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            Cat 
            'encyclopedia' available     
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            [OCT. 
            18, 2003]  
            URBANA -- Understanding cats 
            will be easier for students in companion animal sciences, veterinary 
            technicians and professionals, and hobbyists in the world of felines 
            thanks to a new book by a University of Illinois Department of 
            Animal Sciences lecturer. "The Cat: Its Behavior, Nutrition and 
            Health" was recently published by Iowa State Press. | 
  
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            "This book will be used in 
            undergraduate companion animal programs and also by people whose 
            interests or work involve cats," explained the book's author, Linda 
            P. Case. Four years ago, Case's "The Dog: Its Behavior, Nutrition 
            and Health" was published, also by Iowa State. 
            "The cat is a substantially different 
            species than a dog, and this difference shows up in many areas," 
            Case said. "For instance, the cat is very unique in the types of 
            diseases it can fall victim to as well as the techniques to prevent 
            these diseases." 
            Case noted that the book also includes 
            a section on the history of the cat's domestication. 
            Animal shelter workers proved to be a 
            major audience for "The Dog" book, and she hopes the new book will 
            help acquaint workers with the special requirements of the felines 
            charged to their care.   
      
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            "We've come a long way in controlling 
            the stray dog population through leash laws and other regulations," 
            she says. "However, we've not come very far in terms of cats. For 
            instance, feral cats are becoming a problem in many urban areas." 
            "The Cat" can be ordered through many 
            local bookstores or through a number of online booksellers. Case 
            said that in two years she hopes to bring out a new edition of "The 
            Dog," which will include information on new diseases and updated 
            materials throughout the book. 
            "My next project is likely to be a book 
            targeted toward a popular audience and focusing on human and 
            companion animal interaction," she said. 
            
            [University of Illinois release] 
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