffered leg injuries in the blast The wife of a former soldier accused of trying to murder her by booby-trapping her car has described the moment an explosion ripped through her vehicle.Victoria Fabian, 33, suffered serious leg injuries in the blast in Vigo, Kent, on 5 March last year.
Her husband, Nicholas Fabian, also 33, denies attempted murder at Maidstone Crown Court.
The prosecution argues Mr Fabian stole a hand grenade from a firing range and planted it in the car.
Mrs Fabian, who still walks with crutches, was giving evidence on the second day of the trial.
She said the family had planned to return the Mazda car she had borrowed from her mother and take the children for a haircut before going for a meal.
'Loud bang'She said she got in the borrowed car with Charlie, her son from a previous relationship.
Her husband got in the family's Vauxhall Zafira with their own son Harry, then aged three.
Mrs Fabian said she started to reverse out of the parking bay.
"The windscreen shattered and there was a loud bang," she said.
"I can remember thinking a tree or something had fallen on the car and Charlie was asking me what had happened, and I couldn't feel anything from my waist down so I told him to get out of the car."
She said the next thing she remembered was her husband running towards her crying.
"He was trying to get me out of the car," she said. "I remember feeling that I was losing a lot of blood."
Mrs Fabian was pregnant at the time of the blast but gave birth to a healthy baby boy three months later.
Jurors were told Charlie, eight, managed to get out of the passenger door unscathed.
'Good husband'A neighbour also rushed to help get her out of the vehicle and extinguish Mrs Fabian's jeans, which were on fire, before the car was engulfed in flames.
The explosion blasted holes in Mrs Fabian's legs and she needed skin grafts to repair the damage. She was in hospital for two months.
Earlier, the court was told Mrs Fabian confronted her husband the day before the explosion happened after discovering he had run up £1,400 of debt on a credit card.
Nicholas Fabian was a reservist in the Army for 10 years She had also suspected he was having an affair with a woman named Jackie Phillips, whom he knew from working at the Battersea Dogs Home site at Brands Hatch.
When asked by prosecutor Graham Reeds QC what her relationship with Mr Fabian had been like, she said: "He was a good husband and a good dad."
But questioned further, she added: "There were ups and downs. Probably more downs."
Later, Ms Phillips gave evidence, saying she had embarked on an affair with Mr Fabian after he started working at the dogs' home in 2009.
Asked if Mr Fabian had ever talked about his relationship with his wife, she replied: "He said that he didn't love her any more, that they were only really together for the sake of the children."
Jurors previously heard Mr Fabian was a reservist soldier after serving in the Army between 1994 and 2004, and had been called up to do a tour of Afghanistan in January last year.
Mr Fabian denies attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent and causing an explosion likely to endanger life.
The trial continues.
Our Little Academy
January 26, 2010 by queencityramblers
One of the crafts we did for school: tissue paper poms and doily snowflakes to take the place of our Christmas decor. I thought it looked a bit like Anthropologie. 
Lim has been doing great with his schooling! He’s loving math and reading a ton. He just finished the first Mysterious Benedict Society book (400+ pages), and he’s ready for the next one. He has set a really difficult challenge for himself in violin – to finish Suzuki “Book 1? by the end of this year (12 songs in 12 months). He’s doing really good with that so far.
Liam has also decided that he would like to be a chocolatier when he grows up, so we’ve been taking time on Fridays to learn about chocolate and make something chocolate.
Paul especially loves Fridays. 
He has been learning about the calendar and enjoying our daily reading time. He likes learning Spanish with Liam, crafts, and jumping rope (PE).
Brontë is growing like a weed and is still the happiest little baby I’ve ever seen. She sure loves her daddy.
Friday, 25 March 2011
I Stopped the Movie and Wept
We have had a couple of gray and bone-chilly days here by the sea. I don’t mind. The ocean is a different place when the weather is foul. It is still awesome and captivating, but somehow a rolling amount of immeasurable water with fathomless power is scarier and more on-the-edge of civilized life when the wind blows cold and hard. Certainly, I wouldn’t want to be alone on a ship in the middle of a storm and in the dark. God have mercy!
The inclement weather allowed me the privilege of finishing the series, “David Copperfield,” a classic by Charles Dickens. It is an old BBC television series and very well done. Timeless. I guess that indeed is the meaning of classic.
Oh how I love Dickens. I think I was born in the wrong era. I am riveted by the history and literature of Merry Old England. The truth is that it was not all merry–not completely–and there are great life lessons buried in the sometimes ghastly and awe-inspiring stories of the ruling monarchy and poor alike.
One of the gifts of Great Britain in general is literature. History proves they have lavished the world with the incredible writing of some of the best story tellers and poets. I am greatly stunted by my inability to read fluently in other languages, because that would the true test of comparison; but that aside, really, who can top Shakespeare? He moves me, even though, at first, I must combat the ancient use of words and phrasing. After a time, I settle into a rhythm natural to old English, which begins to accentuate the depth and meaning of the words.
And I don’t just watch movies… I enjoy reading Dickens as well and am delving into a “Tale of Two Cities” now and am grateful for the ease of going through the book on my iPhone 4. It is much more convenient than lugging books all over the world. A story in the palm of my hand — actually hundreds of stories!
I wanted to write about a scene in “David Copperfield” that captivated my heart. David, whose mother dies and is abandoned by wicked step-father, begins to live with a distant aunt. Conditioned by a mean and coarse world, David delightfully discovers family love and acceptance in his aunt’s palatial country home. A wise and round, old man, who is really more like a child than a man, is living in the country with them takes the boy kiting by the sea.
It is a blustery and beautiful day on the coast — perfect for flying. The old man builds a kite and teaches David how to lift it on a breeze and sustain it in the air. The paper flier catches the wind and soars up, up, up and then dives. David runs, laughing all the while, and gets it up again, higher and higher. The experience is sheer magic and even healing to the young boy.
I stopped the movie and wept — really wailed. I know. It is weird. It touched something tender and very deep in my heart and life. The small scene, almost insignificant to the story, held great truth for me today.
All we need in life, especially as children, is a kite, lots of string, a windy day, and someone who is patient enough to teach us to fly it. Not just teach us to sustain it in the air, but who will root us on with goodwill in the flying. The old, round man stood by the sea in the whipping wind yelling, “Let it fly, let it fly, let it go–higher, higher, higher–let it gooooo.” He cheered the boy on as a champion in the smallest endeavors of life.
As adults that is exactly what we need. We will never outgrow this poignant scene on the sea coast with a kite high in the air. The kites are our dreams, and the old man is the cheerleader who teaches us to fly and cheers us on. Maybe we can buy our own kites and get them in the air now, but we will always need that coach and mentor to urge us on with abandoned enthusiasm.
And you and I are not so different, for we both find our own faces here in the story…
Still… I see here a healing and a rising — just like the kite — on a new breeze, on a new day by the sea. Posted on Saturday, January 29th, 2011 at 8:03 am in Self Disclosure, Famous People, Culture | RSS feed | Respond | Trackback URL
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1 January 2011 Last updated at 16:09 Help 8 Useful Tips For Feeding Your Cat
Nutrition is essential for the good health and long life of every creature. Cats are not an exception. Young cats are especially pliable to nutritional imbalances and feeding errors. The feeding habits of the cat established after weaning are very important for its future health status. Cat owners should be familiar with the nutritional requirements of their cats.
Cats are carnivorous animals and cannot receive nutrition from the majority of vegetable proteins. Wild cats eat the whole of their preys - muscles, organs, viscera, bones, offal, skin. Thus, they ingest the digested food the prey has eaten. This gives the cat the opportunity to receive nutrition from various sources - meat and vegetable sources.
Cats and dogs have different nutritional requirements - cats need more protein and have greater tolerance for fat.
We cannot mention one particular food that all cats will like. Cat foods can be found in different flavors and textures. When you find the food your cat likes, and if it meets the nutritional requirements, stick to it and don't change it often because frequent changes may make the cat fastidious and may cause digestive problems.
What do cats need?
Cat owners should choose foods that provide all necessary nutrients and promote the good health of their cat. There are foods specially developed for kittens, mature cats, pregnant cats, but all food should contain the following essential nutrients: water, proteins (essential amino acids and nitrogen), essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins.
Proteins provide energy. They contain amino acids which stimulate the body to rebuild tissues and to perform its functions. Fats are a good source of concentrated energy and unsaturated fatty acids. Minerals regulate the functions in cat's body. Minerals include macro minerals - calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and micro minerals - copper, manganese, iron, and iodine. Vitamins are involved in many physiological processes and can be divided into two groups: fat-soluble - vitamins A, D, E and K, and water-soluble - thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, vitamin B6 and B12.
Types of cat food
There is a variety of cat foods on the market produced by different manufacturers. We can divide cat foods into three main categories:
Dry Food
It contains approximately 6-10% moisture and has an abrasive function, so it cleans the teeth and gums, and keeps them healthy. Dry foods have a long shelf life. Food that contains 34-38% protein and 19-22% fat provides a healthy balance.
Soft - Moist Food
It contains about 23-40% moisture and cat owners prefer it because it is convenient and has a long shelf life. However, soft-moist foods are more expensive than dry foods. You should be careful because soft-moist foods contain a lot of preservatives.
Canned Food
Canned food contains approximately 68-70% moisture and most cats like it most of all other foods. However, it is not recommended to feed your cat with canned food only because it sticks to the cat's teeth and this may lead to dental problems.
You should give your cat small amounts of canned food two times per day and leave some dry food because most cats like eating dry food all day long.
What should you be careful about when you feed your cat?
Cats don't need to eat the whole day long. Do not give your cat more food than your vet has recommended. Distribute the amount of food into two or three meals and give it to the cat throughout the day.
Do not give your cat dog's food because it doesn't have the necessary amounts of protein and amino acids. For the same reason, avoid feeding the cat with vegetarian food. Do not over feed your cat as obesity can cause diseases, pre-mature aging and early death.
Do not give your cat chocolate, alcohol, onions, pork, raw fish, raw eggs and bones.
Consult your vet if your cat refuses to eat more than two days because fasting may be harmful and may cause serious liver problems.
Do not put your cat's food near her litter box. Cats eat far away from the place she eliminates. If you put her food near her litter box, the cat may eliminate away from the litter box.
You shouldn't give your cat hairball remedy around her meal because many hairball remedies and treats contain mineral oil or petroleum jelly which will extract the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K from the intestines.
