The Role of Cats in Ancient Egypt

The cat-human relationship dates back to ancient times. The Muslim prophet Mohammed is said to have found a cat sleeping on his robe, so he cut a hole in his robe rather than disturb the sleeping cat. Evidence of coexistence between cats and humans dates back to 6000 BCE from the island of Cypress, where archaeologists found bones of cats, humans, and mice buried together (Bisno, 1997). Cats have endeared themselves to many cultures for their helpful mouse-hunting skills, cleanliness, attitude, and beauty. Female cats have also recently been recognized for their strong mothering instinct. One high profile cat ran back into a burning house exactly enough times to save each of her kittens from the blaze. Cats can be adopted from the Humane Society, bought at a pet store, bred, or rescued off the street, but their contribution to the household they are in is invaluable. No culture has embraced cats, however, as the Egyptians did in ancient times. In fact, according to Blalock (1997), the modern day tabby may be descended from the Egyptian domestic cat.

Bisno (1997) noted that humans probably first accepted cats because of the cat's eagerness to hunt the mice that ate the grain products, without the cats eating the grain themselves. They were also used to help hunters. They retrieved birds from marshes, much like dogs. Fully domesticated cats in Egypt as companions to humans probably originated around 2000 BCE They were usually captured from the wild as kittens to be domesticated. House cats in Egypt were likely descended from the African wildcat and little swamp cats. Pictures depicting domestic cats have been found in the Middle Kingdom, but skeletons of cats date back to the period before the dynasty. Their original home was probably somewhere in the Near East, so they may well be indigenous to Egypt. Despite this, a few people believe that cats may have been imported from Persia about 4000 years ago, or from Nubia during the New Kingdom. They preyed on cobras, vipers, rats, mice, and other creatures harmful to the human population. Cats and humans spent about 1000 years building their relationship; and cats, unlike other animals were allowed to come and go as they saw fit. Cats were also used in many ways not usually associated with feline companions. Wilkinson (1988) noted that cats, instead of hunting dogs, retrieved birds that were shot in marshes. From 1000-350 BCE, however, cats were also seen as deities, and worshipped as such.

The first feline Egyptian goddess might be Mafdet, depicted in the Pyramid texts as killing a snake with her claws. Mafdet might be translated as "runner" in Egyptian. While there are many other cat goddesses, Bast is the only one represented as a domestic cat (Welcome, 1997). Cats were regarded as manifestations of the goddess Bast. This Egyptian goddess had many roles, including the goddess of fertility, the moon, and also as the protector of all cats. She was referred to as Bastet when in full cat form, as opposed to the representation of Bast as a beautiful girl with the body of a human and the head of a cat. In Egyptian mythology, she had many conflicting relationships with fellow gods and goddesses. She was said to be the daughter of Mwt and Amun, the daughter of Ra, sister of Djehuti, Seshat, Het Heret, Ma'at, and twin sister of Sekhmet. She was also the sexual partner of all gods and goddesses, and the wife of Ra (Milo, 1997). Most feline gods and goddesses, however, were big cats, mainly lions and lionesses.

The lion-headed goddess Sekhmet rules over the fate of humanity.

The Sphinx for example is a representation of a lion, and is one of the earliest works of Egyptian art. The sphinx has the head of the pharaoh, and the body of a lion, showing the pharaoh's power and importance. According to Allbritton, Sekhmet, the lion-headed goddess of fate, controls the Tablets of Destiny; therefore, the fate of humanity lies in her hands, or rather her paws . Her statue is covered in gold, and includes an elaborate headdress and a golden throne. Sekhmet symbolizes the burning sun in Egyptian religion. She is the goddess of fertility, protector of the young and weak, and the deity of war and destruction. Legend has it that one day she was seized with a desire to slaughter all humanity; so killed and drank the blood of many. The god of the sun, Ra, finally put an end to the massacre by mixing beer and pomegranate juice, to appear as blood. Sekhmet then drank herself into oblivion (Allbritton, 1998). Cats were treated extremely well during the time of the pharaohs.

Cats were treated as gods, and were protected by law, as well. The punishment for harming or killing a cat was harsh (Wolf, 1997). Diodorus Siculus said:

Whoever kills a cat in Egypt is condemned to death, whether he committed this crime deliberately or not. The people gather and kill him. An unfortunate Roman, who accidentally killed a cat, could not be saved, either by King Ptolemy of Egypt or by the fear which Rome inspired. (Qtd. in Preserved for Posterity, 1997)There were also laws forbidding the exportation of cats. However, Phoenician traders often smuggled them out and sold them to the Mediterranean countries (Coll, 1997). Armies were even sent out to recapture cats from foreign lands. The Egyptians were so devoted to their cats that they even surrendered to the Persians, due to their beloved cats. When the Egyptians were at war with the Persians and the Egyptians were wearing down the Persian army, a Persian general came up with a plan. Because he knew of the great love and reverence with which the Egyptians treated their cats, he ordered his soldiers to capture as many cats as possible from the city. When they had enough, they returned to the city of Pelusium and lined up for battle. When the dust cleared, the Egyptians were horrified at the number of their terrified cats that were running over the battlefield. Rather than harm the cats, they surrendered the city to the Persians without a fight. It was a devastating loss for the Egyptians (Coll, 1997).

In another example of the Egyptian's devotion to their cats, Herodotus relates that when a fire broke out in Egypt, the men would stand in a line to prevent harm to the cats, thinking more of that than extinguishing the fire. Even so, Herodotus noted, "the cats slip through or leap over the men and leap into the fire." (Chapter 66, 3) It can be assumed that this is hyperbole, and that most cats would not rush towards a blazing fire. This statement, however, made hundreds of years later in Greece, does show the understanding of the importance of cats to Egyptians.

he importance of cats is epitomized in the abundance of decorated statuettes found in the excavated tombs. Statuettes were seen as religious symbols with great history and importance by the Egyptians. These statues were often adorned with golden jewelry and ear rings (Sandmeier, 1997). They are shown standing with their tails wrapped around their bodies to the right (Adored and Adorned, 1997). Cats were mummified after death, and mice, rats, and saucers of milk were placed in their tombs. However, X-rays of 55 mummified cats showed that several had broken necks, implying that the Temple priests may have killed kittens to keep down their population, and used them as offerings to Bast (Bisno, 1997). Cat cemeteries line the Nile River and cat mummies can be found in the tombs of Egyptians (Coll, 1997). The city of Bubastis, or Tell Basta contains around 300,000 cat mummies. The most important cat tomb cities besides Bubastis were Giza, Abydos, and Dendereh.

The process of feline mummification had 6 steps, as described by Brier (1994):

Remove internal organs.

Stuff body with sand or other packing material.

Placed in sitting position.

Wrapped tightly.

Faces painted on wrappings with black ink.

Natural dehydration, did not use chemicals. (p.229)

When a cat died, the occupants of the house where the cat died from natural causes would go into a deep mourning and shave their eyebrows (Herodotus). Brier (1994) also states that although cats were treated well, many Egyptologists have come to believe that domestic cats were not, in fact, considered sacred (p.215).

Other cultures had different views of cats. Some embraced them, others detested them. The Norse goddess, Freya, is depicted riding in a chariot drawn by cats. The Norse used cats on their ships to control the rodents. The Christians, however, hated cats and attempted to kill them off. They associated cats with witchcraft and satan, much like the feared black cat of Halloween, often seen riding with a witch on her broomstick. They were trying to establish Christianity as the only religion, and felt compelled to destroy all remnants of other cultures. The Church began what turned out to be a 1000 year killing spree of cats. When the cat population was depleted, diseased rats took over, and spread the plague. Since many people were sick and dying, the killing of cats stopped, and they were able to hunt the mice causing the plague. Shortly after the cats helped obliterate the plague, the Catholic Church placed blame on the cats, and once again persecuted them. Later, through the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts, cats were often burned with the accused witches (Gods or Demons, 1997). The cats obviously did survive this period and have since flourished to become welcome domesticated house pets, but only a few are "worshipped" in modern times.

So what's in a name? There are many titles for the cat. The Egyptians referred to cat as Miu or Mau. Mau means "to see" in Egyptian. These versions of the name also might be onomatopoeic, because of their closeness to the cat's "meow." Every language has its own version of cat:

Spanish: gato

German: Katze

French: chat

Italian: gatto

Hebrew: chatool

Sanskrit: puccha

Russian: Kots

Welsh: cath 

No matter the name, cats have long held a spot in mysticism, religion, and culture. However, the pinnacle of the cat's history was over 3000 years ago in Egypt:

Thou art the Great Cat, the avenger of the gods, and the judge of words, and the president of the sovereign chiefs and the governor of the holy Circle; thou art indeed the Great Cat. (Inscription on the Royal Tombs at Thebes)

Himalayan Persian cats

INTRODUCTION

The Himalayan Persian cat is one of the most beloved of pedigreed cats. Enjoyed and appreciated by judges, pet owners and breeders, over 343,000 Himalayans have been registered since 1957. In 1998 there were 2,428 Himalayans shown; that is an average of 5.6 entries per show in kittens, championship and premiership. Himalayans have achieved over 41 national awards since 1981 and over 175 regional awards since 1992.

