Kitty's Purrfect Spa is excited to announce, as of September 19, 2014, we are a member of the Holistic Cat Groomers Alliance! While many cats we have groomed have been groomed in the methods and theology of Holistic Cat Grooming, now it is official!
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Holistic Cat Groomers Alliance
Kitty's Purrfect Spa is excited to announce, as of September 19, 2014, we are a member of the Holistic Cat Groomers Alliance! While many cats we have groomed have been groomed in the methods and theology of Holistic Cat Grooming, now it is official!
Medically and Financially it makes sense to Spay or Neuter Kitty
Medically and Financially it makes sense to Spay or Neuter Kitty
In the last few months, I have visited multiple homes with kittens they found approaching 6 to 8 months. Now these families are struggling with “fixing” Kitty. Recently I spoke to several breeders and obtained interesting information that I would like to share with you.
Spaying Female Cats:
Something important to know, a cat will come into heat over and over during the breeding season. The behavior during the breeding season can be very difficult to live with, especially if you have an inside only Kitty. If your Kitty goes outside, chances are high she will come home pregnant.
The scariest danger of not spaying a female cat is Pyometra. Breeders are very worried about their females getting this infection. Pyometra is when bacteria migrates from Kitty licking their bottoms into the uterus. There are periods of time the cervix is open and the bacteria can enter the uterus. Remember, cats go into heat repeatedly during the breeding season, making it difficult to know when the dangerous period may be. Pyometra comes in several forms, and breeders who know what to look for, sometimes miss it. If your Kitty gets Pyometra and it is caught in time, you will be looking at vet bills for an emergency and dangerous spay. One of the biggest and real concerns is secondary infection following the emergency spay. Keep in mind, if Kitty gets pyometra, and you miss the infection, it will result in the death of your kitty.
Spaying also reduces or eliminates the risk of mammary gland tumors, ovarian and/or uterine cancers. Females who are not spayed run an approximate 14% rate of developing one of these cancers over those who were spayed.
Neutering Male Cats:
The biggest plus for a male house cat is that neutering reduces or eliminates spraying and marking, in addition to aggressive behavior and howling! Males that are not neutered end up with injuries from catfights. These injures often end up infected and abscessed. Treatment usually results in large veterinarian bills. Neutering also takes away the desire to roam, which in turn reduces the likelihood of Kitty being injured in a fight or hurt from cars or predators. Testicular cancer will be eliminated and prostate disease is greatly decreased after a male cat is neutered. Unfortunately, an outside male cat tends to have a life expectancy of two years.
Did you know…
Responsible breeders will not give you the CFA papers for your kitten before you provide proof of spay/neuter. Most purebred cat contracts state the ownership of their cats will remain in the breeder’s name until the spay/neuter takes place. Bottom line, if you did not buy a cat from a reputable breeder to specifically breed, you do not have permission to breed your cat. If you do try to breed your cat, you will not have the CFA paper work to be able to prove your cat’s ownership or bloodlines. Hence, not “fixing” your purebred cat potentially could result legal matters with your breeder.
Benefits to both Males and Females:
Cats tend to live at least three to five years longer when altered. It also will reduce the urge to roam, which decreases the risk of contracting diseases or getting hurt outside. Feline Immunodeficiency Syndrome is spread by bites and catfights that occur more often in cats that are not spayed or neutered.
In Conclusion:
Medically it makes sense to spay/neuter your Kitty. However, it also makes sense financially. All the “problems” that occur if Kitty is not altered result in high veterinarian bills. Another consideration is the comfort and quality of life for Kitty. Of course, we all know overpopulation, poor breeding and abandoned cats are societal concerns of those cats who are not spayed or neutered.
http://www.cat-health-guide.org/spaying-cats.html
http://www.eastpaddenanimalhospital.com/cat_feline_pet_care/pyometra_in_cats.shtml
http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/pyometra-in-cats/330
http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/cat-in-heat.html
http://www.vawokc.org/main_sublinks.asp?id=19&sid=68
http://www.spayusa.org/benefits.php
Published September 2014 Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
All Groomers Are the Same...
All Groomers are the same…
I wish that statement were true. Unfortunately, the amount of training, passion for the profession, commitment to continuing education and level of ethical decisions are not the same for all groomers. The grooming industry is not regulated in the State of California, or any state. The quality of one groomer to the next can and does vary greatly.
Kitty’s Purrfect Spa takes great pride in the high quality of each groom we perform, our ethical business practices and our dedication to the feline exclusive grooming industry. We go beyond the industry standard in the areas of education, professionalism and ethics. These qualities help make our safety record outstanding!
As a business, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has completed almost 400 grooms to date. Not one of our feline clients had to receive medical treatment due to a groom performed by Kitty’s Purrfect Spa.
WHY ARE WE SO SAFE??? Simply put, due to our extensive training, our devotion to monthly continuing education and our commitment to provide the highest standard of service possible has given us an outstanding safety record. Some of the techniques and policies Kitty’s Purrfect Spa implements are listed below.
WE NEVER USE SCISSORS! Scissors lead to many problems, the first and most obvious is cut skin! Another undesired effect of using scissors, especially on mats, is that the cut hair actually causes the mats to get worse due to the random length of fur in the area trimmed.
WE NEVER USE GROOMING LOOPS (NOOSES)! Cats should never have anything around their necks that cannot easily break off with their own weight. This is why your cat probably wears a break away collar. It is too easy for a cat to hang itself from a grooming table if the kitty gets startled, mad or just tries to run away from the groomer. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa Groomers always use their body and work space as the only way to contain a Kitty during the grooming process.
