Product Description
The holistic bible for cat caregivers—now updated and expanded.

The Natural Cat was one of the first books to advocate natural cat care when it was originally published in 1981. Now fully revised and expanded to address the many new discoveries in holistic pet care, this edition includes:

• A new introduction detailing the latest advances in holistic care for cats
• Updated statistics, new diet guidelines, and health care recommendations, including the latest on vaccines
• An updated resources section with suggestions for finding a holistic veterinarian and advice on how to deal with conventional veterinarians
• A complete overhaul of language to reflect new attitudes toward caregiving

Combined with classic and reliable advice on grooming, neutering and spaying, common feline health problems, elder cat care, behavioral problems, and emotional bonding, the latest information makes this edition of The Natural Cat the only handbook pet owners will need to naturally nurture a happy, healthy cat. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

EDucate your self about your cats health of all ages!
My wife works for a vet office and the advise that they were giving I know was wrong, so I went to the library and found this book, if you own a cat you should own this book or one like it, since alot of the product that are being sold are not even good for there health to have in them or on them, we are not 100% into the holistic health, but our cats had diareaha and we were told all of the norm then when it didn't clear up, well, they told us we should be feeding "dry" food to kittens. Well fortunitly we had already read the book, and alot of the things that he had, like a month of antibiotics messed up his insides. These ladies give several ways to help your cat, not just one, that is great since some items are hard to find. Now if I can get my little one to poop in the box I would be great:)

A Great Reference for Cat Lovers Looking to Give Their Cats the Best Life Possible
The Natural Cat by Anitra Frazier explains all aspects of raising a cat to be happy, healthy, and well-adjusted.Frazier starts by discussing cat behavior and communication.Her insights will help cat owners get desired behavior from their cats.The Natural Cat moves into a discussion of how to feed cats to provide them with the most nutritious and healthy food possible.Other topics in The Natural Cat include the litterbox, scratching posts, grooming, and medical care - both traditional and holistic.Frazier has created a terrific reference book that is easy to comprehend, easy to read, easy to apply, and filled with information on providing the most natural life possible to cats living with humans.

good for people too
I used the information in the original of this book many years ago when an adopter in a cat shelter told me that his allergic wife could be around cats as long as they ate the supplements suggested in the book.This was a new way of thinking for me.So for years after that I routinely made up the combination of ingredients, all things I knew and understood, and added the requisite tablespoons to my cats' food.My allergic husband and son got better and better and lived happily with the cats.For that alone the book is worth having and reading.

Good Holistic Health book!
Ms Frazier has an exceptional ability to observe, assimilate info, and come up with great effective ways of caring for Cats (see my review of her "It's a Cat's Iife...").She has included info for well Cats, sick Cats, kittens, new Cats, old Cats, problem Cats, long/short hair Cats, stray/feral Cats, abused Cats, etc. Good info on foods, making your own food, etc., various diseases, behavioural problems, litter box info, et.al.
The technical stuff is guided by Dr Pitcairn, the famous 1st Vet to really espouse holistic care for Cats, and others. I have only scanned my copy to date, but everything I've seen is right on, and, Though I've been studying about Cats for 12 yrs, this book has MUCH I've never seen before!I consider it a must-have book, for making sure your kitty is healthy and happy for a long time. (If kitty is happy, we're happy!)

I love this book!!!
I had an older edition of this book and I replaced it with a new edition with this purchase.

I take a lot of supplements as do my cats.I have been looking for good ideas to get my cats on a more natural and healthy diet and this book gave me many ideas.
If you were as concerned about the pet food recall a few years ago as I was
you will enjoy this book.A good book to read along side it is The Nature of Animal Healing by Martin Goldstein DVM.



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Product Description
Find out where and when to get your kitten, and how to feed and groom your growing cat. Learn to understand your cat's behavior, and how to keep your cat happy and healthy. Kitten is one of an exciting new series of pet care books designed to help young animal owners learn about and care for their pets. Illustrated on every page with full-color photography, Kitten is packed with practical information on every aspect of feline care. Published in association with the ASPCA, this series will engage and inform readers ages seven and up. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

scukabuc
I believe this book is a great guide for children because it breaks down into steps and it demonstrates how a child should do it.Also I think it gets 5 stars because It's a great book and would really like to own it.It shows all kids of cats and kittens it also shows what to do when you first get your very cute kitten or cat(s).The reason why i would like to reviewthe book is because i might get a cat or kitten.The contest is a great whyto make people to come to your site and other links.THE END ... Read more

Product Description
This book lays out a plan to prevent cancer or minimize the ravaging effects of this often-fatal disease through diet and natural remedies. It also provides an overview of holistic veterinary treatments that best fight cancer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Interesting but not that essential
Interesting book about alternative care for dogs and cats with cancer. However, not very specific and even though there are some more specific issues discussed most of the recommendations are not focused on a specific subject. If you really want to fight this disease and need specific and straight foward answers talk to your veterinarian and do a lot of research about it. They will be the best sources to help you face the questions and fears about cancer. ... Read more