Reduce the usage of tuna because it contains high levels of mercury.
Tips about feeding your cat
1. Cats that live free in the wild eat grass every day. Domestic cats will also eat grass if they have the opportunity, so cat owners should provide sources of green vegetation for their cats.
2. Milk is a food, not a drink. The only drink that cats use is water. Milk is a good source of calcium and phosphorus which make bones and teeth stronger. It also provides many vitamins and minerals. However, you should keep in mind that many cats cannot digest milk as they grow older.
3. Provide your cat with varied food. You can mix some of the new food with the old for 3-5 days in order to make gradual changes.
4. Cats should be fed in quiet parts of the house where no one will bother them because they feel vulnerable while they eat.
5. If you have more cats, you should provide each of them with a separate food bowl and you shouldn't keep them close to each other while they are eating, because cats compete for their food and feel uncomfortable if they are too close to one another.
6. It is recommended that you don't feed your cat from plastic bowl. Provide ceramic or stainless steel bowls because plastic dishes may give shelter to bacteria. Moreover, some cats may develop allergies to plastic and may get pimples on their chins.
7. Older cats would like you to raise their food and water bowl a few inches off the floor because this will make it easier on their backs and necks.
8. You should observe your pet closely after you give it new food. Any changes in the coat, appetite, weight or mood may indicate a problem. If you have any questions about the dietary plant of you cat, consult your vet for advices.
Check out all the nice products, which your kitty will love. Our online cat store specializes in items such as cat pet feeder, cat beds and condos, houses, trees and towers. We also have lots of well designed cat toys.
Woman 'would hit robbers again'
8 February 2011 Last updated at 18:46 A woman who attacked robbers armed with sledgehammers as they tried to raid a Northampton jeweller's store has said she would do it again.
The footage broadcast by ITV's Anglia Tonight shows Ann Timson, who is in her 70s, jogging towards the six men as they smashed the shop's windows.
The gang, wearing motorbike helmets, drove away on scooters moments after the woman struck them with her handbag.
Northamptonshire Police have arrested four men aged between 18 and 39.
Smashing glassMs Timson, a retired market trader from Spring Boroughs, Northampton, said she had been shopping and was chatting to a friend in Gold Street when she heard a commotion.
She said she knew she could be in danger but decided to run across the road to help.
In a statement issued through police, she said: "I became aware of a loud revving noise at the top of the street."I looked over and saw a kid run up to the doorway of the jeweller's.
"Three lads followed him and when I saw their arms going I thought the kid was being beaten up.
"My mother's instinct kicked in and I ran across the road shouting at the lads to stop it.
"Only then did I realise that they were smashing glass and that it was a raid."
Ms Timson said she saw someone in her way on a scooter but by then "was in full flight and I started whacking the lads over the head with my shopping bag".
No-one injuredShe added: "In the cold light of day, I know I put myself in danger. But I probably would do the same again."
The footage of the attempted robbery also shows other members of the public pinning down a man who had fallen from one of the scooters just yards away from the shop.
Police were called to the incident at Michael Jones Jeweller, on the corner of Gold Street and Bridge Street, at 0930 GMT on Monday.
A police spokesman said: "The offenders were disturbed by members of the public and fled the area without taking anything."
He said one man had been detained by members of the public and another three arrested by police a short time later.
The four arrested men are aged 18, 22, 25 and 39. Police are now seeking a further two other people who are believed to have been involved and have appealed for witnesses.
No-one was injured as a result of the incident.
Expect to see 'Built in USA' stamped on your next Hyundai
I like cheap cars, and I cannot lie. Not that I mind testing $70,000 luxo-sedans or $98,000 sports cars, but reviewing entry-level, bottom-of-the-line cars is my true passion. Let's face it: Anyone can build a nice car to sell for fifty grand, but providing good value for $15,000 or less -- especially considering all the safety equipment now mandated by the Fed -- well, that's no easy feat.
The 2011 version of my cheapest cars list once again highlights the 20 least expensive cars in the US market, telling you which ones are best buys and which ones are best left on the dealer's lot. Compared to last year's list, there are two new additions: The $13,995 Ford Fiesta takes the #8 spot and the $14,795 Mazda2 premieres at #11, knocking the Toyota Corolla and the Scion xB off the bottom of the list. Another last-minute addition is the all-new 2011 Hyundai Elantra. After seeing the car at the Los Angeles Auto Show, I expected it to be priced right off the list, but surprise, surprise! The new Elantra is only $685 more than last year's model, and so it stays on, down just one spot to #12.
At this point, the list is a work in progress; Smart has yet to announce exact pricing for the mildly-redesigned 2011 ForTwo, and the same goes for the Honda Fit. Scion is also holding out on its new iQ minicar, but it's sure to wind up on the list. Chrysler has announced pricing for the Fiat 500 -- $15,500 -- and assuming the destination fee is the same as other Chrysler models ($750), it'll be taking up residence on Page Two once it goes on sale.
I'm starting to ramble (see, I told you I love cheap cars!), so if you want to get the skinny, check out the list: Cheapest cars of 2011. -- Aaron Gold
Photo ? Mazda
Greetings from Arizona! We decided to get a jump on the Thanksgiving holiday traffic by heading out to my folks a little early. I see every road trip as a potential for experimentation, and this time I decided to try a four-cylinder SUV. Read more...
Sunday, Sunday, Sunday! Tonight at 10 pm (9 pm central, and goodness knows when in Arizona) on the History Channel, Top Gear USA will finally hit the airwaves (or, I suppose, the cable-waves). I've been waiting a long, long time for this -- and I don't just mean the last few months of making the show. I mean, like, years.
I'm really happy with the way the show came out, and I'm not just saying that as a staffer -- I'm saying that as a true Top Gear fanatic. Amazing cars, fantastic cinematography, lots of idiocy, and plenty of tire-smoking antics courtesy of Tanner. Episode One is pretty darn good, and the show will get even better in the coming weeks. Check it out tonight and be sure to let me know what you think. -- Aaron Gold
The Los Angeles Auto Show is now open to the public. So how is this year's show? It's good...but a bit quiet.
One thing that was missing was the pessimistic attitude that hung over -- well, pretty much every major auto show for the last couple of years. Still, the show is a little short on flourish but pretty solid on substance. Rather than hold a press conference for the nifty little Urban Luxury Concept, for example, Cadillac simply put the car on display with little fanfare. World premieres were few and far between, though they did include some notable cars such as the Nissan Quest and Mazda5 minivans, as well as the Porsche Cayman R and Nissan's whimsical (and production-ready) Murano SUV convertible.
Not that everything was quiet. Ford probably has the best booth of the show -- not only are they showing the all-new 2012 Focus, but they have a slot-car track modeled after the Laguna Seca raceway (complete with elevation changes!) and will be doing real-live dynamometer runs with a real-live Mustang Boss 302.
By far, my favorite vehicle at the show was the Jaguar C-X75 concept. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but it's got the niftiest powertrain I've ever seen. It's a range-extended EV, with a plug-in battery pack that powers four electric motors (one for each wheel) for up to 67 miles. When the battery runs out -- or when extra power is needed for high speed -- the C-X75 has on-board generators driven by a pair of miniature jet engines. No, I am not making this up. Sadly, Jaguar will not be doing any demonstration runs of the car -- I'm sure the car's exhaust temperature (680 degrees F) wouldn't sit well with the fire marshal...
Anyway, you can check out all the new and notable cars in my Los Angeles Auto Show photo gallery. If you're thinking about visiting, my LA Show Visitor's Guide will tell you when to go and how to get there. Special thanks to Dwane Ferry for helping out with the photos. -- Aaron Gold
Photo ? Aaron Gold
2009 ENnie Award Nominees Announced
The nominees for the 2009 ENnie Awards were announced today; HELLAS: Worlds of Sun & Stone (my game) was nominated twice. Voting begins on July 24 and runs through August 1. Winners will be announced at the 9th Annual ENnie Awards at GenCon on Friday, August 14. Be sure to vote for your favorites!
