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
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Do Food Puzzles Help Cat Activity Levels?
At Sparkle Kitty, we’re passionate advocates of food puzzles as an excellent enrichment option for our feline friends. Considering their natural predator instincts, cats have evolved to work for their food. However, as indoor pets, we’ve handed them food in a bowl, essentially taking away their natural foraging jobs. Like foraging enrichments used with zoo and laboratory animals, food puzzles have gained popularity for pet dogs (e.g., the Kong) and are now gaining popularity for cats. These puzzles require cats to forage for their food, engaging them in various levels of problem-solving and mental stimulation, from simple activities like rolling a ball to access dry food to sliding open doorways to reach a well of treats. Investigating Food Puzzles’ Impact on Feline Activity A recent pilot study, titled “Pilot study evaluating the impact of feeding method on overall activity of neutered indoor pet cats,” published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, examined the effect of food puzzles on cat activity levels. The study utilized accelerometer-based “activity collars” to measure the cats’ movement. Nineteen household cats participated in the study, with some cats being free-fed while others were fed once or twice per day. A crossover design was employed, with cats switching between regular food bowls and food puzzles. Cats were given time to adjust to the food puzzles and acclimate to the new feeding method. Unexpected Results Surprisingly, the results showed no significant differences in activity levels between cats eating from bowls versus those using food puzzles. Additionally, the type of food puzzle (Indoor Hunting Feeder vs. PetSafe puzzles) did not impact activity levels. Age was the only notable factor influencing activity levels, with older cats being less active in general. While the results may seem counterintuitive, there are several possible explanations. Cats using food puzzles may compensate for their activity by being less active at other times, leading to similar overall activity levels. The study’s sample size was relatively small, potentially limiting the ability to detect subtle differences between bowl feeders and puzzle feeders. Moreover, food puzzles offer other benefits, such as slowing feeding, providing mental stimulation, and warding off boredom or problematic behaviors. Previous studies have shown that cats display increased anticipatory activity levels while waiting for a meal, and increasing the number of meals per day can effectively boost their overall activity. It would be beneficial to replicate this study with a larger sample size to enhance statistical power and validate the results. Other Benefits of Food Puzzles Even though this study suggests that food puzzles may not significantly increase activity levels in cats, we firmly believe in their positive effects based on extensive research on foraging enrichment in other species. Cats in this study easily transitioned to puzzle feeding without any issues, indicating that food puzzles can be successfully incorporated into their routines. The undeniable benefits of food puzzles for cats may not solely lie in increasing activity levels (at least in the short term) but rather in the mental stimulation, problem-solving opportunities, and overall well-being
Brown Cats: The Rarest Coat Color
While brown may be a common color for dogs and human hair, spotting an entirely brown cat is like finding a hidden gem. These felines boast a captivating solid brown coat, a rare and lovable trait from a fascinating genetic mutation targeting black pigmentation in their fur. Meet the enchanting purebred Havana Brown and Oriental Shorthair cat breeds, the delightful products of this unique genetic quirk. Why is Brown such a rare color? Cats’ fascinating brown color is due to a genetic mutation focusing on the gene responsible for producing black pigmentation. This mutation diligently reduces the black pigment in the cat’s coat and coloring, leading to the beautiful brown hue we adore. While this gene variant is not commonly found in cats, it is intentionally bred in the Oriental Shorthair, and Havana Brown cat breeds to highlight this rare and magnetic coloring. Brown Cat Breeds Though rare, some recognized cat breeds have been deliberately bred to showcase this alluring feline coloring. Havana Brown: Fondly known as “Chocolate Delights,” this breed captivates with its bright green eyes and rich chocolate brown coat. Once you experience the companionship of a Havana Brown, there’s no turning back. Affectionate and highly intelligent, this breed loves to be part of every family activity and gets along famously with other pets. Oriental Shorthair: Renowned for its vast array of coat colors and patterns, the Oriental Shorthair offers over 600 alternatives. Among these options lies the rare and cherished brown coloring that has stolen our hearts. York Chocolate: Affectionately called “York,” this American breed of brown cat is named after its place of origin, New York. Initially, it faced recognition challenges, but reputable cat associations, like the World Cat Federation and the American Cat Fanciers Association, now acknowledge it. Burmese Cat: Introduced to the United States in 1930, it is a breed crossed with Siamese cats to achieve its distinct and rare solid brown coloring, also called “sable.” British Shorthair: Calm and composed, the British Shorthair comes in various coat colors, including the sought-after Chocolate British Shorthair, attained through cross-breeding with chocolate-colored Persians. Persian: Fun fact alert! Solid-colored Persian cats are genetically tabbies. As kittens, they display tabby markings that gradually disappear as they mature into adulthood. The chocolate Persian plays a vital role in producing the desired brown coloring in the chocolate-colored British Shorthair. Beyond these breeds, others like the Scottish Fold, Swiss Mountain Cat, and Devon Rex also showcase the unique beauty of “brown cats.” Some breeds exhibit the singular brown coloring, while others embrace diversity by allowing additional patterns and colors, exemplified wonderfully by the Oriental Shorthair. We hope this enlightening article on “Brown Cats” has deepened your appreciation for their rarity and history. Share this newfound knowledge with friends and family, and join us in celebrating the allure of these enchanting feline companions.