HISTORY

The Persian is a widely recognized and popular breed and formed the basis of the early hybridizations that resulted in the development of the Himalayan cat. The early evolution of the Persian most likely occurred on the high, cold plateaus of Persia (now Iran and Iraq). When these cats with a longer, silky coat were brought to Europe by the Phoenicians and the Romans, the Europeans were impressed. Over the years the Persian cat has been purposely bred to perpetuate and accentuate the longhair trait. . Work to develop the colorpoint Persian, or Himalayan, began in the U.S. around 1950. The genetics of the Siamese color were known to involve a single recessive color factor which produced both blue eye color and the colorpoint pattern. The colorpoint pattern (also referred to as the Himalayan or Siamese pattern) is caused by the Siamese gene, one of the genes in the albino series. All of the albino genes influence whether and where pigment will be deposited in an animal's hair and skin. The effect of the Siamese gene is also impacted by the temperature of the skin. Pigment (color and pattern) is deposited in the hair at the coolest parts of the body, the parts that receive the least circulation: the extremities of the body feet, face, ears and tail. The first step in working toward a colorpoint Persian was to cross the Siamese and the Persian. This early work was followed by years of breeding the offspring to obtain a group of cats with long hair and the colorpoint pattern. The colorpoint longhairs were bred back to Persians, and their offspring were interbred. After many years breeders had cats with many of the basic Persian characteristics and colorpoint coloring. At this point, the next step in the work began - that of obtaining breed recognition from bona fide registry organizations.

In England, Brian Sterling-Webb perfected his long-haired colorpoint over a period of 10 years. In 1955 he approached the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) and requested recognition for this new variety of longhaired cat. Since he and other breeders were prepared to describe and defend the work that had gone into the development of this new color, recognition was granted and the Longhaired Colourpoint was accepted as a breed in England. 

In North America, Mrs. Goforth applied for breed recognition at the CFA Annual Meeting held in Washington, DC on December 18, 1957. Mrs Goforth contended that although the Himalayan standard was identical to the Persian standard, the cat was not a Persian, but a new breed of longhair. With this philosophy as a basis for the Himalayan, these cats received recognition and were granted foundation record registration with CFA. The rules governing the acceptance of new breeds and colors at the time required breeders to show three generations of pure Himalayan colorpoint breedings in order to be eligible for championship competition.

THE HIMALAYAN TODAY

Over the next ten years the Himalayan grew rapidly in popularity. The vast majority of Himalayans, however, failed to meet the breed standard, which called for Persian type. Many breeders had stopped using regular crossings to solid color Persians in their breeding programs. Instead, they were breeding existing colorpoint to colorpoint and as a result, the advancement of the Himalayan as a breed that met the Persian standard was small and, in many cases, not measureable. The Himalayan was becoming a long-nosed, colorpoint longhair. 

In the 1970s Himalayan breeders began to look at and evaluate the goals that they were attempting to achieve. It was apparent to many that they needed to begin to work in earnest toward breeding cats that had better Persian type. To accomplish this, they began to outcross to Persians on a regular basis, and kept the best of the offspring to be used in their breeding programs. After a time, colorpoint longhairs with better Persian type began to appear in the show ring. These cats looked more like Persians, and as a result, were able to compete with Persians for those coveted final awards. 

The next logical question to follow was: If our cats look like Persians, and are now competitive in type with Persians, why are they competing as a separate breed? Many breeders began to discuss the possibility of creating a place for the Himalayans within the Persian division system. Even so, there were still a number of Himalayan breeders who enjoyed the "old" Himalayan style and whose cats could no longer compete in the show ring with the typier colorpoints. Some of these breeders began a movement away from the Persian type toward a standard that was based on the way the cats looked in the '60s. One glance at the Himalayans in the show ring today tells you that this vision was not achieved. In 1984 the Persian Breed Council had the following question on their ballot: "Should the current Himalayan Breed be accepted as a Division of the Persian?" 

The question presented on the Himalayan Breed Council ballot, on the same subject was: 

• "The Himalayan Breed should: 
• A) Remain as is 
• B) Become a new division of the Persian Breed." 

Both breed councils voted against the proposed change, and yet the CFA Board of Directors elected to move the Himalayan into a division of the Persian breed. The rationale for this highly controversial determination was that the decision added consistency to the breed structure. Bi-Color Persians had shorthairs behind their pedigrees and were considered hybrids, and yet they were accepted to championship in 1970; therefore, the fact that Himalayans had Siamese behind them should make no difference to this transition of acceptance as a division of the Persian breed. 

For the last 14 years Himalayans have been consistently winning in the show ring. Overall type has dramatically improved, and many fine examples of the breed have gone on to achieve regional and national wins. As with any breed, the Himalayan is still a masterpiece in the making, but early and contemporary colorpoint Persian breeders can be very proud of where we are today.

COLORS AND PATTERNS

The Himalayan has made enormous progress in type over the past 20 years. Much of this is related to the devotion and the hard work of the breeders and some of it is related to the merging of the Himalayan breed into the division structure of the Persians. The Himalayan of today is a vastly different cat from what it was at its conception. 

In 1957 the Himalayan was recognized in CFA in seal, blue, chocolate and lilac point. These colors were followed by the flame and tortie points in 1964, blue-cream points in 1972, cream points in 1979, and lynx points in 1982. While seal, blue, chocolate and lilac points have been recognized the longest, it has only been recently that the chocolate and lilac point Himalayans have become competitive. Since 1992 we have seen a large increase in the number of chocolates and lilacs achieving grand champion status. The genetics of chocolate and lilac are complex. As a result, there have been only a few breeders willing to work with those colors. The improvement in type is a direct result of the dedication of these few breeders. 

Chocolate is a recessive and in its homozygous state produces chocolate and lilac. In other words, both parents must carry the recessive allele for chocolate in order for any of their progeny to show the color. If the recessive color factor is inherited from both parents, the cat will show chocolate. If the recessive color factor is inherited from only one parent, the cat will be heterozygous for chocolate, carrying the chocolate factor invisibly and showing the colors of the dominant genes. These cats are known as chocolate "carriers." 

The flame points and the tortie points have always been the darlings of the Himalayan world. With the contrast between the blue eyes and stark white coat of the flame point and the wonderful mottled patterns that can be presented in the tortie point, these are VERY striking colors. In addition, the tortie and flame points are known for their "special" personalities which we blame on the "red" factor in their genetic makeup. 

The cream points and the blue-cream points are the dilute versions of the flames and torties. The cream points and the blue-cream points can be very striking with their softness of color, and often have a much clearer coat than their dominant relatives. 

Last, but not least, come the lynx points, which are currently the most sought-after colors. The lynx points have striped or tabby points which separate them from other colorpoints. These colors are the result of the combination of the dominant agouti (tabby) gene and the recessive melanin-inhibiting gene of the Himalayan color pattern. Documentation of breedings between tabbies or silvers to Himalayans started showing up in the 1970s.

PERSONALITY

For the most part the Himalayan is not a hyperactive cat; that is to say, they are not moving all the time. They like to play and they are active, but they like their lap time and prefer to be doing whatever you are doing! The best way to describe colorpoint Persians is to say they are "people oriented." As I sit here writing this article I have a Himmy on my lap and another on my desk. They like their people! Himalayans will often attempt to "help" you do whatever it is that you are doing, whether it is reading the paper, making the bed or reading blueprints. (My husband just loves it when they help him read blueprints from work!) They ARE in the middle of all of your activities, and they express themselves with a wonderful melodious voice. All they ask of us is our complete devotion!

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

As with any longhair cat, the Himalayan requires grooming maintenance. The Himmy should be groomed on a daily basis, and weekly baths are not uncommon in many catteries. If you are thinking of entering a cat show, then the Himalayan requires a much more rigorous grooming schedule. (When I say rigorous, depending on the coat, it could mean a bath every other day! It all depends on the coat your Himmy is wearing.) For the most part Himalayans have been groomed and bathed since they were young kittens so they agree to the process without too much complaining. Breeders of the colorpoint Persian are sometimes criticized for breeding "extreme" cats with "pushed in faces" and "running eyes." Responsible breeders pay close attention to the overall beauty of expression no matter how short the nose. It IS possible to breed a beautiful Persian with a very short nose that breathes and tears normally. They are not PRONE to respiratory problems - they are generally healthy, vigorous cats.