WE NEVER PUT WATER IN A CAT’S FACE! This is why our Spa does not offer blueberry facials for our Kitty clients! We also never clean a cat’s face in the bath. Water in a cat’s face is a bad idea. Cats’ little noses and mouths can very easily be filled with water. Cats ARE NOT dogs! It is impossible to hold a cat’s face the same way you would hold a dog’s face during the grooming process. Once water is used to rinse a cat’s face, you risk the chance of filling Kitty’s breathing passages and lungs with water.
WE BATHE IN THE KITCHEN SINK! We NEVER dunk a cat in a bucket of water and call it a bath! In fact, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa never puts a cat in standing water for any reason. We never use a “dog tub” with water that comes out of a sprayer on a “dog setting”. Another thing we never do is use rinseless shampoo because it always leaves a residue on Kitty’s fur, in turn, causing worse problems than you started with.
WE ALMOST NEVER SCRUFF A CAT! We tell you if we do scruff your cat! Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes in the most compassionate and least restrictive methods to groom all kitties!
IF and only IF, KITTY BITES AT US, DO WE USE AN AIR MUZZLE. An air muzzle looks like a hamster ball, goes on the head like packman and is easily thrown off by Kitty. It uses Velcro to stay in place and weighs 7 ounces. We NEVER use a traditional muzzle. Traditional muzzles are DANGEROUS for cats. Most were designed for dogs. In a traditional muzzle, a cat’s airway can be very easily blocked. Also, a cat cannot be accurately observed for possible medical issues while wearing a muzzle made from cloth.
WE MONITOR THE STRESS LEVEL AND HEALTH OF YOUR CAT DURING THE ENTIRE GROOMING PROCESS! We are NOT afraid to walk away and finish your groom on a different day if your Kitty shows any signs of distress! While we are not veterinarians, we are trained to look for warning signs of possible medical concerns and notify you immediately if we make any observations about your cat’s health. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa is not shy about referring you to your veterinarian if we have any concerns.
WE LEAVE YOU WITH A COMPLETE REPORT OF YOUR KITTY’S GROOMING EXPERENCE! Nothing is ever a secret! We put everything in writing before we leave!
YOU ARE ALWAYS ALLOWED TO WATCH, TAKE PICTURES AND ASK QUESESTIONS during our grooms! In fact, we encourage it! Your comfort with the grooming process is as important to us as your Kitty’s comfort!
WE TELL YOU EVERY LITTLE THING WE FIND DURING YOUR KITTY’S GROOM! We want all our clients to be well informed! If we find a lump, bump, excess wax in the ears, a bloody claw… We tell you!! Usually immediately! We will never sugarcoat how the groom proceeded.
WE ARE FULLY INSURED! If something goes wrong during the grooming process, we transport you and Kitty to the nearest vet. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa does everything in their power to assure there are no out of pocket expenses to you if we caused an injury to your Kitty! Please keep in mind, some vet’s require Kitty to be up to date on shots before they will treat your Kitty. We will not cover those expenses, however, OUR GOAL IS TO COVER EVERY EXPENSE DUE DIRECTLY TO AN INJURY WE CAUSED. If an undiagnosed life threatening health issue appears, we will transport you and kitty to the nearest vet.
WE GROOM AGGRESSIVE CATS! We have been specifically trained to handle highly aggressive cats. If Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes it is in the best interest of Kitty, we will groom a highly aggressive cat. In fact, we groom many cats other groomers have turned away.
WE REMOVE PELTS! We are trained to remove fur that is one solid mat from Kitty’s skin. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has done approximately 50 pelt removals with no injury to Kitty! Some of these Kitty’s even had skin twisted into the fur. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa successfully removed the fur without injury to the Kitty’s skin! If you do not find a Feline Master Groomer to remove your cat’s pelt, the only other option is to have a vet shave down your cat under anesthesia. That is costly. Additionally, not all cats can medically have anesthesia.
WE REFUSE TO GROOM MEDICATED CATS! (Cats who have been sedated just for a groom) No “Happy Pills” Allowed! If you give your Kitty sedation before we arrive, we will reschedule your appointment. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes that over 90% of cats can be groomed without medication or anesthesia!
WE REHABILITATE OWNERS AND KITTY! Currently we are working with approximately 10 families who had a “very bad” grooming experience. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa first makes sure the humans have all their questions answered and are comfortable with our techniques. Once the humans are comfortable, and that may take many phone calls and an in-home visit, we begin to work with Kitty. One of our Kitty clients took over four visits before he could have his first full spa day with Kitty’s Purrfect Spa. We are happy to invest all the time, you need, into you and your precious Kitty!
THIS IS WHY WE CLAIM TO BE EXTREMELY SAFE! Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has professionally groomed almost 400 cats in 15 months with no accidents! That is an outstanding safety record by anyone’s measures. When you hire Kitty’s Purrfect Spa to pamper your kitty, Kitty receives the high quality treatment you would expect from any human spa!
Published September 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
I wish that statement were true. Unfortunately, the amount of training, passion for the profession, commitment to continuing education and level of ethical decisions are not the same for all groomers. The grooming industry is not regulated in the State of California, or any state. The quality of one groomer to the next can and does vary greatly.
Kitty’s Purrfect Spa takes great pride in the high quality of each groom we perform, our ethical business practices and our dedication to the feline exclusive grooming industry. We go beyond the industry standard in the areas of education, professionalism and ethics. These qualities help make our safety record outstanding!
As a business, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has completed almost 400 grooms to date. Not one of our feline clients had to receive medical treatment due to a groom performed by Kitty’s Purrfect Spa.