Product Description
This book, the first book written by an Americanveterinarianspecializing in homeopathic medicine, teaches the average consumer howtouse natural remedies to treat common, acute, and chronic problems incatsand dogs. Hamilton covers digestive complaints, skin diseases(includingflea irritation), respiratory disorders, urinary diseases, mouth,teeth,and gum problems, ear pain, musculoskeletal ailments, injuries andtraumas,and psychological and behavioral problems. He also addresses severalissuesthat cannot be found in any other book on veterinary medicineincluding howto treat hyperactive cats and dogs, how to differentiate between truehealing and suppression or palliation of a disease, and the dangers ofveterinary vaccination. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (36)

Review Hom. care Cats & dogs
review by Cor van der Meij, homeopath
ISBN number: 978-55643-295-8Publisher: North Atlantic BooksPrice: $20-$25 incl. Shipping (available through: Homeopathic Educational Services, [...])Number of pages: 482
The American vet, and later homeopath/vet, Don Hamilton, wrote , in my opinion, a wonderful book about the homeopathic treatment of pets, named: homeopathic care for cats and dogs. Unfortunately, this book has not yet been translated into Dutch. Why exactly is it such a wonderful book? Because it does not only describe the regular and homeopathic treatment, but also the results of these treatments. Besides, and this is probably the most wonderful aspect of this book, it is based on his own practical experience, both as a regular vet and as a vet with only homeopathic treatments for animals. It has resulted in a pretty voluminous book, 482 pages to be exactly, but it gives the reader value for money. The theoretical part of the book is captivating, sharp and well-aimed. In one of the chapters he describes the aspects of vaccination, quite a controversial subject these days. It takes him 31 pages to come to the conclusion that, based on his own practical experiences with vaccinations, vaccinating does not contribute in a positive way to the well-being of animals. With the use of statistics, Hamilton demonstrates that a drastic decrease of cases with measles, whooping cough and polio had already begun, before they actually started vaccinating human beings. His final conclusion is therefore: don't vaccinate, because it is harmful. I think this is quite a thing to say for a former veterinarian, especially when I look at the ease with which many of those vets pump all these pets (and livestock)full with vaccines.

In the United States, the subject of vaccination is up for discussion. In the Netherlands it isnot (yet), but it definitely will. Can vaccination cause problems?, he asks himself. It might prevent certain disease at short notice, but the meaning of this prevention method is unclear. Might these diseases not be necessary for some reason, do they have certain advantages we do not understand? And furthermore: it is a fact that vaccination leads to weakening of the genes and therefore of the common resistance of a whole group. A bit further in the book he draws the following, strong conclusion: "vaccination is the replacement of an acute disease by a chronic disease". In a chapter with a similar kind of dimension, or better grandeur, he makes an analysis of the objections to regular medication, again based on a couple of years of experience. He relates this to the way regular medical science looks at a disease. Conventional medicine searches the cause of a disease outside the body of the human organism: bacteria's, viruses, moulds, fleas, worms, etc.. With the use of clear examples he explains how the conventional method does not cure a disease, but at best stops it for a while, whereupon the disease aggravates or a disease of deeper located organs originates. This eventually made Hamilton so disappointed with the conventional method that he decided to turn to homeopathy.

Further in the book he pays attention to good nutrition: raw meat, preferably organic, and bad nutrition: dog biscuits that in some cases contain the most horrible ingredients, like pieces of theflea collars of the dead cats and dogs that were processed in the food. Subsequently he gives a description of the homeopathic treatment of several ailments. At the end he gives a description of a number of important homeopathic medicines.

Isn't there a single remark to make with regard to this solid book, that basically describes the treatment of mammals (and therefore human beings), with the only difference that mammals always have an "honest" response to homeopathic treatment. Well, there is a comment to make. He lacks knowledge of Hahnemann's Organon and Chronic Diseases. He blames this on the fact that there wasn't a clear English translation available until recently.. Here he
must have overlooked Robin Murphy's "Commentary on Organon of Medicine", published in 2004, in which the full text of Hahnemann's "Organon of Medicine," 6th edition, is present. This must also be the reason why he attributes by mistake the most comprehensible argumentation about illness to Kent. The complexity of Hahnemann's Organon is not determined by a translation though, but by understanding. This is why he, unfortunately, misses the connection with Hahnemann's method of disease classification, although he comes close sometimes. In some cases his conclusions are a bit outrageous. At a certain point he explains the continuation of a tumour (dissemination to the kidneys) after the removal of a breast tumour, by the homeopathic principle of suppression, which I believe is questionable.

For the last 15 years I have been interested in literature about the homeopathic treatment of pets, and I believe this book really stands out. Don Hamilton is a `hardcore' colleague, who does not only treat animals with homeopathic remedies, but also links this to a clear and obvious understanding of the essence of homeopathy. He is a clear observer who draws conclusions from his bad experiences with conventional veterinary science. And that is something I have not encountered very often. Most veterinary homeopaths treat animals with the so called double-method: both a regular medicine and a homeopathic medicine, which leads nowhere with regard to your own comprehension, I mean. Although I am not a veterinary homeopath, I believe it is easy to conclude that "Homeopathic care for cats and dogs" is an absolute must-read. All we need now is the Dutch translation.

