The Common Sense Book of Kitten and Cat Care

The new, complete revised and updated edition of the feline classic. For more than twenty years, cat lovers have tumed to this guide for sensible advice on every stage of a cat's life. Now, for a generation of cats and their owners, here is a completely updated and expanded edition, including the latest information on breeding, nutrition, veterinary medicine and much more. How to select the right cat for you and your family--sex, purebred or mixed, short or longhair, age, documentation. How to care for and handle a cat at every stage of its life, from the first litter box through sexual maturity and old age. A complete guide to your cat's diet and weight. How to train your cat and short-circuit mischievous and destructive behavior. Grooming your cat; how to avoid parasites, skin problems and other ailments. Your cat's medicine chest; practical home health care and first aid. When to call the vet--16 warnings signs. A complete introduction to cat anatomy, breeding and reproduction. How to travel with your cat-carriers (7 prerequisites) or boarding. How to break into the show world--all you need to know. How to evaluate the cat breeds, their characteristics and history, from Abyssinian to main Coon to Sphinx. Plus-cats and catnip; collars and leashes; encounters with dogs, porcupines and skunks; illustrations of the most popular cat breeds; and ideas on naming your cat.