The Importance of Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
Maintaining good oral hygiene for your feline friend is essential, as periodontal disease affects many cats over four years old. Starting as gingivitis, caused by plaque interacting with the gums, this condition can progress to more severe periodontal disease if left untreated. Tartar formation occurs when plaque thickens and mineralizes, potentially leading to painful complications and tooth loss. When should you brush your cat’s teeth? Like humans, cats require daily dental care to minimize plaque buildup and prevent tartar accumulation. Teaching your cat to accept tooth brushing requires training but becomes easier with time. Daily brushing is most effective and helps establish a routine, but a minimum of three times a week is recommended to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Ideally, introducing tooth brushing while your cat is still a kitten yields the best results. However, if you have an older cat, it may take more time and patience. Nonetheless, the effort is worthwhile. What steps should you follow to train your cat for tooth brushing? To ensure successful tooth brushing sessions and create a positive experience for both you and your cat, follow these steps: Choose a quiet and secure location to begin. Use a small room to place your cat on a counter or tabletop covered with a blanket or towel. Ensure the area can be closed off to prevent escape. Take a cotton swab (Q-tip) and dip it into tuna water drained from a can. Although tuna water does not provide dental benefits, its taste appeals to cats. This will establish a positive association between the toothbrushing experience and the taste of tuna juice. Position your cat’s head at a 45-degree angle and gently retract her lips, keeping the mouth closed. Rub the cotton swab along the gumline where the gums meet the tooth surface (gingival margin). Pay attention to the outer surfaces of the teeth. Start with a few teeth initially, especially if your cat is uncertain or nervous. Once your cat is comfortable with the cotton swab, use a toothbrush. What type of toothbrush should you use? Various toothbrushes specifically designed for cats are available, including angled handles, tiny brushes that fit comfortably in your hand, and finger toothbrushes. Soft toothbrushes intended for human babies can also be used in some cases. Consult your veterinarian if you need help deciding which brush to use. Ensure the bristles can reach just below the gum line. Regardless of the toothbrush type, be gentle and take your time to avoid accidentally irritating the gums. Can you use human toothpaste? No, human toothpaste should not be used on cats. It contains ingredients not meant to be swallowed and can cause digestive disturbances. Additionally, certain toothpaste formulations may have high sodium levels, which can harm pets. Can you use baking soda? No, baking soda is not recommended for cat tooth brushing. Acid balance in the stomach and digestive tract can be disrupted by its high alkaline content. Baking soda’s unappealing taste may also lead to resistance from your cat.
Cat Mating, Reproduction, and Care
The intricacies of cat mating and reproduction may be more complex than they initially appear. While it may seem that cats mate frequently and indiscriminately, leading to the birth of adorable kittens, the reality is more nuanced. Did you know that cats only ovulate when they mate? Or that a female cat can give birth to a litter of kittens, each from a different father, a phenomenon called superfecundation? That’s a lot of weird facts! Maybe there’s more to learn about cat mating and reproduction complexities. A Cat in Heat Recognizing the signs of a cat in heat is crucial for cat owners, as female cats not spayed will eventually go through estrus. Although it may sound strange to humans, who take many years to reach reproductive maturity, a kitten can experience her first heat at four months old. Once a female cat has her first heat, she will experience heat cycles until she mates or is spayed. Behavioral symptoms, such as increased vocalization and restlessness, can indicate that a cat is in heat and actively seeking a male companion. If a female cat in heat has access to an un-neutered male cat (tom), the likelihood of pregnancy is high. Identifying the physical and personality changes associated with pregnancy becomes important approximately three weeks after mating. Deciding whether to allow the pregnancy to continue or opt for spaying is a significant decision that should involve discussions with your family and veterinarian. Cat Pregnancy Providing appropriate care for a pregnant cat is essential for her health and the well-being of the unborn kittens. Important considerations include creating a comfortable environment, ensuring proper nutrition through quality and quantity of food, and minimizing stress. Pregnant cats can encounter