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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The Health Implications of Living with Cats: Benefits and Risks
Cats have cohabited with humans for thousands of years, providing comfort with their purrs and amusement through their quirky behaviors. While they are often regarded as aloof creatures, recent research suggests that cats can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health. However, living with cats also presents certain risks that owners should be aware of. advertisement The Feline Family Connection Cats are often perceived as having “staff” rather than owners. Numerous studies indicate that individuals who share their lives with cats often regard these pets as beloved family members. For instance, a study involving 1,800 Dutch cat owners revealed that approximately half considered their cat to be family. While one-third viewed their cat as akin to a child or best friend, recognizing the loyalty, support, and empathy provided by their feline companions. In a U.S. study that developed a “family bondedness” scale, it was determined that cats hold as significant a place in families as dogs do. Many cats are known to favor human interaction over food or toys, demonstrating an understanding when they are being addressed. Research suggests that cats are more likely to approach humans who greet them with a “kitty kiss”. A gesture involving the slow narrowing of the eyes and blinking. This further indicates the depth of communication that can exist between species. Enhancing Mental Health and Purpose Owning a pet is linked to reduced social isolation, and many cat owners report that caring for their cat enhances their sense of enjoyment and purpose. The emotional bond between humans and cats can vary. Studies show that individuals who view their relationship with their cat as co-dependent or friendly experience a stronger emotional connection. Research has also shown that cat ownership correlates with a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Although these findings highlight an association rather than a causal relationship, they suggest potential health benefits linked to cat ownership. Additionally, cat owners may experience positive changes in gut microbiota, particularly in women, which could contribute to improved health outcomes. Impact on Mental Well-Being Having a cat can also positively influence psychological well-being. Interaction with cats has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression, albeit in short-term scenarios. Qualitative studies indicate that many individuals, including veterans, regard their cats as integral to their emotional health, citing instances where their pets provide comfort during challenging times. However, the attachment to cats may have drawbacks. If a cat becomes ill, the emotional and physical burden of caregiving can adversely affect the owner’s mental health. Research on cat owners whose pets suffer from epilepsy indicated that approximately one-third experienced a significant caregiver burden that interfered with their daily lives. advertisement Health Risks Associated with Cats While cats can offer numerous benefits, they also carry risks related to zoonotic diseases. These diseases can transfer from animals to humans. Notably, cats are the primary hosts of toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can be excreted in their feces. While many individuals experience mild symptoms,
Why Do Cats Attack Each Other Seemingly Out of No Where?
Do you have more than one cat? Do your cats sometimes start fighting out of nowhere? You probably often wonder why this seemingly out-of-nowhere response occurs. This can sometimes happen if a trigger causes ‘redirected aggression.’ Understanding the causes of this behavior and knowing how to address it can be key to maintaining peace among your pets. advertisement What Is Redirected Aggression? Redirected aggression occurs when a cat either sees or smells something they consider a threat from an external source—such as another animal outside—and, unable to confront that threat directly, directs its aggression toward another cat or human inside the home. This reaction can happen suddenly without warning, leaving owners puzzled about what triggered the fight. For example, if a cat spots a squirrel or hears another cat outside, it may become agitated. Suppose the aggressive energy cannot be released on the external trigger. In that case, the cat may redirect that frustration toward a fellow household member. Signs To Look For Cats experiencing redirected aggression may exhibit a variety of behaviors, including: Hissing, growling, or vocalizations Swatting or biting Stiff body posture or an arched back Puffed-up fur Recognizing these signs early can help prevent further escalation and injury to any involved parties. advertisement Addressing Redirected Aggression If redirected aggression becomes a recurring issue in your home, take proactive steps to alleviate the tension and help your cats re-establish a peaceful relationship. Identify Triggers: Observe your cats to determine what external stimuli may be causing their agitation. Limit Exposure: If possible, reduce your cats’ exposure to outside animals. Closing curtains or using window film can minimize visual distractions that may provoke aggression. Reintroduction Process: If the aggression continues long after the initial trigger is gone, consider going through a reintroduction process. This involves gradually reintroducing the cats in a controlled environment, allowing them to become accustomed to each other’s presence and scent again without the threat of external stimuli. Build Confidence: Sometimes, a few confidence-building sessions can work wonders. Engage your cats in positive experiences together, such as playtime with toys or food rewards. Create Safe Spaces: Ensure that each cat has a safe space within the home where they can retreat and feel secure. Consult a Professional: If the aggression persists or worsens, seeking advice from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist can provide tailored solutions to address the problem effectively. Cats are sensitive creatures, and their emotional well-being is paramount for maintaining a harmonious household. If redirected aggression occurs, approach the situation calmly and thoughtfully.
