P&G Recalls Two Lots of Prescription Renal Diet Cat Food due to a Possible Health Risk

The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE:PG), is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of its prescription renal dry cat food as a precautionary measure, as it has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.

The following products are included:

Product Name	Lot Code	UPC Code
Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs	01384174B4	0 19014 21405 1
Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs	01384174B2	0 19014 21405 1

This product is available by prescription through veterinary clinics throughout the U.S.

No illnesses have been reported. A FDA analysis identified a positive result on the lot codes listed above. Lot codes can be found in the lower right corner on the back of the bag.

Consumers who have purchased dry cat food with these codes should discard it. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

For further information or a product refund call P&G toll-free at 877-894-4458 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST).

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New Report Shows Sharp Declines in Populations of Wild Cats and Dogs

/PRNewswire/ -- The Fading Call of the Wild, a report released today by the world's leading wildlife conservation organizations, details the increasing threats and plunging populations of big cats and rare canids living in the wild. Faced with a striking loss of habitat and prey due to over-development of land and direct killing by poachers and others who see them as a threat, wild cats such as lions, cheetahs and snow leopards, and wild dogs like the Ethiopia wolf and bush dog face an uncertain future.

Eighty percent of all wild cat species are experiencing population declines, as are 25 percent of wild canids - the family of foxes, wolves and wild dogs. The report looks beyond the raw numbers and delves into the plight of 15 of these species that are considered ecologically vital, detailing their current numbers in the wild, changes to the population in the last ten years, and conservation solutions for improving their status. The 15 species were chosen because they are considered umbrella species that, if conserved appropriately, protect their corresponding landscapes and other species dependent on those ecosystems.

A snapshot of the report's findings include:

-- A century ago there were as many as 200,000 lions living in Africa,
today there are fewer than 30,000. Lions are now extinct from 26
countries that they formerly occupied. The single greatest threat to
lions is killing by people who own livestock. Herders and ranchers
shoot, trap and poison lions across their range.
-- There are fewer than 500 Darwin's Fox living today. The animal are
found only in Chile and their restricted distribution makes them
highly vulnerable to extinction. The gentle and curious canids are not
fearful of people which contributes to their endangerment, however
timber exploration and land development are the two biggest factors
that have pushed the animals to the brink.
-- There are fewer than 7,000 snow leopards in the wild today. Snow
leopard poaching is rampant with their bones and hides frequently
confiscated in illegal shipments of wildlife parts bound for markets
in China and throughout Asia.
-- Fewer than 500 Ethiopian wolves remain with more than half found in
the Bale Mountains. The highly social animals live in packs which
makes them especially vulnerable when their populations decrease.
Entire packs are wiped out by rabies outbreaks, while those that
survive face rapid loss of habitat.
-- One of the most ecologically and genetically unique animals, African
wild dogs exist in less than seven percent of their historic range,
and are extinct in 22 countries that they formerly inhabited.
Accidental snaring and rabies have decimated populations throughout
Africa, and fewer than 8,000 of the animals remain.


The report calls for increasing conservation resources and swift policy changes, specifically passage of the Great Cats and Rare Canids Conservation Act that would provide conservation assistance to the 15 species highlighted in the Fading Call of the Wild report.

"Great cats and rare canids are currently suffering from a variety of threats and the positive impact from their protection will no doubt benefit them and many other species," said Jeff Flocken, DC Office Director, IFAW. "The Great Cats and Rare Canids Conservation Act offers viable and valuable methods to ensure a safe future for these majestic animals."

First introduced in July 2004, and set to expire this year unless the Senate takes action, the measure would provide wild cats and canids the same type of conservation assistance presently supporting tigers, great apes, elephants, sea turtles and other iconic species through the Multinational Species Conservation Funds, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The funds were designed to conserve species deemed by Americans to be of special global value, but simultaneously endangered with extinction.

Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT), Tom Udall (D-NM), Sam Brownback (R-KS) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are leading the charge to usher the bill through their chamber this Congress. The House passed the measure in April 2009 with a two-thirds majority and bi-partisan support led by Reps. Jay Inslee (WA-01), Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam) and the International Conservation Caucus. The Act is supported by more than 80 scientific, animal welfare, conservation, outdoor recreation organizations, zoos and aquariums.

Actress Glenn Close contributed the foreword for the report and noted, "Whether it is the iconic African lion or the shy Darwin's fox, these animals hold an important place in the landscapes they occupy. They are all ecosystem guardians. As predators, they maintain healthy functioning places, and their absence negatively affects wildlife and people. Not only would losing these species have drastic ecological and economic impacts, I believe their loss will impact us in ways we aren't event able to yet articulate."

The report was authored by Panthera, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, in cooperation with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Canids and Cats Specialists Groups.

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Avoid 'lost' signs by tagging your cat

(ARA) - You've seen the posters decorating mailboxes, telephone poles and trees in your neighborhood. The picture of a cat - usually curled up in the sun or giving a curious look to the camera - with "LOST" in bold, capital letters and a contact number underneath. Sadly, less than 5 percent of lost cats make it home.

