Why Do Cats Roll Over Into Their Backs But Not Let You Touch Their Bellies?
It’s common knowledge dogs love to have their tummies rubbed when they freely lay down before you and roll onto their backs. But, if you’re also familiar with cats, you know that when they roll onto their backs with their bellies exposed, rubbing the belly will most likely result in bleeding. So why do they do this? advertisement An expression of trust Cat behaviorists will likely answer that it’s a sign of trust when cats roll over and expose their bellies. That is true, indeed. But is it also a request to rub their bellies? The fact that your cat
Latest Articles
How Did Cats Become Domestic?
Unlike dogs, which were deliberately bred by humans for specific jobs, cats largely domesticated themselves. Their journey from wild hunters to household companions is a story of mutual benefit, quiet coexistence, and just a bit of feline independence. advertisement It Started With Grain, and Rodents The domestication of cats began around 9,000–10,000 years ago, shortly after humans transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural communities. As people began storing grain, rodents followed, and where rodents went, wildcats soon appeared. The wildcat most closely related to modern domestic cats is the Near Eastern wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica). These cats were solitary, efficient hunters that naturally gravitated toward human settlements because they offered an abundant food supply in the form of mice and rats. Humans quickly noticed the benefits. Cats reduced crop losses by controlling pests; in return, they were tolerated and eventually welcomed near homes and food stores. A Mutual Arrangement, Not a Master Plan Cats weren’t captured and trained the way dogs were. Instead, the boldest and least fearful wildcats stuck around human settlements. These cats were more tolerant of people, better able to exploit human environments, and more likely to survive and reproduce. Over generations, natural selection favored cats that were calmer, less aggressive, and more adaptable to living near humans. Humans, for their part, allowed these cats to stay because they were useful. The relationship developed organically, without intentional breeding programs. In short, cats chose us. Early Evidence of Cat–Human Bonds One of the earliest pieces of evidence for cat domestication comes from a 9,500-year-old burial site in Cyprus, where a human was buried alongside a cat. Since cats are not native to Cyprus, this suggests humans intentionally brought them there, an indication of a meaningful relationship, not just pest control. This shows that cats had already moved beyond being tolerated animals and into the realm of companionship. Ancient Egypt and the Rise of the Sacred Cat While cats were domesticated earlier in the Near East, it was in ancient Egypt that their status truly flourished. By around 4,000 years ago, cats were deeply integrated into daily life and culture. They were associated with protection, fertility, and motherhood, and were even linked to deities. Harming a cat was a serious crime, and many cats were mummified and buried with honors. Egyptian art frequently depicts cats lounging beneath chairs or accompanying families, highlighting their role as both protectors and companions. Egypt’s reverence for cats helped spread them across the Mediterranean as traders and sailors took cats aboard ships to control rodents. Why Cats Stayed Independent Because cats domesticated themselves, they retained many traits of their wild ancestors. They remained solitary hunters, highly territorial, and selective about social bonds. Unlike dogs, which evolved to work cooperatively with humans, cats evolved to live alongside humans. This explains why modern cats are affectionate on their own terms, value personal space, and often seem less eager to please. Their independence isn’t a flaw; it’s a feature shaped by their unique path to domestication.
Why Do Cats Like Boxes So Much?