Cor van der Meij, classic homeopath
With questions and remarks, you can send and e-mail to the author, Cor van der Meij: cmey@hetnet.nl.

I wonder why this is?????
I liked the book; however, I wonder why every time I buy a book on homeopathy it seems like the malady that I am needing help with is not included in the book! Probably, my problem; nonetheless, I could not help mentioning it for what it is worth.

Wonderful book, nearly all you need to know
This book helped me a lot with my animals. It is optimal for humans as well. It was very well written. In the text are explained both the symptoms and medicines. I recommend it to everyone who wants to know more about homeopathy.

Great book!
This book not only provides a comprehensive picture of various conditions and their remedies, but is one of the best explanations of homeopathy I have ever read.

Holistic and helpful!
A great reference text describing hundreds of ailments, the history of homeopathy andthe over use of western drugs and how they affect our pets.
Homeopathy is gentle and pets respond well to treatments, without the use of harsh pharmaceutical drugs. A timeless reference for any pet owner who wants to extend the longivity of his/her pet... naturally and effectively! Much information on vaccines and and other dangerous medications that harm our animals.
A classic! ... Read more

Product Description
In this handy, accessible volume-arranged in an easy-to-use, A-Z format-readers will get more information on:

* The treatments available for a wide range of conditions-from behavioral problems to inherited disorders to life-threatening emergencies
* How to ask the right questions of their veterinarians
* Where to find the best specialists to meet the specific medical needs of their dog or cat* The most current research on vaccines, genetics, diet, and behavior management* Basic pet care

Pet Care in the New Century also features heartwarming true stories of dogs and cats who have beaten the odds thanks to their caring owners and today's most innovative and dedicated veterinary professionals. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Medicine Goes to the Dogs (& Cats!)
Specialists raved about the book when it first came out--and it's now been updated:

"Here is an up-to-date reference book covering modern veterinary care...this book covers many advances in veterinary medicine and shows you how to take advantage of them." --Bellwether Review, University of Pennsylvanila School of Veterinary Medicine

"Chapters discuss how modern medicine builds on past success; the way veterinarians are trained; advances in diagnostic tooks, medications and surgery; how research studies work; what tquestions to ask and where to find specialists (or research trials) to meet the needs of your dog or cat. The book also includes inspriational true storeis of dogs ande cats that have enefited from today's most innovative treatmetns." American College of Veterinary Surgeons Newsletter

"...Amy Shojai makes increasingly complicated pet care more readily understood in Pet Care in the New century. In addition to resource directories and heartwarming real-life examples, sections on ethics and recent technological advancements, Shojai offers an alphabetical references guide of health and behavior conditions. Shojai's Pet Care in the New Century better prepars pet owners to care for their pets and enables cats and dogs to live longer, happier lives." --PetFood Industry Magazine

"Amy Shojai is a masterful researcher, and she translates the results of her findings into easily-digestible material that keeps the reader turning pages..."--Franny Syufy, [...] reviews

Great reference, newest information
This book is a must for any pet owner.I have an extensive collection of pet health books, and most of them do not contain the new, state-of-the-art medical and technological options that this one does.In addition to the newest information available, the book is inspiring for any pet owner facing illness, as various treatment options are easily explained in detail.It is also a terrific book to review before a veterinary visit so appropriate issues and questions can be addressed.

Invaluable Resource!
Amy D. Shojai is the author of 16 pet books, and a nationally known writer of pet care and behavior topics. In Shojai's latest book, PET CARE IN THE NEW CENTURY, [she] interviewed nearly 100 experts ... including members of the ACVS, ACVIM, and other speciality colleges. Never before has the veterinary profession been able to offer such amazing medical treatments and such a high level of preventative care. "I am amazed that a person can create a book that covers all aspects of modern veterinary care," says Robert A. Taylor, DVM, ACVS. "This book will prove to be an invaluable resource to companion animal lovers, students and the profession."
---ACVIM SPECIALIST QUARTERLY, August 2001, Newsletter of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine

100 Veterinary Specialists Featured
Shojai interviewed nearly 100 experts for the 315-page book, including many members of American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), and other speciality colleges. Chapters discuss how modern medicine builds on past success; the way veterinarins are trained; advances in diagnostic tools, medications and surgery; how research studies work; and what questions to ask and where to find specialists (or research trials) to meet the needs of your dog or cat. An A-to-Z guide of a wide range of conditions is listed. The book also includes inspirational true stories of dogs and cats that have benefited from today's most innovative treatments.
---ACVS Newsletter, Summer 2001

Worthwhile for Pet Lovers
Here is an up-to-date reference book covering modern veterinary care. More than a hundred veterinarians, among them quite a few from Penn, explain many health and behavior conditions, arranged alphabetically . . . The appendix lists veterinary colleges in the United States and their websites. A specialist has completed additional training and is a "Diplomate" of a veterinary specialty college. The appendix gives contact information. The human-animal bond brings up ethical questions, which are thoughtfully covered. . . The difficult subject of genetics is briefly covered. This book covers many advances in veterinary medicine and shows you how to take advantage of them. It's a worthwhile addition to the library of dog and cat owners.
---Bellwether "Animal Crackers" Book Review, publication of University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (15)