Many of these lost cats end up in animal shelters, some are adopted by new families and others unfortunately, aren't so lucky. An estimated 70 percent of all animals euthanized each year are cats who enter shelters without identification tags, according to the North Shore Animal League America (NSALA), the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. Many shelters are full, and can only hold cats for a few days or less, giving grieving owners limited time to locate their lost pet.

Cat owner and author of "Oh My Dog," Beth Ostrosky Stern is passionate about saving the lives of animals and providing them to loving families. "Through my work with North Shore Animal League America, I have seen firsthand how many cats enter the shelters. I'm a firm supporter of cat tagging to help ensure a safe return home. I would be completely devastated if my cat, Apple, were lost. Having her wear an identification tag is a simple step, but gives me peace of mind that if she were to be lost she can be identified and returned home."

Whether your cat stays inside or roams the outdoors, tagging is the best way to keep him safe. Even indoor cats may sometimes slip through an open door or window for some fresh air so it's important to remember they need identification tags as well. Special cat collars are available also, so that your cat won't get caught on any objects when he's playing inside the home or exploring the great outdoors.

Many cat owners may not know how simple it is to get a tag for their cat. The maker of ARM & HAMMER Super Scoop and Multi-Cat litter products is even offering cat owners the opportunity to receive customized identification tags via mail with the purchase of two ARM & HAMMER cat litters. Visit www.pettagoffer.com for more information.

Tagging cats is just one safety tip. Other tips from NSALA to keep cats healthy, especially during the summer months include:

* Never leave a cat in a car - cats can quickly overheat and die from heatstroke.

* Keep cats inside during a thunderstorm - cats are easily frightened by loud noises and are more at risk of being struck by lightning.

* Check cats daily for fleas and ticks, and talk with a veterinarian about prevention products to keep cats safe.

* Change litter regularly to maintain a fresh and healthy litter box for cats.

* Watch for signs of heat stress, including glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, excessive thirst, restlessness, lack of coordination, unconsciousness, deep red or purple tongue and vomiting.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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D.E.L.T.A. Rescue Vet Advises on Keeping Dogs and Cats Safe in Rattlesnake Season

/PRNewswire/ -- Rattlesnake season is here, and the veterinarian of the 501(c)(3) non-profit D.E.L.T.A. Rescue, the world's largest no-kill, care-for-life sanctuary, is offering critical advice on rattlesnake bite prevention -- and what to do in the event a pet tangles with a rattlesnake.

"As the temperature warms and days get longer, accidental encounters with rattlesnakes increase in the Southwest," explained D.E.L.T.A. Rescue veterinarian Gaylord Brown, D.V.M., who in his former private practice saw countless rattlesnake bites. "Dogs, due to their inquisitive nature, are more at risk of being bitten. However, people may not know that cats are also at risk."

Typically, a dog will blunder into a rattlesnake, causing the snake to strike in self-defense. As a result, most rattlesnake bites in dogs occur on the nose. Cats, being naturally more cautious and prone to striking at a threat with their claws, are more likely to be bitten on the front paw or leg.

The prospect of a beloved pet getting in a dust-up with a rattler can be terrifying. The good news: People can protect cats and dogs from being bitten in the first place. According to Dr. Brown, who answers questions on the "Ask the Vet" section of DeltaRescue.org (http://www.deltarescue.org/ask-the-vet), avoidance is the best way to prevent a rattlesnake bite. Dr. Brown cautions people to keep their dogs close when hiking, stay on well-marked trails and to make their presence known. If the snakes are closer to home, Dr. Brown advises homeowners to consider installing snake wire on the bottom two or three feet of fence around their yards -- as D.E.L.T.A. Rescue does at its sanctuary -- and to be particularly watchful at dusk and dawn, when rattlesnakes are most active.

But what if an encounter between a pet and a rattlesnake is unavoidable? Signs of a rattlesnake bite, says Dr. Brown, include acute swelling, pain, and dark, bloody drainage from the fang sites. A bite to the pet's face will almost always cause excessive drooling; with any rattlesnake bite, the pet will likely be depressed and begin panting. Once bitten by a rattlesnake, a pet must be kept quiet and still. Dr. Brown discourages tourniquets and says lancing or suction at the fang marks should only be done with mechanical suction devices by those trained in the technique.

"A person whose pet shows signs of having been bitten by a rattlesnake should seek medical attention with a veterinarian immediately," said Dr. Brown. "With treatment, survival rates are high, and most veterinarians in endemic snake areas have antivenin."

Those with further questions about snake bites or any other questions about veterinary health can register for free and post their questions directly to Dr. Brown at http://www.deltarescue.org/ask-the-vet. To learn more about D.E.L.T.A. Rescue and its work, visit http://www.deltarescue.org/.

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Sabertoothed Males Were Pussycats

Despite their fearsome fangs, male sabertoothed cats may have been less aggressive than many of their feline cousins, says a new study of male-female size differences in extinct big cats.

The researchers report that while male American lions were considerably larger than females, male and female sabertoothed cats were indistinguishable in size. The findings suggest that sabertooths may have been less aggressive than their fellow felines, researchers say.