3:16 Carnage Amongst the Stars, Box Ninja CthulhuTech, Catalyst Game Labs Forgotten Realms Campaign Guide, Wizards of the Coast Pathifinder Adventure Path #19: Howl of the Carrion King, Paizo Publishing Scion: Ragnarok, White Wolf CthulhuTech, Catalyst Game Labs Dark Heresy Core Rulebook, Fantasy Flight Games HELLAS: Worlds of Sun and Stone, Khepera Publishing Publishing / Aethereal Forge Mouse Guard, Kunoichi/Archaia Mutants & Masterminds: Wildcards 0One's Blueprints: The Great City: The Saltshacks DCC53: Sellswords of Punjar Modern Floorplans: Victorian Style Mansion, 12 to Midnight / Fabled Environments Pathfinder Chronicles Second Darkness Map Folio Star Wars: Scum and Villainy The Extraordinary Adventures of Baron Munchausen, Magnum Opus Press Don't Lose Your Mind, Evil Hat Productions Hot War, Contested Ground Studio Hunter Horror Recognition Guide, White Wolf Kobold Quarterly, Open Design Anima: Beyond Fantasy, Fantasy Flight Games CthulhuTech, Catalyst Game Labs Dark Heresy Core Rulebook, Fantasy Flight Games HELLAS: Worlds of Sun and Stone, Khepera Publishing Publishing / Aethereal Forge Mouse Guard, Kunoichi/Archaia Dark Heresy Core Rulebook, Fantasy Flight Games Dungeons & Dragons 4th Ed. Players Handbook, Wizards of the Coast Hunter: The Vigil, White Wolf A Song of Ice and Fire Roleplaying, Green Ronin Starblazer Adventures, Cubicle 7 Entertainment, Ltd Pathfinder Adventure Path #19: Howl of the Carrion King, Paizo Publishing P1: King of the Trollhaunts Warrens, Wizards of the Coast Lands of Darkness #1: The Barrow Grounds, Expeditious Retreat Press Purge the Unclean, Fantasy Flight Press The Rose Bride's Plight, White Wolf Dark Heresy Creature Anathema, Fantasy Flight Games Dungeons and Dragons 4th Ed. Monster Manual, Wizards of the Coast Freedom's Most Wanted, Green Ronin Night Horrors: Grim Fears, White Wolf Witch Hunter: Grand Tome of Adversaries, Paradigm Concepts The Dreadful Secrets of Candlewick Manor, Arc Dream Publishing Hot War, Contested Ground Studio Pathfinder Chronicles Campaign Setting, Paizo Publishing Slipstream, Studio 2 Publishing Swashbucklers of the 7 Skies, Atomic Sock Monkey / Evil Hat CthulhuTech: Vade Mecum Hunter: The Vigil, White Wolf Dark Heresy: Disciples of the Dark Gods, Fantasy Flight Games Scion: Ragnarok, White Wolf Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Wizards of the Coast D&D Insider, Wizards of the Coast Dwarven Sweatshoppe Dice Box Hunter Horror Recognition Guide, White Wolf Kobold Quarterly, Open Design Mutants & Masterminds Deluxe GM Screen, Green Ronin Neo Markers, Alea Tools E-Z Terrain: Cliffs and Mountains, Fat Dragon Games DU1 Halls of the Giant Kings Dungeon Tiles, Wizards of the Coast Game Mastery Flip-Mat: Waterfront Tavern, Paizo Publishing Star Wars: Clone Wars Starter Set Art of Exalted, White Wolf Battletech: The Corps, Catalyst Game Labs Hunter: Deadly Prey, White Wolf Planet Stories: Infernal Sorceress, Paizo Publishing Worlds of Dungeons & Dragons, Vol. 2, Devil's Due Publishing Blood of the Gorgon, Open Design Collection of Horrors: Razor Kids, White Wolf The Death Mother, One Bad Egg Hard Boiled Armies, One Bad Egg Tales of Zobek: An Anthology of Urban Adventures, Open Design Battlerun, Catalyst Game Labs Hunter The Vigil Quickstart: The Hunt, White Wolf A Song of Ice and Fire Roleplayng Quickstart, Green Ronin Swords and Wizardry, Mythmere Games Trial and Terror: SVU, The Imagination Sweatshop Critical Hits Dungeon-a-Day Kobold Quarterly Mad Brew Labs Obsidian Portal All Games Considered Brilliant Gameologists Order 66 Return to Northmoor The Voice of the Revolution CthulhuTech, Catalyst Game Labs Dark Heresy Core Rulebook, Fantasy Flight Games Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition, Wizards of the Coast A Song of Ice and Fire Roleplaying, Green Ronin Starblazer Adventures, Cubicle 7 Entertainment, Ltd Dark Heresy: Disciples of the Dark Gods, Fantasy Flight Games Don't Lose Your Mind, Evil Hat Productions Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition Players Handbook, Wizards of the Coast Hunter: The Vigil, White Wolf Mouse Guard, Kunoichi/Archaia Scion: Ragnarok, White Wolf A Song of Ice and Fire Roleplaying, Green Ronin Starblazer Adventures, Cubicle 7 Entertainment, Ltd Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Wizards of the Coast Swashbucklers of the 7 Skies, Atomic Sock Monkey / Evil Hat
Thursday, 24 March 2011
‘In God We Trust’
America: “In God We Trust”
Very interesting article by Dennis Prager Posted on Thursday, January 27th, 2011 at 3:45 pm in Culture, Political | RSS feed | Respond | Trackback URL
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Cat Aggression - Is She Really a 'Bad Mama'? Or is She Just a 'Scare-dy Cat'
Wikipedia describes aggression this way:
"In psychology, as well as other social and behavioral sciences, aggression refers to behavior between members of the same species that is intended to cause pain or harm."
So, right away we can eliminate the term 'aggression' when we encounter a cat that shows a ferocious hiss if we come to close. Obviously, one of us is not a cat. But, what does it mean when we are quietly petting our cat and she suddenly turns, grabs the hand that pets her and sinks her teeth into it? Surely, that's a form of aggression; even if we aren't members of the same species. Getting away from definitions and such, what we really want to know is why does a cat show what is definitely a behavior that says "get away and don't touch me!!", or what many term as cat aggression.
First of all it is helpful to not confuse cat aggression with the kind of aggression that's found in people. People are complex entities that are driven by many things, such as emotions, belief systems, family ties, the "seven deadly sins", the boss's moods or the NFL on Sundays. People are able to pass their aggressive nature around like the common cold infecting those around them, especially when inspired by a call to action for a certain cause (think half-time in the locker room). We can even turn it on and off, if and when we want to. That same Wikipedia definition goes on to state that some psychologists draw a direct relationship between low IQ and aggressive behavior; those towards the higher end of the IQ spectrum are more likely to be termed as assertive. But, our purpose here is not to split hairs between aggressive and assertive human personalities.
In animals the aggressive side of their personality is usually linked to certain and specific situations. Here it is helpful to note the difference between cat aggression and the predatory nature of cats. Certainly, when cats demonstrate the stalking, chasing, capturing and killing of prey they are showing a very distinctive quality of aggression. This type of aggression is called goal oriented aggression. Cats hunt in order to provide food for themselves, and in some cases, their kittens. Even when your cat brings home a field mouse and presents it to you, she is acting out a eons old instinct, although she may not know what to do with her catch. Cats will hunt, quite often for their entire life, while at the same time they are well fed and cared for by their owner. Maybe this is just cats showing they can be assertive, too.
Most all other forms of cat aggression are known as defensive aggression. These kinds of cat aggression characteristics can be directly attributed to three aspects of the nature of cats:
The Territorial Nature of Cats
The Maternal Instincts of Cats
The Degree of Socialization of Kittens
Cats mark (define) their territory with scent marks that tell all others that this is her land. She will defend that territory against all other cats. Notice I say 'all other cats'. She will confront and chase away all uninvited cats vigorously. Other animals, including people, she may or may not confront, depending on whether she feels threatened. Predators may get a free pass as she lowers her head, with eyes dilated, and becomes as unobtrusive as possible. But other cats will get a very unwelcome confrontation and generally will respect what she is telling them, including avoiding her territory in the future. Or at least, if they have to, they'll cross her territory very cautiously (isn't it amazing how swift a cat can be, yet when called for they can move in the slo-motion that TV sports analysts would admire?).
The only invited guests she'll entertain are any males that respond to her caterwauling when she comes into heat. "Invited" guests may be a little misleading. Complete strangers can show up and the result is a ritual to determine who the best mate is will ensue. This will include fighting and growling in single elimination scraps until a victor is determined. Even then a female cat might mate with the second or third place finisher in addition to the winner. It's all so very uncivilized and unladylike. But, when she's mated all those boys had better watch out. They'll all be chased off so that she can bear her kittens in well deserved peace and solitude.
After the kittens are born, there is even more reason to demonstrate her territorial cat aggression. Not only does she have to protect her territory and the food it supplies, but she has to offer protection to her young brood. Cats have very strong maternal instincts and she will face the fiercest threat to her kittens head-on. And, if the predatory threat is too strong for her, she will distract it into chasing her so she can lead it away from the kittens den.
Cat aggression is also linked to the experiences cats had when they were a kitten. Everything your cat knows, she learned when she was a kitten. When kittens have positive experiences while they are young, the more likely they will accept those encounters when they are grown. If kittens have a bad encounter with unfriendly people or other pets, or their kitten-hood is over-protective and they don't have the opportunity to have a lot of experiences, they can grow into shy, withdrawn adult cats. This socialization of kittens is the process of allowing them a well-rounded introduction to the things that make up her world. Cats are smart enough to know what poses a danger and what is not a threat. A kitten who was introduced to a friendly dog will grow up not being threatened by dogs in general. But, she will know when a dog isn't being friendly, she shouldn't stick around to find out why.
This kind of cat aggression is based in fear. Cats are most comfortable in familiar surroundings and familiar faces. Those things and images she has not been positively socialized with will cause her to be reclusive and even afraid of. That's why kitten socialization is so important. One can see why feral cats especially will show aggressive growling and hissing towards anyone or thing outside of their colony brethren. Probably though, one won't get close enough to cause such a reaction unless she perceives imminent danger.
When it comes to 'biting the hand that pets you', a different kind of cat aggression needs to be defined. Let's call it personal space aggression. In addition to the the territory your cat calls her own, there is an area that surrounds her physical body she considers her personal space. Just like people, she will only allow certain individuals to intrude into that personal space. Further, this space can expand or collapse depending on her mood. Kinda like people. As her provider, she will allow you closer than others. If strangers were allowed to handle her when she was a kitten, she will be friendly to them as an adult. The puppy she grew up with will enjoy the same liberties. Few others will be allowed that same degree of closeness. Even then it comes with a set of unwritten rules. Generally speaking, she will be the one to determine if and when anyone is allowed into her personal space. Including the puppy she grew up with.
If she's quietly lying on your lap and you're gently stroking her, there are a few things that can cause her to want you to stop. You may be irritating a sore spot with your petting. She may be aroused sexually and really not be interested at that particular moment. Or she just may grow tired of being stroked. In any case, she'll show signs of irritation when she's finished with the session and you should take note of them. Her ears will lie back against her head, her eyes will dilate and she will stare at the source of her irritation, namely your hand. That's when it's time to stop and go get a treat, just to stay on her good side.
All these forms of cat aggression: goal oriented, defensive or personal space, can cross over each other and blend into the creature you know as your cat. Broken down they help with the understanding of why a cat shows aggressive behavior, but they all work together in the real world and define a part of a cat's personality. One thing to remember is for you to not take cat aggression personally. Cat aggression is closely linked to a specific reaction to a cat's interpretation of a negative element in her environment. I imagine that if she were in the locker room at half-time, she would be hiding in the corner wondering 'what the heck is wrong with those guys?'.
Robert J Gallegos is the author of http://www.catlover-giftsworld.com a web site dedicated to proper cat care with quality cat lover gifts based on an understanding of cat behavior, instincts and the unique requirements for healthy cats as pets. Cats are the newest of animals to be domesticated and still have one paw in the wild. It's a major reason why they're so mysterious and resistant to human expectations.
Robert is a life long lover of cats. He is dedicated to sharing his understanding of the cat experience, reducing the epidemic feral cat situation, and helping cat lovers to provide the best care for their cats.
Evil GM Trick #28: Sure You Can Have That +12 Hackmaster
If there's one immutable law all GMs know, it’s that players love loot. Wizards love that uber wand of disintegration. Fighters want the +12 hackmaster. Street samurai want that move by wire 4. How do you give them what they want without losing game balance? Simple. Present it like an Evil GM.
Successful tricks harness your player's imagination converting it into your greatest weapon. The possibilities they conjure frighten them more than anything you come up with. They know what they'd hate and worry that's what you'll do. Trick #28 teaches you to tap into the power of anticipation. Your players will scare themselves into maintaining game balance.