WHY ARE WE SO SAFE??? Simply put, due to our extensive training, our devotion to monthly continuing education and our commitment to provide the highest standard of service possible has given us an outstanding safety record. Some of the techniques and policies Kitty’s Purrfect Spa implements are listed below.
WE NEVER USE SCISSORS! Scissors lead to many problems, the first and most obvious is cut skin! Another undesired effect of using scissors, especially on mats, is that the cut hair actually causes the mats to get worse due to the random length of fur in the area trimmed.
WE NEVER USE GROOMING LOOPS (NOOSES)! Cats should never have anything around their necks that cannot easily break off with their own weight. This is why your cat probably wears a break away collar. It is too easy for a cat to hang itself from a grooming table if the kitty gets startled, mad or just tries to run away from the groomer. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa Groomers always use their body and work space as the only way to contain a Kitty during the grooming process.
WE NEVER PUT WATER IN A CAT’S FACE! This is why our Spa does not offer blueberry facials for our Kitty clients! We also never clean a cat’s face in the bath. Water in a cat’s face is a bad idea. Cats’ little noses and mouths can very easily be filled with water. Cats ARE NOT dogs! It is impossible to hold a cat’s face the same way you would hold a dog’s face during the grooming process. Once water is used to rinse a cat’s face, you risk the chance of filling Kitty’s breathing passages and lungs with water.
WE BATHE IN THE KITCHEN SINK! We NEVER dunk a cat in a bucket of water and call it a bath! In fact, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa never puts a cat in standing water for any reason. We never use a “dog tub” with water that comes out of a sprayer on a “dog setting”. Another thing we never do is use rinseless shampoo because it always leaves a residue on Kitty’s fur, in turn, causing worse problems than you started with.
WE ALMOST NEVER SCRUFF A CAT! We tell you if we do scruff your cat! Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes in the most compassionate and least restrictive methods to groom all kitties!
IF and only IF, KITTY BITES AT US, DO WE USE AN AIR MUZZLE. An air muzzle looks like a hamster ball, goes on the head like packman and is easily thrown off by Kitty. It uses Velcro to stay in place and weighs 7 ounces. We NEVER use a traditional muzzle. Traditional muzzles are DANGEROUS for cats. Most were designed for dogs. In a traditional muzzle, a cat’s airway can be very easily blocked. Also, a cat cannot be accurately observed for possible medical issues while wearing a muzzle made from cloth.
WE MONITOR THE STRESS LEVEL AND HEALTH OF YOUR CAT DURING THE ENTIRE GROOMING PROCESS! We are NOT afraid to walk away and finish your groom on a different day if your Kitty shows any signs of distress! While we are not veterinarians, we are trained to look for warning signs of possible medical concerns and notify you immediately if we make any observations about your cat’s health. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa is not shy about referring you to your veterinarian if we have any concerns.
WE LEAVE YOU WITH A COMPLETE REPORT OF YOUR KITTY’S GROOMING EXPERENCE! Nothing is ever a secret! We put everything in writing before we leave!
YOU ARE ALWAYS ALLOWED TO WATCH, TAKE PICTURES AND ASK QUESESTIONS during our grooms! In fact, we encourage it! Your comfort with the grooming process is as important to us as your Kitty’s comfort!
WE TELL YOU EVERY LITTLE THING WE FIND DURING YOUR KITTY’S GROOM! We want all our clients to be well informed! If we find a lump, bump, excess wax in the ears, a bloody claw… We tell you!! Usually immediately! We will never sugarcoat how the groom proceeded.
WE ARE FULLY INSURED! If something goes wrong during the grooming process, we transport you and Kitty to the nearest vet. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa does everything in their power to assure there are no out of pocket expenses to you if we caused an injury to your Kitty! Please keep in mind, some vet’s require Kitty to be up to date on shots before they will treat your Kitty. We will not cover those expenses, however, OUR GOAL IS TO COVER EVERY EXPENSE DUE DIRECTLY TO AN INJURY WE CAUSED. If an undiagnosed life threatening health issue appears, we will transport you and kitty to the nearest vet.
WE GROOM AGGRESSIVE CATS! We have been specifically trained to handle highly aggressive cats. If Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes it is in the best interest of Kitty, we will groom a highly aggressive cat. In fact, we groom many cats other groomers have turned away.
WE REMOVE PELTS! We are trained to remove fur that is one solid mat from Kitty’s skin. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has done approximately 50 pelt removals with no injury to Kitty! Some of these Kitty’s even had skin twisted into the fur. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa successfully removed the fur without injury to the Kitty’s skin! If you do not find a Feline Master Groomer to remove your cat’s pelt, the only other option is to have a vet shave down your cat under anesthesia. That is costly. Additionally, not all cats can medically have anesthesia.
WE REFUSE TO GROOM MEDICATED CATS! (Cats who have been sedated just for a groom) No “Happy Pills” Allowed! If you give your Kitty sedation before we arrive, we will reschedule your appointment. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes that over 90% of cats can be groomed without medication or anesthesia!
WE REHABILITATE OWNERS AND KITTY! Currently we are working with approximately 10 families who had a “very bad” grooming experience. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa first makes sure the humans have all their questions answered and are comfortable with our techniques. Once the humans are comfortable, and that may take many phone calls and an in-home visit, we begin to work with Kitty. One of our Kitty clients took over four visits before he could have his first full spa day with Kitty’s Purrfect Spa. We are happy to invest all the time, you need, into you and your precious Kitty!
THIS IS WHY WE CLAIM TO BE EXTREMELY SAFE! Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has professionally groomed almost 400 cats in 15 months with no accidents! That is an outstanding safety record by anyone’s measures. When you hire Kitty’s Purrfect Spa to pamper your kitty, Kitty receives the high quality treatment you would expect from any human spa!