In species where males fight for mates, bigger, heavier males have a better chance of winning fights, fending off their rivals and gaining access to females. After generations of male-male competition, the males of some species evolve to be much larger than their mates.

Most big cats have a form of sexual dimorphism where males are bigger than females, said co-author Julie Meachen-Samuels, a biologist at the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center in Durham, NC. So she and Wendy Binder of Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles wanted to know if extinct sabertooths and American lions showed the same size patterns as big cats living today.

CITATION: Meachen-Samuels, J. and W. Binder (2009). "Sexual Dimorphism and Ontogenetic Growth in the American Lion (Panthera atrox) and Sabertoothed Cat (Smilodon fatalis) from Rancho La Brea." Journal of Zoology.

When it comes to fossils, sorting males from females can be tricky. “It’s hard to tell who’s a male and who’s a female in the fossil record,” said Blaire Van Valkenburgh, a biologist at UCLA who has studied these animals extensively but was not an author on the paper. “Unless you’re lucky enough to get some DNA, or you’re working with an animal where males have horns and females don’t.”

For species that keep growing into adulthood, simply separating the fossils into two groups by size may not do the trick, either. “It’s easy to get a younger, smaller male confused with an older, larger female if you’re just dividing them by size,” Meachen-Samuels said.

The researchers accounted for continued growth using subtle clues from fossilized teeth. “Teeth fill in over time,” said Binder. “In young animals the tooth cavity is basically hollow, but as they get older it fills in with dentin. It won’t give you an exact age, but it can give you a relative age in terms of young, middle aged or old,” Binder added.

Meachen-Samuels and Binder x-rayed the lower teeth and jaws of 13 American lions and 19 sabertoothed cats recovered from the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. To account for growth over time, they measured tooth cavity diameter and plotted it against jaw length for each species. Plotted this way, the data for the American lion fell easily into two groups, regardless of age. The researchers concluded that "the little ones were females and the big ones were males,” said Van Valkenburgh.

In contrast, sabertoothed cat sizes seemed to be governed solely by age. It would appear that the males were indistinguishable from their mates. “Even by incorporating a measure of age, you can’t distinguish males and females,” said Meachen-Samuels.

Size differences between the sexes tend to be more impressive in species where male aggression is more intense, and in the extinct American lion, size differences between the sexes were even more dramatic than in lions living today.

The closest living relative of the American lion, "African lions engage in aggressive takeovers where one to several males will take over an entire pride – the males have battles to the death,” said Van Valkenburgh.

“Living lions have huge sexual dimorphism,” said Meachen-Samuels.

Based on their findings, the researchers think the American lion probably lived in male-dominated groups, where 1-2 males monopolized and mated with multiple females. “My guess would be that the American lion was similar to African lions, where males guard groups of females,” said Meachen-Samuels.

“But we don’t see that in the sabertoothed cat,” Binder said. The size similarity in sabertoothed cats suggests that male sabertooths may have been less aggressive than their larger cousins. “Rather than males having harems of females, the males and females in a group might have been more equal,” Binder said.

By Robin Smith

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The HSUS Offers Reward in Georgia Halloween Cat Mutilation Case

The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for inflicting burns across the body of a small kitten in Stockbridge, Ga., on Halloween night.

The Case: News reports give the following account: An 8-week-old kitten was found wandering around the Waterford Place Apartments in Stockbridge on Halloween night, covered with burns. The kitten, now named Sweetie, was taken to the Alpharetta Animal Hospital for evaluation. The veterinarian believes the scars were likely caused by an acid burn, and that her fur will likely never grow back. Despite the horrible injuries, Sweetie is said to have a wonderful disposition and is being adopted out by the PeachState Pet Partners.

Animal Cruelty: Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.

"Anyone capable of hurting a kitten like Sweetie can be dangerous to people," said Cheryl McAuliffe, The HSUS' Georgia state director. "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."

The Investigators: The Clayton County Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Capt. Mark Thomas at 770-477-3509.

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Can Humans Pass Swine Flu to Pets?

According to ABC news, a cat in Iowa is the latest victim to develop swine flu after being exposed to it in his home.

Cat in Iowa Catches Swine Flu
by Lauren Cox
ABC News Medical Unit

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Cats found to offer support to breast cancer patients

(ARA) - Women facing breast cancer report that their cats rank among the most important of the many loyal, loving and understanding supporters they rely on to help them through their treatment. In fact, cats rank alongside parents and siblings as an important source of daily support, according to a recent survey.

Studies show that an important emotional connection exists between pets and their owners. During times of stress or illness, the bond between a pet and owner can be particularly strong. Missy Fish is undeniable proof of this.

Fish, a two-time breast cancer survivor, leaned on the companionship of her two cats, Phoebe and Jack, during her treatments.

"They were the perfect companions when I needed them most,” Fish says. “They were silent sources of strength and empowerment.”

Fish is far from the only breast cancer survivor to attest to the power of her cat. A recent Purina Cat Chow national survey of breast cancer survivors with cats underscores this important emotional connection and relationship.

The survey found that 84 percent of women battling breast cancer said their cat had a calming effect on them during their treatment. Cats also provided daily support to the patient, according to 76 percent of survivors surveyed.