Using this trick you can give your player the +5 sword and get away with it. All you have to do is taint that item. By taint I don't mean curse, because players hate curses. They find them restricting, annoying and frustrating. Taint is something they'll find more acceptable. Tainting an item makes them reluctant to use it, even though there is no obvious curse.
Taint is a mental aversion brought about by uncertainty.
So what's the difference between taint and a curse? Taint is a mental aversion brought about by uncertainty. Will this sword corrupt my character? A curse is an arbitrary rule or restriction placed on the item. If I pick up this sword I can't use any other until the curse is broken. Curses are generally obvious whereas taint, if done right, remains nebulous and mysterious. Now that we understand the difference how can we use this in a game?
Presentation, presentation, presentation. If you just give your warrior a +5 sword after he kills some goblins he'll neither value it, nor believe he's earned it. Players should work for loot that really matters. Below I describe the method I used to insert a powerful sword into a game. It was a +4 weapon given to a level 3 character. Crazy right? Not if you do it the right way.
Tell your players to create high-level versions of their characters. If Joe is playing a level 3 fighter tell him to make a 20th level fighter using his existing character as a template. Give them time to create these characters, but don't to tell them why. Their curiosity is the greatest tool in your arsenal, and they'll spend hours wondering why you asked them to do this. I gave my players two weeks, which gave me that long to heighten their anticipation.
They crafted endless theories on how the more powerful characters would be used. It’s important that you listen to these ideas, because some may be better than whatever you come up with. If one is better, steal it. Not only will the game be cooler, but the player who 'figured it out' will be pleased with himself because he was right. He never has to know you shaped the adventure to fit his idea.
Now you need to craft your adventure. Mine took place in a D&D 4th edition game when the players were 3rd level. They'd been contracted to clear out a mine infested by goblins, but the party's priest knew there was an ancient temple in or near the mine. They also knew at least one party of undead had been sighted in the area, but not how it connected to the mine or the temple.
Through some investigation they learned that the temple was run by a necromancer bent on raising an army of undead. He'd enslaved the goblins to mine steel so he could arm and equip his new troops. They also served as cover so the village remained unaware of the undead, because they'd assume anyone missing had been killed by the goblins.
After several battles the party freed the goblins who revealed the temple's location deep within the mine. They related harrowing tales of the necromancer and his seemingly endless army of undead. This was my second use of anticipation and I milked it for all it was worth. Was the necromancer powerful? How powerful? 5th level? 10th? Even if he wasn't there how were they going to deal with three hundred skeletons and zombies?
The more time passed without incident the thicker the tension became.
The trek into the depths of the mine was dark, spooky and filled with tension. By the time the players found the temple they'd terrified themselves, expecting something to jump out of every shadow. The more time passed without incident the thicker the tension became.
Eventually they made it down into the temple itself. Instead of finding the undead they stumbled into an empty chamber meant to house an army. The undead were gone. Where? Why? How had they gotten past the party without the party seeing them? These questions prompted a lengthy discussion. I sat by quietly while they freaked themselves out even more.
I left enough clues for the players to figure out what was going on. The only place the army could have gone was the village that had hired the party. The place knew nothing of the undead and would be slaughtered without help. Still, how did the undead leave the temple? The party had to explore the temple to find the answer.
During their exploration they discovered a large chamber with a magical circle covering the floor. A vivid portrait the party assumed must be the necromancer hung above the circle. On the far side of the room was a doorway leading to the necromancer's study. To reach the study they had to step inside the circle. They strongly suspected a trap, and they were right. When they crossed the threshold there was blinding flash and suddenly they were elsewhere.
This is where I finally inserted the higher-level characters. The party appeared in a swamp as older, stronger versions of themselves. They spent time meeting NPCs and figuring out both not just where but when they were. It turned out they were two decades in the future and had come to stop a dark god from being summoned through The Rent.
The players knew my game world well enough to recognize The Rent. Formed during the godswar it was a tear in reality leading to the hellish void outside the mortal plane. A peace loving race called the Vithee grew three magical groves to seal The Rent. The players had to protect the groves at all costs, because any god who escaped through The Rent would subjugate or destroy their world.
They'd failed and now the world was doomed.
One of the groves was under assault by an elder black dragon. Behind the dragon was a familiar figure, the necromancer from the painting in the temple. He wielded a powerful artifact blade which the party wizard identified as a focus needed to unravel the magical protection around the grove. After a titanic struggle the party killed the dragon, but they were too late. The necromancer breached the grove and destroyed the delicate magic sealing The Rent. They'd failed and now the world was doomed.
The evil god forced his way through The Rent alongside an army of demons. The party fought a running retreat against the demons saving as many people as they could. All sorts of fun details came to light from the people they saved. One PC was greeted by his children who'd come to fight along side him. Another was married to a woman he hated. Still another had a scar down the right side of his face, and was called teacher by many young swordsmen.
I gave them all sorts of fun tidbits to fuel their imagination. Could they prevent the future they'd seen? Who was the necromancer? Who was the dark god? How did the temple figure into things? How did one PC get married? How did another get that scar? When did the last have three children and with whom? These questions heightened their anticipation for the rest of the campaign.
I gained a whole slew of connections I could use later. For months I was able to include NPCs they'd met in the vision, and drop clues about how they could eventually stop the dark god destined to emerge in twenty years. This sort of involvement kept the characters at the edge of their seats, and brought them back every week for more.
All of this is well and good, but what does it have to do with giving my players powerful magic items? Don't worry I'm getting there. This is where I earned my pay as an evil GM.
When they returned to the magic circle I had one more bomb to drop. In the necromancer's study they discovered a journal detailing his plans for the village, several useful magic items and a very familiar sword. The artifact weapon the necromancer had been wielded to destroy the grove was propped up against one wall. It was a +4 sword with unknown powers. They used an Identify spell, but the blade revealed no obvious curse or down side.
The discussion that ensued was the stuff GMs pray for.
The discussion that ensued was the stuff GMs pray for. Should they use this sword? Bury it? Turn it over to a higher authority? Instead of the fighter gleefully snatching up a replacement for his +1 long sword he was leery about using it at all. That is what it means to taint an item. It takes the item from a dull prop to a vibrant part of your story. Every time the fighter drew his sword he expected something bad to happen, but it never did.
Through the course of my campaign the players had to answer many questions about the sword. How did the necromancer get it away from them? Was the sword cursed in some way? Could it corrupt the fighter? This provided dramatic tension and charged many of my adventures with excitement. Those same scenes would have been boring and flat without the tainted sword.
Nor is a sword the only object you can use this trick for. If you are playing Shadowrun maybe a PC finds a mysterious piece of experimental cyberware created by a nemesis. The cyberware will make him incredibly powerful but at what cost? Perhaps a wizard finds an ancient spell book written on human flesh and inked in blood. The spells it contains are highly useful and ones he wants to learn. Again, at what cost?
Introducing tainted items to your game can shift the power level, but that's ok. What you gain more than makes up for it. Giving your players powerful items or spells will make them succeed more often. Most players enjoy being powerful, and this is one way you satisfy craving. You've also created a vibrant backdrop in which to tell your stories. Players appreciate attention to detail, and six sessions from now when you finally answer a question about the magic sword they'll love you for it.
So there you have it. With the right presentation you can give your player characters just about any item regardless of power level. Just make sure you weave that item into the story. Instead of a magic sword give them a weapon prophesied to stop the dark lord, but one that may be just as dangerous to its wielder. Bring that weapon or spell book or cyberware to life! If you do it right your players will talk about your game for years.
Bethel
It sounds glorious… HOUSE OF GOD.
Most believers are familiar with its meaning. The Old Testament city of Bethel is located about 15 miles north of Jerusalem and west of the Jordan River and the city of Jericho. Genesis 28:19 tells us that it was originally an ancient Canaanite city called Luz.
Bethel has great significance in scripture. When first entering Canaan, Abraham camped between Bethel and Ai. He called upon the Name of the LORD when he returned to the camp there again from Egpyt.
Jacob had his heavenly vision of the angels ascending to heaven near Bethel. Later he returned there and built an altar to the Lord. Jacob renamed the place, “El-Bethel.” I like that — God of the House of God. After Jacob had grown in intimacy with the Lord, God became more important than the house of God! It was here that Jacob wrestled with God and became Israel. (Genesis 35). 
Bethel is an important metaphor and place for my husband and me. It represents a place of rest and a place of inquiring of the Lord for the new year. Each year, we make a short visit in January to Cyprus. It is our Bethel. Here we ask God for wisdom and counsel concerning our lives. We ask Him to confirm or change the plans we have made and are making for each month, each day… We worship Him. We rest. We envision the future and enjoy the moment. Importantly, He meets us and answers us.
This is our Bethel time in Cyprus.
We have a community of friends that we connect with here which makes it all the sweeter. This year we are staying for a short time in Paphos by the sea. I am eager for this holy time of prayer and listening and adjusting. Each year the Lord meets with us and shows new aspects of His love and character. Sometimes He changes our plans or our minds about things. Sometimes He tells us old things in new ways. But He always meets us. He always speaks. Always.
This year I am especially waiting and looking for something new.
Yes, I agree with Jacob, the only thing more glorious than Bethel is El-Bethel — The God of the House of God. I want to meet Him here in a new way… not just His house, but HIM. Posted on Tuesday, January 18th, 2011 at 8:10 am in Culture, Faith, Travel | RSS feed | Respond | Trackback URL
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Sex-on-duty police officer jailed
8 February 2011 Last updated at 13:13 
Fletcher was sent to the woman's home to ensure she was out of harm A former Greater Manchester Police constable who had sex with a vulnerable woman while on duty has been jailed.
Fletcher was sent to the woman's home to ensure she was out of harm A former Greater Manchester Police constable who had sex with a vulnerable woman while on duty has been jailed. Michael Fletcher, 31, of Blackwood Court, Bacup, Lancashire, admitted misconduct in a public office at an earlier hearing.
The court heard that he had sex twice with the woman at her Rochdale home after responding to a welfare call.
He was sentenced at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court to 32 months.
The court was told that Fletcher first had sex with her while on duty on 21 July 2010, when he attended her house in Littleborough to make sure she was safe.
His duties in responding to a welfare call to a vulnerable adult were to contact social workers and ensure the woman was not in danger of being harmed.
He returned to her house later the same evening while off-duty and had sex with her again, the court heard.