Published September 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
Cat Bite Dangers
Cat Bites…
Just rinse them off, maybe get a kiss and all is well.
Unfortunately, cat bites lead to hospitalization in one third to one-half of all reported cat bite cases.
The February issue of The Journal of Hand Surgery featured a three-year long study… "Research showed that out of the 193 patients, 57 of them were hospitalized for an average of around three days. Cat bite victims who had to undergo surgery came in at 38 patients, and eight victims needed more than one surgery.”* The remainder of cat bite victims that visited the emergency room were sent home with oral antibiotics.
When comparing dog bites to cat bites, cats win due to their sharper teeth, which enables them to puncture the skin deeper, implanting the dangerous bacteria they carry in their mouth. “An aggressive bacteria known as Pasteurella multocida is the main cause of infection from a cat bite. This bacteria is found in the mouth of around 90 percent of cats in good health.”*
Even healthy kitties that go to the vet every three to six months can still cause a dangerous response in human flesh after their teeth puncture the human skin.
All cat bites hurt, and most get red. It is when the swelling and redness continue to increase you should be concerned a serious problem is occurring. Please do not wait to go to the doctor if you are bitten! Time is not on your side.
My personal story…
I was hesitant to share this with you, my clients. Yes, groomers are bitten by the animals they
groom. Accidents do happen. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, LLC carries insurance to cover groomers and
grooming assistants if a Kitty does bite or scratch. You, as a cat owner, should never worry
about allowing Kitty’s Purrfect Spa into your home to groom your beloved Kitty. We are
completely insured, if we were to get bitten by the cat we are grooming, as long as the
environment we are in is calm and peaceful, the homeowner has no responsibility.
I grew up with a cat. I was told not to dress Kitty up, put nail polish on her toes, and other despicable things like eye shadow on her face, etc. Did I listen? NO! You cannot tell a girly girl not to turn a cat into a baby! Well you can, but you will not get very far. My childhood cat was more of a doll and teddy bear than a cat; the number of times she bit me was countless.
If you tried to take the number of cat bites I have received over my lifetime from my personal kitties, I would not know where to start. Now, add that I chose to become a feline exclusive groomer.
I was excited when I got my first real cat bite from a client! It was a badge of honor. Then I was pretty much over getting bit and scratched. The more Kitties, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has groomed, the more confidence I have built and the less number of injuries I received. At the one-year anniversary of Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, I felt like the majority of my serious bites were behind me. I have my methods down and my immune system was built up. There is a thought in the feline grooming community that groomers build up an immunity to cat bites. I was personally buying into that theory.
About November, I went on an almost injury free spree until May. In May, I got a few good chomps right to my scalp. While uncomfortable, nothing serious came of it. I got right back up and to my regular schedule.
Then a few weeks later, I was grooming a sweet sweet girl. I was almost finished, when I dropped the comb between her front legs. I took my eyes off her for a split second (I know better), before I knew what happened, CHOMP, I felt her teeth digging into my finger.
As soon as I left the client’s home, I called my doctor. The receptionist stated I just finished antibiotics, I would be fine. I instinctively knew this was a different kind of bite. A few hours later, I went in to see the doctor and was put on oral antibiotics. I took the first one within four hours of the bite. 36 hours after the bite, at 2AM on Friday the 13th, I found myself in the hospital. I was dangerously close to losing my finger. By 9 AM, I was in surgery. My finger needed to have the infection cleaned out. In less than 48 hours the sheath around the tendon in my middle finger and probably the tendon were infected by this one simple bite. I spent four days in the hospital. Then three weeks with my hand wrapped in a splint.
Please know, cat bites are dangerous. They can change your life forever. They can make you lose limbs. They can even be fatal. PLEASE, if you are ever bitten by a cat, go to the doctor to be checked out.
I know some of you fear animal control coming and taking your kitty away. In most areas, if it is your cat that bites you, the worst that will happen is your cat is quarantined in your home for 10 days. If it is someone else’s cat, the consequence depends on the circumstance. Do not put your fear for what may happen to kitty over your life. Do not wait to go to the doctor if you have a cat bite.
I cannot stress enough; I had JUST finished a course of antibiotics, JUST started a new course of antibiotics and STILL ended up in the emergency room being prepared for emergency surgery. Never underestimate the severity of a cat bite. It can kill you.
http://guardianlv.com/2014/02/cat-bites-are-more-dangerous-than-previously-thought/
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2014/02/09/cat-bites-may-lead-to-serious-infections-hospitalizations
http://www.pawnation.com/2013/01/23/why-cat-bites-are-more-dangerous-than-you-might-think/
http://www.minnpost.com/second-opinion/2014/02/cat-bites-hand-can-cause-serious-infections-mayo-study-finds
http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/wounds-cat-bite-injuries-to-humans/63
Published August 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
Just rinse them off, maybe get a kiss and all is well.
Unfortunately, cat bites lead to hospitalization in one third to one-half of all reported cat bite cases.
The February issue of The Journal of Hand Surgery featured a three-year long study… "Research showed that out of the 193 patients, 57 of them were hospitalized for an average of around three days. Cat bite victims who had to undergo surgery came in at 38 patients, and eight victims needed more than one surgery.”* The remainder of cat bite victims that visited the emergency room were sent home with oral antibiotics.
When comparing dog bites to cat bites, cats win due to their sharper teeth, which enables them to puncture the skin deeper, implanting the dangerous bacteria they carry in their mouth. “An aggressive bacteria known as Pasteurella multocida is the main cause of infection from a cat bite. This bacteria is found in the mouth of around 90 percent of cats in good health.”*
Even healthy kitties that go to the vet every three to six months can still cause a dangerous response in human flesh after their teeth puncture the human skin.