Dr. Karen Sueda, a Diplomate at the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, says that cats are perceptive to their owner's needs during an illness.

“Whether pet owners are fighting a disease such as breast cancer or going through a rough period in life such as job loss or financial stress, their cats often display intuitive behaviors of knowing when they need extra love and support," says Sueda.

Inspired by one cancer survivor’s touching story of the role her cat played during her battle with cancer, Purina Cat Chow is doing its part to help the fight against breast cancer. This year, in a partnership with Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Purina Cat Chow will donate more than $200,000 to the cause and will raise awareness for breast cancer through the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign.

“We have heard countless stories from breast cancer patients and survivors of how they have been emotionally supported by their cats,” says Katy Laciny, Purina Cat Chow's assistant brand manager. “Purina Cat Chow’s Connected for the Cause campaign honors this exceptional relationship and invites consumers to help us raise awareness and increase support for Susan G. Komen for the Cure so that a cure can be found.”

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. The organization has invested $1.3 billion toward ending breast cancer, becoming the world’s largest source of non-profit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.

Visit www.catchow.com/pink to hear survivor stories, read about the unique connection between survivors and their cats and share photos of support. For every picture uploaded, Purina Cat Chow will donate an additional $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure up to $10,000.

The Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign culminates this October with limited-edition pink bags at grocery, mass and pet retailers nationwide in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Products featuring pink bags include Purina Cat Chow Complete Formula and Purina Cat Chow Indoor Formula, both available in 3.5 pound and 16 pound bags.

For more information on the Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause campaign, go to www.catchow.com/pink.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Rabies Cases Among Cats on the Rise

/PRNewswire/ -- While reported cases of rabies in the United States dropped in 2008, veterinarians and public health officials warn that an increase in the number of reported cases in cats poses a health risk to both animals and people.

There were 6,841 reported cases of animal rabies in the United States and Puerto Rico in 2008, according to a report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and published in the Sept. 15, 2009, edition of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The number represents a 3.1 percent decrease from the 7,060 rabies cases in animals reported to the CDC in 2007. There were two cases of rabies in humans in 2008, up from one case reported in 2007.

According to the CDC report, rabies continues to affect wildlife much more than it does domestic animals. Wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes, accounted for 93 percent of all rabies cases reported in 2008, the report states.

More work needs to be done, however, when it comes to controlling rabies in pets, especially cats and dogs. Cats led the list of domestic animals with reported cases of rabies in 2008. According to the CDC report, there were 294 reported cases of rabies in cats last year, up about 12 percent from the 262 reported cases in 2007. Dog-related cases totaled 75 in 2008, down from 93 in 2007.

Jesse Blanton, an epidemiologist at the CDC, said cats have more interaction with wildlife, where they are prone to being bitten by a rabid animal, and they aren't getting the vaccinations they need.

"The CDC's general belief is that people are doing a good job vaccinating their dogs, but not their cats," Blanton said. "We have controlled canine rabies through the vaccination of domestic dogs, so we know that vaccinating works."

The belief that cats aren't getting their necessary shots is supported by data from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) report that indicates 36.3 percent of U.S. cat-owning households did not visit a veterinarian in 2006. In contrast, the report, "U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook," indicates that 17.3 percent of dog-owning households did not visit a veterinarian in 2006.

The simple act of vaccinating a pet, Blanton said, provides protection to the animal and the humans with whom it may come in contact. Veterinarians can vaccinate dogs and cats, and they will advise clients on the recommended or required frequency of vaccination needed.

Rabies remains a threat worldwide, killing more than 55,000 people every year, according to the World Health Organization. The release of the CDC report comes at an opportune time for continued public education, as World Rabies Day is approaching on Sept. 28. World Rabies Day, now in its third year, aims to raise awareness about the public health impact of human and animal rabies. For more information on World Rabies Day, visit the AVMA's World Rabies Day Web page.

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Protect Your Dog (and Cat) During Dog Days

With dog days and their accompanying high temperatures upon us, Georgians are doing their best to keep cool. Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin is reminding pet owners that their cats and dogs need assistance in order to stay safe and healthy on sweltering days.

Here are a few tips to help your pet beat the summer heat:

Keep a fresh water supply available. Change the water daily. This helps ensure that it remains clean and prevents mosquitoes from breeding in it.

Keep it in the shade so it doesn’t get hot.

Do not leave your pet in a parked car – even with the windows cracked. The temperature can become dangerously high within minutes.

If your dogs are outdoors, make sure that they have a shaded, well-ventilated place to get out of the sun’s harmful rays. Place doghouses in the shade. (Cats are better kept indoors year-round for their health and safety as well as to protect songbirds and wildlife.)

Limit strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Take walks in the morning or evening. Bring your dog inside to the air-conditioning if it seems too hot. Dogs with short snouts such as Pugs, English bulldogs and Pekineses are especially vulnerable to the heat.

Avoid prolonged contact with asphalt or concrete. These surfaces may burn paw pads.

Fleas and ticks are more active during the summer months and can cause serious health problems. Talk to your veterinarian about how to keep these from infesting your pet.