'Abused position'Speaking after the sentence Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: "As soon as this was reported we took swift and decisive action, started an investigation and immediately suspended the officer from duty.
"Fletcher was sent to help this woman, ensure she was safe and arrange appropriate support from other agencies.
"Fletcher abused his position and disgracefully took advantage of the situation and such behaviour within Greater Manchester Police will not be tolerated.
"What this officer did has a huge impact on how the public view the police and the hard work and dedication of the majority of officers has now been undermined by his disgraceful and appalling behaviour."
"Because we dealt with this so robustly, the officer had no choice but to resign and due to the evidence presented before him he also pleaded guilty to the offences.
"No one is above the law, and officers who commit crimes will, quite rightly, be treated exactly the same way as everyone else."
Cat Declawing - Reasons Why You Should Not Declaw a Cat
A cat's claws are a vital part of their physical and psychological well-being. Many people do not realize that declawing a cat is inhumane, and a very unnecessary major surgical procedure which often leaves the declawed cat with physical and psychological problems that will last their lifetime.
Cats use their claws for many reasons such as to exercise, groom themselves, mark their territory, and as a first line of defense against predators. Cats scratch as part of a normal instinct, and taking that away can lead to even worse behavior problems. Many people believe that declawing a cat just consists of removal of the cat's nails but this is not the case. It is actually an amputation of all the cat's digits at the first knuckle of bone. It is a major surgery, which is very painful to the cat, and recovery and healing from this surgery can be painful and difficult for the cat. Complications such as infection can occur, as well as the general risk of anethesia during the procedure.
The declawed cat often develops litter box issues, such as not using the litter box, because the litter hurts their feet, so they begin avoiding the box and start peeing and pooping in various places around the home. This leads to further frustration on the part of the cat owner who is now faced with the cat damaging the floors and leaving behind unpleasant odors throughout the house. Cat urine odor is very difficult to remove, and a cat's sense of smell is more sensitive than humans. Once the cat begins urinating on the floor, they will often continue to do so because, despite the owners attempts to clean the area and remove the odor, it still exists to the cat's sensitive sense of smell, and this unwanted behavior persists.
The cat owner then becomes even more frustrated as this behavior continues. They often don't understand why their cat who used to faithfully use the litter box now refuses to do so, and often will blame the cat for another bad behavior problem, when it is not the cat's fault at all. If the owner cannot get the cat to start using the litter box again, they will often start considering letting the cat go outside. This poses a huge safety risk to the cat because once the cat has been declawed, they have no way to defend themselves to the many dangers that exist outside. Declawed cats cannot be let outside because they can no longer effectively defend themselves and cannot climb trees to get out of harms way. Once a cat has been declawed, there is not an option of safely converting the indoor cat to be an outdoor cat.
Another common problem with cats who have been declawed is biting. Because they do not have their nails anymore, the cat can become very frustrated. The scratching instinct that the cat has can no longer be satisfied and can lead to the cat starting to bite. Even the best behaved cat can become mean and unsociable and because they no longer have their claws, they resort to biting as a way of letting you know they are unhappy. I am aware of many cases where cat declawing has had a negative impact on the cat and its social behavior. This, however, does not happen in all cases. Some cats who have been declawed seem to do just fine and adjust to their situation without difficulty or resulting behavior problems. But, many cats do not adjust well, and the owners often end up feeing guilty that they did this to their pet.
The best thing a cat owner who is considering having their cat declawed can do is plenty of research. Find out all there is to know about the procedure, the risks, and the outcome. Talk to others who have had their cats declawed and get their opinions. Do not just take a vet's approval on this issue. Some vets will say it is no big deal because they stand to profit from the surgery, and they do not have to live with the cat afterward. Other vets will discourage this procedure because they know it is not the right thing to do. Make sure the decision you make is an informed one. You do not want to end up with regret, as this surgery is permanent.
There are many options the cat owner has as an alternative to getting their cat declawed. One option is to purchase nail caps which are caps that are glued to the cats nails to prevent the damage from scratching. Another choice is to learn how to safely trim your cat's nails to keep them short and dull which will reduce the damaging effects of scratching. Provide several different styles of scratching posts and cat trees in your home to encourage your kitty to scratch the appropriate things. Scratching posts made of sisal rope work really well and cats seem to enjoy using them to scratch on. Try using double-sided sticky tape on the areas where you don't want your cat scratching. It provides a surface that cats do not enjoy and will deter them from scratching there. Buy some scented deterrent sprays that are made to keep cats away and spray it on areas where the unwanted scratching is occurring. It may take a little more effort on your part, but the outcome can be very successful without having to put your cat through a declawing surgery.
Cat declawing has been banned in many countries, unfortunately as of yet, the United States has not adopted this law, and hopefully this will change. Anyone who is considering putting their cat through this should consider and try all the other options. There is just not a good enough reason to put your cat through such an awful surgery. And not just the surgery and recovery, but the lifelong effects it will have on your cat.
Please visit my blog at http://pet-products-reviews.blogspot.com for more cat care information.
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
A New Chevrolet Sold Every 7.4 Seconds in 2010
Chevrolet sold 4.26 million vehicles globally in 2010, an average of one every 7.4 seconds. As a result, Chevrolet’s share of global vehicle industry sales grew by 0.35 points as the brand accounted for about 5.8 percent of all vehicles sold worldwide in 2010.
Building on its strong global sales performance in the first three quarters of 2010, Chevrolet sold more than 1.14 million vehicles in the fourth quarter:
In October, customers purchased 361,236 Chevrolet cars, crossovers and trucks worldwide, an increase of 16 percent on an annual basis.November topped that performance with 368,103 vehicles sold, up 27.1 percent over November 2009, making it the best November ever for Chevrolet globally.December concluded the year with 416,826 global sales, marking the 15th consecutive monthly increase and best December ever for Chevrolet.“Chevrolet’s dedication to compelling designs, quality, durability and great value is a winning formula that resonates with consumers around the world,” said Joel Ewanick, GM global chief marketing officer. “We will continue to listen to our customers and do our utmost to deliver what it takes to bring them into the Chevrolet family.”
Increased sales performance in key foreign markets
Major contributors to Chevrolet’s strong sales performance in 2010 were the BRIC countries of Brazil, Russia, India and China. They were responsible for about 33 percent of the brand’s sales, an increase of 2 percentage points over 2009.
In Brazil, Chevrolet set an all-time record of 657,697 vehicles sold in 2010. Chevrolet has enjoyed year-over-year sales increases in Brazil for five consecutive years. With about 365,000 sales just five years ago, the bow tie brand grew an impressive 78 percent.In Russia, 116,233 Chevrolets were sold, up from 104,398 vehicles in 2009. Chevrolet remained the most popular global brand and the Chevrolet Niva one of the most popular products from a global manufacturer sold in Russia.In India, Chevrolet sales surpassed 100,000 units for the first time. Sales for the year reached 110,350 vehicles, up 60 percent from the previous year. The milestone was achieved primarily by the positive customer response to the Beat and Spark mini-cars and Cruze compact car.In China, Chevrolet experienced unprecedented sales growth of 63 percent in 2010 to 543,700 vehicles. Leading the way was the Cruze, with sales of nearly 190,000 vehicles. Demand was also strong for the New Sail small family car, which generated sales of more than 125,000 vehicles following its introduction in January.The potential for Chevrolet’s continued growth is demonstrated by the fact that eight of the brand’s top 10-selling countries in 2010 were emerging markets – Brazil, China, Uzbekistan, Mexico, Russia, India, Argentina and Colombia. With the United States and Canada, these 10 countries accounted for 85 percent of all Chevrolet sales.
In Europe, Chevrolet increased its share in 21 countries, resulting in a best-ever overall market share of 2.5 percent for the bow tie brand. Chevrolet sold more than 477,000 vehicles in 2010, an improvement of 12 percent over 2009.
In the United States, Chevrolet’s largest market, the brand represented more than 70 percent of GM’s overall sales. In 2010, Chevrolet sales in the U.S. grew 16 percent, to 1.57 million vehicles.
The five best-selling Chevrolet nameplates in 2010 were:
1. Silverado full-size pickup truck, 435,269 units
2. Cruze compact car, 334,976 units
3. Aveo small car, 322,234 units
4. Malibu midsize car, 221,550 units
5. Impala full-size car, 183,551 units
Categories: Uncategorized . Tags: A New Chevrolet Sold Every 7.4 Seconds in 2010, aveo, bow tie, brazil, chevoilet sold, chevrolet 2010, chevrolet 2011, chevrolet market share, chevrolet sales, chevy, china, cruze, europe, Ford, GM, Impala, india, linkedin, malibu, motor city muscle cars, russia, Silverado full-size pickup truck . Author: maritimedriver Be the first to like this post.
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Children 'hid' during Moat attack
8 February 2011 Last updated at 15:37 
Samantha Stobbart had been in a six-year relationship with Moat A jury has been told how two children were hidden in an attic when gunman Raoul Moat turned up to confront his former girlfriend and her new partner.
Moat went on the run after killing Chris Brown
Samantha Stobbart had been in a six-year relationship with Moat A jury has been told how two children were hidden in an attic when gunman Raoul Moat turned up to confront his former girlfriend and her new partner.Lesley Stobbart told Newcastle Crown Court she fled with the youngsters when Moat, 37, shot at her daughter Samantha and killed her boyfriend Chris Brown.
Moat went on to shoot and blind Pc David Rathband last July.
Mrs Stobbart was giving evidence at the trial of two men accused of helping Moat, who later shot himself.
Karl Ness, 26, of of Brookside in Dudley, North Tyneside, denies the murder of Mr Brown, attempting to murder Pc Rathband, one charge of conspiracy to murder, one charge of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and one of robbing a shop.
Qhuram Awan, 23, of Rowley Street in Blyth, Northumberland, denies the attempted murder of Pc Rathband, one charge of conspiracy to murder, one charge of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and one of robbing a shop.
Mrs Stobbart said she was at the house in Gateshead when Moat, armed with a sawn-off double-barrelled shotgun, began shooting.
She watched from an attic window as Moat gunned down karate instructor Chris Brown, 29, then turned the weapon her 22-year-old daughter, leaving her critically injured.
Moat went on the run after killing Chris Brown It was not until the former doorman ran from the murder scene that Mrs Stobbart realised her daughter had been hurt.
Moat, who had been in a six-year relationship with Samantha Stobbart and was released from Durham Prison two days before the shootings.