Study Confirms a Simple Trick to Communicate With Cats
Cats are often perceived as aloof and independent creatures, but if there seems to be a lack of bonding between them and their owners, it may simply be a matter of not speaking the same language or being able to communicate. Research from 2020 has shown that effectively communicating with cats is more straightforward than one might think—just smile at them, but do it the cat way: narrow your eyes and blink slowly. A study by researchers observed cat-human interactions and confirmed that this expression encourages cats, whether familiar or unfamiliar, to approach and be more receptive to humans. According to the findings, this form of non-verbal communication significantly impacts feline behavior. advertisement The Research Behind the Slow Blink In the words of Karen McComb, a psychologist at the University of Sussex, the research provides tangible evidence for a concept many cat owners have long suspected: that cats and humans can effectively communicate through slow blinking. The expression, often accompanied by partially closed eyes, indicates a relaxed and content state in cats, resembling a cat smile. To validate the anecdotal evidence, a team of psychologists designed two experiments to observe how cats responded to slow blinking. In the first experiment, owners were slow-blinked at 21 cats from 14 households. They were instructed to maintain a distance of about one meter from the relaxed cats and slow-blink when the cats looked at them. Cameras recorded the owners’ and cats’ faces to analyze the responses. The results indicated that cats were significantly more likely to slow-blink back at their humans after the humans initiated the slow-blink. The second experiment involved 24 cats from eight different households. Researchers unfamiliar with the cats executed the slow-blink technique. Again, a control group of cats was recorded to assess their responses to humans who stared without blinking. The researchers combined the slow-blink with an extended hand toward the cats, finding that not only did the cats blink back, but they were also more inclined to approach the human’s hand after the slow-blink was initiated. Understanding the Importance of Slow Blinking This study is the first to explore the role of slow blinking in cat-human communication experimentally. McComb emphasized that cat owners could easily practice this method of interaction at home or with anyone encountering a cat in public. Humans can foster dialogue with their feline companions by narrowing their eyes as one would in a relaxed smile and closing their eyes for a few seconds. While dogs are often more overtly affectionate, these findings reinforce the notion that cats are highly attuned to their human counterparts. Research has shown that cats respond positively to humans who exhibit friendly and receptive behaviors and can even reflect their owners’ personality traits. advertisement The Implications for Cat Welfare The exact reason behind cats’ slow blinking remains unclear; however, it has been interpreted as a way to signal benign intentions, given that cats perceive unbroken staring as threatening. It is also plausible that cats developed this expression because humans respond
How to Introduce Cats and Dogs The Right Way
Many dogs can coexist peacefully with cats, often forming close bonds that allow them to sleep together and groom one another. However, not all dogs and cats can live in harmony. Some cats may feel anxious around dogs; even a calm dog can unintentionally scare a cat. Plus, certain dogs have a strong predatory drive, making it unsafe to be left alone with cats. If a dog consistently shows signs of excitement around cats and struggles to calm down, it may not be safe for the two to share a home. In such cases, it is advisable to keep them apart and seek guidance from a qualified behaviorist. Preparing for a Meeting When introducing a new cat or dog into a household, make the introductions gradual and controlled. Here are several tips to consider before bringing the animals together: Scent Swapping Scent is an important form of communication for both dogs and cats. Before introducing the new pet, it helps to familiarize each animal with the other’s scent. Request a blanket or toy that carries the new pet’s scent and place it in a shared area for your resident pet to investigate at their own pace. It also helps to provide the new pet’s current caregiver with an item that smells like the existing pet. For the first week after bringing the new pet home, continue to exchange bedding items. Do this until both pets show no signs of distress toward each other’s scents. Create Individual Areas Establish designated spaces for each pet to eat, drink, rest, and relieve themselves securely. Ensure that both animals can access their resources without encountering one another. Physical Barriers Physical barriers, such as baby gates or closed doors, can help keep the pets separated during the initial introductions. Cats should never be forced into the same room as dogs and should have escape routes available if they feel threatened. Maintaining Separation Cats and dogs should remain separate unless supervised by a responsible adult who can reward positive behavior. Even during supervised interactions, physical barriers should be used. Keeping the dog on a leash or a house-training line can help ensure a calm introduction. Respecting the Cat’s Pace The introduction process should be tailored to the cat’s comfort level, as cats are generally smaller and more vulnerable. They should always have the option to move away if needed. Never force a cat into a situation with a dog. If the cat chooses to approach, the dog’s behavior must be controlled, and the dog should be rewarded for remaining calm. Over time, with proper guidance, the dog should learn to focus on its owner in the cat’s presence while the cat builds confidence around the dog. If the dog displays excitement or tries to chase the cat, it is best to remove the dog from the situation. Gradually increase their exposure to one another. If the cat exhibits aggressive behavior towards the dog, even if the dog is calm, keep them separated and consult a behaviorist.