Perfect Gift, Perfect Reference, Perfect Book, period!
This new book by Dr. Hofve and Dr. Yarnall is fabulous!It is absolutely perfect for those new to holistic cat care and for those who have been exploring it for some time.There are countless detailed charts that serve as perfect references and guidesfor the newbie and professional alike.Hofve and Yarnall cover everything from cat safe cleaning products, emergency first aid, treating cancer, aging gracefully, and even chakras, auras, and cat astrology!They even take on the often confusing topics of the raw food diet and also the vaccination debate!But what I especially love about this book is their hands on friendly approach to homeopathy, flower essences, and therapeutic touch.I've found these modalities to be crucial components to my pets' health and this book really makes it less overwhelming and intimidating.This book is beautiful and harmonious in its contents and approach and truly is essential for every cat guardian!

A well written book from a true pet lover!
Dr. Yarnall is a true pet lover that truly cares for the health of animals and your pets.Her latest book "The Complete Guide to Holistic Cat Care" proves that.I have been following her feeding and holistic regime for my pets for several years.This book was written from education, experience, first hand investigations and integrity.

The real beauty of this book is not only the information you'll receive, but if you wish to change your pet's diet to raw, she has done all the work for you.You don't have to be an expert to know what nutrients, oils or vitamins to put in your pets meal.Her quality line of products and recipes make it simple, easy and healthy for you and your animals.

My cats are Celeste Cats.


Thank you Dr. Yarnall.

Good but too much product promotion
I purchased this book from Amazon at the same time that I purchased Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats.The content in this book is fairly good, but I do not like the fact that the one basic recipe the author provides requires the inclusion of several of her prepackaged supplements.I went to the Celestial Cats web site to see what was in the supplements and it did not even provide an analysis of the contents (at least I didn't find one). One of the great benefits of preparing food at home is knowing exactly what goes into it, but this approach diminishes that.It also implies that the author's intent in writing the book is to promote her products (as mentioned by another reviewer).

In Dr. Pitcairn's book I was very happy to see many recipes for both dogs and cats that could be made from scratch without having to purchase any prepackaged products from the author.The supplements are all clearly defined in the recipes and an analysis of the calorie, protein, fat, etc. content is given for each recipe.I know exactly what I am feeding my pets when I follow his recipes.

I may have liked this book more if I didn't have Dr. Pitcairn's book to compare it to, but I would have set aside the idea of raw feeding if I thought I had to buy a third party supplement or product to do it.So, I guess it all worked out for the best.

Great, without the Bisquick...
This is a wonderful book on many levels. It covers every imaginable aspect of holistic animal care, from nutrition to supplements to energy healing modalities to grieving the loss of a pet. No area is left uncovered, and it's clear the author cares deeply for cats and truly honors the incredible connection many of us have with our animals. The color photos are also gorgeous, and the obvious health of her many generations of raw-fed cats is testament to the benefits of this diet.

My one beef with this book is that the recipe she provides for feeding your cats raw (which is one of the main reasons I bought the book) is little more than an opportunity to promote the products she sells on her website for supplementing the raw food diet. I'm sure the products are great, and I wouldn't have objected to her recommending these products but offering alternatives; however, there are no alternatives offered for the main vitamin/mineral supplement in the recipe. Her Celestial Cats supplement is made up of bone meal and other vitamins, which could easily be put together without her expensive powdered formula. After all, don't zillions of other vets and pet owners prepare a raw diet for their pets without using her supplements?

I'm always a little annoyed at recipes on the back of food packages that require their specific products to be used. What if I don't have Bisquick Super Duper Baking mix and Bisquick Super Duper Yada Yada on hand? Can I still make muffins? I guess that's to be expected on a Bisquick box, but in a regular cookbook, I'd be pretty peeved to find that Bisquick was required in every recipe. Likewise, in a "complete" guide to holistic cat care, I didn't expect to be limited to a particular brand or product.

I was torn between giving the book 3 stars (because I was so irritated) and giving it 4 stars (for all its other great attributes). In the end, I went with 4, because I know I'll get a lot of use out of the book. But unfortunately, it looks like I'll be buying another (less biased) book to complement this one. To me, that's not "complete."

A valuable resource for every cat owner
This book is a comprehensive resource for the cat parent interested in natural alternatives for feline health.It covers topics such as nutrition, natural remedies, and hands-on healing in an easy to understand way without being light on the factual information.The book places particular emphasis on nutrition as preventive medicine.Yarnall, a breeder of Tonkinese championship show cats, bred and raised eleven generations of cats on the basic holistic principles outlined in her books.The foundation of her breeding program is a raw food diet.The chapter on Nutrtition as Preventative Medicine provides a complete and thorough overview of everything a cat owner might want to know about feeding raw the right way.