Mrs Stobbart told the court: "I ran upstairs to get the children. I put them in the attic and I told them not to come out no matter what they did.
"I could see Chris lying on the grass. Then Raoul shot him again.
"I did not know Samantha had been shot at the time. I went down to see where everyone was and she was lying on the floor."
Under cross-examination earlier, Samantha Stobbart said she had been terrified Moat would "flip his lid" when he was released from prison.
She had said her new boyfriend was a police officer in an attempt to ward off trouble.
On the night of the murder, she said she had urged Mr Brown to spend the night at his own flat, knowing Moat was seeking a confrontation.
But Mr Brown opted to remain at the house in Gateshead.
She said she told Moat their relationship was over, but that he "would not take no for an answer".
The trial continues.
Cat Litter Box Health
Cats are the most popular pets in the United States. According to the latest version of the U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook (2002 Edition) there were almost 70 Million pet cats in the United States. Why are cats so popular? There are as many answers to this question as there are cat owners, but the low health risks cats pose to their owners is certainly near the top of this list. Even though the potential health risks cats pose to people are small, it is important that cat owners are aware of these risks and understand how to reduce them.
The majority of all risks stemming from cat ownership are associated with the cat litter box and/or cat feces. There are two categories of risks. The first category contains health risks posed by bacteria and parasites to both cat owners and their cats. The second category contains injuries resulting from an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box.
Primarily the health problems experienced by cat owners or their cats come from the first category and the most significant of these risks is called Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii which can be found in raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, dirty cat litter boxes and outdoor soil where cat feces can be found. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 60 million people in the United States may be infected with the Toxoplasma parasite(1). Fortunately, very few people ever experience any symptoms because a healthy person's immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness. However, pregnant women and individuals who have compromised immune systems, such as individuals infected with the HIV virus, are at risk and should take precautions to avoid being infected by the parasite. For people in this group a Toxoplasma infection could cause serious health problems to the individual or to a pregnant woman’s unborn child.
Again, most of the 60 million plus American’s infected with Toxoplasmosis parasite will never experience any symptoms. Most of those who do experience symptoms will simply think they have the Flu as the most common symptoms include swollen glands, fever, headache, muscle pain, or a stiff neck. For those in the high risk group, Toxoplasmosis can cause damage to the brain, eyes and internal organs. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, children born with Toxoplasma gondii can suffer from hearing loss, mental retardation, and blindness with some children developing brain or eye problems years after birth(2). The CDC estimates that 400-4000 fetuses are infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite each year and as many as 80 infants die from Toxoplasmosis annually(2).
So how does an individual contract Toxoplasmosis? A Toxoplasmosis infection is caused by ingesting the Toxoplasma gondi parasite. Most cat owners are infected with the parasite by accidentally ingesting infected cat feces. This happens when a person touches their mouth after handling a cat litter box, working in a garden or sand box or touching anything that has come in contact with cat feces(3).
People in the high risk group may wonder whether or not they should give up their cat to avoid infection. According to the CDC, it is not necessary for cat lovers to give up their cats, but it is important for them to protect themselves from infections. The USFDA makes the following recommendations for avoiding infections(2):
1) If possible, have someone else change the litter box. If you have to clean it, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
2) Change the litter box daily. The parasite doesn't become infectious until one to five days after the feces are deposited in the litter box.
3) Wear gloves when gardening in a garden or handling sand from a sandbox because cats may have excreted feces in them. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.
4) Cover outdoor sandboxes to prevent cats from using them as litter boxes.
5) Feed your cat commercial dry or canned food. Never feed your cat raw meat because it can be a source of the Toxoplasmosis gondii parasite.
6) Keep indoor cats indoors. Be especially cautious if you bring outdoor cats indoors.
7) Avoid stray cats, especially kittens.
8) Don't get a new cat while you're pregnant.
Safer Child, Inc. makes the following additional recommendations(4):
1) Have your veterinarian test your cat for the Toxoplasmosis parasite. If you cat is infected, you may want to consider having someone else keep your cat during your pregnancy.
2) Keep sandboxes covered to prevent cats from using the sandbox as a litter box.
3) Be aware of neighborhood sandboxes as the parasite can be brought home on shoes, clothing and toys.
Similar to Toxoplasmosis, Escherichia coli (commonly called E. coli) can infect humans thru contact with feline fecal material, although the primary means of infection is thru ingestion or raw or undercooked meats. E. Coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Almost all strains of the bacteria are harmless. However a few strains can produce powerful toxins and cause severe illness, especially in children under 5 years of age(5). Symptoms usually include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. In children under 5, 2%-7% of E. coli cases can cause kidney failure. Fortunately, E. coli is easy to prevent. Using the preventative measures, outlined above for Toxoplasmosis will greatly reduce the risks of you or your children contracting an E. coli infection.
In addition to these human risks, there are a few health risks cat litter boxes actually pose to cats that cat owners should be aware of. Just as a dirty litter box poses health risks to humans, cats are equally at risk if forced to use a dirty litter box. Since cats stay clean by licking themselves, allowing a cat’s litter box to get too dirty can cause infections when a cat cleans it’s paws after using the dirty litter box. The most common infection is a urinary tract infection, and although this type of infection is rarely fatal it can be very uncomfortable for your cat and will most likely require treatment by your veterinarian.
Finally, a lesser-known health risk to cats is actually caused by cat litter itself. What many cat owners do not realize is that some types of cat litter can be harmful or even fatal to their cat. Both clumping and non-clumping litters pose health problems to cats. Clumping cat litters are probably the most popular type of cat litter because of their convenience, hygienic qualities and the fact that clumping litters are required for use in self-cleaning litter boxes. Unfortunately, some clumping litters can be harmful to cats. Clay based clumping litters can contain the mineral sodium bentonite, which can be harmful or fatal to your cat. It is best to avoid using clay based cat litters, especially with kittens. Wheat or corn based clumping litters such as Swheat Scoop, World’s Best Cat Litter and Littermaid cat litter work very well and are non-toxic(6).
By their very nature, non-clumping litters do not absorb and isolate a cat’s urine or feces like clumping litters do. As a result, it is much harder to keep your cat’s litter box clean when using non-clumping litter. When using non-clumping litter it is important to frequently clean and disinfect the litter box itself to reduce the chance of bacterial buildups that can cause urinary or other infections in your cat.
The second category of health risks covers injuries caused by an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box. Occurrences of this type of injury are rare, but they can happen. An automatic or self cleaning litter box does just what it’s name implies. Usually between 10-15 minutes after a cat uses the litter box, the litter box automatically cleans itself by “sweeping” or “raking” the cat waste into a sealed compartment or bag. For cat owners, injuries can occur if a small child or toddler plays with the automatic litter box during the cleaning cycle. All major brands of automatic litter boxes contain sensors to prevent the cleaning mechanism from activating when a cat or other foreign object is inside the box. However, children can still be injured if they put their hand inside the cleaning mechanism in such a manner as to avoid the sensors.
Although these types of injuries are very rare it is best to take precautions. Placing the litter box in a location where your cat can get to it but small children can’t is an easy method. This is good advice for any litter box as this is the best way to keep children from contracting one of the illnesses described earlier in this article. If you can’t keep the automatic litter box out of a child’s reach then it is best to put the litter box inside a litter box cover. There are many types of covers and all of them will help prevent a child from reaching the litter box and the cleaning mechanism. A final option is to unplug the litter box or put it into a “manual operation” mode. Both of these options will require the cat owner to start the cleaning cycle whenever necessary. Although this reduces some of the convenience of an automatic litter box it certainly removes the danger to children.
Automatic or self cleaning litter boxes are completely safe for almost all cats. However, most manufacturers recommend that the litter box be used in “manual operation” mode for cats under 5 lbs. Cats under 5 lbs many not be large enough to activate the sensors and the cleaning mechanism could cause injury. Since most adult cats weigh over 5 lbs, it is only necessary to use the “manual operation” mode until kittens grow to 5 lbs.
This article is not intended to dissuade anyone from owning a cat. 70 Million cat owners can’t be wrong; cats make great pets! So, if you already own a cat or are thinking of becoming a cat owner it simply makes good sense to be aware of the health risks associated with cat ownership. Understanding the risks can definately increase the enjoyment of cat ownership.
(1)Toxoplasmosis Fact Sheet; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm
(2) While You're Pregnant – USFDA
[http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/whiltoxo.html]
(3) Toxoplasmosis – An important Message for Cat Owners; [http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/toxoplasmosis_brochure_8.2004.pdf]
(4) Safer Child, Inc.;
http://www.saferchild.org/pets&.htm
(5) Escherichia coli O157:H7 Fact Sheet;
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/escherichiacoli_g.htm
(6) Stanford Cat Network’s – Guide to Caring for Your Adopted Cat or Kitten;
http://www.stanford.edu/group/CATNET/articles/careguide.html#litter
The author is a long time cat lover who currently owns and operates LitterBoxesandMore.com; a business specializing in high quality automatic litter box. Litterboxesandmore.com also offers other specialty cat products such as pet strollers and indoor cat fences. Come visit us at http://www.litterboxesandmore.com/
The majority of all risks stemming from cat ownership are associated with the cat litter box and/or cat feces. There are two categories of risks. The first category contains health risks posed by bacteria and parasites to both cat owners and their cats. The second category contains injuries resulting from an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box.
Primarily the health problems experienced by cat owners or their cats come from the first category and the most significant of these risks is called Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii which can be found in raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, dirty cat litter boxes and outdoor soil where cat feces can be found. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 60 million people in the United States may be infected with the Toxoplasma parasite(1). Fortunately, very few people ever experience any symptoms because a healthy person's immune system usually keeps the parasite from causing illness. However, pregnant women and individuals who have compromised immune systems, such as individuals infected with the HIV virus, are at risk and should take precautions to avoid being infected by the parasite. For people in this group a Toxoplasma infection could cause serious health problems to the individual or to a pregnant woman’s unborn child.
Again, most of the 60 million plus American’s infected with Toxoplasmosis parasite will never experience any symptoms. Most of those who do experience symptoms will simply think they have the Flu as the most common symptoms include swollen glands, fever, headache, muscle pain, or a stiff neck. For those in the high risk group, Toxoplasmosis can cause damage to the brain, eyes and internal organs. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, children born with Toxoplasma gondii can suffer from hearing loss, mental retardation, and blindness with some children developing brain or eye problems years after birth(2). The CDC estimates that 400-4000 fetuses are infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite each year and as many as 80 infants die from Toxoplasmosis annually(2).