Cat Disaster Preparedness
In times of emergency, pets become even more reliant on their owners for safety and well-being. Just as families create disaster plans for themselves, it’s essential to ensure that those plans include all family members. Learning how to prepare for emergencies involving your feline companions and help them recover afterward is important. Assemble an Emergency Kit for Your Cat An emergency kit ensures your cat’s needs are met during a disaster. Keep your supplies in an easily accessible location, using sturdy containers for transport. Your emergency kit should include: Leashes (if your cat is leash trained), Harnesses, and Carriers: These will help you transport your cat safely and prevent them from escaping during evacuation. Food and Water: Pack enough food, drinking water, and bowls for both. If your cat eats canned food, include a manual can opener. Litter and Litter Box: Have cat litter and a portable litter pan for your cat’s bathroom needs. Medications and Medical Records: Store any necessary medications and copies of your cat’s medical records in a waterproof container. First Aid Kit: Include supplies designed explicitly for cat care. Current Photos: Keep recent photos of you with your cat in case they get lost. This can help eliminate confusion if someone else finds them. Important Information: Document your cat’s feeding schedule, medical conditions, behavioral issues, and your veterinarian’s contact information if your cat needs to be boarded or fostered. Comfort Items: If space allows, include a portable cat bed and toys to help comfort your cat. Know Where to Take Your Cats In an evacuation, planning where to take your cats is step one. It isn’t safe for your pets if it’s unsafe to stay behind. Research hotels and motels along your evacuation route that accept pets, and call ahead to confirm policies. Be aware that many emergency shelters do not accept pets besides service animals. Prepare a list of friends, family members, boarding facilities, animal shelters, or veterinarians who can care for your cats during an emergency, including their contact information. Evacuation Drills Include your cats in evacuation drills to help them become accustomed to entering and traveling in their carriers calmly. This will reduce anxiety during an actual emergency. Health and Identification Ensure your cat’s vaccinations are current and wear collars with securely fastened, up-to-date identification. Many pet shelters require proof of vaccinations to prevent the spread of disease. Consider having your cat microchipped for an added layer of security. By taking these proactive steps, cat owners can ensure their feline companions remain safe and secure in an emergency. Disaster preparedness protects pets and contributes to a sense of calm and control during uncertain times.
White Cat Genetics
In Corpus Christi, Texas, there’s a special cat shelter called The Cattery, offering a compassionate alternative to traditional animal shelters. It’s a no-kill, cage-free haven for cats in need, including those who are homeless, abused, or abandoned. The Cattery’s main mission is to find permanent, loving homes for its feline residents. They also actively participate in community outreach to educate the public about animal welfare, the challenges of pet overpopulation, and the joys of building human-animal connections. Even better, they have a fantastic TikTok channel that shares fun cat facts, like this one about the unique genetics of white cats! White Cat Genes “All cats are black or orange. All cats are tabbies. But what about white cats? Neat cat facts. A lot of you had questions about your white cats. And yes, even your white cat is black or orange and tabby. Aren’t genetics fun? Black and orange genetics are carried on the X chromosome, which is why every cat is black or orange. Every cat carries at least One X chromosome. A white cat’s white coloring comes from an entirely different genetic, the KIT gene KIT, which can carry the whitephenotype. W and W can be expressed in two ways. Dominant white or white spotting. The W phenotype is autosomal dominant. Autosomal means it’s not connected to gender, and dominant means it can be passed down by only one parent. Cats only carry the wS phenotype, white spotting will just have white patterning in their coats, which is why some black cats are tuxedo cats or cow cats. What’s interesting about the DW phenotype though, is that its response. What’s interesting about the DW phenotype though, is that it’s responsible for more than just white coats. It can also affect your cat’s eye color and risk for deafness. Not every white cat is deaf, but the chances are increased that they have even just one copy of DW. A white cat with blue eyes is statistically more at risk of being deaf, but if your cat has only one blue eye, the ear on the same side as that eye is more at risk. And all white cats only make up 2 to 5% of cats, making this coat pattern kind of rare.”