THE FUTURE OF THE HIMALAYAN CAT

As popular as the Himalayan is, it is hard to believe that its fashionableness might diminish over the years ahead. Since there is not a specific disease or genetic fault that plagues the Himmy, we can expect that the breed will remain healthy well into the next century. As responsible breeders we do, however, owe the future breeders of the Himalayan cat a legacy of health, diversity and harmony. This means we need to face our health issues, such as PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease) or PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), head on and work to eradicate them from the breed so our Himalayans can remain healthy for the next generation of breeders. 

Which brings us to an important challenge facing us as breeders - the mentoring of new breeders. The cat fancy in general needs new breeders and new breeders need mentors. As you place your kittens with their new owners/breeders, take the time to use your expertise to teach them so that they can continue the breed in the same positive way that you have. We all know how easily one can be discouraged when there is no one with whom to talk over problems or questions. Take the time with a new breeder; it will pay off with healthy, happy Himalayans well into the future.

How To Treat Cat Bites and Scratches

As much as humans interact with felines, cat bites are common injuries, especially in children. Responding to a cat bite should always start with the safety of all involved, including the victim, the rescuer, and if possible, the cat.

The following steps can be taken at home, or wherever the bite occurred, but you should always consult with a physician right away to determine if further action is needed.

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: Respond immediately

Here's How:

Stay Safe. Secure the cat or the victim. Move one away from the other. If the cat's owner is around, instruct him or her to secure the cat. If not, move the victim to a safe location. Cats may bite or scratch if frightened or their kittens are threatened, so leave them alone. Don't start any treatment until there is a reasonable expectation that the cat won't attack again.

If you are not the victim, practice universal precautions and wear personal protective equipmentif available.

Control any bleeding by following the appropriate steps. Avoid using a tourniquet unless there is severe bleeding that cannot be controlled any other way.

Once the bleeding is controlled, clean the wound with soap and warm water. Clean inside the wound, being sure to rinse away all the soap, or it will cause irritation later.

Cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing. You can put antibiotic ointment on the wound before covering. Cat bites and scratches often lead to infection. Watch for these signs of infection:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Heat
• Weeping pus

Always consult your doctor. The wound may need stitches. Since they are often deep, cat bites and scratches are of particular concern for infection. Again, regardless of how severe you think the bite is, always consult a physician right away.

Wounds on the face or hands should always be evaluated by a physician because of the likelihood of scarring and loss of function.

Any unidentified cat runs the risk of carrying rabies. If the cat cannot be identified and the owner cannot show proof of rabies vaccination, the victim must seek medical attention. Rabies is always fatal to humans if not treated.

Cat Puncture Bites to Humans Are Highly Infectious

Cat bites to humans are extremely infectious and should never be taken lightly. The most deadly type of bite from our feline friend is typically a puncture wound.

The initial bleeding from a puncture wound, though scary, can help wash away some of the bacteria transferred from the mouth during the initial bite. Even so, research provides that 80 percent of cat puncture bites to humans result in serious bacterial infections.

If you are bitten, do not panic. However, acting quickly and then seeking appropriate medical attention is an important factor in lessening your chances of developing serious complications or infection.

Below are steps that will help guide you in the event of a cat bite.

Thoroughly wash and bandage the bite: 

It is very important to clean and flush the puncture wound with an antibacterial soap and warm water as quickly as possible. Deeply cleansing the bite for at least five minutes could lessen your chances of developing a serious infection. If you have Betadine solution or Peroxide on hand, use these to kill and eradicate germs.

If the wound is still bleeding heavily, apply firm pressure with a clean or sterile cloth until bleeding lessens.

Wrap with a clean bandage. Do NOT apply butterfly type strips. These types of strips will close the wound and trap unwanted bacteria. An antibiotic cream may be applied if one is available.

Seek medical care: 

Call your physician as soon as possible or seek medical care from your local emergency department. Many cat bites can transfer Staph or the Pasteurella multocida bacteria. Because of the multitude of bacteria in a cats mouth, most puncture wounds will require a course of oral or intravenous antibiotics. Many bitten will need a tetanus shot as well. Your medical doctor will also discuss the circumstances involving your cat bite and decide if you will perhaps need Rabies shots.

Your local Animal Control should also be contacted after the incident. They will work with you to trap the animal if needed and keep it under a strict quarantine for a total of ten days to ensure it is not rabid.

After treatment: 

Watch for any signs that might signal infection in your puncture bite. These may include swelling, redness, oozing or puss from the puncture wound. Also be aware if you start to run a fever or if you have an increase in your amount of pain or marked discomfort. Call your doctor right away if you notice any red streaks from your wound site or any indicators of infection.

According to the National Poison Control Hotline, incidents of Rabies acquired from a cat bite are rare. However, it is better to be safe now and not sorry later. If you have questions about a cat bite, you can contact the National Poison Control Hotline by calling 1-800-222-1222. Your local health department can also offer helpful advice and additional information on how you should proceed if bitten.

Why Cat Bites Are Pretty Much the Worst Thing Ever

All of you who are under the impression that cats are absolutely the best thing for the Internet—producing GIFs and memes galore—are bloody delusional. My 8lb house cat Franny almost destroyed a small section of your Internet last week, temporarily crippling one of the hands I use to type all your nightly posts.

Sunday, 4:00 AM: I'm at home. I've ordered nachos, delivery, and as I'm getting ready to eat them, my small cat Frances delivers a playful yet puncturing bite to the top of my left hand. I wash it off; I think nothing of it. I eat my nachos and go to sleep.

Sunday 10:00 AM: I wake up my hand hurts like hell—it's difficult to move, without it hurting like hell. It's red and it looks a little puffy. I fill a plastic bag with ice and wrap that in the towel, which I then wrap around my hand and I go back to sleep for a little.

Sunday 12:45 PM: My hand really hurts. Fuck. I try to sleep it off.

Sunday 3:05 PM: This is ridiculous. I search Google for "cat bite on my hand hurts". All of the results to come up indicate the cat bites are terrible and I should go to the hospital immediately, which I think seems like an Internet exaggeration. But, then again...

Sunday 3:20 PM: I take a picture of my hand and attached that to an email which I send to my doctor. In the email I explained my cat bit my hand it hurts and that the Internet has scared me. My doctor calls me back minutes later and tells me to go to the emergency room, immediately. He calls NYU Langone Medical Center and alerts the ER that I'm on my way.

Sunday 4:00 PM: It's been 12 hours since the cat bite and and my hand is pinker and puffier, I notice, as I look at it in the ER. I'm seen quickly. They give me an antibiotic and some pain pills and send me on my way.

Monday 11:00 PM: I'm in the middle of my shift and Brent Rose comes online and asks me how my hand is feeling. By this point my hand is much puffier and redder and it hurts more; it's not exactly doing well. Also, I have a fever. Brent tells me to go back to the ER.

Full size

Monday midnight: I'm back in the ER. They take blood, look at my hand, and after little bit of sitting around, they admit to the hospital, where I'm given a private room.

Monday 1:15 AM: I settle into my room and am administered an IV. I have antibiotics flowing into my veins and they give me more pain pills. All through the night, they take my blood pressure and my blood, and doctors and nurses come in and out see me...and my hand.

Tuesday: I learn that I may need surgery if the swelling does not go down. At some point in the day I meet the orthopedic surgeons team; they wrap my hand and my arm in an Ace bandage in hopes that the swelling may go down, and they add a second antibiotic to my IV. Mostly, I sleep.

Wednesday: I wake up ravenous; I have not been allowed to eat since 10:30 PM last night in anticipation of surgery, but they still aren't sure if they're going to actually do the surgery so I just have to wait. On an empty stomach.

Finally, around 2:00pm, I'm told that I definitely will be having surgery in about an hour. The swelling hasn't gone down—in fact, it looks like it may be getting worse—and they fear that if they don't go in and drain some of the swelling, the tendons in my hand may incur permanent damage.

Surgery happens around 3:30 PM and I wake up from the anesthesia around 6:30 PM with a morphine on-demand button on my finger, feeling very much like Neely from Valley of the Dolls.

They keep me in the hospital Wednesday night and Thursday night, and finally on FridayI'm released.

On Tuesday this week I went in for my post-op with my orthopedic surgeon; he took off my soft cast and told me what exactly they did during surgery. They made two incisions on my hand: one in the webbing between my thumb and pointer finger, and the other on the top of my hand at the site of the bite.