So how does an individual contract Toxoplasmosis? A Toxoplasmosis infection is caused by ingesting the Toxoplasma gondi parasite. Most cat owners are infected with the parasite by accidentally ingesting infected cat feces. This happens when a person touches their mouth after handling a cat litter box, working in a garden or sand box or touching anything that has come in contact with cat feces(3).
People in the high risk group may wonder whether or not they should give up their cat to avoid infection. According to the CDC, it is not necessary for cat lovers to give up their cats, but it is important for them to protect themselves from infections. The USFDA makes the following recommendations for avoiding infections(2):
1) If possible, have someone else change the litter box. If you have to clean it, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
2) Change the litter box daily. The parasite doesn't become infectious until one to five days after the feces are deposited in the litter box.
3) Wear gloves when gardening in a garden or handling sand from a sandbox because cats may have excreted feces in them. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.
4) Cover outdoor sandboxes to prevent cats from using them as litter boxes.
5) Feed your cat commercial dry or canned food. Never feed your cat raw meat because it can be a source of the Toxoplasmosis gondii parasite.
6) Keep indoor cats indoors. Be especially cautious if you bring outdoor cats indoors.
7) Avoid stray cats, especially kittens.
8) Don't get a new cat while you're pregnant.
Safer Child, Inc. makes the following additional recommendations(4):
1) Have your veterinarian test your cat for the Toxoplasmosis parasite. If you cat is infected, you may want to consider having someone else keep your cat during your pregnancy.
2) Keep sandboxes covered to prevent cats from using the sandbox as a litter box.
3) Be aware of neighborhood sandboxes as the parasite can be brought home on shoes, clothing and toys.
Similar to Toxoplasmosis, Escherichia coli (commonly called E. coli) can infect humans thru contact with feline fecal material, although the primary means of infection is thru ingestion or raw or undercooked meats. E. Coli is a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. Almost all strains of the bacteria are harmless. However a few strains can produce powerful toxins and cause severe illness, especially in children under 5 years of age(5). Symptoms usually include diarrhea and abdominal cramps. In children under 5, 2%-7% of E. coli cases can cause kidney failure. Fortunately, E. coli is easy to prevent. Using the preventative measures, outlined above for Toxoplasmosis will greatly reduce the risks of you or your children contracting an E. coli infection.
In addition to these human risks, there are a few health risks cat litter boxes actually pose to cats that cat owners should be aware of. Just as a dirty litter box poses health risks to humans, cats are equally at risk if forced to use a dirty litter box. Since cats stay clean by licking themselves, allowing a cat’s litter box to get too dirty can cause infections when a cat cleans it’s paws after using the dirty litter box. The most common infection is a urinary tract infection, and although this type of infection is rarely fatal it can be very uncomfortable for your cat and will most likely require treatment by your veterinarian.
Finally, a lesser-known health risk to cats is actually caused by cat litter itself. What many cat owners do not realize is that some types of cat litter can be harmful or even fatal to their cat. Both clumping and non-clumping litters pose health problems to cats. Clumping cat litters are probably the most popular type of cat litter because of their convenience, hygienic qualities and the fact that clumping litters are required for use in self-cleaning litter boxes. Unfortunately, some clumping litters can be harmful to cats. Clay based clumping litters can contain the mineral sodium bentonite, which can be harmful or fatal to your cat. It is best to avoid using clay based cat litters, especially with kittens. Wheat or corn based clumping litters such as Swheat Scoop, World’s Best Cat Litter and Littermaid cat litter work very well and are non-toxic(6).
By their very nature, non-clumping litters do not absorb and isolate a cat’s urine or feces like clumping litters do. As a result, it is much harder to keep your cat’s litter box clean when using non-clumping litter. When using non-clumping litter it is important to frequently clean and disinfect the litter box itself to reduce the chance of bacterial buildups that can cause urinary or other infections in your cat.
The second category of health risks covers injuries caused by an automatic litter box or self cleaning litter box. Occurrences of this type of injury are rare, but they can happen. An automatic or self cleaning litter box does just what it’s name implies. Usually between 10-15 minutes after a cat uses the litter box, the litter box automatically cleans itself by “sweeping” or “raking” the cat waste into a sealed compartment or bag. For cat owners, injuries can occur if a small child or toddler plays with the automatic litter box during the cleaning cycle. All major brands of automatic litter boxes contain sensors to prevent the cleaning mechanism from activating when a cat or other foreign object is inside the box. However, children can still be injured if they put their hand inside the cleaning mechanism in such a manner as to avoid the sensors.
Although these types of injuries are very rare it is best to take precautions. Placing the litter box in a location where your cat can get to it but small children can’t is an easy method. This is good advice for any litter box as this is the best way to keep children from contracting one of the illnesses described earlier in this article. If you can’t keep the automatic litter box out of a child’s reach then it is best to put the litter box inside a litter box cover. There are many types of covers and all of them will help prevent a child from reaching the litter box and the cleaning mechanism. A final option is to unplug the litter box or put it into a “manual operation” mode. Both of these options will require the cat owner to start the cleaning cycle whenever necessary. Although this reduces some of the convenience of an automatic litter box it certainly removes the danger to children.
Automatic or self cleaning litter boxes are completely safe for almost all cats. However, most manufacturers recommend that the litter box be used in “manual operation” mode for cats under 5 lbs. Cats under 5 lbs many not be large enough to activate the sensors and the cleaning mechanism could cause injury. Since most adult cats weigh over 5 lbs, it is only necessary to use the “manual operation” mode until kittens grow to 5 lbs.
This article is not intended to dissuade anyone from owning a cat. 70 Million cat owners can’t be wrong; cats make great pets! So, if you already own a cat or are thinking of becoming a cat owner it simply makes good sense to be aware of the health risks associated with cat ownership. Understanding the risks can definately increase the enjoyment of cat ownership.
(1)Toxoplasmosis Fact Sheet; http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/factsht_toxoplasmosis.htm
(2) While You're Pregnant – USFDA
[http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/whiltoxo.html]
(3) Toxoplasmosis – An important Message for Cat Owners; [http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/toxoplasmosis/toxoplasmosis_brochure_8.2004.pdf]
(4) Safer Child, Inc.;
http://www.saferchild.org/pets&.htm
(5) Escherichia coli O157:H7 Fact Sheet;
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/escherichiacoli_g.htm
(6) Stanford Cat Network’s – Guide to Caring for Your Adopted Cat or Kitten;
http://www.stanford.edu/group/CATNET/articles/careguide.html#litter
The author is a long time cat lover who currently owns and operates LitterBoxesandMore.com; a business specializing in high quality automatic litter box. Litterboxesandmore.com also offers other specialty cat products such as pet strollers and indoor cat fences. Come visit us at http://www.litterboxesandmore.com/
Cat Or Kitten - Either is a Good Choice!
Are you thinking of getting a cat or kitten? Whether you are a newcomer (a person that has never had a cat) or an old cat person (age does not matter) let's explore life living with a cat.
A cat is not a dog. A cat will never react as a dog would when greeting you on your arrival home. However, that does not take away from the sincerity of your cat's feeling for you.
Did you know that cats have been around for about 50 million years and have lived everywhere on earth except Antarctica? There are more than 65 million cats living in American homes. Cats out rank dogs as the number one domestic pet.
Cats are considered to be one of the most intelligent of all domestic animals. Granted they do not do "dog tricks," but with patience you can teach a cat many tricks.
Cats are carnivores, which means they are meat eaters. A cat cannot be a vegetarian, as vegetables do not provide the protein and other vitamins a cat needs to survive.
Having a pet, be it a cat or dog, is rather like getting married. First you get engaged (getting to know one another) then you get married (sharing your everyday life) and then hopefully live happily ever after. That statement gives you an idea of the commitment necessary when you decide to get a cat. This "long term" obligation deserves serious thought.
Cats live a long time. My Mr. Whiskers lived for 18 years. A normal life span for a cat can be from 12 to 20 some odd years. So commitment has to be one of your first thoughts.
Can you commit? Granted no one knows what the future may bring and there are circumstances that may alter your life's plan. The question here is, barring anything unforeseen, are you willing to make the commitment?
If you are looking for a "short term" relationship forget it. The animal shelters and streets are filled with unwanted cats that people have left to fend for themselves.
Having made the decision to get a cat or a kitten. You need to take some time to consider your lifestyle, finances and how much free time you will have to devote to your cat. Yes, cats do sleep a lot, but they need playtime and your time.
Do you have regular business hours or are you on a schedule that is erratic? Cats like routine.
Does your job or current lifestyle cause you to travel a great deal? If you do travel, do you have someone reliable to become the second caregiver for your cat?
Do you currently have another pet? Have you taken into consideration the time it will take to introduce the new arrival to your current pet? Are you on a tight budget? A cat or kitten costs money. There are vet visits, food, toys, grooming supplies and litter to buy.
No matter how tired you are when you come home from work your cat or kitten will need care and some of your time. Remember that your cat has been home all day by itself. I have 3 cats and I work plus I have a husband (all of whom require a great deal of time and care.) I know the value of available time and how it can be frustrating when time seems to be fleeting. Keep this in mind as you mull over your decision to get a cat or kitten.
You have made your decision and you are really going to get a cat/kitten. Where do you go to find your cat? Shelters are a good source, especially if you are looking for an older cat. Shelters usually have a surplus of kittens, too. Breeders are also a great place to look if you are looking for a particular breed of cat. Friends and neighbors often have kittens available.
Do not under any circumstance go anywhere on the "spur of the moment" or on an "impulse" to get a cat or kitten.
Right here and now take a deep breath and make this promise to yourself: " I will take my time, I will not be impulsive. I will visit with each cat or kitten to see which one likes me and which one I am attracted to."
Shelters have rooms where you can visit each cat by itself. Breeders will let you have time to visit and play with each kitten and certainly your friends and neighbors will be delighted to give you all the time you need and want.
One thing to keep in mind is if you are holding a cat or kitten and it tries to get away from you, do not take it. Find a cat or kitten that relaxes, possibly purrs and feels at ease with you. That cat will be a winner and you both will be a happy pair.
If you have decided on a kitten and can afford the time and money, two kittens are better than one. Two will entertain themselves while you are at work and two will definitely entertain you when you are home. Of course, it is also double trouble.
