by Nomi Berger

According to the ASPCA, cold and flu medications for people could prove fatal to our kitty companions. And according to the Pet Poison Hotline web site, almost 50% of the calls they receive involve a pet’s accidental ingestion of a human’s medication.
 
Both physicians’ prescriptions and over-the-counter products used to reduce our symptoms and lessen our discomfort contain ingredients that, when swallowed by our cats may require urgent medical attention.
 
Aspirin, acetaminophen (found in Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve) and vitamin D derivatives are a few of the active ingredients to pay attention to. Cats ingesting any of these toxic substances can display a variety of symptoms, including discolored gums, a swollen face or swollen paws, ulcers of the stomach and intestines, and kidney failure. Some telltale signs are immediate, while others can take more than 24 hours to appear.
 
But the above-mentioned medications aren’t the only culprits.
 
Many cold medicines contain pseudoephedrine, a decongestant compound with stimulant qualities. It can cause a dramatic rise in a cat’s body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, causing her to become hyper or nervous and, in some cases, suffer seizures. Only 30 mg of pseudoephedrine can be a deadly dose.
 
To err on the side of caution, ensure that your kitty remains “paws off” and far removed from any of your anti-sniffling, sneezing, coughing and aching, cold and flu medications.

by Nomi Berger
 
When ordinary simply won’t do …
 
For those with a desire for the designer in all things – including kitties -- consider adopting a fabulous furry friend from among the following:
 
Sphynx
Appearances aside, this hairless honey is a highly prized, hot ticket item in the world of feline fanciers. Admired for her amazing personality, she makes everyone believe in love at first sight. And once a Sphynx owner always a Sphynx owner.
 
Tonkinese
This minx is a mixture of Siamese and Burmese. Playful and loving, at times more dog than cat, she adores climbing on laps for affection and cuddles. With a sparkling personality that matches her striking good looks, she’s almost impossible to resist.
 
Persian
A combination of her long, luxurious coat and large, luminous eyes makes this plush pussycat the most popular breed in the world. Despite her high price tag and lifelong high maintenance, she’s truly the cat’s meow.
 
Toyger
She may look as if she mated with a tiger, but this tiny tiger lookalike was the result of creative “engineering.” With one wave of a clever breeder’s wand, the humble, domestic striped tabby was transformed into this miniature queen of the jungle and hearts.
 
Oriental Shorthair
The eyes have it! And this beauteous blend of domestic and Oriental, as well known for her exquisite eyes as her exotic markings, is equally popular among pet people for her calm personality and easygoing demeanor.
 
Savannah
Boasting the markings of a wonderfully wild “beast”, beneath her glorious coat beats a pure kitty cat heart that’s worth its weight in gold. According to the International Cat Association, the highest class in this breed could sell for as much as $30,000.
 
Chausie
The dramatic result of mixing a domestic shorthair with a Middle Eastern cat, her appearance is proof that you can’t judge a cat by its coat. She may look fur-ocious, but she’s the sweetest of felines, with a very loving and affectionate personality.
 
Havana Brown
Stunning with her jewel like green eyes and rich chocolate brown coat, she rules every kitty cat runway. Although rather rare and difficult to find, anyone fortunate enough to own one falls in love with her loving loveliness now and fur-ever.

Bengal
Bred to resemble the sleekest of stalkers in the wild is one of reasons this domesticated darling is adored by so many. More than delightfully decorative, this friendly and feisty feline can tame even the wildest human heart.
 
Ocicat
Created from an Abyssinian, an American Shorthair and a Siamese, she’s not only a breathtaking beauty who behaves like a dream, she’s also bright, easily trained, and will readily adapt to any loving household’s rules and routine.