When they opened up my hand at the second incision site, what they found was something called tenosynovitis*. Essentially my tendon sheath, a single cell-thick film that protects the tendons as they move across the finger bones, had been destroyed by the infection (which, I learned, was caused by a bacteria called Pasteurella). My surgeon, Dr. Nader Paksima, said he went into my hand and the tendon sheath looked like "a bunch of wet tissue paper." All clotted and messy. They had to scrape it all out—a process called at tenosynovectomy.

Next week I'll get my stitches out. And for the next six weeks I'll be going to occupational therapy, twice weekly, to regain full functionality of my hand. I wrote this post using Mountain Lion dictation (which works wonderfully, as it turns out). But mostly, these days, I'm typing with my right hand; my cat hand can't move much.

Here's the TL;DR version in case you bypassed all of the above: Cat bites are highly infectious. 80% of cat bites become infected (my doctor had three other cat bites on his shift at the hospital last week, but mine was the worst of all!), and the infections are so bad because cat teeth are narrow and long and act like needles, injecting bacteria from both the skin's surface and the cat's mouth into the punture wound cavity.

*I am so impressed that ML Dictation got this word on the first try. Holy hell.

free: the worst cat

Do you like a challenge? Then take our cat. Please.

I first heard about our cat about 6 months ago, when I had not yet moved to Philadelphia post-graduation as per my long-standing plans with my best friend from high school. My first impression of the cat was my best friend calling me on my cell phone and asking me how you could tell if a kitten was rabid.

My friend had been walking through Clark Park late at night with a friend of hers when a thugged-out man who they took to be a mugger emerged from the bushes. He walked toward them, thrust out his hand and just as they were starting to freak out said with a kind of embarrassed air, "Can you do something with this? I found it sitting in the street and I didn't want to see it get run over but I can't take it with me."

The guy had a tiny little two-week-old kitten in one hand, and my housemate took it home and fed it with a bottle and all that good samaritan stuff.

She called me up a week later asking if I thought it was rabid because, in her words, "It chews on my fingers and falls over sometimes." I told her that in my experience that's how kittens basically spend most of their waking hours and thought she was overreacting.

Well, the kitten wasn't rabid, but neither is he normal. Because he was separated from his mother so early, he's emotionally stunted and doesn't like getting petted and will tolerate it for a bit but then start biting and scratching. The only times I ever hear him purr are when he pretend-nurses on something soft; there's a scarf of mine he particularly enjoys making out with.

Because my housemate didn't knock him around like a mother cat would have when she was nursing him in August he never really learned how to play nice, so when I got there in September, he was this tiny little bouncing ball of teeth and claws and aggression who would only react to attempted discipline with the cat equivalent of "Oh yeah? Oh YEAH?? FUCK YOUUUUUUUU!!" He is just not cowable, as ridiculously outsized as he was and still is. Now he is larger (about 8 pounds, I'd say) and less aggressively hyper but still kind of destructive when he gets bored.

The cat also had a really horrible case of fleas for a while, which took us hundreds of dollars and a lot of sleepless, stare-at-the-ceiling-while-intermittently-slapping-your-arm-in-a-panic nights. He no longer has the fleas, through great effort on our part.

I was not present the first time we took the cat to the vet, but my housemate warned him about the cat's temperament. The vet laughed it off, said he'd seen everything. When we picked the cat up, the same vet brought out the cat all sedated in his kitty carrier, and he looked pretty harried.

"Well," he said, "He's certainly RAMBUNCTIOUS."

Another story: when my friends first came over to meet the kitten, they were so amazed at how "rambunctious" he was that they suggested that he had to be the the result of some sort of bizarre and possibly depraved feral street cat/ocelot sex.

So here's the deal:

My best friend, the one who originally got the cat in the park, just moved out a couple of weeks ago, leaving the cat with my two housemates, who hate the cat with a passion, and me. She can't take him with her where she is now, so we're essentially stuck with this cat. However...

We can't live with this cat anymore. My housemates hate him and always have, and are in fact in favor of just dropping him off at a farm somewhere and letting him live off the land. I have scratches all up and down my forearms all the time from his "playing" and people look at me funny. He appears to give off an extremely potent dander which particularly seems to affect men. I just went to the doctor and she says that I do not in fact have a persistent cold, and that I, along with every man my housemates and I have brought to the house in the past six months, am allergic to the cat. I have never been allergic to a cat in my life, which makes this particularly weird.

So if you like a challenge, or healing troubled cat psyches, then take my cat. In the spirit of full disclosure:


Things which may be off-putting about the cat:

• He plays rough to the point that my hands and forearms are constantly covered with scratches 
• He doesn't really appreciate being petted other than occasionally being scratched under the chin when he's sleepy 
• He never really learned how to do the mutton-leg form of licking his own butt/genitalia (one leg straight up in the air), and so devised his own method, which is: sit back on his ass like a fat man, spread his legs and wash his junk directly AT you 
• When he wants attention or is bored, he will stare deliberately at you while knocking over things like glasses of water and ashtrays 
• If you have small pets suchas rodetns or fish, he will probably find a way to kill them. 
• He will stare at you intently while you're making out with someone on the couch 
• Gives off enough dander to kill a man (and occasionally a woman) 

Things in the cat's favor:

• He is fixed, fully vaccinated and healthy 
• He never pees or poops outside his box 
• If you have any sort of pests, he will ruthlessly kill them 
• He seems to get on well with the female cat that lives upstairs when they occasionally meet in the foyer 
• He is absolutely fearless, which I find endearing (you can vacuum him and he just sits there and looks at you quizzically) 
• He is really, really cute - to demonstrate this, I have attached three pictures in decreasing order of age-of-cat and these two videos. 

I realize that this description of the cat might not be the best way to get someone to adopt him. But I just wanted to have a policy of complete and total transparency about this cat, because... I genuinely think that he could learn how to be a good cat in a house where he's not left alone quite as much as he is in an apartment with two college students who are only home two or three days a week and one 23-year-old with two jobs that keep me out of the house most of the time and exhausted the rest of the time.

I won't take him to a shelter, because he wouldn't ever be adopted with his behavior problems and I know they'd probably just end up putting him down.

So take our cat... please. He comes with litterbox, litter, food bowls, food, a kitty carrier and our eternal gratitude.

 
 

• Location: fairmount
• it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

Feeding A Normal Dog or Cat

Owners can prepare diets for their pets with no more difficulty than for their own needs. The following diets contain foods that humans commonly use for their own diets. This section provides recipes for feeding adult dogs and cats a maintenance diet. Also included are diets for growing puppies and kittens. Some very active or hard working dogs require greater amounts of energy than growing animals. Recipes are given to sustain the needs of such animals.

Preparing DietsUnless stated the following diets are all nutritionally balanced and complete. Each recipe lists quantities of proteins and fats that cannot be compared with those listed for commercial pet foods. Commercial products list higher concentrations for proteins. These foods have higher levels because digestibility and availability for their proteins are poor compared to those in owner-prepared recipes. Commercial pet foods need up to twice as much protein than owner-prepared diets because it takes that much to supply amino acid requirements. The amino acid content of owner-prepared diets is also closer to ideal so that less protein is needed to provide an animal's needs. Fat content varies with each diet. In many recipes vegetable oil is the primary source of fat. If a pet gains weight and its body fat exceeds the ideal, dietary oil is reduced. Most diets contain other sources of fat that provide essential unsaturated fatty acids, so eliminating vegetable oil will not result in a deficiency.The diets contain more than required amounts of sodium chloride but much less than commercial pet foods which contain approximately one percent salt. Iodized table salt can be used to add flavor if desired.

Vegetable SupplementsTo each of the following diets vegetables can be added. They are not necessary to make a diet nutritionally complete. The number of calories added with the inclusion of vegetables can be found in the following table. Uncooked vegetables contain few available calories. If they are included or fed as snacks it is not necessary to calculate their caloric contribution to the pet's intake. They provide additional fiber.