complications such as premature labor, metabolic changes (including gestational diabetes), fatty liver, or eclampsia (low calcium levels). While most pregnant cats undergo gestation without significant trouble, it’s essential to closely monitor them and promptly notify your veterinarian of any concerning signs or behaviors. It’s Game Time! When the time comes for the birth process, most cats can handle it naturally without human intervention. However, it is crucial to understand potential complications and know when to seek assistance. The postnatal period requires attentive care, particularly during the first few weeks. Creating a warm and peaceful space for the mother and kittens, allowing them to bond and nurse, is crucial for their well-being. Eventually, the time will come to find suitable homes for the kittens. Ensuring responsible adoptions by conducting thorough screenings and providing necessary vaccinations and health treatments is crucial. Finally, it is imperative to prioritize the spaying of the mother cat, as responsible pet ownership requires taking steps to prevent future pregnancies. By understanding the various stages of cat mating, reproduction, and the care required during pregnancy and beyond, cat owners can provide the best possible care for their feline companions. Responsible cat ownership involves comprehensive knowledge and proactive decision-making, from recognizing heat cycles to navigating the birthing process and finding loving homes for the
Understanding Cats’ Fascination with Licking and Biting Tape and Plastic
Cats, our beloved furry companions, are notorious for their curiosity when exploring objects they shouldn’t consume. From clothing and coins to phone cords and floss, there is no limit to what a cat might attempt to nom on. Among their preferred “snacks” are tape and other adhesive materials, often resulting in comical encounters of finding our feline friends with tape stuck to their noses. But what drives cats to engage in such behavior? One possible explanation is pica, characterized by compulsive chewing and ingesting non-food items. Cats who tend to lick or bite tape and plastic may exhibit signs of pica. While the exact cause of pica remains unknown and limited research has been conducted on the topic, veterinarians recognize it as a compulsive behavior that can be exacerbated by stress, frustration, or specific feeding regimens. Although free-feeding is generally favored for cats with pica, as it may help alleviate the behavior, the underlying triggers for pica can range from environmental factors to genetics. Additionally, cats with digestive disorders are more prone to developing pica, and certain breeds, such as oriental breeds, have a predisposition to the condition, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. While pica provides one explanation for cats’ peculiar snacking habits, other theories shed light on additional factors contributing to their fascination with plastic. One theory revolves around potential food-based components and odors present in plastic bags. Some bags are made with corn starch or tallow (animal fat), while others are coated with fish oils to enhance their ease of opening. These scents, combined with the lingering aromas of any food items previously stored in the bags, may attract cats due to their highly sensitive noses. Another theory suggests that cats derive pleasure from the tactile experience of licking plastic, as it offers a unique texture and produces a satisfying crinkling sound. Many cat toys incorporate crinkly materials precisely because of their allure. While licking and biting plastic is generally harmless as long as the cat does not ingest any plastic, keeping plastic bags safely stored is advisable to prevent potential hazards. Pet owners can help discourage pica-like behaviors by ensuring that small enticing objects are kept out of reach and promptly disposing of boxes with tape. Ingesting non-edible items can be dangerous and may result in costly veterinary bills. By understanding the reasons behind cats’ affinity for tape and plastic, pet owners can take proactive measures to create a safe environment that minimizes potential risks associated with this behavior. Remember, a vigilant approach and thoughtful management can help protect our feline friends from harm and ensure their well-being.
Cat Alignment Chart
In case you didn’t know, alignment charts are used to categorize and understand characters’ or individuals’ moral and ethical orientations. Inspired by the concept of moral alignment in role-playing games, alignment charts visually represent different ethical perspectives along multiple axes. Ever wonder where your cat fits on an alignment chart? Fortunately, the TikTok account @twistedwhiskertupelo created the perfect chart to categorize your beloved cat with the axes of a baby to bastard and distinguished to rat. Where does your cat fit on the alignment chart?