Other aspects of holistic cat care addressed in the book include natural remedies such as herbs, homeopathy and flower essences, hand-on healing modalities including chiropractic, acupuncture and Reiki, as well as some more esoteric therapies such as Applied Kinesiology, crystal, color and sound healing, and magnetic therapy.All of these modalities are introduced and explained in an easily accessible, yet comprehensive manner.In conclusion, Yarnall offers her outlook on the ever-expanding field of anti-aging health care and how it might impact our cats.

In addition to being chock full of well-researched and well-presented information on holistic cat care, the book is beautifully laid out andillustrated with stunning cat photographs.This guide is a valuable resource for every cat owner interested in holistic health and a beautiful addition to your cat care library.

Ingrid King, Author Buckley's Story

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Product Description
Epilepsy teaches pet owners how they can get their cats or dogs off seizure medication through natural care methods while minimizing the severity and frequency of epileptic attacks. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Common Sense Help for dogs with Epilepsy
I bought this book for my daughter who got a beautiful and sweet Border Collie mix from the Shelter.After about 6 months the dog had what appeared to be a seizure and continued to have them every 4 - 6 months.The book was informative and helped relieve a lot of her anxieties and gave her direction in what to do during and after a seizure.The book is helpful and provides natural pet care.It is not a complete work on the medical condition and lacks a great deal in providing all the medical solutions for this disorder.The book was promptly shipped in excellent condition.

Way Overpriced
This is a great book but this pricing must be a typo.You can get this book for $6.95 at Only Natural Pet's website online.

This is a must-read for pet owners.
For anyone who has endured the experience of watching a dog or cat have a seizure this book can be a godsend.Not only does it provide helpful holistic strategies that really work--it's a one of a kind book.Petowners who have pets prone to seizures are often left helpless.They don'tknow who to turn to.In result, they end up scared, frustrated and believeconventional medicine is the only solution.It's not.My book whichprovides wonderful strategies from top holistic vets nationwide offers aidto any pet owner who wants help and is willing to try a healthful,alternative route to lower the risk of seizures.I believe that myresearch and doctors' words of wisdom and expertise can and will help theirbeloved pets.Forthose who have an open mind and are willing to explorethe vast world of alternative medicine this book may be the solution you'relooking for. ... Read more

Product Description
This series comprehensively covers gentle, natural treatments for common pet diseases.Applying the natural treatments in Hip Dysplasia can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with this common disease and excourage affected joints to heal without resorting to steriods or surgery. ... Read more

Product Description
Featuring sections on daily care, preventive medicine, and training, The Well Cat Book teaches cat owners how to detect signs of illness, diagnose problems, and begin home treatment--thereby avoiding expensive and often unnecessary trips to the vet. Includes over 100 illustrations and step-by-step instructions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Kelly was sick

Fine book for a cat household.
I highly recommend it for all cat owners.

An Invaluable Reference
I'm fortunate in that Terri McGinnis has been my veterinarian for decades, and has helped me care for my cats during that time. I met her before I knew she had written a book, and when I found the book I immediately bought a copy. I've since collected the various versions as she updates them.

I find that the books are very informative and most of the ills and complaints my cats have developed were described and explained in the book. Many times the information in the book was enough for me to heal minor problems at home. For other, more serious or complex problems, it was very helpful to have enough information to understand what treatments were available or why we were doing something, etc.

When things get complicated I'll read up a little before a visit, and find myself reviewing afterwards. This makes it much easier to communicate at an intelligent level and understand what's going on.

Dr. McGinnis is an unusually observant person -- she has an unusually good rapport with the animals. I've seen her handle and treat a hostile cat without upsetting it, where other veterinarians could not even get close. It's very impressive, and the first time I saw it I knew I wanted her to care for my kitties, and I have not been disappointed.

She's also very good at explaining things both in person and in her books.

If you're reading this you know medical care is not cheap for our pets. Good prevention and home care can prevent a lot of illnesses. I have a lot of books on cats, and if I could only keep one it would be this one.

Add this to your bookself and enjoy the benefits of parenting a Well Cat
After recently going through a mysterious illness with my 6 month-old kitten, I realized that my reference shelf is severely lacking in cat-care books. I used the Internet to research symptoms and any of the specific diseases my vet mentioned she was testing for, but despite the wealth of information available online, there is no replacement for an expertly-researched cat-care manual. The Well Cat Book is an essential component of your cat care library, which should also include some more modern titles. (It's also available used at a rock-bottom price.)There is no one size-fits-all cat manual and multiple expert opinions should always be consulted.

Terri McGinnis's The Well Cat Book was originally published in 1975 and then updated in 1993. The update covers new diseases (FIP, FIV) and advanced medical techniques once reserved for humans (blood tests, urinalysis, x-rays).The manual is organized three opening sections on anatomy, preventative medicine, and diagnostic medicine, followed by sections on home medical care, breeding and reproduction, and veterinary care.McGinnis uses headings in the wide margins to guide the reader through the book, which allows the reader to rapidly locate the paragraph of interest by skimming a chapter.Numerous black and white anatomical diagrams are interspersed throughout the text, showing everything from inner organs to proper technique for retracting and trimming the claws.The book concludes with both an index of signs/symptoms and a general-purpose index.