If you’ve ever bought your cat an expensive bed only to watch them immediately curl up inside the shipping box it came in, you’re not alone. From shoeboxes to cereal cartons, cats seem irresistibly drawn to small, enclosed spaces. But this behavior isn’t random or silly; it’s deeply rooted in feline biology, psychology, and survival instincts. advertisement Boxes Provide a Sense of Safety Cats are both predators and prey. Even the most pampered indoor cat carries instincts shaped by thousands of years of survival. Enclosed spaces like boxes offer protection on multiple sides, allowing cats to observe their surroundings without being easily seen. This creates a feeling of security that open spaces can’t provide. Inside a box, a cat can monitor approaching movement from a single opening, making it easier to react quickly if something feels threatening. This “safe hideaway” effect is especially appealing in busy households or unfamiliar environments. Stress Relief in a Cardboard Package Studies have shown that boxes can significantly reduce stress in cats. In shelters, for example, cats given access to boxes tend to adapt more quickly and show fewer signs of anxiety. The ability to retreat into a confined space helps cats self-soothe when they feel overwhelmed. For cats, stress management often means withdrawal rather than confrontation. A box gives them a private space to decompress, nap, or watch the world go by without interacting. Warmth Without Effort Cats love warmth, and cardboard boxes are surprisingly good insulators. Cardboard traps body heat, creating a cozy microclimate that helps cats stay comfortable without expending extra energy. This is especially appealing to older cats or to those who naturally seek out warm spots, such as sunbeams and heating vents. In cooler months, a box can act like a natural thermal cocoon, making it an ideal resting place. The Perfect Ambush Spot Playtime reveals another reason cats adore boxes: they make excellent hunting blinds. A box allows a cat to hide, wait, and pounce, mimicking the stalking behavior they would use in the wild. Even if the “prey” is just a passing foot or a dangling toy, the box turns ordinary play into an instinctually satisfying experience. This is why you’ll often see cats crouched inside boxes with just their eyes visible, ready to strike. Comfort in Predictable Spaces Cats are creatures of routine and territory. Boxes provide a clearly defined space that belongs entirely to them. Unlike large rooms or shared furniture, a box offers predictable boundaries, which can be calming for cats who prefer structure and control over their environment. This can be very comforting during times of change, such as moving to a new home, introducing new pets, or rearranging furniture. Why Size Matters Cats don’t just like boxes; they like small boxes. If a cat fits, they’ll sit. Tight spaces provide gentle pressure around the body, which may have a calming effect similar to swaddling. This snug fit can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Should You Encourage Box Play? Absolutely. Boxes are an
Simple Ways to Help Your Cat Live Longer and Happier
Cats are living longer than ever before, thanks to advances in veterinary care, nutrition, and attentive guardianship. With the average cat now reaching well into their senior years, understanding how to support healthy aging has become increasingly important. The good news is that small, thoughtful changes can dramatically improve an older cat’s comfort and quality of life. The key is not to assume that aging automatically means decline. Instead, aging is a natural process that benefits from proactive care, observation, and gentle adaptation. advertisement When Is a Cat Considered “Old”? Cats typically enter their senior years around 10 years of age. From there, feline aging is often divided into stages such as mature, senior, and super-senior. While every cat ages differently, this milestone is a useful signal to begin paying closer attention to physical, behavioral, and emotional changes. Reaching old age does not mean a cat is nearing the end of life. Many senior cats remain playful, affectionate, and curious for years with the right support. What Does Healthy Aging Look Like in Cats? Aging itself is unavoidable. Over time, a cat’s body becomes less resilient to stress, and cellular wear accumulates. However, healthy aging means your cat still has the physical and emotional capacity to meet their daily needs while maintaining a positive bond with you. Some changes are completely normal and do not affect quality of life. These include mild greying of fur, slight dental tartar, thinner skin, and somewhat dulled senses. These signs alone are not cause for concern. Other changes, however, should not be dismissed as “just old age.” Difficulty jumping, trouble reaching food or litter boxes, disorientation in familiar spaces, or sudden changes in behavior may indicate pain, arthritis, or cognitive decline. These signs warrant veterinary attention. Understanding Feline Frailty Veterinary medicine now uses the concept of frailty to assess aging cats. Frailty refers to a reduced ability to cope with physical or environmental challenges and an increased risk of illness. Cats identified as frail benefit greatly from early intervention. When detected early, frailty can often be managed or slowed, improving comfort and longevity. Regular veterinary checkups are essential for identifying these changes before they significantly impact daily life. Adapting Your Cat’s Environment One of the most effective ways to support an aging cat is to make their environment more accessible. Ensure that food, water, litter boxes, resting areas, and hiding spots are easy to reach. Older cats often benefit from multiple resource locations throughout the home, reducing the need to climb stairs or jump frequently. Litter boxes deserve special attention. Many commercial boxes have high sides that are difficult for cats with arthritis. A wide box with a low entry can make a big difference. Providing multiple litter boxes in quiet, easily accessible locations can also help prevent accidents. Soft, supportive bedding placed at ground level or on low furniture allows older cats to rest comfortably while still surveying their surroundings. Maintaining a Positive Relationship Behavioral changes in senior cats should never be punished