Researchers Utilize Adorable Hats to Measure Cats’ Brainwaves
Photo credit: Science Direct No, that title is not a typo. In a novel approach to studying feline brain activity, researchers from the University of Montreal have designed a unique crochet beanie lined with electrodes to measure the brainwaves of cats. These darling hats provide a cute accessory for cat subjects and allow for the noninvasive conduct of EEG (electroencephalogram) brain scans without sedation. The findings from this research were published in the Journal of Neuroscience Methods. Why The Crocheted Cat Hat? The crocheted cat hat was created from a practical laboratory challenge. The researchers aimed to utilize EEG technology to identify brain signals in cats suffering from osteoarthritis. This chronic and painful condition affects approximately 25.6% of cats worldwide. However, the task required a method to attach the EEG electrodes securely to the cats’ noggins. At the same time, they remained in their normal, conscious states. Similarly, had proven difficult in previous studies where sedation was used. Cats Being Cats The research team encountered significant challenges when placing the electrodes on the cats’ heads. Cats are notorious for their aversion to wires, often swatting at them or shaking off any devices attached to them. Frustrated by the frequent need to replace the cables, the researchers sought inspiration from a YouTube tutorial on crocheting cat hats. With the assistance of graduate students and ample patience, they successfully crafted custom wool caps, embedding the electrodes inside so that the cats would not see them. This approach marks the first known instance of EEG recording in conscious cats. Cats’ Reactions to the Hats While the hats proved largely successful, not all cats immediately embraced their new headwear. The study involved 11 cats with osteoarthritis, comprising six females and one male. These cats were housed in a comfortable, dimly lit environment with perches, beds, and scratching posts. Despite the researchers’ efforts, one cat shook off the EEG hat, while another appeared to fall asleep during the experiment. Measuring Responses to Pain Treatments With the ability to non-invasively measure the brainwaves of the cats, the researchers proceeded to examine the cats’ responses to calming stimuli, such as blue and green lights and grapefruit scents. Although it remains unclear whether these stimuli effectively reduce pain in cats, however, the experiment is considered a significant step in demonstrating the feasibility of using EEG technology on awake and alert cats. The researchers emphasized that this study opens new avenues for investigating feline chronic pain and the potential modulation of such pain through sensory interventions. As this research progresses, it may pave the way for improved treatments and understanding of cat pain management.
Fetching Instinct in Cats
Many pet owners are familiar with the classic game of fetch, often associated with dogs. However, recent research has shown that cats can also enjoy this playful fetching activity! The Study Contrary to the common perception that cats are aloof and uninterested in interactive play, studies have demonstrated that over 40% of cats engage in fetching. This behavior is not just a quirk but deeply rooted in their hunting instincts. Like dogs, cats are predators, and their play often mimics their actions when hunting prey. A recent study examined the behaviors of 924 cat owners, finding that over 40% of cats were prone to retrieving various objects, ranging from toys to everyday household items. Interestingly, most of these cats did not require training to engage in fetching; they exhibited this behavior spontaneously. Cats preferred initiating the game by bringing the toy to their human companions rather than waiting for it to be thrown. The Comparison with Dogs While cats can exhibit fetching behavior, dogs have long been recognized for their enthusiasm for this game. Many dog breeds have been developed specifically for hunting and retrieving, which explains their strong inclination toward fetching. A comparative study found that nearly 78% of dogs surveyed reportedly engaged in fetching activities. This study also indicated that male animals of both species were more likely to fetch, while older pets or those with health issues were less inclined to participate. Interestingly, sharing a home with a dog decreased the likelihood of a cat engaging in fetching. Behavioral Insights The motivations behind fetching in both cats and dogs can be traced back to their predatory behaviors. Cats, as stalk-and-pounce hunters, naturally exhibit behaviors that mimic capturing prey. On the other hand, dogs are pursuit predators, known for chasing and retrieving. Breeds specifically trained for retrieving have adapted their instincts to excel in fetching. The research also highlighted certain breed tendencies. For dogs, breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers were most likely to fetch due to their high trainability and playfulness. In the case of cats, breeds like the Siamese, Tonkinese, and Bengal exhibited the highest propensity for fetching. The Role of the Human Bond Interestingly, human involvement plays a crucial role. If there is a strong bond between the human and the pet, the likelihood of fetching activities increases. Yet another piece of evidence favoring cats isn’t all jerks, just discerning creatures. This study certainly underscores the importance of nurturing your human-animal bond and providing an enriched environment that allows pets to explore their natural instincts. Because what is cuter than watching a cat play fetch? That’s right. Nothing.
