Coping with Cats • Hacker News Board

Re: Coping with Cats

#161

Post by DonHopkins » Sat, Sep 05, 2020, 12:11 AM UTC

cameronh90 wrote: post #27

Regarding smell, consider trying a raw meat diet. I use Purrform (UK) but there are similar in other countries. I was a sceptic, but since converting to raw meat diet, there is almost no poop smell except when I feed too many treats. Living in a small London flat, this has been a game changer. Obviously there are risks with raw meat diets and they aren't the cheapest. Do your research, understand the potential issues…

That's called a BARF diet: BARF – Biologically Appropriate Raw Food

https://www.zooplus.co.uk/magazine/cat/cat-nutrition/barf-ca...

>What is BARF?

>The term 'BARF' describes so-called 'biologically appropriate raw food'. This feeding method is appropriate for the key reason that cats are carnivorous by nature. Raw food gives them just that – lots of fresh meat. In contrast to cooking your own cat food, BARF portions are given out raw and are not cooked or seared beforehand. However, this has also led to criticism of raw food, which is mostly unhealthy for humans and can lead to stomach upsets and intolerances. Does the same not also apply for cats?

Re: Coping with Cats

#162

Post by dsr_ » Sun, Sep 06, 2020, 3:27 PM UTC

DonHopkins wrote: post #160

dsr_ wrote: post #24

Earlier quoted context omitted.

The Furminator is for long-haired cats, and is not the only brush/comb you should have. I use it to remove excess fur, then I use a soft wire brush to groom and distribute skin oil. The Maine Coons love the Furminator, the Siamese don't like it and don't need it.

If you like maximum softness, then Maine Coons are the way to go! Mine are so soft I can't stop patting them.

The belly fur is the best.

Re: Coping with Cats

#163

Post by hvidgaard » Mon, Sep 07, 2020, 8:50 AM UTC

buzzwordninja wrote: post #147

hvidgaard wrote: post #144

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I've tried multiple collars. The magnetic ones always go missing, and the ones with a buckle have resulted in it being stuck in a hedge... Our cat catches birds and rodents about equally judging on what he leaves at the door. I really appreciate that it catches mice and rats. It's unfortunate with the birds, I try to make up for it with a garden where they have ample opportunity to nest and find food.

Doesn't that also give the cat ample opportunity find food?

It does, but it is going to prey no matter what I do (short of keeping it inside), and its territory is far larger than my property anyway.

Large hedges provide protection and the cats cannot get to the nests.