Smart Tips When Traveling with a Cat
Traveling with a cat can feel intimidating, especially if your feline prefers predictable routines and familiar territory. While many cats would happily choose to stay home, sometimes travel is unavoidable. Whether you’re moving, visiting family, or taking an extended trip, a little preparation can make the journey safer, calmer, and far less stressful for both you and your cat. advertisement Decide If Your Cat Should Travel at All Before making plans, consider whether travel is truly the best option. Many cats are more comfortable staying in their own home with a trusted sitter. However, if you’ll be away for an extended period, relocating permanently, or traveling to a place where your cat can remain safely indoors, bringing them along may be the better choice. If your cat has a history of severe anxiety, talk to your veterinarian before committing to travel. Choose the Right Carrier A secure, well-ventilated carrier is non-negotiable. Your cat should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Soft-sided carriers work well for air travel, while hard-sided carriers provide extra protection for car trips. To reduce stress, leave the carrier out at home well before your trip. Add familiar bedding and treats so your cat begins to associate it with comfort rather than fear. Make the Carrier a Safe Space Cats are more relaxed when surrounded by familiar scents. Line the carrier with a blanket or towel that smells like home. You can also use a feline pheromone spray on the bedding to promote calmness. Avoid introducing new toys or scents right before travel—familiarity is key. Visit the Vet Before You Go Schedule a veterinary checkup before traveling, especially for long trips. Confirm that vaccinations are up to date and ask whether your cat might benefit from anti-nausea medication or mild anti-anxiety support. Make sure your cat is microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag. Bring copies of medical records if you’re traveling far or crossing state lines. Plan for Car Travel If traveling by car, never let your cat roam freely inside the vehicle. A secured carrier protects both your cat and the driver. Place the carrier on a stable surface, away from airbags, and maintain a comfortable temperature. Most cats do better without food for several hours before travel to reduce nausea, but always provide access to water at stops. Never leave your cat alone in a parked car—even for a few minutes. Flying with a Cat If flying, check airline requirements well in advance. Many airlines allow cats in the cabin, but carriers must meet strict size guidelines. Choose nonstop flights when possible to minimize stress. During security screening, your cat will need to be removed from the carrier briefly. Use a harness and leash to prevent escapes, and stay calm—your cat will take cues from you. Keep Routines as Normal as Possible Once you arrive, set up a quiet space for your cat right away. Include their litter box, food and water dishes, scratching post, and bedding.
How to Prepare Your Cat When You’re Expecting Your First Child
Bringing home your first baby is an exciting milestone, but if you share your home with a cat, it also means big changes for your feline family member. Cats thrive on routine and predictability, so preparing them in advance can make the transition smoother, safer, and far less stressful for everyone involved. With a bit of planning, your cat can adapt beautifully to life with a newborn. advertisement 1. Start Preparing Early Cats don’t adjust well to sudden changes, so begin introducing new routines and smells long before the baby arrives. This might include: Changing feeding or playtime schedules to align with what life will look like once the baby is home. Setting up the nursery so your cat can get used to the new room, furniture, and sounds. Introducing baby-related scents like lotion, wipes, and baby detergent in small amounts. Pair these changes with positive experiences, treats, playtime, or affection, so your cat associates the new environment with good things. 2. Establish Boundaries Before the Baby Arrives If certain rooms will be off-limits or if new rules apply (like keeping counters or bassinets cat-free), begin enforcing them as early as possible. Cats accept boundaries more easily when they’re introduced gradually and predictably. You can help keep your cat comfortable by providing alternatives: Bassinets or cribs: Offer cozy cat beds in quiet corners of the home. Restricted rooms: Add new perches, shelves, or hiding spots elsewhere. New furniture: Give your cat time to sniff and investigate, never scold them for curiosity. 3. Practice Handling Changes Babies cry, squirm, and move unpredictably, all behaviors that can unsettle a cat. You can build your cat’s confidence by gradually exposing them to: Recordings of baby sounds at low volume, increasing slowly over time. Your own shifting daily schedule (early mornings, late nights, more frequent activity). New motion patterns, like rocking in a chair or carrying a baby doll. Always reward calm reactions with treats, gentle praise, or play. 4. Keep Your Cat’s Routine as Stable as Possible While you may need to shift some aspects of care, try to keep your cat’s everyday routine steady once the baby arrives. Predictability helps reduce stress, so: Feed meals at consistent times. Set aside short but meaningful daily play sessions. Maintain regular litter box cleaning and grooming routines. If you expect things to get hectic, consider introducing automatic feeders, water fountains, or scheduled play toys before the baby arrives. advertisement 5. Offer Elevated or Safe Retreats Cats feel safest when they have vertical space or private hideouts. With a new baby bringing noise, visitors, and unpredictable movements, these safe zones become especially important. Helpful additions include: Cat trees or wall shelves Cardboard hideouts or covered beds Quiet rooms your cat can retreat to during busy times Let your cat choose when to interact and when to take a break. 6. Introduce the Baby’s Scent Before the First Meeting When your baby is born, send home a blanket or hat that carries their scent. This lets your
Do Humans Struggle to Speak Cat?