The Well Cat Book allows the cat owner to get maximum benefit out of veterinary medicine.A Well Cat owner can perform appropriate care at home and converse intelligently with their vet about symptoms and treatment.I recommend that all cat owners read this manual cover to cover to familiarize themselves with these majestic creatures.After one read, this manual can be used as a quick reference for nearly every aspect of feline development and health.

Needs to Be Updated
While there is solid medical information here, the information on cat "training" or behavior modification is appallingly outdated. The author states "most cats respond to punishment" and advocates "a spank on the rump as a last resort." Times have changed, and so have behavior modification methods when it comes to felines. Also, very little information was offered on cat psychology or behavior, which if the cat owner is not aware of can lead to unnecessary surrenders to cat shelters when the problem behavior could be modified. This may have been a good cat reference book at one time, but that time has long passed. It needs a lot of updating.

Real Substance
Looking for a reliable and helpful reference in caring for my pets, I have looked at and rejected many, many books published for the general public on dog and cat care. Most of them are so general in approach as to be next to useless.

Dr. McGinnis' "Well Dog Book" and "Well Cat Book" are just fabulous. Every line contains meaty, solid, specific information that lets us do our best for our loving, trusting animals. Dr. McGinnis demonstrates respect not only for animals but for their guardians, too.

I have bought many copies of both books and given them to friends, family, and animal shelters. These books went out of print but now apparently they are in a new printing! I'm not surprised -- they are really worthwhile.If you can find a copy anywhere at almost any price, it's worth it!!

This book has been helpful so many times... I'd like to share the most dramatic. Our diabetic cat stopped eating (he usually has a great appetite), began vomiting, and stopped using the litter box. Of course, especially with a diabetic, these symptoms can mean serious problems.

I looked in the "Well Cat Book," and found several very helpful listings in the index (when was the last time you actually found something in an index, and easily?), one of which was that it might be a hair ball.

I took the cat immediately to the veterinarian, who mentioned several diabetes-related possible causes, such as kidney or liver problem, etc. When, thanks to what I'd read in the "Well Cat Book," I wondered aloud whether it might be a hairball, he immediately asked his assistant to x-ray the cat, and sure enough! -- that's what it was. It had entered the intestines and caused a blockage. They expelled the hair ball and the cat was fine.

If it hadn't been for Dr. McGinnis' "Well Cat Book," the poor cat would have gone through many unnecessary procedures, and would have been given unnecessary medications, with unnecessary effects on his body and doubtless getting his diabetes out of control (and the stress on his body of that).

Thank you so much, Dr. McGinnis! ... Read more

Product Description
A respected veterinarian covers every aspect of tending to a feline--from daily essentials to crisis management--with step-by-step, specially commissioned photographs, and authoritative text. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Nice cat care book
This book manages to cover all basic aspects of cat selection, preparation for a cat and cat care for most pet owners. It is easy enough reading for older children with liberal, well done illustrations - enough text that it gives enough information but not so in depth that it is set aside and not read. I recommend this book to my kitten buyers.

Not detailed enough
I've had this book through 4 cats and kittens, and if you have a really healthy cat who never develops any illnesses, it's great. I find myself using the Cornell Feline Health Center online for my cats.

The diagnostic tree is just too vague, the descriptions of diseases are also too vague and there's just not enough information. Using a vet's resource center with a dictionary handy does you--and your cat--more good, especially if your cat has something really serious.

The only Cat Book I Have
This is a wonderful book.My wife and I have 7 cats and we received this as a gift from my in-laws.This is the only cat book we own and we look at it all the time.The book has great pictures of various cats acting outvarious behaviors, what a kitten should look like at a certain age, andeven different parasites that a cat may get.Also included is a list ofemergency situations and ways you can help your cat if he/she is injured. This is a great book no cat owner should be without.

Love This Book!
I find this book highly informative and well organized.I have 5 cats and own many cat books, but this one is by far the most referenced.I especially like the health reference section since I have not found this inany other books.

You don't need this one.
I expected more, and better, from the ASPCA. This book is so basic, much too elementary for anyone who already owns a cat.Really.In two years I've learned more from my cats than this book could tell me.Theinformation level is cursory, and in some cases, spotty.It was publishedin 1992, so there's NOTHING here about breakthrough medications for fleaand heartworm prophylaxis.The only good thing to say about this book isthat the photographs are beautiful.Wish I could send it back and buysomething more informative. ... Read more

Product Description
This book gives you all the information you need to understand sustainability in the context of pet ownership and arms you with the know-how to make the best choices for your pet and the planet. It explains the environmental consequences of pet ownership and offers alternatives to the everyday choices any pet-owning family makes, from choosing pet food and buying pet equipment and toys to disposing of pet waste and avoiding household toxins. Thoroughly researched and packed with realistic guidelines for putting ideas into practice, Pets and the Planet is a virtual roadmap for sustainable pet parenthood. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

What every pet owner and anyone thinking about owning a pet should know
What perfect timing for the release of this well-researched, thought-provoking guide. President Obama has recently acknowledged the dangers of global warming for the planet. April is the month of Earth Day. Frischmann is way ahead of the curve. Did you know clay kitty litter comes to us via strip-mining? That toxic materials recently discovered in children's toys extend to pet toys? Whether it's a listing of indoor plants toxic to your pets or a discussion of the future of pets and public transportation, Frischmann explores it all. This book is a must-read for all veterinarians, pet store employees, pet owners and anyone considering owning a pet. Our decisions, including our decisions for our pets, do make a difference.