All cat bites hurt, and most get red. It is when the swelling and redness continue to increase you should be concerned a serious problem is occurring. Please do not wait to go to the doctor if you are bitten! Time is not on your side.
My personal story…
I was hesitant to share this with you, my clients. Yes, groomers are bitten by the animals they
groom. Accidents do happen. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, LLC carries insurance to cover groomers and
grooming assistants if a Kitty does bite or scratch. You, as a cat owner, should never worry
about allowing Kitty’s Purrfect Spa into your home to groom your beloved Kitty. We are
completely insured, if we were to get bitten by the cat we are grooming, as long as the
environment we are in is calm and peaceful, the homeowner has no responsibility.
I grew up with a cat. I was told not to dress Kitty up, put nail polish on her toes, and other despicable things like eye shadow on her face, etc. Did I listen? NO! You cannot tell a girly girl not to turn a cat into a baby! Well you can, but you will not get very far. My childhood cat was more of a doll and teddy bear than a cat; the number of times she bit me was countless.
If you tried to take the number of cat bites I have received over my lifetime from my personal kitties, I would not know where to start. Now, add that I chose to become a feline exclusive groomer.
I was excited when I got my first real cat bite from a client! It was a badge of honor. Then I was pretty much over getting bit and scratched. The more Kitties, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has groomed, the more confidence I have built and the less number of injuries I received. At the one-year anniversary of Kitty’s Purrfect Spa, I felt like the majority of my serious bites were behind me. I have my methods down and my immune system was built up. There is a thought in the feline grooming community that groomers build up an immunity to cat bites. I was personally buying into that theory.
About November, I went on an almost injury free spree until May. In May, I got a few good chomps right to my scalp. While uncomfortable, nothing serious came of it. I got right back up and to my regular schedule.
Then a few weeks later, I was grooming a sweet sweet girl. I was almost finished, when I dropped the comb between her front legs. I took my eyes off her for a split second (I know better), before I knew what happened, CHOMP, I felt her teeth digging into my finger.
As soon as I left the client’s home, I called my doctor. The receptionist stated I just finished antibiotics, I would be fine. I instinctively knew this was a different kind of bite. A few hours later, I went in to see the doctor and was put on oral antibiotics. I took the first one within four hours of the bite. 36 hours after the bite, at 2AM on Friday the 13th, I found myself in the hospital. I was dangerously close to losing my finger. By 9 AM, I was in surgery. My finger needed to have the infection cleaned out. In less than 48 hours the sheath around the tendon in my middle finger and probably the tendon were infected by this one simple bite. I spent four days in the hospital. Then three weeks with my hand wrapped in a splint.
Please know, cat bites are dangerous. They can change your life forever. They can make you lose limbs. They can even be fatal. PLEASE, if you are ever bitten by a cat, go to the doctor to be checked out.
I know some of you fear animal control coming and taking your kitty away. In most areas, if it is your cat that bites you, the worst that will happen is your cat is quarantined in your home for 10 days. If it is someone else’s cat, the consequence depends on the circumstance. Do not put your fear for what may happen to kitty over your life. Do not wait to go to the doctor if you have a cat bite.
I cannot stress enough; I had JUST finished a course of antibiotics, JUST started a new course of antibiotics and STILL ended up in the emergency room being prepared for emergency surgery. Never underestimate the severity of a cat bite. It can kill you.
http://guardianlv.com/2014/02/cat-bites-are-more-dangerous-than-previously-thought/
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2014/02/09/cat-bites-may-lead-to-serious-infections-hospitalizations
http://www.pawnation.com/2013/01/23/why-cat-bites-are-more-dangerous-than-you-might-think/
http://www.minnpost.com/second-opinion/2014/02/cat-bites-hand-can-cause-serious-infections-mayo-study-finds
http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/wounds-cat-bite-injuries-to-humans/63
Published August 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
Breeds, Colors, Patterns... So Confusing!
An Overview of Breeds, Colors and Patterns
Most of us know that we have a Lab that is black or a Poodle that is white. Nevertheless, when it comes to cats…. many owners give me a blank stare.
Let us start to learn more about basic cat facts!
Cat Breeds
Like it or not, our basic dog knowledge comes from the American Kennel Club (AKC). While most dog owners do not have pure breeds, the AKC gives us the words we need to describe our dogs. We can say we have a Lab, or Labradoodle, or a Lab mix. All those words describe the breed of dog.
Cats have a similar organization. It is called the Cat Fanciers Association, Inc. (CFA). Currently, the CFA recognizes 40 breeds of cats. Some of the more common breeds Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has groomed in this area are the Persian, Exotic, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Siamese, Bengal and Turkish Van. Other breeds we have groomed in Santa Clarita include the Scottish Fold, Abyssinian, LaPerm, Russian Blue, Norwegian Forest Cat and Manx.
While some owners have purebred cats, and other cats highly resemble the purebred version, many of us “just have a cat”. We call “just a cat” by the length of fur they have. The “mutts” (forgive my language) of the cat world are called Domestic Short hair (DSH) or Domestic Long hair (DLH).
For the list of 40 recognized breeds, please visit the following:
http://cfainc.org/Breeds.aspx
So, now that we know the breed of cat you have, life gets a little more complicated with the color of cat you own.
The cat world likes to throw colors and patterns together. Here we go!
Cat Colors
Let us start with colors. Out of 40 recognized breeds by the CFA, there are only eight color choices, plus White! The colors of all cats are Black, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Red, Blue, Lilac, Fawn and/or Cream.
If your cat has white on the fur, we would say the color “and white”.