Most cat parents have experienced it: a cat rolls onto their back, the fluffy belly is exposed, and the human hand reaches in on instinct. Moments later, teeth, claws, and a very offended feline. What looks like an invitation is often a perfectly clear feline “no thanks.” Recent research suggests the problem isn’t that cats are confusing; it’s that humans are surprisingly bad at reading them. advertisement Humans vs. Cat Body Language: The Results Aren’t Great A study of 368 adults examined how well people could interpret cat emotions from short video clips of human–cat interactions. The results were far from reassuring: When cats showed obvious distress, hissing, spitting, tense or aggressive postures, 23.3% of people still misread them. When cats displayed subtle signs of discomfort, such as slight stiffness or facial tension, accuracy dropped to just 48.7%, basically a coin toss. Even more concerning, recognizing distress did not always change how participants said they would behave: Among people who correctly identified a cat as stressed or annoyed, nearly 20% still said they would interact with the cat instead of backing off. For cats showing subtle negative signals, that number increased to 44%. In other words, even when humans understand that a cat is not okay, many still choose to push the interaction. Why Misreading Cats Can Be Dangerous Misinterpreting or ignoring feline warning signs is not just impolite; it can be physically dangerous for humans and stressful for cats. Cat Bites: Tiny Teeth, Serious Damage 75% of infection-causing mammalian bites come from cats. Roughly 30% of cat bites become infected, which can lead to: Deep abscesses Bone infections Septic arthritis In severe cases, long-term disability or life-threatening illness Cat teeth are narrow and sharp, creating deep puncture wounds that often close quickly at the surface while bacteria multiply inside. Cat Scratches: Not Harmless Either Scratches can cause corneal injuries if they reach the eye. They can transmit cat scratch disease (bartonellosis), which causes chronic lymph node swelling and has been associated with longer-term health concerns. Scratches contaminated with saliva can, in rare cases, transmit rabies. Hands and arms are the most common targets. About half of all cat-related injuries occur there, often during play or petting sessions, where humans miss the moment the cat’s comfort level changes. The Belly Rub Trap One of the most common misunderstandings between humans and cats involves the exposed belly. When a cat rolls onto their back, it can mean: Trust Relaxation A desire to interact, but not necessarily through belly touching For many cats, the belly is a highly vulnerable and easily overstimulated area. Touching it can quickly trigger a defensive reaction. In the study, when participants watched videos of cats showing subtle signs of discomfort, 42% still said they would rub the cat’s belly. That is exactly the sort of interaction likely to end in biting, scratching, and frantic bunny kicks from all four paws. advertisement When Education Backfires To see if education could help people read cats better, researchers created a
Research Shows That ‘Cat Music’ Can Calm Feline Nerves
Most cat owners know the chaos that erupts the moment a carrier appears. Cats seem to develop supernatural agility when a vet visit is imminent, vanishing under beds, hissing at carriers, and protesting loudly during the car ride. But research suggests there may be a surprisingly simple way to make vet trips far less stressful: music designed specifically for cats. advertisement The Science Behind Cat-Friendly Tunes Music therapy is already widely recognized for its calming and restorative effects in humans. Previous studies have shown that cats tend to relax when listening to classical music and become significantly more stressed when exposed to heavy metal. Even under anesthesia, cats show physiological responses to sound. Building on this, researchers investigated whether music composed specifically for cats would have an even stronger calming effect. And yes, “cat music” is a real genre with a scientific foundation. Human music typically matches our natural rhythm, such as our resting heart rate or vocal frequencies. Cat music is built on feline patterns instead, incorporating: Purring-like vibrations Suckling sounds Higher-pitched frequencies (about two octaves above human vocal range) These elements mimic natural feline communication and comfort signals. Putting Cat Music to the Test Twenty pet cats participated in the study. Each cat experienced three different conditions, on separate vet visits spaced two weeks apart: 20 minutes of cat-specific music 20 minutes of classical (human) music 20 minutes of silence Researchers evaluated the cats’ stress through video observations, body language, interactions with handlers, and blood samples that measured physiological stress markers. What the Researchers Found Cats exposed to cat-specific music were noticeably calmer during their vet appointments than those who listened to classical music or silence. Their body language was more relaxed, and they responded more favorably to handling. Interestingly, the bloodwork didn’t show measurable differences between groups. Researchers believe this was likely due to the short duration of exposure; 20 minutes may not have been enough time for physiological changes to appear in blood markers. advertisement Why Cat Music Matters Calmer cats benefit everyone involved: Cats experience less fear and anxiety Owners have a much easier time transporting and handling their pets Veterinarians can perform exams more safely and thoroughly With so many cats experiencing stress-related issues during vet visits, cat-specific music may become a valuable tool for improving feline welfare. The study appears in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. Many examples of scientifically designed cat music are now available online, making it easy for owners to test it out before the next vet appointment.
