June 26, 2009

Katrina Warren, BVSc, is the host of Animal Planet's "Housecat Housecall." (ZT Pet News Photo Courtesy of Housecat Housecall)

NEW YORK -- Airways are dominated by reality programming, and of those concerning animals, most focus on dogs. But one Animal Planet show is proving that American households love their feline pets just as much.

Returning for a second season, "Housecat Housecall" is breaking into the canine-dominated television world by solving common cat issues that many pet owners face.

“For the series, we profile 12 families dealing with a broad range of real-life kitty concerns in an effort to relate to as many cat owners as possible," said Dr. Katrina Warren, BVSc.

Now Warren is offering a couple tips to the Zootoo community with actionable solutions for bringing harmony back to their households.

What should I do before bringing a new kitten into the family?

Take some time to kitten proof your house before you bring your kitten home. Kittens are endlessly curious creatures that love to explore and often end up getting trapped in hard to reach places. Remove all dangling cords and remove precious ornaments and glassware from coffee tables and shelves

You will need a sturdy crate for transport, scratching post, climbing tree, litter box, food and water bowls and a breakaway collar with an ID tag.

All kittens need play time several times a day.

Keep your kitten indoors. Generally an indoor cat lives to a much older age than an outdoor one.

How do I ensure I find the right kitten or cat for me and my family?

Finding the ideal companion cat can be a fun project for the whole family. Remember that cats tend to live, on average, for around 12 to 15 years, with some living considerably longer. Take your time and do your homework in order to make sure you choose the cat that is most compatible with you and your lifestyle.

Here are some things to consider:

Temperament. Cats, particularly representatives of individual breeds, can vary dramatically - from quiet, gentle little homebodies to personality-plus party animals. Some need lots of time and attention, while others are far less demanding. Some like the Siamese or Oriental are very vocal, so they would not be appropriate if you cherish your peace and quiet.

Lifestyle. There is absolutely no point falling in love with a glamour-puss like a Persian, if you are unable to do justice to her time-consuming grooming requirements. Likewise, some on-the-go breeds, such as the Burmese need a lot of exercise and attention.

Children. Most cats make wonderful playmates for children, but a few are less tolerant of boisterous antics or careless handling.

Kitten or Cat. If you don't have the time or energy to spend on a lively, boisterous kitten, then consider adopting an older, more settled cat?

Other Pets. Cats, particularly when acquired as kittens, can be taught to get along happily with a wide variety of other companion animals, including birds and dogs. Some breeds, like the Burmese, traditionally take living with other pets in stride.

Dr. Katrina Warren is the host of "Housecat Housecall" presented by Purina Cat Chow and airs on Animal Planet, Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. EST, with an encore Sundays at 8 a.m.