 Caloric Content of Vegetable Portions

Vegetable	Quantity	kcalories
Asparagus, cooked	½ cup	22
Broccoli, cooked	½ cup	23
Brussels sprouts, cooked	½ cup	30
Cabbage, cooked	½ cup	16
Carrots, cooked	½ cup	35
Celery, cooked	½ cup	11
Green beans, cooked	½ cup	22
Peas, green, cooked	½ cup	67
Peppers, sweet, cooked	½ cup	12
Spinach, cooked	½ cup	21
Squash, summer, cooked	½ cup	18
Tomato, cooked	½ cup	30
Turnip, cooked	½ cup	14

Vitamin and Mineral SupplementationWhen the diet cannot be balanced with natural foods to provide vitamin and mineral requirements, it is necessary to supplement with a vitamin-mineral preparation. Supplements prepared for pets are used unless they are not tolerated. The common supplements prepared for pets contain flavoring agents, binders, fillers, and other additives that can cause gastrointestinal problems in animals with allergies. Such additives are less likely to be used in supplements prepared for humans. The amount of vitamin and mineral supplement to give is  based on an animal's caloric intake or body weight. Supplements formulated for an adult human supply the average needs for a person weighing much more than most dogs. Thus, a vitamin-mineral tablet for a human contains too high concentrations of ingredients for most dogs. Some may believe that excessive amounts of vitamins and minerals are not harmful; more is better than the required amounts. Excessive amounts of most vitamins and minerals are not harmful. An excess amount of vitamin A or D is harmful, however. Excess vitamin A is toxic to the liver, especially when a toxin is present or the liver must detoxify a chemical (drug). Excess vitamin D is also toxic in that it stimulates absorption of excess calcium. Excess dietary copper causes large amounts to accumulate in the liver. If the liver is unable to excrete copper it can cause severe liver damage. Vitamin supplementation is based on caloric consumption. Each 1000 kilocalories of food should contain a certain level of each vitamin. The recommendations are more precise for growing animals than for adults. All of the diets in this website contain vitamins at levels based on the caloric content. It is not necessary to supplement any diet with vitamins unless the recipe states that a supplement is required. It is also possible to make vitamin recommendations based on an animal's body weight. The following tables give vitamin recommendations based on an animal's weight. The second table gives adjustments for using human vitamin-mineral preparations based on an animal's size or food consumption. Although a growing animal has greater requirements than an adult, the vitamin content based on amounts per 1000 kilocalories is almost the same for growing and adult animals. The growing animal receives more vitamins because it eats more per pound body weight. Cooking destroys vitamins so vitamin supplements are added after cooking and before feeding.

Vitamin Requirements For Growing and Adult Cats and Dogs

(amounts per kilogram body weight per day)

Vitamin	Growing Cat	Adult Cat	Growing Dog	Adult Dog
A	200 IU	75 IU	202 IU	75 IU
D	20 IU	8 IU	22 IU	8 IU
E	1.2 IU	0.5 IU	1.2 IU	0.5 IU
Ka	2 µg	2 µg	2 µg	2 µg
Thiamin	200 µg	200 µg	54 µg	20 µg
Riboflavin	160 µg	160 µg	100 µg	50 µg
Pantothenate	200 µg	200 µg	400 µg	200 µg
Niacin	1600 µg	1600 µg	450 µg	225 µg
Pyridoxine	160 µg	160 µg	60 µg	22 µg
Folic acid	32 µg	32 µg	8 µg	4 µg
Biotin	2.8 µg	2.8 µg	--	--
B12	0.8 µg	0.8 µg	1 µg	0.5 µg
Choline	96 mg	96 mg	50 mg	25 mg

Percent of adult human vitamin-mineral capsule to give daily

 Dog's body weight in pounds

15	30	45	60	75	90	105	120	135	150
10%	20%	30%	40%	50%	60%	70%	80%	90%	100%

Vitamin-mineral supplements are formulated for small animals so they provided needs for their varying body size. Examples include PET-TABS® and VI-SORBITS® made by SmithKline Beechmam. The former contains ingredients such as liver (beef and pork), fish meal, wheat germ meal and a number of other additives and fillers that could cause problems in animals with gastrointestinal problems. If these are tolerated they can be given more easily that human vitamin-mineral preparations. The animal preparations are not regulated as closely by governmental agencies for potency etc. For animals with food intolerances and allergies human non-allergenic preparations can be given and the amount to use in any diet is one-fifth of a capsule or tablet for each tablet of pet vitamin-mineral tablet called for in a recipe. An example of a non-allergenic human preparation is a multiple vitamin-mineral product made by Nature’s Way Products, Springville, Utah.

The diets for dogs that do not contain sardines lack vitamin B₁₂, even when a vitamin-mineral supplement is added. Sardines are added to provide vitamin B₁₂. That vitamin can also be added by including liver in the diet. One reason for not using liver is that it contains very high levels of vitamin A and sometimes excess vitamin D. Excess amounts of either vitamin are toxic. Thus, liver should not be given daily to a dog or cat. Sardines also increase palatibility; some diets lack flavor. If sardines are not fed, vitamin B₁₂ tablets can be added. (Removing 2 tablespoons sardines from a diet lowers the caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein content by 6.2 grams and fat by 4.6 grams.) Most tablets contain 1000 micrograms which is 50 times more than a dog requires. It is probably not necessary to give this vitamin more than once a week. Many dogs and cats eat diets very deficient in vitamin B₁₂ for months and sometimes for years, and signs of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are not seen. Thus, it is not important to supplement owner-prepared diets with additional vitamin B₁₂.

Mineral supplementation is based on the number of calories consumed. Each 1000 kilocalories of pet food should contain a certain level of each mineral. The recommendations are more precise for growing animals than for adults. All of the diets in this website contain minerals at levels based on the caloric content. None of these diets need to be supplemented with minerals unless the recipe states that a supplement is required. It is also possible to make mineral recommendations based on an animal's body weight. The following table gives mineral recommendations on an animal's weight. It is apparent that a growing animal has greater requirements than an adult. The mineral content based on amounts per 1000 kilocalories is almost the same for growing and adult animals. The growing animal gets more minerals because it eats more per pound body weight. Bone meal provides a balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus and in addition provides trace minerals. Bone meal powder is readily available but the dosage may vary considerable. The recipes in this website contain bone meal powder manufactured by KAL® where the amount used is based on a level teaspoon of the product weighing 6 grams. Recommendations on how much bone meal to use on the labels for different products are often very much more than an animal's requirement. Thus, it is important to determine the calcium and phosphorus content from any product's label and judge whether the recommended amount of bone meal to give agrees with meeting the pet's requirements.

Mineral Requirements For Growing and Adult Cats and Dogs

(minimum amounts per kilogram body weight per day)

Mineral	Growing Cat	Adult Cat	Growing Dog	Adult Dog
Calcium	400 mg	128 mg	320 mg	119 mg
Phosphorus	300 mg	96 mg	240 mg	89 mg
Sodium	25 mg	8 mg	30 mg	11 mg
Potassium	200 mg	64 mg	240 mg	89 mg
Chloride	95 mg	30 mg	46 mg	17 mg
Magnesium	20 mg	6.4 mg	22 mg	8 mg
Iron	4 mg	1.28 mg	1.74 mg	0.65 mg
Copper	0.25 mg	0.08 mg	0.16 mg	0.06 mg
Manganese	0.25 mg	0.08 mg	0.28 mg	0.10 mg
Zinc	2.5 mg	0.8 mg	1.94 mg	0.72 mg
Iodine	0.017 mg	0.006 mg	0.032 mg	0.012 mg
Selenium	5 µg	1.6 µg	6 µg	2.2 µg

Determination of Caloric NeedsDetermine a pet's ideal body weight. Refer to tables on caloric requirements to find the number of calories to feed each day. The following recipes show how to prepare an amount for which its caloric content is given. That amount is appropriate for an adult pet at a certain weight. If the size of the recipe is inappropriate for any animal, reduce or increase the size of the recipe to meet its nutritional needs.

Diets for Adult Dogs   Eggs and Rice Diet

3 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked 
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (28 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride  (1.5 gram
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 964 kcalories, 34.1 g protein, 49.4 g fat
supports caloric needs of 33 to 34 pound dog
This diet is relatively high in fat and is suitable for an active or working dog.
To modify this diet for less active dogs the vegetable oil can be omitted which reduces the caloric content to about 712 kcalories.
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Eggs and Potato Diet

3 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
3 cups potato, cooked with skin (370 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 708 kcalories, 34.5 g protein, 21.0 g fat
supports caloric needs of 22 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Eggs and Macaroni Diet

3 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 696 kcalories, 39.1 g protein, 22.4 g fat
supports caloric needs of 22 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Boiled Rice Diet

1 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (226 grams)
2 1/2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (400 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (21 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 973 kcalories, 47.8 g protein, 31.2 g fat
supports caloric needs of 34 pound dog
Diets containing cottage cheese are much higher in sodium; water consumption will be greater on these diets than on others.
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Potato Diet

2/3 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (152 grams)
2 cups potato, cooked with skin (247 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (21 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 661 kcalories, 32.7 g protein, 28.8 g fat
supports caloric needs of 20 to 21 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Macaroni Diet

2/3 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (152 grams)
2 1/2 cups macaroni, cooked (350 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (28 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 946 kcalories, 43.6 g protein, 37.9 g fat
supports caloric needs of 33 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Boiled Rice Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 879 kcalories, 43.1 g protein, 37.3 g fat
supports caloric needs of 29 to 30 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Potato Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
3 cups potato, cooked with skin (369 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 851 kcalories, 42.4 g protein, 34.3 g fat
supports caloric needs of 28 to 29 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Macaroni Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 940 kcalories, 50.4 g protein, 36.2 g fat
supports caloric needs of 32 to 33 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Beef Meat and Boiled Rice Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (152 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2+ teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 890 kcalories, 44.3 g protein, 38.1 g fat
supports caloric needs of 30 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Beef Meat and Potato Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (152 grams)
3 cups potato, cooked with skin (369 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil
1/2+ teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 862 kcalories, 43.6 g protein, 35.1 g fat
supports caloric needs of 29 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Beef Meat and Macaroni Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (152 grams)
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/2+ teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 951 kcalories, 51.2 g protein, 37.1 g fat
supports caloric needs of 33 pound dog
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

It is possible to substitute other pastas for macaroni without changing the nutrients provided. In comparing these diets, feeding macaroni provides a medium size dog eight grams of protein more than rice or potato. The digestibility of macaroni is poorer than for rice or potato.