Cats and Mutual Grooming: What Allogrooming Really Means
When two cats settle down and start gently washing each other’s heads, it is one of the clearest signs that they are not enemies, but friends. This behavior, called allogrooming or mutual grooming, is one of the most important pieces of “catspeak” in multi-cat households. Contrary to some outdated claims, allogrooming is not a form of dominance. That idea largely traces back to a single study published in 1998 that was later overinterpreted and repeated as fact. More recent understanding of feline behavior paints a very different picture: mutual grooming is primarily about affection, bonding, and cooperation, not status or control. advertisement Why Cats Groom Each Other When cats groom one another, they are doing much more than cleaning fur. They are: Reinforcing social bonds Building trust and security Reducing stress Caring for hard-to-reach places Cats rarely waste effort. They do not usually groom areas that their companion could easily reach alone. Instead, mutual grooming often focuses on: The top of the head The back of the neck Around the ears and cheeks These are spots that are awkward or tiring for a cat to groom on its own. So when one cat leans in and carefully washes another’s forehead or scruff, it is offering both practical help and emotional comfort. Mother cats do this naturally with their kittens. Early grooming helps keep babies clean, stimulates their bodies, and supports their transition from relying on their mother’s body to running their own systems. Later in life, this same nurturing pattern becomes part of the adult cat’s social toolkit. Allogrooming Is Not Dominance For years, some sources claimed that when one cat grooms another, especially if one does more of the grooming, that cat must be “dominant.” This idea has been traced primarily to a 1998 study that suggested a link between grooming and dominance. The problem is that this single study was limited in scope, and its conclusions were generalized far beyond the data. Modern interpretations of feline behavior and additional observational work have shown that: Allogrooming occurs between close companions, not just in “higher/lower” pairs. Cats may take turns grooming each other or specialize in different roles (one more groomer, one more groomed) without any true “boss” cat. Grooming often appears in peaceful, relaxed contexts, right before shared naps, after greeting, or during quiet social time, rather than around competition or resource conflicts. In other words, while individual relationships can be complex, mutual grooming is best understood as an affiliative behavior, one that strengthens social bonds, not as a dominance display. Treating it as dominance can mislead caregivers and encourage unnecessary worry about “pecking orders” that cats themselves are not strictly following. Grooming as a Social Message Mutual grooming is part hygiene and part communication. A quick lick on the top of the head can say many things in “catspeak”: Hello, I see you. We’re friends; you are safe with me. I’m sorry / let’s keep the peace. Time to relax together. In some households, one cat may use a
New Research Shows Cats Can Develop Dementia
Many cat owners have noticed it: as their feline companions grow older, they start to change. A once-confident cat may begin to meow through the night, seem disoriented in familiar surroundings, or forget long-established routines. These behaviors may not just be “old age”; they can be signs of feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), often called feline dementia. Now, scientists have confirmed that dementia in cats shares striking similarities with Alzheimer’s disease in humans, right down to the same toxic protein buildup in the brain and the way brain cells break down. This discovery is more than just fascinating; it could help improve the lives of aging pets and advance human dementia research. advertisement What the Study Found In a recent study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience, researchers examined the brains of older cats, some healthy, some showing signs of cognitive decline, after they had passed away. These cats had been diagnosed during life with symptoms very similar to those seen in people with dementia: increased vocalization (especially at night), confusion, changes in social behavior, disrupted sleep, disorientation, house soiling, and anxiety. When the researchers examined the cats’ brains under the microscope, they found: A buildup of amyloid-beta, a toxic protein that is a defining feature of Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Brain cell connections (synapses) filled with amyloid-beta, especially in older cats and those with dementia. Inflammation in the brain, caused by overactive