Keep your pet’s vaccinations up-to-date. This is especially important during summer to protect against mosquitoes and disease-carrying insects.

Spay or neuter your pet. This keeps animals closer to home and helps them avoid potential life-threatening situations, decreases their disease susceptibility and improves their overall health. For information on how to receive a discount on your pet’s spay or neuter procedure through the Dog and Cat Sterilization Program, visit the Georgia Department of Agriculture at www.agr.georgia.gov or call 404-656-3667.
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Making Life Easier For Your Senior Pet

(NAPSI)-Arthritis can make it difficult for cats and dogs to get around, but there are many steps you can take to help ease your pet's suffering.

Here are a few tips to help you make life more comfortable for your pet:

• Keep your pet moving. Regular exercise is an important part in preventing arthritis flare-ups-whether it means taking your dog for regular short walks or giving your cat a toy to encourage play. Light exercise lubricates the joints.

• Watch their weight. Don't overfeed your pets or allow them to eat too many scraps as extra weight raises their chances of developing arthritis. Extra weight can strain a pet's joints and eventually cause cartilage to degenerate.

• Keep them comfortable. Arthritis can get worse if the pet sleeps in an awkward position, so make sure your senior pet has a comfortable bed to sleep in; an orthopedic bed, if possible. Some orthopedic beds even deliver heat to soothe affected joints.

• Make adjustments to their environment. For example, think about where you place a pet's food bowl. Raising the food bowl can reduce neck strain. A pet with advanced arthritis might find steps difficult. A ramp or special pet steps may help.

• Supplement their diet. You can also make your pet more comfortable by giving him a supplement such as Cosequin DS. The scientifically researched nutritional supplement is dispensed by thousands of veterinarians to help cats and dogs maintain healthy joints. It's the only over-the-counter supplement to help prevent and treat joint conditions that can be used on both cats and dogs.

Early action is best as the supplement works gradually and it may take a while to see results. If you notice limping, stiffness or a change in gait, ask your veterinarian to examine your pet and advise you on supplement use.

Your veterinarian may also suggest using the supplement as a protective measure to prevent arthritis from developing or flaring up.

For more information, visit Entirelypets.com.

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New Study Shows Majority of Pet Cats Are Neutered

/PRNewswire/ -- A new study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Association reports that the vast majority -- at least 80% -- of pet cats in U.S. households are neutered, with middle-to higher-income households reporting rates of over 90%.

The peer-reviewed study, based on data collected for the national nonprofit organization Alley Cat Allies by Harris Interactive, Alley Cat Allies by Harris Interactive and analyzed by Alley Cat Allies using a rigorous statistical approach, is the first nationally representative study to thoroughly examine household income as it relates to the neuter status of pet cats.

"This study indicates that spaying and neutering is an accepted, established practice among the large majority of Americans with pet cats," said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. "This is a very positive finding. As a result, our nation's pet cats are living much healthier lives."

The study found that family income was the strongest predictor of whether house cats are neutered. In households earning $35,000 or more annually, 93% of cats were neutered, compared to 51% of cats in households earning less than $35,000. While both income groups reported a majority of their pet cats to be neutered, the disparity underscores a challenge long observed by Alley Cat Allies, said Robinson.

"Up until now, there has been a lot of speculation that income is a barrier for neuter in lower-income families, but now we have a scientific study establishing that this is the case nationally," Robinson said.

"It is also critical to point out that household cats represent only part of the total U.S. cat population," said Wendy Anderson, director of law and policy for Alley Cat Allies and a co-author of the study.

"Previous research has shown there may be just as many stray and feral cats in the U.S. as pet cats, and most of these cats are intact and breeding. We need to enact smart policies and programs that expand the availability of low-cost, high-volume spay and neuter services, not only to serve lower-income pet owners, but to provide services for feral cats as well," Anderson said.

The study ("Population Characteristics and Neuter Status of Cats Living in Households in the United States," J Am Vet Med Assoc 2009; 234:1023-1030) consisted of 1,205 respondents across the continental U.S., contacted by telephone and selected via random-digit dial methodology. Following completion of the data collection, respondents were weighted for region, age, gender, education, income, race and ethnicity to ensure a sample representative of the U.S. population.

Based on the nationally representative sample, the study concluded that there are approximately 82.4 million pet cats in the United States, living in a total of 36.8 million households. One third of these households reported adopting at least one of their cats as a stray.

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U.S. House of Representatives Passes Legislation Protecting Rare Species of Mammals and Birds Around the World

The Humane Society of the United States applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing legislation that will provide financial resources for conservation programs to protect rare dog and cat species and imperiled crane populations. The House passed the Great Cats and Rare Canids Act by a vote of 290 – 118, and the Crane Conservation Act by a vote of 288 – 116 on April 21.

Reps. Jay Inslee, D-Wash., John Tanner, D-Tenn., Hal Rogers, R-Ky., and Ed Royce, R-Calif., introduced the Great Cats and Rare Canids Act (H.R. 411). The Crane Conservation Act (H.R. 388) was introduced by Reps. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., and Ginny Brown-Waite, R-Fla. The HSUS expressed its strong thanks to the authors of these bills, and also to House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife Subcommittee Chairwoman Madeleine Bordallo, D-Guam, and Ranking Member Henry Brown, R-S.C., who have made passage of these bipartisan measures a priority.