Thoughtful and fully researched
Frischmann's book tackles the important, but often overlooked discussed subject of how pet ownership affects the environment. It provides information about pet ownership impacts, and great ideas for how to alleviate them. Best of all the author compares the various options pet owners have when making choices.

Thoughtful and fully researched, Pets and the Planet is brimming with great ideas on how to provide better care for your non-human family members without adversely impacting the environment. There are many more environmental considerations of owning pets here than most people realize exist--that makes this book a must read for every pet owner.

Incredibly Informative in Light, Accessible Language!
With all the talk and hype that urges us to "go green" it is easy to get mired in the details. What this book has done is streamline all the information and gives it to us in a succinct and clearly outlined manner.

Though the author even helps readers choose the right pet, we already own our dog - but that didn't matter. We were still able to learn about foods, and what's best not only for the environment, but our pup as well; what toys are "green" (who knew?) and even how to dispose of his waste with the least amount of impact on the environment.

The "Take Action" section is great as a learning tool for parents and/or teachers.

The indepth research is impressive throughout this handy little toolkit of a book. It's one that no pet household should be without! ... Read more

Product Description
Most people understand homeopathy as a treatment for people, but as this book shows, our four-legged friends can benefit from it as well. First published in 1999, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs quickly became a bestseller and an important resource for anyone looking for a more organic approach to caring for their cats and dogs. Using accessible language, author Don Hamilton gives readers an authoritative overview of animal homeopathy, covering history, treatment principles, homeopathic disease theory, and simple methods for using homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs offers expert guidance on home care and diet, how to obtain the information needed to choose a homeopathic remedy, how to dose remedies, how to choose the potency, and when to repeat remedies if necessary. The book lists organ systems by chapter, providing concise descriptions of symptoms, including how to evaluate patients’ illnesses and when to seek veterinary care. Remedy and supplement suggestions follow disease descriptions. Each section contains the principal remedies needed for treatment. The book ends with a materia medica, which gives more comprehensive remedy information for each medicine listed in the book. This updated edition contains a new chapter on the human-animal relationship, timely information on vaccines, as well as new remedy information in every chapter. ... Read more

Product Description
KEEP YOUR CAT PURRING-FOR YEARS TO COME...In the past few decades, tremedous advances have been made in veterinary technology-nearly tripling the average life span of many pets. But cats that are seven years and older have special needs and require additional emotional support, nutritional help, and medical care. A longer life also means more cats suffer age-related conditions such as kidney problems, diabetes, and arthritis-all of which can be successfully managed with your loving assistance. In this revised and updated edition, pet expert Amy Shojai explains:• How to entice your aging cats to exercise• What changes to expect-what's normal and what are warning signs• Which over-the-counter medications you should keep on hand• Tips for choosing the right products and food• How to provide nursing care at homeAWARD-WINNING CAT CARE!Winner, CWA's HARTZ Award for Best Entry on Aging Cats "[Shojai's]research is comprehensive, current and extraordinarily well referenced from today's most authoritative sources. Most of all, there is organized and practical advice for dealing with a wide range of aging issues that are of great benefit to aging cats and the guardians who love them." --Dr. Stephen Crane, DVM, Executive Director of Western Veterinary Conference.Winner, CWA's MERIAL Human-Animal Bond Award "The clinical text, in combination with the personal stories, make this book come to life for readers like myself who adore their kitties and worry about their well being." -Annemarie Lucas, Special Investigator for ASPCA and featured expert on Animal Planet's "Animal Precinct." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Title says it all
I share a home with two aging cats that I adore and this book is a tresure of information. If you love your cats you'll want to keep this book handy. Sometimes it's not easy to read because there are issues we'd rather not think of -but- we have to and it's best to be informed. Kitties deserve to have smart humans.

An amazing resource
I highly recommend this wonderful book for owners of adult cats of any age.The information is very well presented, complete, and useful to any cat owner.I would definitely recommend that a cat owner have this knowledge BEFORE their cat is old so they can be informed and prepared what to look for in their cat and get proper supportive care before the cat is too ill.

I also think it's fascinating to know that there are certain conditions found in specific breeds.This would help anyone who would want to acquire a cat in the future to be informed about everything they would need to know about the breed they're considering.

Huge kudos to Amy Shojai for writing "Caring For Your Aging Cat."

Laura Speirs
The Kitty Sitter
Beaverton, Oregon

A must read!
Cats are living longer and there's more advanced care available for them.This book clearly talks about all the issues related to the older cat.It has something for everyone in that it give details about complicated information (such as cellular aging) which will be read with interest by those who have some knowledge about cats....but it also explaine things in simpler language for the lay-person.

This book is a must read for all people who cherish their cats and want to make their cats' golden years more comfortable.