Vegetarian Diets for Adult Dogs

Completely balanced vegetarian diets can be fed to dogs without fear of causing any nutritional deficiency. The digestibility of vegetable proteins is less complete than for proteins of animal origin. Vegetarian diets are usually less expensive than those containing animal protein. These diets require supplementation with vitamin B₁₂, a vitamin found only in food prepared from animal sources. This vitamin can be given once a week.

Tofu and Rice Diet

2/3 cup tofu, raw firm (169 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (160 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 679 kcalories, 36.6 g protein, 18.4 g fat
supports caloric needs of 21 pound dog

Tofu and Potato Diet

1/2 cup tofu, raw firm (126 grams)
2 cups potato, cooked with skin (246 grams)
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 455 kcalories, 25.9 g protein, 11.3 g fat
supports caloric needs of 12 to 13 pound dog

Tofu and Macaroni Diet

1/2 cup tofu, raw firm (126 grams)
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 721 kcalories, 36.6 g protein, 18.4 g fat
supports caloric needs of 23 pound dog

Tofu, Lentils, and Potato Diet

1/2 cup tofu, raw firm (126 grams)
1 cup lentils, boiled (198 grams)
2 cups potato, cooked with skin (246 grams)
2 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (10 grams)
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 775 kcalories, 43.9 g protein, 22 g fat
supports caloric needs of 25 pound dog

Tofu, Lentils, and Rice Diet

1/4 cup tofu, raw firm (63 grams)
1 cup lentils, boiled (198 grams)
1 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (160 grams)
2 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (10 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 629 kcalories, 33 g protein, 18 g fat
supports caloric needs of 19 pound dog

Tofu, Lentils, and Macaroni Diet

1/4 cup tofu, raw firm (63 grams)
1 cup lentils, boiled (198 grams)
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2+ teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 861 kcalories, 44.6 g protein, 13.6 g fat
supports caloric needs of 29 pound dog

Tofu, Beans or Peas, and Rice Diet

1/3 cup tofu, raw firm (83 grams)
1 cup blackeye peas, boiled (171 grams)
1 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (160 grams)
2 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (10 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 627 kcalories, 31.7 g protein, 19.1 g fat
supports caloric needs of 19 pound dog

Soybean and Rice Diet

1 cup soybeans, mature, boiled (172 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 733 kcalories, 38.7 g protein, 19 g fat
supports caloric needs of 23 to 24 pound dog

Soybean and Potato Diet

1 cup soybeans, mature, boiled (172 grams)
2 cups potato, cooked with skin (246 grams)
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 570 kcalories, 34.6 g protein, 15.7 g fat
supports caloric needs of 17 pound dog

Soybean and Macaroni Diet

1 cup soybeans, mature, boiled (172 grams)
2 cups macaroni, cooked (280 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
1/2+ teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 792 kcalories, 45.3 g protein, 17.8 g fat
supports caloric needs of 26 pound dog

Diets for Growing Dogs   

Growth requires greater amounts of protein, calories, vitamins and minerals. Puppies can double their body weight in a short time. A number of recipes follow that are based on using animal sources of proteins. It is possible to support a puppy's growth by feeding a vegetarian diet, some of which are included. Because vegetable and cereal proteins are not as well digested as animal proteins vegetarian diets need greater amounts of proteins than diets based on animal proteins.

Beef Meat and Boiled Rice Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (228 grams)
1 1/2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (172 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt2/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 815 kcalories, 54.6 g protein, 34.3 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Beef Meat and Potato Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (228 grams)
2 1/2 cups potato, cooked with skin (308 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 858 kcalories, 51.2 g protein, 29.7 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Beef Meat and Macaroni Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) very lean beef (228 grams)
2 1/2 cups macaroni, cooked (350 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/2 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1 teaspoon bone meal powder (6 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 1081 kcalories, 64.9 g protein, 45 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Eggs and Boiled Rice Diet

5 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1 1/2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (240 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 765 kcalories, 44.5 g protein, 32 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Eggs and Potato Diet

5 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 1/2 cups potato, cooked with skin (308 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 798 kcalories, 45.5 g protein, 31.7 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Eggs and Macaroni Diet

5 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 1/2 cups macaroni, cooked (350 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride2/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (4 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 952 kcalories, 54.6 g protein, 33.6 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Boiled Rice Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (228 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 929 kcalories, 56.5 g protein, 35.9 g fat
caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Potato Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (228 grams)
3 cups potato, cooked with skin (369 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 901 kcalories, 55.1 g protein, 32.9 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Poultry Meat and Macaroni Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (228 grams)
2 1/2 cups macaroni, cooked (350 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoon vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1 teaspoon bone meal powder 6 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 997 kcalories, 57.4 g protein, 39.3 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Boiled Rice Diet

1 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (339 grams)
2 1/2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (400 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
1 tablespoon vegetable (canola) oil (14 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride1 teaspoon bone meal powder (6 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 1021 kcalories, 64.6 g protein, 26.5 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Potato Diet

1 1/3 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (300 grams)
2 1/2 cups potato, cooked with skin (308 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (28 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 936 kcalories, 54.7 g protein, 39 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Cottage Cheese and Macaroni Diet

1 1/3 cup cottage cheese, 2% fat (300 grams)
2 1/2 cups macaroni, cooked (350 grams)
2 tablespoon sardines, canned, tomato sauce (38 grams)
2 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (28 grams)
1/3 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride1 teaspoon bone meal powder (6 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 1124 kcalories, 71.2 g protein, 42 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
Omission of sardines reduces caloric content by 68 kcalories, protein by 6.2 g and fat by 4.6 g.

Vegetarian Diets for Growing Dogs

Soybean and Rice Diet

2 cups soybeans, mature, boiled (344 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt
3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
supplement with vitamin B₁₂

provides 1078 kcalories, 67.8 g protein, 39.5 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs

Soybean and Potato Diet

2 cups soybeans, mature, boiled (344 grams)
2 1/2 cups potato, cooked with skin (308 grams)
2 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (10 grams)
1/10 teaspoon table salt3/4+ teaspoon bone meal powder (5 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
supplement with vitamin B₁₂

provides 1028 kcalories, 64.9 g protein, 41.4 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs

Tofu, Peas and Rice Diet

1 cup tofu, raw firm (252 grams)
1 cup blackeye peas, boiled (171 grams)
1 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (160 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
supplement with vitamin B₁₂

provides 914 kcalories, 58.5 g protein, 39 g fat
see table for a puppy's caloric needs
All vegetarian diets must be supplemented with vitamin B₁₂.
This vitamin is not found in foods that come from plant material.

Biscuits for Dogs

Wheat Flour, Wheat Germ, Brewers Yeast

2 cups wheat flour, unbleached (230 grams)1/2 cup wheat germ (56 grams)1/2 cup brewers yeast (112 grams)
3 tablespoons vegetable (canola) oil (42 grams)
1 cup chicken broth
1/6 teaspoon table salt
flavoring such as garlic powder
5 calcium carbonate tablets (2000 mg calcium)

Mix flour, wheat germ, brewer's yeast and salt. Mix in oil and chicken broth (with added flavoring). Work dough into a 1/2 inch thick piece from which biscuits are prepared with biscuit or cookie cutter. Bake in preheated oven at 400⁰ for 20 to 25 minutes. Turn heat off and allow biscuits to dry for 2 hours. Store in refrigerator or freezer. Recipe contains 1773 kcalories, 72.3 g protein and 51.6 g fat. Recipe can make 36 biscuits containing 50 kcalories, 2 g protein and 1.5 g fat each.

