CATS PROTECTION

When considering giving a home to a cat or kitten it is important that you are aware that some behavioural habits are instinctive and that you need to be happy with these.

We recently had a cat returned to our care because she was catching mice and letting them go in the home. Although these presents were not appreciated, Abbie was only behaving normally. Some cats are prolific hunters, while others catch nothing, and while some will kill their prey straight away, others like to play with them (and often lose them). Again, some will eat their prey while others will bring home a "present" for you. Encouraging Abbie to exercise her hunting instincts with lots of hunting and playing games would have probably helped the situation as would keeping her in at night. Preventing a cat from carrying out its natural instincts will only stress and frustrate it and could lead to behavioural problems. Abbie has been very lucky and has already left us for a new home.

Although I personally have no concerns with cats catching vermin, I know that it is also natural for cats to catch birds and this is something that can be discouraged quite easily. Placing bird feeders and nesting boxes well out of reach of possible pouncing platforms and putting an uncomfortable surface around their base are good deterrents. Making the post of the bird table slippery (a metal post is a good option) and keeping your cat indoors when the birds are most active (early morning and evening) are also worth considering. As most cats hate water having a water pistol handy if you see your cat about to pounce is another good deterrent.

Although we have only experienced two instances of ringworm in the past, Stephanie recognised the symptoms in two kittens that recently joined us. Susannah and Trinny had bald patches on their ears and legs and when they were inspected under a "Woods Lamp", her fears were realised. A visit to the vets confirmed the situation and the kittens are now receiving treatment, which will last for the next 5 weeks.

Ringworm is a fungal infection rather than a worm and the infective part of the fungus (the spore) is shed on the hairs of affected animals or people and can survive for many months or even years.  Treatment includes antifungal medicine given by mouth and treating the coat with shampoos or sprays.

Susannah and Trinny have been bathed with a special shampoo and now started a 5 week course of treatment. Their pen has been vacuumed and is being regularly cleaned with a disinfectant recommended by their vet to remove the spores. All bedding and cleaning materials will be disposed of and special clothing is worn by their carers. Stephanie has also been in contact with the person who handed them into our care as she has several other animals which will almost certainly require treatment too. The kittens will not be available for adoption until they have received the all clear from their vet.

If you are looking for a cat or kitten please call Stephanie on 01692 535858. Alternatively you can visit www.northwalsham.cats.org.uk for a description and photographs of the cats before giving her a call on the above number.