New Study Compares Disease Risk in Purebred and Mixed-Breed Cats
A recent publication in the journal VetRecord has shed light on the differences in cat disease risks, revealing notable variations between purebred and mixed-breed cats. This groundbreaking study utilized a vast dataset that included information from insurance policies, insurance claims, and comprehensive data on the breed, age, and sex for approximately 550,000 cats. The study’s findings highlighted that purebred cats, compared to domestic crossbreeds, were more susceptible to developing diseases across several disease categories. Notably, purebred cats exhibited the highest relative risk in disease categories such as female reproductive issues, heart disease, complications from surgery, lower respiratory infections, and immunological diseases. These results provide crucial insights for cat owners, veterinarians, breeders, and researchers, offering a comparative understanding of disease patterns in purebred and mixed-breed cats. The information on disease frequency and risk is a valuable tool for clinical decision-making, aids in the monitoring and planning of breeding programs, educating cat owners, and helps prioritize further research. However, a more detailed investigation into the specific causes of morbidity would be beneficial for a comprehensive understanding of the findings. Surprisingly, the study also revealed that domestic crossbred cats were more prone to developing endocrine, skin, and mobility issues than purebred cats. One possible explanation for this disparity is that domestic cats typically have greater outdoor access, which may result in more injuries, skin problems, and locomotive issues due to increased physical activity outside. Furthermore, other studies have indicated that certain purebred cats have a lower risk of hyperthyroidism and diabetes mellitus, the primary causes of endocrine diseases in cats. The research team is conducting further insurance dataset analyses to develop predictive models. These models aim to forecast the likelihood of specific cat diseases, ultimately providing valuable insights for clinical practice. By implementing these predictive models in a clinical setting, veterinarians can proactively assess disease risks and tailor their approach to each cat’s needs. This study significantly contributes to our understanding of cat disease risks, particularly the disparities between pure and mixed-breed cats. It underscores the importance of considering a cat’s breed when evaluating disease susceptibility and highlights the potential impact of environmental factors on certain health conditions. The findings pave the way for more targeted research, improved breeding programs, and enhanced veterinary care, ultimately benefiting cats’ overall health and well-being worldwide.
Why Humans Should Never Scruff Their Cat
When it comes to handling cats, one technique veterinarians strongly advise against is scruffing. Grabbing a cat by the folds of skin on their neck, known as scruffing, may seem like a natural response to restrain or discipline them. Scruffing can lead to anxiety, stress, aggression, and a breakdown of trust in the feline-human relationship. Here’s why it’s crucial to refrain from employing this maneuver. Understanding Scruffing Cats are born with loose skin on the back of their neck, commonly called a scruff. Scruffing involves grasping a cat by their scruff, and while some believe it is an effective way to restrain, move, or reprimand a cat, it is not an approach humans should adopt. The natural behavior of scruffing is used by mother cats to carry or relocate her kittens, not to discipline them. Natural Occurrences of Scruffing In the wild, cats are only scruffed under specific circumstances, such as when they are kittens or during mating. As discussed earlier, mother cats scruff their kittens, and kittens are born with the instinct to go limp when scruffed. However, when the kittens are around two months old, this motherly behavior naturally diminishes. As for mating, male cats (tomcats) may bite the scruff of females during the process. Negative Effects of Scruffing While scruffing may occur naturally in the wild, cat owners should never practice it as a means of discipline or movement. It can severely affect the cat and its relationship with its human caretaker. Anxiety:Â Scruffing can induce significant stress and anxiety in cats. Because of their instinctual inclination to freeze or go limp, getting scruffed removes their ability to control their environment and movement, leading to fear and discomfort. As a result, cats may exhibit defensive behaviors such as batting at the human’s hand or trying to escape the situation. Aggression:Â Scruffing can also naturally occur when two cats are fighting each other, so the act of being scruffed can trigger aggression in cats. The experience of being forcefully restrained or experiencing pain can also cause cats to become more aggressive, and who could blame them? Distrust:Â Holding or restraining a cat by its scruff can be counterproductive and erode the trust between the cat and its human caretaker. Over time, the cat may associate the pain and discomfort of scruffing with the person handling them, leading to a breakdown in trust and potentially fostering fear towards their caretaker. Alternative Approaches Instead of resorting to scruffing, there are far better methods to handle and restrain cats. Approaching them slowly and gently, holding them still with care, or even using the technique of “purrito” (rolling them up in a comfortable blanket) can provide a safer and less stressful way to handle cats when you need to do things your cat finds less than pleasant (giving medication, clipping her nails, putting her into her cat carrier, etc.). Cat owners can cultivate a more trusting and harmonious relationship with their feline companions by understanding the risks and negative consequences associated with scruffing. Opting for
Texas Legalizes Trap-Neuter-Release Programs