“These important conservation bills will provide a critical lifeline for rare dogs, cats and cranes around the world,” said Michael Markarian, executive vice president for The Humane Society of the United States. “Many of these species are in crisis and have declined drastically due to habitat loss, disease and human-wildlife conflict. Who could possibly think that Cape hunting dogs or black crowned cranes do not deserve a place on our planet, or jaguars or snow leopards for that matter?”

The Multinational Species Conservation Fund already includes grant programs to help imperiled species — including Asian and African elephants, great apes, marine turtles, rhinoceroses, tigers and neotropical migratory birds. Now, two separate accounts would be added to the fund specifically to assist cranes and rare dogs and cats.

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Four Easy Tips to Live Harmoniously with Your Favorite Fur-ball

(ARA) – You play, laugh, snuggle and sleep together. In fact, you’re best friends! But, just like their owners, pets have their quirks: chewing socks, begging, stealing food and some things they just can’t help, like shedding hair everywhere.

One out of three dog and cat owners admit that they’ve left the house with pet hair on their clothes in the last three months, according to the Pledge Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair survey. For the 63 percent of Americans who have pets, this is not the most pleasing statistic to be a part of. It’s time for houseguests to walk in the front door of your home and notice how great your home looks, not how hairy you or your furniture is.

Here are some weekly housecleaning tips to reduce the pains of cleaning up after your pet so you can finally declare, “Welcome to the Sofa!” without the fear of hair, scratching or fleas getting the best of you.

* Stop those bad habits.
Whether puppies are teething, or your dog just has a bad habit, it is frustrating when your beloved pet chews on furniture. One option is to spray your furniture with chewing deterrents, which are available at pet stores. For cats who scratch, scratching boards are a must-have.

* Play fetch with pet hair.
Most pets shed, lovingly leaving their fur behind on your upholstery. For upholstered furniture, the new Pledge Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair does the trick. It is a handheld solution which traps hair – picking up as much hair as 145 of the traditional sticky sheets. Rollers grab, lift and trap pet hair inside the device as you slide the device side to side over upholstered furniture, keeping the living spaces clean and hair-free. With this cleaning tool, it's easy to welcome your pet back to the couch for a snuggle while watching your favorite TV show.

* Make fleas stay away.
Eliminate flea problems naturally and with a pleasant smell using peppermint and eucalyptus oils. They can be used on your pet's coat and you can also use eucalyptus leaves under your pet's bedding to prevent fleas and add a pleasant smell to the bedding.

*A million toys and nothing to do.
No matter how many toys you have lying around the house, dogs often still act bored or prefer your shoes. In order to help maintain your dog’s interest in toys, rotate them so a few are available each day.

Cleaning up pet hair has never been easier. Visit Pledge.com to learn more about the Pledge Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Canine Cancer #1 Fear of Dog Lovers, Web Exclusive by Morris Animal Foundation Provides News on Latest Breakthroughs - Crucial Facts for Dog Owners

/PRNewswire/ -- Dog owners and lovers in the United States view canine cancer as the greatest health threat to their beloved pets. They are correct. One in four dogs die of cancer. Cancer is the number one cause of death in dogs over the age of 2.

Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) has posted on its Web site, www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org, a canine cancer exclusive of special interest to dog owners and dog lovers everywhere. The MAF canine cancer Web exclusive features information and insight from two of the world's leading colleges of veterinary medicine and canine cancer research centers, Colorado State University and Cornell University. View the presentation at: www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/ccexclusive. The MAF exclusive includes a question and answer session conducted by three veterinary oncologists from the Colorado State University Animal Cancer Center - the largest facility of its kind in the world. Questions have been submitted from owners whose dogs are suffering from cancer, animal lovers, as well as dog breeders, boarding kennel managers and others.

The Web presentation also includes canine cancer facts and updates from the Sprecher Institute for Comparative Cancer Research at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. This prestigious institute is at the forefront of research benefiting both animals and humans. Links are provided to Cornell's "Pet Owner's Guide to Cancer" and other cancer educational sites.

Also at the MAF canine cancer presentation Web page are links to many of the leading veterinary and canine cancer centers in the United States and the United Kingdom. Dog owners/lovers can learn about and access the excellent resources closest to their home.

MAF launched an unprecedented global campaign to raise funds to cure canine cancer in the next 10 to 20 years, and while seeking the ultimate cure, will develop more effective treatments for dogs suffering from cancer today. MAF is funding canine cancer research at many of the top veterinary colleges in the world. Learn more about the campaign at www.CureCanineCancer.org.

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Helping Homeless Cats

(NAPSI)-If you're feeding cats outdoors-whether tame or feral (not tame)-you're not alone. Experts say the welfare and management of these unneutered and unspayed cats is an issue in almost every community.

Problems associated with these cats include:

• a growing population

• frequent and loud noise from fighting and mating behavior

• strong foul odors from unneutered male cats spraying to mark their territory

• visible suffering from dying kittens and injured adults.