Both practical and heartfelt...a real boon to cat lovers...
Amy Shojai has written perhaps her best work with this book--a touching, caring, hopeful tribute to the aging pet.We who are pet lovers have to face that there will be an end to our beloved pets' lives, but Shojai's book combines practical advice and emotional support to help ensure your aging cat lives out the rest of her days in comfort and happiness.Including chapters on nutrition, exercise, play, and that last sad choice we are sometimes forced to make--euthanasia--Complete Care for Your Aging Cat is a vital addition to any pet lover's bookshelf.

Amy Shojai is an author with a heart, as well as a brain.Her books reflect her love and passion for the animals in our lives, while giving us the advice we need to keep them healthy and happy. ... Read more

Product Description
Building a lifelong, loving relationship with a cat can be a challenging task. Whether you're thinking of adopting a cat or already live with one, The Humane Society of the United States Complete Guide to Cat Care offers authoritative and practical advice that will help you make the best decisions along the way.

This comprehensive guide includes sections on choosing a healthy cat, feeding and nutrition, training, grooming, disease, vet visits, caring for an aging cat, feline first-aid kits and emergency care.

Unlike other books that endorse breeding and promote novelty or purebred cats, The Humane Society's Guide to Cat Care stresses making life better for the millions of cats already here. It provides information on rescuing and rehabilitating homeless cats, finding a stray's owner, and helping an outdoor cat make the transition to a safe indoor environment. The guide also encourages animal advocacy and offers a list of ways to get involved.
Amazon.com Review
Colette once wrote, "There are no ordinary cats," and cat lovers the world over surely agree. While none of them are ordinary, they generally have similar requirements for diet, exercise, health care, and loving attention from their human companions. The Humane Society's Complete Guide to Cat Care warmly incorporates both similarities and differences to create a comprehensive guide focused on providing the best possible care, not just for your beloved pets but for the species as a whole.

Specific and detailed information is included on physical issues like nutrition, dental care, and vaccinations. Short paragraphs discussing why vegetarianism is extremely unhealthy for cats, which are carnivorous, and how to introduce them to a toothbrush are straightforward and wise--you'll find simple language and plenty of encouragement. Social and behavioral issues are also addressed, and you'll learn methods of feline communication, needs for companionship, and how best to deal with finicky eaters.

The Humane Society provides plenty of information about adoption of abandoned cats, proper sterilization for your pet, and the wisdom of letting your furry friend lead an indoors-only life. Even if you're of a different opinion on some of these matters, you'll still find a range of valuable material devoted to the well-being of your extraordinary feline companion. --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

good overall resource
This is a good overall resource to cat care.
It touches on many subjects and cats of all ages
from kittens to geriactric.

Excellent Reference for Cat Care
This guide acquaints the reader with the care of cats from kittenhood to adult cat.It is easy to read and easy to find pertinent information when needed.It is highly recommended.

Very Good.
Not only does this book tell you how to take care of your cat, it is also very interesting to read. Unlike some books, it doesn't have pages of very short descriptions of cat breeds. I find these very boring, as they tend to say the same things from book to book. These have no relevance to actually taking care of your cat. This book has enlightened me on several things about taking care of my cat. Much to my cat's distaste, I no longer feed her mass market pet food, but follow the simple directions found in the book. I also moved my ageing cat indoors, where she seems much less stressed. This book is good as a informative read about cats, and a reference book.

Pregnant Cats and Young Kittens Not Covered
This book does not cover the week by week development of kittens in terms of dietary needs and social and motor control. If you are adopting a young kitten from a private home, this is not the book for you. If you want to breed cats, look for another book.

The index is also undernourished. It is missing the words diet, food, feeding, nursing and weaning. The book does a good job, however, on the politically correct attitude to have toward a cat.

Best Cat Care Book Ever!
This book tells how to keep your cat healthy, happy, and safe. It also takes animal welfare seriously, telling how you can get involved in helping cats! I highly reccomend it to every cat owner in America! ... Read more

Product Description
Covering everything cat owner's need to know, this practical guide to looking after the most popular pet in the US provides detailed information on every aspect of cat care ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Covers all the basics
When shopping for a cat care book, it's important to find one that contains the information you need. This book is great for new cat owners such as myself, covering all the basics like feeding, grooming, first aid, and even breeding and showing if you're so inclined. If you're familiar with DK books, you know you'll find cover-to-cover color photos and illustrations along with brief snippets of information. If you're an experienced cat owner looking for a comprehensive medical, behavioral and/or breed guide, there are several other fine books out there that will fit your needs. I'm a visual learner and a big fan of the DK format, which is a major reason why I bought this particular manual. The section I found most helpful was the one dealing with first aid. It shows you, step-by-step, how to care for wounds, give resuscitation, transport a cat with a broken limb to the vet, and many other emergency medical situations. If you're in a pinch and need first aid info fast, the illustrations and concise instructions will come in handy. Most of all, the book is fun to read and never sounds like a stodgy medical guide.

very, very basic.
This book contains helpful points, but isn't very comprehensive.It would be a good one to take out of the library maybe, to help first-time cat owners shop for the things their new kitten/cat will need. ... Read more