Wheat Flour, Corn Meal, Milk Powder

1 cup whole wheat flour (115 grams)
1 cup cornmeal (125 grams)1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder
4 tablespoons margarine (1/4 cup)
1/2 cup bulgar, cooked (68 grams)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup water
flavoring such as garlic powder
3 calcium carbonate tablets (2000 mg calcium)

Mix flour, corn meal, milk powder and baking powder. Cut in margarine. Mix in water (with added flavoring) and bulgar. Work dough into a ½ inch thick piece from which biscuits are prepared with biscuit or cookie cutter. Bake in preheated oven at 400⁰ for 20 minutes. Turn heat off and allow biscuits to dry for 2 hours. Store in refrigerator or freezer. Recipe contains 1634 kcalories, 53.2 g protein and 56 g fat. Recipe can make 32 biscuits containing 50 kcalories, 1.7 g protein and 1 g fat each.

Diets for Growing and Adult Cats   

Turkey Diet

6 ounces (weight before cooking) ground turkey meat (171 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/8 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 372 kcalories, 34.1 g protein, 25.5 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Chicken Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) chicken (boneless breast) (228 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (15 grams)
4 teaspoons vegetable (canola) oil (20 grams)
1/8 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 471 kcalories, 53.1 g protein, 27.4 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Chicken and Rice Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) chicken (boneless breast) (152 grams)
1 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (15 grams)
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
4 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (20 grams)
1/8 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 503 kcalories, 43.4 g protein, 28.6 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Beef Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) beef (lean ground) (228 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (15 grams)1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 447 kcalories, 46.2 g protein, 27.5 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Beef and Rice Diet

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) beef (lean ground) (152 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (15 grams)
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1/8 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride 1/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 433 kcalories, 34.8 g protein, 24.7 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Lamb Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) lamb (lean ground) (228grams)
1/4 ounce clams, chopped in juice (7grams))1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 457 kcalories, 41.2 g protein, 31.6 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Lamb and Rice Diet

1/2 pound (weight before cooking) lamb (lean ground) (228grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (14 grams)
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 573 kcalories, 47.1 g protein, 34.2 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Tuna Fish Diet

4 ounces tuna, canned in water, without added salt (114 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)1/4 teaspoon bone meal powder (1+ grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 355 kcalories, 30.2 g protein, 27 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Tuna Fish and Rice Diet

4 ounces tuna, canned in water, without added salt (114grams)
1 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/2 ounce clams, chopped in juice (14 grams)
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)1/3 teaspoon bone meal powder (2 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 482 kcalories, 38.3 g protein, 30 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Sardine Diet

4 1/2 ounces sardines, canned, tomato sauce (128 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1 calcium carbonate tablet (calcium 400 mg)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 266 kcalories, 23.8 g protein, 18.3 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Sardine and Rice Diet

6 ounces sardines, canned, tomato sauce (171 grams)
1 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
1 calcium carbonate tablet (calcium 400 mg)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 418 kcalories, 32.4 g protein, 24.2 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Salmon Diet

5 ounces salmon, canned with bone (142 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1 calcium carbonate tablet (oyster shell, 500 mg calcium)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 259 kcalories, 32.9 g protein, 14 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Salmon and Rice Diet

5 ounces salmon, canned with bone (142 grams)
1/2 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
1 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (5 grams)
1 calcium carbonate tablet (calcium 400 mg)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet

provides 371 kcalories, 34.2 g protein, 19 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Vegetarian Diets for Cats

Cats have always been carnivores. Cats have some unique nutritional needs that a strictly vegetarian diet cannot satisfy. They have a need for arachidonic acid that plants do not make. Thus, an animal source of this nutrient must be given. Cats also have a unique need for taurine because they cannot make it from other nutrients. Foods supplied from plant material contain no taurine. It must be supplied from a source where it is produced. In the following diets it is necessary to obtain taurine from a health food supplier and add it to the cat's diet. Because vitamin B₁₂ is not produced by any plant sources of food, it must be added to the diet. If a cat is fed a vegetarian diet appropriate for human beings it is likely that signs of a nutrient deficiency will eventually develop.

Tofu Diet

1/2 cup tofu, raw firm (126 grams)
1/4 egg yolk, chicken, cooked
1/2 calcium carbonate tablet (calcium 200 mg)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
35 mg taurine

provides 198 kcalories, 20.6 g protein, 12.3 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Tofu and Rice Diet

3/4 cup tofu, raw firm (189 grams)
1/2 egg yolk, chicken, cooked
1/3 cup rice, long-grain, cooked (53 grams)
2 teaspoon vegetable (canola) oil (10 grams)
1/4 teaspoon bone meal powder (1+ grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
50 mg taurine

provides 419 kcalories, 35.2 g protein, 30.2 g fat
see table for a cat's or kitten's caloric needs

Behavioral Problems

Behavioral problems can be associated with diet. Coprophagy is a relatively common problem in dogs fed commercial pet foods, especially dry foods. It is rare in animals fed owner-prepared diets or consuming food caught while hunting. Coprophagy is associated with feeding high carbohydrate diets, especially in German Shepherds. Coprophagy ceases in working dogs fed horse meat instead of dry dog food where caloric intake remains unchanged. Enough horsemeat is fed to reduce the diet's carbohydrate content from about 40 percent to about 25 percent. The problem is managed by feeding owner-prepared diets containing sufficient amounts of protein and relatively small amounts of carbohydrate. Instead of correcting the nutritional problem causing coprophagy, pets are often fed something to give feces an offensive odor and taste. Chemicals for parasite control are sometimes given orally to discourage coprophagy. Sodium glutamate mixed with a purified edible vegetable protein fraction is marketed with claims for curbing coprophagy. It also makes the odor and taste of feces offensive. If a pet eats fecal material of other animals, these preparations have no value.

Feeding Geriatic Pets^1-4

Factors Insuring A Long And Happy Life

Pet dogs and cats live considerably longer today than in the past. Better care, especially medical care, is assumed to increase their life expectancy. Life expectancy is also genetically determined. Life span is unique for each animal species and for breeds within a species. Life spans varies greatly for canine breeds. Small breeds and very large breeds of dogs do not live as long as intermediate size breeds.

Environmental factors also influence life span of dogs and cats. They include airborne toxins, and toxic-contaminants in food and water. Toxic substances can reduce resistance to disease and directly injure tissues. The greatest exposure to toxic substances is through what is consumed. An animal can eat literally hundreds of pounds of foodstuffs yearly. Thus, quality of the diet is important in determining long life expectancy in dogs and cats.

Geriatric Diets

Manufacturers design some pet foods for aged dogs. Compared to diets for younger dogs, these have reduced fat and possibly increased fiber. Fat content is less because obesity is common in aged dogs and reducing dietary fat helps in weight reduction. Manufacturers give little consideration to improving dietary quality. Some believe that elderly animals digest and absorb a meal as well as young animals. That conclusion is based on older animals having few changes in digestive tract morphology. But digestive function changes with aging.

Protein Needs of Older PetsOlder dogs require more protein than younger adult dogs. Merely increasing dietary protein does not satisfy this increased requirement. Protein quality must also be improved to make dietary protein highly digestible. Overall dietary composition is important for optimum protein digestion and absorption. Dietary carbohydrates and fiber reduce protein digestibility by delaying its digestion. Normally, high quality dietary protein is completely digested and absorbed in the small intestine, and little or no protein enters the colon. Delay in protein digestion can cause some protein to escape digestion and absorption. Excess unabsorbed protein entering the colon is degraded by colonic bacteria to non-nutrient substances. These substances are absorbed and must be detoxified for excretion. Some of these substances are biogenic amines. Their colonic concentration increases with increased dietary protein. Thus, in addition to poor quality pet foods not supplying adequate protein for aged dogs, they can also contribute to non-nutrient substances (some are toxic) because of poorer assimilation. High dietary fiber and poorly digested carbohydrates, such as in most cereal-based foods, aggravate this problem. Geriatric pets should be fed proteins with high biological value and high digestibility. This minimizes protein residue entering the colon where bacteria act on it to produce toxins. Protein requirements are satisfied by feeding 4.5 g of digestible crude protein per kilogram metabolic body mass (4.5 g/kg bw^0.75) This level is 50 percent more than recommended for maintenance of adult dogs. However, commercial diets for adult maintenance often exceed this amount.

Caloric Needs Of Older PetsFood is consumed primarily to satisfy energy requirements. Older dogs and cats need fewer calories because they are less active than younger adults. To maintain optimal weight in old animals, caloric intake can decrease to 80 percent of that needed for younger adults. Total caloric intake reductions must take into consideration that requirements for other nutrients may be unchanged or increased. As already noted, dietary protein must increase even if caloric intake remains unchanged. Needs may increase for some vitamins and trace minerals, but that is unproven. Vitamin E is most important to supplement. Aging is associated with many degenerative changes and vitamin E helps prevent damage. Older animals are more likely to be overweight than younger adults. This greater tendency is specific for neither sex, and neutering is not significant in promoting obesity. The number of daily feedings is not a factor. Factors that do not make a difference include living with young children (who feed the pet frequently), raiding the garbage, or living with an older or younger person. The only significant factor associated with obesity in older animals is reduced physical activity.