In addition to nuisance calls about these problems, shelters in a community with large homeless cat populations usually experience higher animal control costs due to trapping efforts and/or costs associated with caring for and euthanizing homeless cats. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is an effective method for improving the lives of feral cats and reducing their numbers.

The cats targeted for TNR are feral cats. Feral cats are the offspring of lost or abandoned pet cats or other feral cats who are not spayed or neutered. They do not easily adapt or may never adapt to living indoors as pets in close contact with people.

At a minimum, feral cats who are part of a TNR program are spayed or neutered so they can no longer reproduce. In addition, they are vaccinated against rabies, surgically ear-tipped on one ear and returned to their territory. Ear-tipping is the universally recognized sign of a cat who has been TNRed.

Dedicated caretakers feed and provide shelter for these cats, monitor them for sickness and trap new cats who appear. If the captured cats are feral, they are TNRed; if the captured cats are lost or abandoned pet cats, they are reunited with their families or adopted into new homes. If they are kittens young enough to be socialized, they are also adopted.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) believes that cat overpopulation is a community-generated problem and that every community has a responsibility to work toward an effective long-term solution.

TNR of feral cats is part of that solution. In addition, pet cats must be spayed or neutered before they can reproduce at 5 months of age, kept indoors or safely confined to their property, provided with safety collars and ID and searched for immediately if they go missing.

To learn more about managing cat overpopulation, visit www.humanesociety.org/feralcats.

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Dogs Chase Efficiently, but Cats Skulk Counterintuitively

A Duke University study suggests that evolution can behave as differently as dogs and cats. While the dogs depend on an energy-efficient style of four-footed running over long distances to catch their prey, cats seem to have evolved a profoundly inefficient gait, tailor-made to creep up on a mouse or bird in slow motion.

"It is usually assumed that efficiency is what matters in evolution," said Daniel Schmitt, a Duke associate professor of evolutionary anthropology. "We've found that's too simple a way of looking at evolution, because there are some animals that need to operate at high energy cost and low efficiency."

Namely cats.

In a report published online Nov. 26 in the research journal Public Library of Science (PLoS), Schmitt and two former Duke co-researchers followed up on a scientific hunch by measuring and videotaping how six housecats moved along a 6 yard-long runway in pursuit of food treats or feline toys.

Long-distance chase predators like dogs can reduce their muscular work needed to move forward by as much as 70 percent by allowing their body to rise and fall and exchanging potential and kinetic energy with each step. In contrast, the maximum for cats is about 37 percent and much lower than that in a stalking posture, the report found.

"An important implication of these results is the possibility of a tradeoff between stealthy walking and economy of locomotion," the three researchers wrote in PLoS. "These data show a previously unrecognized mechanical relationship in which crouched postures are associated with changes in footfall pattern, which are in turn related to reduced mechanical energy recovery."

In other words, they found that when cats slink close to the ground they walk in a way that "the movements of their front and back ends cancel each other out," Schmitt said. While that's not good for energy efficiency "the total movement of their bodies is going to be even and they'll be flowing along," he added

"If they're creeping, they're going to put this foot down, and then that foot down and then that one in an even fashion. We think it has to do with stability and caution, Schmitt said."

Walking humans recover as much energy as dogs, said Schmitt, who studies gaits of various mammals. "Our centers of mass rise and fall when we walk. And when we do that, humans and other animals exchange potential and kinetic energy. It's an evolutionary miracle in my view.

"But cats need to creep up on their prey. Most scientists think that energetic efficiency is the currency of natural selection. Here we've shown that some animals make compromises when they have to choose between competing demands."

The study was supported by the National Science Foundation. Kristin Bishop, a former postdoctoral researcher at Duke, was the lead researcher and first author. Another author was Anita Pai, a former Duke undergraduate who is now a medical student at Vanderbilt University.


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Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of a Limited Number of Bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Sold at Wal-Mart locations in Fifteen States due to Pote

Mars Petcare US today announced a voluntary recall of a limited number of bags of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food sold at Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia. The pet food is being voluntarily recalled following a positive test result indicating a potential contamination with Salmonella.

This product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners should dispose of product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle) and return the empty bag to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Salmonella can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and, if there is cross contamination caused by handling of the pet food, in people as well, especially children, the aged, and people with compromised immune systems. Healthy people potentially infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. On rare occasions, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

There have been no complaints or reports of illness resulting from consumption or handling of the recalled product.

Pet owners who have questions about the recall should call 1-877-568-4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.

Recalled Pet Food
Product: SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend Dry Cat Food
Best If Used By Date: AUG 11 09
Best If Used By Date Location: Back of bag
Production Lot Code: 50 XXXX X (Found on back of bag just after "Best If Used By" date. Consumers should look for "50" as the first two digits of the second line.)
UPC Code: UPC code numbers can be found directly underneath the bar code on the package. Please find recalled pet food UPC information below.

3.5 lb.


SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend


81131 17546

7 lb.


SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend


81131 17547

18 lb.


SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend


81131 17548

Affected Stores: Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia.