I am sorry to say, that the “Orange Tabby” Garfield looking cat next door, is a Red Domestic Short Hair. In the cat world, orange is called red and gray is called blue.
Cat Patterns
This is where most people get confused. Tabby is a pattern in the coat, not a breed.
There are four Tabby Patterns; all these cats have an “M” shape marking on their forehead and narrow stripes on their faces.
1. Mackerel Tabbies, have narrow stripes that run almost parallel down Kitty’s Side
2. Classic Tabbies, appear to have a “bulls eye” on the sides and a “butterfly” between the shoulder blades
3. Spotted Tabbies, have large or small spots all over
4. Ticked Tabbies, have no spots or stripes but have the tabby markings on the face
Cats can also come in solid colors. Some cats that look solid on first glance, but actually have tabby markings if you look carefully! Solid or partially white cats are always identified as “with white”, and are officially categorized on a gradient scale. A “Tuxedo Cat”, would be considered black with white bicolor (usually) grade 4.
Smoked Colors are when the cat’s under coat is white, with a different color on top. There are also Silver Shaded and Golden Shaded, which refers to the color of the undercoat.
Then we have “mixed up colors”….
Tortie (Tortoiseshell) is a mixture of black, red and cream
Diluted Tortie is blue and creamCalico is black, red and white
Diluted Calico is blue, cream and white
Many of you have Pointed Color Cats. These breeds usually are the Persians, Himalayans, Siamese, type cats. The points; ears, feet, mask and tail are a different color from the body. These cats come in the following colors: Seal Points, Blue Points, Chocolate Points, Flame Points (red), Lilac Points, Cream Points, Tortie Points (black and red), Blue Cream Points, and Lynx Points (tabby markings on points).
If your head is spinning, mine is too!
Please remember, this is a simplified overview of Breed, Colors and Patterns.
Put it all together…
So, what kind of cat do you have? You may have a Flame Point Persian, a Seal Point Siamese, a Russian Blue (they only come in blue), a Domestic Long Hair Mackerel Tabby, a Red Tabby Persian, etc.
I know it is very confusing! The key to correctly describing your cat, is for you to pick a breed, color and pattern that your cat most resembles.
Most of us know that we have a Lab that is black or a Poodle that is white. Nevertheless, when it comes to cats…. many owners give me a blank stare.
Let us start to learn more about basic cat facts!
Cat Breeds
Like it or not, our basic dog knowledge comes from the American Kennel Club (AKC). While most dog owners do not have pure breeds, the AKC gives us the words we need to describe our dogs. We can say we have a Lab, or Labradoodle, or a Lab mix. All those words describe the breed of dog.
Cats have a similar organization. It is called the Cat Fanciers Association, Inc. (CFA). Currently, the CFA recognizes 40 breeds of cats. Some of the more common breeds Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has groomed in this area are the Persian, Exotic, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Siamese, Bengal and Turkish Van. Other breeds we have groomed in Santa Clarita include the Scottish Fold, Abyssinian, LaPerm, Russian Blue, Norwegian Forest Cat and Manx.
While some owners have purebred cats, and other cats highly resemble the purebred version, many of us “just have a cat”. We call “just a cat” by the length of fur they have. The “mutts” (forgive my language) of the cat world are called Domestic Short hair (DSH) or Domestic Long hair (DLH).
For the list of 40 recognized breeds, please visit the following:
http://cfainc.org/Breeds.aspx
So, now that we know the breed of cat you have, life gets a little more complicated with the color of cat you own.
The cat world likes to throw colors and patterns together. Here we go!
Cat Colors
Let us start with colors. Out of 40 recognized breeds by the CFA, there are only eight color choices, plus White! The colors of all cats are Black, Chocolate, Cinnamon, Red, Blue, Lilac, Fawn and/or Cream.
If your cat has white on the fur, we would say the color “and white”.
I am sorry to say, that the “Orange Tabby” Garfield looking cat next door, is a Red Domestic Short Hair. In the cat world, orange is called red and gray is called blue.
Cat Patterns
This is where most people get confused. Tabby is a pattern in the coat, not a breed.
There are four Tabby Patterns; all these cats have an “M” shape marking on their forehead and narrow stripes on their faces.
1. Mackerel Tabbies, have narrow stripes that run almost parallel down Kitty’s Side
2. Classic Tabbies, appear to have a “bulls eye” on the sides and a “butterfly” between the shoulder blades
3. Spotted Tabbies, have large or small spots all over
4. Ticked Tabbies, have no spots or stripes but have the tabby markings on the face
Cats can also come in solid colors. Some cats that look solid on first glance, but actually have tabby markings if you look carefully! Solid or partially white cats are always identified as “with white”, and are officially categorized on a gradient scale. A “Tuxedo Cat”, would be considered black with white bicolor (usually) grade 4.
Smoked Colors are when the cat’s under coat is white, with a different color on top. There are also Silver Shaded and Golden Shaded, which refers to the color of the undercoat.
Then we have “mixed up colors”….
Tortie (Tortoiseshell) is a mixture of black, red and cream
Diluted Tortie is blue and creamCalico is black, red and white
Diluted Calico is blue, cream and white
Many of you have Pointed Color Cats. These breeds usually are the Persians, Himalayans, Siamese, type cats. The points; ears, feet, mask and tail are a different color from the body. These cats come in the following colors: Seal Points, Blue Points, Chocolate Points, Flame Points (red), Lilac Points, Cream Points, Tortie Points (black and red), Blue Cream Points, and Lynx Points (tabby markings on points).
If your head is spinning, mine is too!
Please remember, this is a simplified overview of Breed, Colors and Patterns.