If you are looking for someone a little more settled may I suggest an older cat. By older I mean a cat that is at least one year old or more. Shelters are full of older cats. Many people move and cannot take their cats. Some people for a variety of reasons have to give up their cats. These cats are truly the "pearls" of catdom." These cats will appreciate a new loving home. They will love you with all their hearts. Take your time in picking one out. Again, find one that feels at ease with you, possibly purrs and that you feel comfortable with.
In deciding whether to get a male or female, the choice is really a matter of preference. I currently have 2 males and a female. I find the males more affectionate. My female is very independent. All three are offspring of feral mothers.
It is very important if you are looking for a kitten to be certain the kitten has been socialized. A socialized cat will be one that has been lovingly handled, played with, has been around people and other animals outside the litter and children. A cat that has not been socialized will be afraid of people and literally scared of everything.
My Boots is my 11-year-old Tuxedo cat that was not socialized as a kitten and he is scared of his own shadow. My brother gave shelter to a feral female cat that had 3 kittens. He did not have time to socialize them. I took Boots at 9 weeks, but it was already too late to really make him feel comfortable. Both his mother and father were feral cats and that may be the reason he is so skittish.
In spite of all his problems, when the mood strikes him, he is the most lovable cat I have known. It takes a great deal of patience on my part to deal with his problems on a daily basis, as every day his reactions to some of the same things change. However, my husband and I for some reason love him best.
While you have been in the "getting a cat" thinking mood, you also should have been thinking of finding a veterinarian. This person is going to become an important part of your cat's life and yours.
You need to visit several clinics, talk to the vet (your personalities need to mesh) and find out if the hours they are open coincides with your work schedule.
Once you have your cat or kitten it is a good idea to take your pet to your vet for a check up. This is especially important if you have another cat at home. You do not want to bring home any unwanted diseases or infections. If your kitten has not been started on its kitten shots; this would be a good time to start.
If you are bringing a kitten home be certain to get all the feeding information. It is important that you feed your kitten the food it is used to and hopefully you will be able to keep the same feeding schedule.
A kitten up to 12 weeks of age needs to be fed at least 4 times a day and sometimes more if they are small eaters. Kittens have very small tummies and need to eat often.
Be certain you feed your kitten only food made specifically for kittens. Do not feed adult food to a kitten. Kitten food is made with all the necessary vitamins and minerals a kitten needs to grow into a beautiful cat. From 3 months to about 6 or 7 months feeding your cat 3 times a day seems to be enough. However, it really depends on the cat. Some cats are grazers (mine are) and like to eat small amounts at a time, but often. This is where a good quality dry food is a blessing. Dry food is available for kittens. Be certain you buy a high quality brand and not something inexpensive.
After the 7th month you can begin a twice a day, morning and night schedule. I feed my cats 3 times a day even though they are older. They are used to it and it fits my work schedule. I leave dry food out all the time and feed them wet food (canned or foil packets) at their feeding times. As you and your cat bond your, feeding routines will work themselves out. Kitty will be certain to tell you what it wants and when.
This article is just the tip of the iceberg in the continuing relationship between you and your cat. If this article has been of benefit, please visit my web site and blog at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com for more information an life with a cat or kitten.
Dogs and Cats Living Together
Dogs and cats are supposedly life-long enemies. Hence the phrase, "fighting like cats and dogs." Having always owned both cats and dogs, I find the phrase and the premise to be far more inaccurate than accurate. Of course, we all know that there are those dogs that will simply chase every cat they see and those cats that will never tolerate a dog. However, it has been my experience that handled correctly, the vast majority of dogs and cats can live together. They may not learn to love each other; but they certainly can learn to tolerate each other's presence. Dogs and cats that are raised with each other typically do fine their entire lives. They may actually accept an animal of another species more easily than one of their own, in that there are fewer fights over dominance and territory.
There are some dogs that should not be kept with cats. Dogs with a strong hunting heritage may always view cats as prey and may never be able to be trusted with any small animals. In addition to hunting dogs, terriers such as Jack Russells and pitbulls are often poor companions for cats. These dogs have an incredibly strong predatory instinct; they chase and attack moving objects without thinking about whom or what the object may be. Cats and other small pets are just too much of a temptation for these dogs.
Other dogs respond less to the animal than the situation and will leave alone a cat that sits still, but chase and attack one that moves. This is especially true of dogs that are kept outside. There is something about being out of the house that really pushes the hunting instinct into overdrive and will often result in even the most docile indoor dog attempting to chase cats once outside. So, one would not want to make the assumption that a cat and dog who tolerate each other indoors will do the same outside. The dog may decide to attack the cat. Finally, dogs that have a history of attacking cats are likely to do so again and should not be trusted with cats. If you are planning on rescuing a previously-owned dog, it is a good idea to get a history of the dog's attitudes and behaviors around cats before bringing it into a house with cats. Many shelters will allow you to 'test' the dog by introducing it to a cat before completing the adoption.
Most cats, if they have had positive experiences with dogs, will tolerate canines in the house. Those that will not typically have had some prior negative interaction that is firmly embedded in their memories. Because most cats, even those that hate dogs, do not attack without provocation, these cats may be able to live with a dog. However, they probably will never bond with the dog, will avoid the dog at all costs, and will be pretty miserable. It is kinder to leave these cats in a feline-only household. Again, it is often possible to find out the history of a cat before adopting it, or to test the cat's reactions to dogs in an adoption situation.
So which cats and dog can get along? The answer is just about all of the rest of them. In the best of circumstances, cats and dogs really become friends, playing and sleeping together. In other situations, cats and dogs may never be overly friendly, but they can learn to tolerate and behave themselves with other members of the family, including those of other species. As long as you are willing to work out a positive introduction and protect the animals from physical harm, these species usually get along. The process may take up to six or eight weeks, or even longer, but can be successfully accomplished.
If you are thinking of bringing a cat into a dog household, or vice-versa, there are steps that you can take to ensure the success of the relationship. First, because a dog can kill a cat, safety is your first concern. The dog needs to be able to be kept separated from the cat. This can be accomplished with a crate, or a separate room. The dog should have a refresher obedience course, so that it will sit, stay, and come to you when told, and leave the cat alone if ordered to. The dog needs to remember that the people, not the dog, rule the house. This way you can 'explain' to the dog, if necessary, that the cat is yours and needs to be treated with respect. In addition, the cat needs to have a safe haven. This means that the cat's food and litter boxes need to be inaccessible to the dog and that the cat has places to run and hide. For example, leave a few bookcase shelves empty so the cat can climb to them, put a cat door into a closed bedroom, or use baby gates to separate the dog from the cat's own room.
I keep my cats' litter boxes, toys, scratching posts, water, and food in an extra bedroom. I use a baby gate to keep the dogs out of the room. I have cut a small cat-size opening into the closed mesh of the gate so that the cats can dash through it if necessary and not have to leap the gate. My dogs respect the gate, but if you have dogs that leap over it, you may need to cut the cat door into the room door or install a screen door with an opening large enough for the cats.
The initial meeting and first few weeks are critical times to set the tone for the future, so it is important to make all introductions go as smoothly as possible. The key is to remember that these animals will be together for a lifetime; there is no reason to rush their meetings. If bringing a cat into the house, provide the cat with its own bedroom for the first few weeks or longer. The litter box and food should be placed in this room. The dog in the house can smell the cat under the door, but has no real need to meet the new member of the family until the cat is comfortable and bored with its personal space. If this is a young kitten, they may end up living in this room for several more weeks. Once the cat is doing well in its own room, you can let the cat explore the house, undisturbed by the dog. You can actually put the dog in the cat's room while the cat is out, so that the dog really gets to experience the cat's scent without bothering the cat. You can also get the pets used to each other's scents by swapping toys, towels, or other items between them.
The initial face to face meeting should be done after the new cat is familiar with the entire house. Make sure that the dog is on a leash and under control. Have another person near the cat to provide help, if needed. Keep the meeting short and positive. Praise the dog for being wonderful around the cat. Use food rewards if appropriate and make sure that the dog understands that good things happen when the cat is present. After a few, short positive meetings, it is time to let the cat explore for longer periods, with the dog present and on the leash. If this step proceeds calmly, let the dog off the leash and watch the interactions. Make sure you are always there to stop any problems before they can accelerate. Do not allow the dog to be aggressive in any way to the cat, and lavishly praise the dog for good behavior. Be certain that the cat has access to hiding places. If aggression occurs at any stage of the introductions, return to the previous stage and slow down. Even if all looks great, do not leave the cat alone with the dog until you are truly positive that everything is running smoothly. This means that if they cannot be supervised, the cat should be left in its bedroom or the dog kept crated.
Bringing a dog into a cat household is relatively easy. The dog should be kept on a leash for the initial introductions and never left unsupervised. Make sure that all animals are praised for their wonderful behavior when they are together. As previously discussed, the dog can be crated or the cat left in a bedroom when they cannot be watched. Since the cat is already familiar with its territory and the dog is a newcomer, the dynamics of the relationship often turn in the cat's favor, making the transition relatively easy.
Puppies and kittens do present unique challenges. Kittens must be protected from dogs at all times simply because any dog is big enough to badly hurt or kill a young kitten. A kitten must always be closely supervised even around the best behaved of dogs. Provide the kitten with appropriate toys of its own. Do not let the kitten 'play attack' the dog or chase it. This can rapidly escalate into a dangerous situation. For the same reason, do not let the dog 'play' with the kitten. The kitten must be kept in a safe room when an adult it not home. My kittens stayed in their own room when I was not at home and at bedtime until they were approximately six months old.
Rambunctious puppies may also be a problem. Without meaning to, an energetic puppy can harm a kitten or even an adult cat. It is up to you to make sure that their interactions are monitored so that no one gets hurt. It is also really important to exercise and play with the puppy routinely. Make sure the puppy has its own toys and uses them. A tired puppy is less likely to bother the cat and less likely to be a behavior problem in the house.
It takes work, patience, and time to introduce cats and dogs to each other. However, the positive outcome is well worth the work. My cats and dogs play, eat, relax, and sleep together. I get tremendous pleasure watching them. You will be pleasantly surprised how much positive energy is brought into your home by having both cats and dogs living there.
About the Author:
Pet Supplies Delivered / Omaha Vaccine Company is the pioneer and benchmark for the animal health mail order profession. For over 40 years, hundreds of thousands of loyal customers have relied on Omaha Vaccine Company for their animal health needs. For more information visit http://www.omahavaccine.com. Customer Service is also available by calling (800) 367-4444.
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