In an effort to prevent the transmission of Salmonella from pets to family members and care givers, the FDA recommends that everyone follow appropriate pet food handling guidelines when feeding their pets. A list of safe pet food handling tips can be found at: www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/petfoodtips080307.html

Pet owners who have questions about the recall should call 1-877-568-4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.

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Cat People vs. Dog People ... They Really are Different

PRNewswire/ -- Cat people worship felines like pharos; dog people talk to hounds like people. New research shows that cat and dog people really are different -- in marital status, economic standing and education among other things.

"Our studies have shown that there are some interesting differences between cat owners and dog owners," says James Flanigan, head of marketing at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "Our surveys show that single people are more attracted to cat ownership, while dog owners are married with children. While the demographic information is interesting, some of it is concerning, too." http://www.avma.org/

The AVMA conducts surveys of pet owners every five years, and publishes the results in the U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook. In the 2007 edition, the image of a dog as a family pet is shown to be true: 67.0 percent of dog owners are married compared to 61.8 percent of cat owners, and 52.6 percent of dog owners are families of three or more, compared to 47.0 percent of cat owners.

"One of the most concerning differences among cat and dog owners is cat owners are much less likely to seek veterinary care for their animals, they spend less, and this divide seems to be growing," Flanigan explains.

The Sourcebook shows that 82.7 percent of dog owners made at least one annual visit to a veterinarian, compared to 63.7 percent of cat owners.

As for what is America's favorite pet ... it depends on how you read the most recent pet demographic statistics. There are more cats, 81.7 million compared to 72.1 million dogs, but there are more dog owners, 43 million compared to 37.5 million cat owners. This is because cat owners are more likely to have more than one cat.

For more of these fascinating statistics from the U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook, visit http://www.avma.org/reference/marketstats/sourcebook.asp.

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Purr-fectly ’Green’ Cat Care Tips

(ARA) – She can jump from the floor to the top of the refrigerator, or bound across your desk without disturbing a single sheet of paper. Your cat personifies the graceful, enviable sure-footedness of her species. But what about her eco-footprint?

With 88 million domesticated cats in the country (according to the National Pet Owners Survey by the American Pet Products Association), the question isn’t just academic. Like their human companions, pets’ modern lifestyles consume natural resources and can contribute to environmental issues like greenhouse gases and the waste stream.

”As consumers and responsible pet owners, we are all looking for ways to care for our pets’ health and their environment,” says Jill Cordes, host of America’s first broadband pet channel www.Petstyle.com. “Many of us are already putting eco-friendly practices into action in our own lives, from buying organic food to shopping with reusable bags and switching to natural household cleaners. Adopting ‘green’ pet care habits is a natural extension of our environmental consciousness.”

You can become a “greener” cat owner with 10 simple steps, Cordes advises:

1. Give them shelter. Overcrowding at animal adoption centers strains resources. You can help ease the problem – and possibly save an animal’s life – by adopting from a shelter rather than buying a cat from a pet store or breeder. You may also save money if you adopt from a shelter where many animals are likely to already be vaccinated, spayed or neutered. Visit www.aspca.com for more information.

2. Use protection. Get your cat spayed or neutered. Unplanned, unwanted ”deliveries” often wind up in shelters, contributing to the overcrowding problem. Plus, spaying and neutering can help reduce your cat’s risk of developing uterine, ovarian, or testicular cancer.

3. Tag, you’re it. Be sure your cat always wears a name tag (or license, if your municipality requires cats to be licensed). If he gets lost, the tag will help any good Samaritan who finds him return him to you. Plus, you’ll conserve the gas you would waste driving around the neighborhood hunting for him, and the paper for those ”missing” posters.

4. Keep it clean – and gentle. Replace traditional pet care and cleaning products that may contain harsh chemicals with gentle, all-natural products.

5. Potty all the time. Choose environmentally friendly cat litter like ARM & HAMMER Essentials Clumping Cat Litter. It’s made with natural biodegradable corn fibers which are sensible for the environment, and absorbs twice the liquid compared to regular clumping clay litter. Plus, the addition of baking soda eliminates odor problems instantly. Visit www.armandhammeressentials.com/litter.aspx to learn more.

6. Food for thought. Just as added hormones or pesticides in your food aren’t good for you, they’re not good for your cat, either. Look for pet food that is natural, organic and FDA-certified.

7. Quench their thirst. Change your pet’s water and food bowl regularly to eliminate potential disease, insect or other pest infestations. Be sure to use filtered tap water rather than bottled water, which weighs on your wallet and the environment.

8. Play ball. Purchase toys made from sustainable fibers or recycled materials, or entertain your cat with homemade toys crafted from recycled materials, like a scratching pole made from old carpeting. And remember, you will always be her favorite – and most eco-friendly – toy.

9. Into the wild ... or not. Try to keep your cat inside as much as possible to avoid exposure to injury, illness and predatory wildlife. If your cat craves the outdoors, however, try to keep his outside time supervised in an enclosed area.

10. Purr-tanical gardens. In an enclosed space, plant a small garden in your backyard for your cat and stock it with cat-safe herbs and flowers. Just be sure kitty is always supervised, and stays in her own yard – otherwise you may find yourself having to explain her embarassing visit to your neighbor’s tomato patch.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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