Put it all together…
So, what kind of cat do you have? You may have a Flame Point Persian, a Seal Point Siamese, a Russian Blue (they only come in blue), a Domestic Long Hair Mackerel Tabby, a Red Tabby Persian, etc.
I know it is very confusing! The key to correctly describing your cat, is for you to pick a breed, color and pattern that your cat most resembles.
Published August 2014 Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
Kitty’s Purrfect Spa Earns More Certifications!
Kitty’s Purrfect Spa believes in always doing what is best for the cat. Some of you know this very well. We do not like telling our Human Clients “no”, however when your fabulous ideas are not in line with our beliefs of what is in the best interest of Kitty, we do. Our new titles, acknowledge we always put the physical and emotional health, safety and comfort of Kitty ahead of human wishes.
The International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG) has risen to the challenge of many states and countries. Often times we hear of horrible tragedies that occur at the groomers. Due to the horrific events that come to light in the media, many believe the time is approaching when Groomers will be regulated by governmental agencies. IPG is attempting to institute programs that are ahead of the times, by giving Groomers the opportunity to “self regulate”.
In an attempt to be forward thinking, and most up to date in all areas of grooming, safety and ethical business practices, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa now holds these new titles. These are the first certifications for groomers that are based on Professionalism instead of Skill.
The First new title we now hold is Salon Details. “This certificate acknowledges skilled professionals who adhere to a strict code of ethics and autonomy. The award of SDC Certification exhibits (our) success in demonstrating and attaining the knowledge and practical skills to work with and handle dogs and cats safely, ethically, and professionally. This certification is the first International endorsement program for all persons involved in caring for dogs and cats in a grooming situation.”
The Second New Title Kitty’s Purrfect Spa earned is for “Salons, mobiles, or other businesses. All full time employees and owners must be SDC certified. In addition, a checklist must be completed and a series of photos (Video in our case) submitted. Accredited salons must meet minimum standards of safety, cleanliness, and more. In addition, the business must carry liability insurance.”
Over the last few months, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has been called in to work with several cats who had an “opps” with another groomer. Please know, we are always happy to work with any Kitty and the Human family to get over grooming anxieties. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa ALWAYS invites families to watch, ask questions, and even take pictures during our grooms!
Both quotes are found at: http://www.ipgicmg.com/Salon-Details-Certification.html
Published August 2014
The International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG) has risen to the challenge of many states and countries. Often times we hear of horrible tragedies that occur at the groomers. Due to the horrific events that come to light in the media, many believe the time is approaching when Groomers will be regulated by governmental agencies. IPG is attempting to institute programs that are ahead of the times, by giving Groomers the opportunity to “self regulate”.
In an attempt to be forward thinking, and most up to date in all areas of grooming, safety and ethical business practices, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa now holds these new titles. These are the first certifications for groomers that are based on Professionalism instead of Skill.
The First new title we now hold is Salon Details. “This certificate acknowledges skilled professionals who adhere to a strict code of ethics and autonomy. The award of SDC Certification exhibits (our) success in demonstrating and attaining the knowledge and practical skills to work with and handle dogs and cats safely, ethically, and professionally. This certification is the first International endorsement program for all persons involved in caring for dogs and cats in a grooming situation.”
The Second New Title Kitty’s Purrfect Spa earned is for “Salons, mobiles, or other businesses. All full time employees and owners must be SDC certified. In addition, a checklist must be completed and a series of photos (Video in our case) submitted. Accredited salons must meet minimum standards of safety, cleanliness, and more. In addition, the business must carry liability insurance.”
Over the last few months, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa has been called in to work with several cats who had an “opps” with another groomer. Please know, we are always happy to work with any Kitty and the Human family to get over grooming anxieties. Kitty’s Purrfect Spa ALWAYS invites families to watch, ask questions, and even take pictures during our grooms!
Both quotes are found at: http://www.ipgicmg.com/Salon-Details-Certification.html
Published August 2014
The Healing Power of the Purr
As cat lovers, we know nothing can replace our furry family members. We have many special moments with them throughout the day, when they wake us in the morning with head butts, meow for food, rub against us when we come home, lay in our laps as we watch television. When they find a new napping place we panic, when they are sick we cry and when kitty chooses us over others we rejoice. Our love and devotion to our cats surpass explanation.
The human feline bond is unique in itself. Over the last few months, older research has been brought back into the spotlight regarding how the cat’s purr can actually heal humans! The purr not only is thought to heal the cat, but also the humans in the cat’s life. Many report that cats will lay on or near injured human body parts. When we don’t feel well, we are often irritated by this act. However, they could be actively trying to heal us.
Let’s start with the basics… Why do Cats Purr?
We really are not sure, however, many Veterinarians and Scientists believe purring is linked to the emotions of the feline. It is still unknown if purring is a voluntary or involuntary response. That being said, I have personally owned cats that never stopped purring and cats that hardly ever purred.
Interesting enough, purring begins the second day of life in house cats. The purr is used when cats are content, comfortable, feel safe, play, approach other cats, distressed, afraid, sick, injured, and in medical distress. Many believe the purr is the cat’s way to reassure and calm themselves and their special humans.
How do they make that sound?
The purr comes from the cat’s voice box. The laryngeal muscles tighten and vibrate when the cat breathes in and out. The range in Hertz when a cat purrs is due to the fact that the cat’s laryngeal muscles vibrate on both the inhale and exhale, resulting in a large range in frequency. Some believe the diaphragm is also involved in the purring process, making the act of purring a high energy producing activity.
Purring can Heal???
We all know a good cuddle reduces our stress, but it has been scientifically proved to reduce our blood pressure at the same time!