In a groundbreaking move, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas signed House Bill 3660, offering legal protection to individuals involved in trap-neuter-release (TNR) cat programs. This milestone legislation shields those who return sterilized cats to the wild from potential criminal charges. While TNR programs are celebrated by cat lovers, the debate surrounding their efficacy and impact on wildlife remains contentious. Criticisms of TNR Programs The American Bird Conservancy has emerged as a vocal critic, highlighting the alarming number of birds that fall victim to cats. They argue against releasing feral cats, adding fuel to the ongoing debate. Under Texas law, the unreasonable abandonment of an animal under one’s care is considered a misdemeanor offense. Despite the legal gray area, some jurisdictions have supported TNR initiatives. However, the passage of HB 3660 now shields advocates of TNR from prosecution for abandonment. Passionate cat lovers in Texas have long urged municipalities to cease euthanizing cats and instead adopt TNR practices. These pleas gained momentum in late 2022 when members of the City Council, heeding the appeals of Houston-based Friends for Life Animal Shelter, explored the benefits of implementing a TNR program. Proponents argued that focusing efforts on specific areas would effectively reduce the cat population, proving more cost-effective than euthanasia or adoption. TNR programs have gained popularity throughout Texas. Cities like Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas provide resources on their websites, actively encouraging residents to participate in these initiatives, often in collaboration with local shelters. Organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have lent their support. The Remarkable Impact of TNR Advocates TNR passionately champion its effectiveness in saving cats’ lives while simultaneously addressing community concerns. TNR programs not only enhance the well-being of cats by stopping the breeding cycle but also promote a more harmonious coexistence between outdoor cats and humans in our shared environment. This remarkable impact is precisely why an increasing number of cities are wholeheartedly embracing TNR initiatives. Scientific studies and the experiences of communities with established TNR programs provide compelling evidence that TNR significantly reduces and stabilizes populations of community cats. Organizations like Alley Cat Allies, formed in 1990, have been instrumental in introducing TNR to the United States, sparking a national movement through educational materials, regional workshops, advocacy mobilization, and the rewriting of laws. As a result of their unwavering dedication, TNR has become a mainstream approach to feline population management. Nevertheless, staunch opposition remains. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department generally reject the tactic, aligning themselves with the concerns of bird advocates. Detractors argue that releasing cats into the environment poses risks of disease transmission, subjects the animals to stress and injury, and fails to curb cat populations unless a substantial majority undergoes neutering effectively. A Landmark Decision Despite the controversy, HB 3660 passed through the House with only a handful of dissenting votes, while the Senate unanimously supported the bill. This historic
The Cats of Disneyland: Guardians of the Magic Kingdom
Since the early days of Disneyland, mysterious feline residents have been quietly roaming the park grounds, creating a fascinating tale that adds to the magic and allure of the Happiest Place on Earth. Although it is challenging to trace their exact origins, sightings of cats on Disneyland property date back to the park’s opening in 1955. These feline inhabitants have a unique role, maintaining a delicate balance between pest control and their autonomous existence. The story began when Walt Disney envisioned an attraction within Sleeping Beauty Castle, Disneyland’s iconic centerpiece. As Imagineers ventured into the castle to plan the Castle Walkthrough attraction, they were surprised to find a sizable community of feral cats within its walls. However, along with these feline settlers came an infestation of fleas, prompting the Disney company to seek a solution. Recognizing the potential uproar from guests if the cats were removed outright, Disney decided to adopt the cats to cast members, ensuring they found good homes while reclaiming valuable space within the castle. The flea problem was promptly addressed as well. Simultaneously, Disneyland faced a rodent issue, which seemed ironic given the park’s association with a particular famous mouse. While the irony was not lost on anyone in the company, the reality was that mice—of the non-anthropomorphic variety—were a problem. Not all the cats had settled in the castle, and those remaining on the property saw an opportunity. Disneyland provided a fruitful hunting ground free from the usual dangers that stray cats encounter. The cats emerged at night when the park was relatively empty, allowing them to hunt undisturbed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @catsofdisneyland Recognizing the cats’ instinctual prowess and lack of disturbance to park operations, someone in the Disney company proposed a brilliant idea: put the cats to work. More accurately, allow them to continue their invaluable pest control duties with Disney’s endorsement. Thus, a symbiotic relationship was established between the company and the Disneyland Cats, which persists in much the same fashion today. Feeding stations are strategically placed around the property to supplement the cats’ hunting efforts. The cats are trapped, spayed, or neutered and then released back onto the grounds to maintain a manageable population. Cast members at Circle D Ranch, responsible for caring for the park’s animals, including Main Street trolley horses and goats at Big Thunder Ranch, assumed the responsibility of managing the feline residents. They ensure the cats receive necessary medical treatment, replenish their food supplies, and oversee Disney’s unique cat crew. The Disneyland Cats live a somewhat ordinary life, akin to many other feral cats. They mostly remain hidden during the day, emerging under darkness. Occasionally, guests may catch glimpses of these elusive feline residents as they slumber in the parks or stealthily traverse the property. However, Disney advises against approaching the cats too closely. Apart from the general caution of approaching unfamiliar animals, these cats