Fat Digestion And AbsorptionFat digestibility and tolerance are not poorer in older dogs and cats but aging can delay fat absorption. Reduced fat intake is not necessary unless a weight reduction program is planned based on low-fat intake. Older animals require essential fatty acids so they should be given.

Carbohydrate Digestion And AbsorptionDietary carbohydrates are selected to increase digestibility for both starch and protein. Rice is the most completely digested carbohydrate. Dogs and cats poorly digest and absorb other grain cereals, the basis of most commercial pet foods. Although carbohydrate assimilation appears to be normal in older animals, in some dogs and cats it is associated with abnormal glucose regulation and signs of diabetes mellitus.

Nutrients Protecting Aging Animals^5,6Chemicals and nutrients play a role in development of and protection against disease. Cancer is one such disease where some forms develop in humans consuming certain diets. Such a dietary effect is evident in humans eating a typical Japanese diet that is associated with a high incidence of stomach cancer and low incidence of colon cancer. In contrast, the typical high-fat American diet results in the opposite. The reason for these differences is unknown. Diet composition can affect mammary tumors. Diets low in methionine protect against tumor appearance and growth. Foods rich in methionine promote tumor appearance and growth.⁷ Chemicals in some diets are toxic and over time can cause diseases such as cancer. High dietary nitrosamine, for example, causes acute hepatic necrosis and chronic ingestion of lower amounts causes hepatic cancer. Some microorganisms produce dietary chemicals, such as aflatoxin produced by a fungus, that cause hepatic necrosis. Normal dietary constituents can be toxic and naturally occurring protectants minimize or prevent damage. Antioxidants protect against free radicals which appear as oxygen is used to produce energy. Antioxidants are important as dietary unsaturated fatty acids increase. These protectants include naturally occurring nutrients such as vitamin A, Vitamin C, and vitamin E. In addition, commerciallyprepared foods contain synthetic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene, butylated hydroxyanisole, and ethoxyquin. Vitamin E is essential for cell membrane protection against the many chemical reactions generating free radicals. Vitamin E is more potent than synthetic antioxidants because it binds cell membranes. To be as effective, synthetic antioxidants must be given continuously and in large amounts compared with vitamin E. Membrane bound vitamin E loses its antioxidant activity on neutralizing free radicals, but other antioxidants such as vitamin C can restore membrane vitamin E antioxidant activity. Vitamin E appears to lengthen life span. When animals are given vitamin E from a young age, the onset slows for some age-related problems such as cataracts, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and decreased immune function. High blood vitamin E levels may lower the risk of some cancers. This effect can be due to vitamin E blocking the formation of carcinogens (such as nitrosamines from nitrates in the diet), inhibiting carcinogens from reaching cells, suppressing the effects of cancer and stimulating the immune system. 

Phytochemicals As ProtectantsPhytochemicals are the source of nearly all phenolics found in animals. The important phytochemicals are phenolics. Phenolics essential for animals such as tyrosine come either directly from plants or are modified from essential plant precursors. Phenolic phytochemicals are grouped into flavonoids (such as anthocyanins, genistein and daidzein), tannins, lignans, and simple phenols such as the benzoic and cinnamic acids. These chemicals protect plants and have beneficial effects in animals. They protect animal cells by chelating, quenching free radicals, which provides antioxidant activity. Phytochemicals are found in fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes; a human consumes about 25 to 35 milligrams daily.

Soybean products are rich in flavonoids. Other beans are also rich in phytochemicals. In addition, natural blue, purple, red, orange and yellow foods are abundant in flavonoids. The benefits of flavonoids can be lost with food processing. Phytochemicals’ benefits can be enhanced by feeding substances that reduce intestinal absorption of toxins; such substances include soluble fiber.Flavonoids help control cancer growth. The flavonoid genistein prevents malignant angiogenesis, blood vessel development that promotes cancer growth. Genistein also promotes leukemia cell differentiation so they revert to normal cells. Some phytochemicals are toxic to intestinal bacteria. Reducing this bacterial population decreases toxin formation and absorption. Phytochemicals are beneficial only from dietary levels in naturally occurring foods. Excess phytochemicals can be toxic. Phenol-based compounds can be toxic; metabolism of any phenolic chemical releases phenol which is toxic. Owner-prepared diets should be formulated with a natural source of phytochemicals. Their beneficial effects for detoxification and protection should be lifelong.

Feeding to Reduce CancerThe incidence of tumors is lower than expected in animals fed soy protein diets.⁷ Several soy protein constituents can inhibit tumor growth. They include isoflavones, phytosterols, protease inhibitors, inositol hexaphosphate, and saponins. Soy proteins are also deficient in methionine. Dietary soy protein instead of animal protein is associated with a lower incidence of breast and colon cancer in humans. No long term studies have been done in dogs and cats but the probability is great that feeding soy protein could have the same effects. A number of forms of soy protein are available. Many diets in this website are based on using one form, tofu, as the primary source of protein.

Feeding to Prevent Cancer Cachexia^5,8Weight loss and cachexia are important complications of cancer. Cancer patients that maintain normal weight live longer and have fewer complications during treatment with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Tumor cells uncouple metabolism which accelerates wasting and poor use of nutrients. Metabolic abnormalities affect use of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats resulting in many defects in nutrient usage.

Cancer patients are invariably anorectic and have a basal energy requirement that is twice normal, requiring food intake to be greatly increased. High-caloric density diet are fed to increase energy intake. Up to 50 percent of non-protein calories should be fat. High carbohydrate diets should not be fed. To improve anorexia, palatability should be enhanced by using animal fat such as chicken fat, seasonings such as garlic powder, and feeding food warm. No commercial pet foods meet dietary requirements for cancer patients.

Diets for Geriatric Dogs   

The following diets for geriatric dogs contain the highest quality protein and the most easily digested form of starch. Some are high in fat for normal weight animals that have problems maintaining normal weight. Others are low in fat when obesity is an important problem to manage. All these diets can be supplemented with vegetables listed at the beginning of this page. If a pet tolerates other vegetables or fruits ones can be fed that provide natural chemicals that protect against tissue injury and aging. The diets are relatively low in vitamin and mineral content. Their requirements are met but excesses are avoided because that can be an important cause of tissue injury in older animals. Vitamin E can be supplemented for further protection. Feeding recommendations are based on the diet providing 80 percent of the caloric requirements of a younger dog of the given weight.

Tofu and Rice Diet (high fat)

1 cup tofu, raw firm (252 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 777 kcalories, 48.3 g protein, 22.9 g fatsupports caloric needs of 34 pound dog

Cottage Cheese and Boiled Rice Diet (low fat)

1 cup cottage cheese, 1% fat (226 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 575 kcalories, 36.5 g protein, 3.2 g fat
supports caloric needs of 23 pound dog

Diets containing cottage cheese are much higher in sodium; water consumption will be greater on these diets than on others.
Avoid feeding this diet in dogs with sodium retention.

Cottage Cheese and Boiled Rice Diet (high fat)

1 cup cottage cheese, 1% fat (226 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1 tablespoon chicken fat (13 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 689 kcalories, 36.5 g protein, 16 g fat
supports caloric needs of 29 pound dog

Egg Whites and Boiled Rice Diet (low fat)

egg whites from 4 large eggs, cooked
1 egg, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 554 kcalories, 28.4 g protein, 6.2 g fatsupports caloric needs of 21 to 22 pound dog

Eggs and Boiled Rice Diet (high fat)

4 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 722 kcalories, 33.7 g protein, 22.1 g fatsupports caloric needs of 31 pound dog

Poultry Meat and Boiled Rice Diet (low fat)

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 575 kcalories, 40 g protein, 4.18 g fatsupports caloric needs of 22 to 23 pound dog

Poultry Meat and Boiled Rice Diet (normal fat)

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
1 eggs, large, chicken, whole, cooked
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 653 kcalories, 46.3 g protein, 9.48 g fatsupports caloric needs of 27 pound dog

Poultry Meat and Boiled Rice Diet (high fat)

1/3 pound (weight before cooking) poultry meat (152 grams)
2 cups rice, long-grain, cooked (320 grams)
1 tablespoon chicken fat (13 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt substitute-potassium chloride
1/10 teaspoon table salt1/2 teaspoon bone meal powder (3 grams)
1 multiple vitamin-mineral tablet
1 vitamin E (400 IU)
(vitamin B₁₂ once a week)

provides 691 kcalories, 40 g protein, 17 g fatsupports caloric needs of 29 pound dog