support cells called microglia and astrocytes. Increased “synaptic pruning”, a process where these support cells started engulfing and removing synapses, the connections between brain cells. This last finding is especially important. In healthy brains, synaptic pruning is a normal part of development. But in dementia, this process becomes overactive, and the brain starts losing too many synapses. Since synapses are crucial for learning, memory, and normal thinking, their loss is a major driver of cognitive decline. The study showed that aging cats with amyloid-beta buildup experienced this same destructive process. A Natural Model for Alzheimer’s Why does this matter so much? Most of what we know about Alzheimer’s disease comes from studies in mice that are genetically engineered to develop certain aspects of the disease. But mice don’t naturally get dementia; cats do. This means older cats with CDS may be a more natural and accurate model for Alzheimer’s disease in humans. They develop the disease spontaneously as they age, they show similar behavioral changes, and their brains display the same toxic protein buildup and inflammation found in human patients. Because of this, researchers believe studying feline dementia could: Help clarify how amyloid-beta actually damages the brain Reveal why some aging brains cope better than others Point toward new treatments that could help both cats and people The study also found that in cats with dementia, but not just normally aging cats, there was a stronger link between amyloid buildup and synapse loss caused by glial cells (the brain’s support cells). This suggests that in feline dementia, just like in human Alzheimer’s, the combination of amyloid
How Risky is Raw Cat Food?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to cat owners after a case of H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) was linked to a raw chicken-based cat food. While no human illnesses have been reported, this incident highlights an important health concern for pets, especially cats fed raw diets. advertisement What Happened? A cat became sick and was later euthanized after eating a raw chicken cat food product. Testing by local health officials found the H5N1 virus in an open package of the same food the cat had eaten. Further testing by federal laboratories confirmed that the virus found in the cat and in the food was genetically related. This suggested the food was the likely source of infection. The affected product was sold nationwide in resealable bags and sliders, with future sell-by dates. Even though the company removed the affected lots from the market as a precaution, the FDA is urging pet owners to be cautious with raw poultry-based diets. Why This Matters for Cat Owners Cats can become seriously ill from H5N1, especially if they eat contaminated raw meat or poultry. In previous cases, bird flu infections in cats have been linked to raw pet food and even raw milk. Because raw pet foods are not cooked, viruses like H5N1 are not destroyed during processing, making contamination a real concern. The FDA has also noted that this particular virus strain, genotype B3.13, has been previously detected in raw cat food. It has also been linked to multiple cat illnesses and deaths. Is There a Risk to People? So far, no human illnesses have been linked to this specific incident. However, anytime a virus like H5N1 enters the home through contaminated food, there is potential for exposure, especially if people handle raw food without proper hygiene. What You Should Do If You Feed Raw Diets If you currently feed your cat raw food, especially raw chicken, this is a good time to take extra precautions. Here are some steps you can take: Check your cat’s food: Verify lot numbers, expiration dates, and whether the product has been subject to any recent alerts or removals. Consider switching temporarily: Talk to your veterinarian about switching to a cooked or commercially processed diet while more information becomes available. Handle raw food carefully: Wash hands, bowls, and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw pet food. Watch your cat for symptoms: Signs of infection may include fever, lethargy, difficulty breathing, neurological symptoms (such as tremors or seizures), eye or nasal discharge, or not eating. If you notice these signs and your cat eats raw food, contact your vet immediately. Stay informed: Follow FDA and veterinary updates about pet food safety and avian influenza. Why Raw Pet Food Carries Extra Risk Unlike traditional pet food, raw diets don’t undergo heat treatment to kill harmful pathogens. That means bacteria, and in rare cases, viruses like H5N1, can survive in the food. The FDA now considers avian influenza a “foreseeable hazard” for pet foods made