When cats purr, the vibration is in a range of 20-140 Hz. To me that means nothing, however scientist tell us that this range is medically therapeutic for many illnesses. This frequency range of 25 – 50 Hz actually heals bones! 100 – 200 Hz is the second best range to strengthen bones! These vibrations also help heal infection, swelling, muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.
When I had surgery a few years back, my two girl cats would lay on each side of my surgery site and purr. I thought nothing of it at the time. Recently, my doctor stated that my wounds heal quickly. When these studies were revisited in groups I belong to, I found it interesting that my girls will still lay on or next to my injuries. Our cats obviously take care of us in ways we are never aware of!
Some studies have determined, just owning a cat will reduce your rate of heart attack by 40%!
Yes, I believe the purr contains healing properties. Below I have included additional sources for you to explore.
http://www.the-wayfarer.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=223%3Athe-science-of-healing-from-cats-part-2&catid=8%3Aarticles&Itemid=8
http://www.leaflady.org/purr.htmhttp://paulapeterson.com/CatsPurr.html (half way down the article is the section on cats)
http://consciouscat.net/2009/09/14/the-cats-purr-a-biomechanical-healing-mechanism/
http://www.collective-evolution.com/2013/10/21/domestication-may-date-back-to-9000-bca-history-of-cats-how-they-can-assist-us-on-our-journey/
http://purring.org/
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/features/why-cats-purr
http://mentalfloss.com/article/12312/how-do-cats-purr
Updates!!!
Below are the stories of how our clients have been healed by Purrs!
Kitty R’s Dad had open heart surgery. When he returned home from the hospital, his special furry friend very gently laid on his chest for hours purring while he was recovering. Now this Kitty, had never laid on Dad’s chest before, and did it in a very gentle and loving manner. Of course, Mom was worried! However, Dad assured her, that the soft sounds of the purrs made him feel better! This was before Kitty R, but Kitty R wants you to know, she would do the same for her beloved Daddy!
The human feline bond is unique in itself. Over the last few months, older research has been brought back into the spotlight regarding how the cat’s purr can actually heal humans! The purr not only is thought to heal the cat, but also the humans in the cat’s life. Many report that cats will lay on or near injured human body parts. When we don’t feel well, we are often irritated by this act. However, they could be actively trying to heal us.
Let’s start with the basics… Why do Cats Purr?
We really are not sure, however, many Veterinarians and Scientists believe purring is linked to the emotions of the feline. It is still unknown if purring is a voluntary or involuntary response. That being said, I have personally owned cats that never stopped purring and cats that hardly ever purred.
Interesting enough, purring begins the second day of life in house cats. The purr is used when cats are content, comfortable, feel safe, play, approach other cats, distressed, afraid, sick, injured, and in medical distress. Many believe the purr is the cat’s way to reassure and calm themselves and their special humans.
How do they make that sound?
The purr comes from the cat’s voice box. The laryngeal muscles tighten and vibrate when the cat breathes in and out. The range in Hertz when a cat purrs is due to the fact that the cat’s laryngeal muscles vibrate on both the inhale and exhale, resulting in a large range in frequency. Some believe the diaphragm is also involved in the purring process, making the act of purring a high energy producing activity.
Purring can Heal???
We all know a good cuddle reduces our stress, but it has been scientifically proved to reduce our blood pressure at the same time!
When cats purr, the vibration is in a range of 20-140 Hz. To me that means nothing, however scientist tell us that this range is medically therapeutic for many illnesses. This frequency range of 25 – 50 Hz actually heals bones! 100 – 200 Hz is the second best range to strengthen bones! These vibrations also help heal infection, swelling, muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.
When I had surgery a few years back, my two girl cats would lay on each side of my surgery site and purr. I thought nothing of it at the time. Recently, my doctor stated that my wounds heal quickly. When these studies were revisited in groups I belong to, I found it interesting that my girls will still lay on or next to my injuries. Our cats obviously take care of us in ways we are never aware of!
Some studies have determined, just owning a cat will reduce your rate of heart attack by 40%!
Yes, I believe the purr contains healing properties. Below I have included additional sources for you to explore.
http://www.the-wayfarer.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=223%3Athe-science-of-healing-from-cats-part-2&catid=8%3Aarticles&Itemid=8
http://www.leaflady.org/purr.htmhttp://paulapeterson.com/CatsPurr.html (half way down the article is the section on cats)
http://consciouscat.net/2009/09/14/the-cats-purr-a-biomechanical-healing-mechanism/
http://www.collective-evolution.com/2013/10/21/domestication-may-date-back-to-9000-bca-history-of-cats-how-they-can-assist-us-on-our-journey/
http://purring.org/
http://pets.webmd.com/cats/features/why-cats-purr
http://mentalfloss.com/article/12312/how-do-cats-purr
Updates!!!
Below are the stories of how our clients have been healed by Purrs!
Kitty R’s Dad had open heart surgery. When he returned home from the hospital, his special furry friend very gently laid on his chest for hours purring while he was recovering. Now this Kitty, had never laid on Dad’s chest before, and did it in a very gentle and loving manner. Of course, Mom was worried! However, Dad assured her, that the soft sounds of the purrs made him feel better! This was before Kitty R, but Kitty R wants you to know, she would do the same for her beloved Daddy!
I just read your newsletter and it's funny because a couple nights ago my left hand was completely unusable... Had it on ice and everything and little Miss PittyPat insisted on laying right on my hand all night long :) -Angela
I am sharing the stories clients have shared with me of how their Kitty healed them with Purrs! To submit your story, please email your story to meow@kittyspurrfectspa.com, or paste it into the contact form! Thank you!
Published July 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
Published July 2014, Kitty's Purrfect Spa Newsletter
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