The Real Reason Why Your Cat Wakes You Up Early
If you live with a cat, you know exactly what we’re talking about here. It could range from an early morning loud purr or walking across your belly when you’re deep asleep. While we’ve all experienced cats getting the zoomies at 3 am, have you ever wondered why your cat seems to be especially affectionate in the morning? If you thought they were only motivated by you being their walking cat food opener, you’d be wrong. Instincts and Natural Behavior Cats are unique in their sleep patterns compared to humans. Unlike people who often have deep and prolonged sleep cycles, cats are light sleepers. This heightened alertness is a survival mechanism inherited from their wild ancestors. Because they are mesopredators and not apex predators like humans, cats needed to remain vigilant to detect not only potential threats from predators but also to seize opportunities for hunting. Even though domestic cats are not actively hunting for survival, these instincts remain ingrained in their behavior. When you are sleeping deeply, your cat may be concerned about your well-being. To a cat, you are not just a pet owner but also a large, quirky companion that it cares for. It’s why they’re always bringing ‘gifts’ such as dead mice or birds. Cats think we’re big, stupid kittens who can’t hunt for ourselves. So when we wake up from our deep sleep, our cats are just relieved we weren’t dead after witnessing us being (to them) uncannily still and unresponsive. The Dawn Patrol Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours. In the wild, dawn provides the perfect light conditions for hunting small prey, which would have been a crucial time for survival. Although your cat’s hunting days are over, its internal clock still prompts it to be active during these hours, thus the 3 am zoomies. When your cat wakes you up early, it may try to adhere to its natural schedule. By stirring you awake at dawn, your cat aligns its activity with instinctual patterns, including checking for potential threats and opportunities. The Importance of Routine Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Regular schedules provide a sense of security and predictability in their lives. Your cat’s early morning wake-up call may be part of its way of maintaining order and structure in its day. By waking you up at a consistent time, your cat reinforces its sense of routine and ensures that it can start the day according to its internal clock. So, the next time your cat nudges you awake at the crack of dawn, remember that it’s not just about getting fed. The truth is much more adorable: your cat is celebrating you still being alive!
Domestication Has Shrunk House Cats’ Brains (Sorry Kitties)
Surprisingly or not surprisingly, if you have an orange cat, recent research indicates that house cats have experienced a notable reduction in brain size over the past 10,000 years, thanks to human influence. This reduction has been linked to the long-term effects of domestication, according to a study published on January 26 in the journal Royal Society Open Science. The Study’s Findings Researchers conducted a detailed analysis comparing the cranial measurements—indicative of brain size—of modern house cats with those of their wild ancestors: the African wildcat (Felis lybica) and the European wildcat (Felis silvestris). The study found that the skulls, and consequently the brains, of domesticated cats have diminished significantly over the millennia compared to their wild relatives. This decrease in brain size doesn’t necessarily imply reduced intelligence in domestic cats. Instead, it reflects the broader effects of domestication. The researchers hypothesize that the focus on selecting for tameness during domestication inadvertently altered the development of cats’ brains. The Role of Neural Crest Cells The study suggests that changes in brain size might be linked to the development of neural crest cells—special cells crucial for the nervous system’s development. During domestication, selection for tameness might have led to a reduction in the migration and proliferation of these cells. This alteration could contribute to reduced excitability and fear in domestic cats, as well as changes in morphology, stress response, and brain size. Updating Older Research The new research revisits and refines findings from the 1960s and 1970s, which documented decreased brain size in domestic cats compared to wild ones. While these earlier studies primarily compared domestic cats with the European wildcat, recent genetic research has confirmed that the African wildcat is the closest living ancestor of today’s domestic cats. The study corroborates the earlier findings, showing a significant 25% reduction in cranial size in domestic cats compared to African and European wildcats. Hybrid species—cats that are a mix of wild and domestic lineage—showed intermediate cranial measurements between the two groups. Implications and Concerns The research underscores the profound impact of domestication on the evolution of cats, aligning with similar observations in other domesticated animals such as sheep, rabbits, and dogs. It highlights how selective breeding and human influence have shaped the physical and neurological traits of domestic animals. Furthermore, the study raises concerns about the potential threats of hybridization between domestic and wild cats to wild populations. Understanding these changes provides insight into the broader effects of domestication and emphasizes the need to consider its impact on both domestic and wild species. Brain size = smarts? As researchers study more broadly animals with smaller brains, such as ravens and giraffes, but have capabilities we humans would consider “smart,” we’re learning it’s not so simple. The bottom line is our feline companions have been adapted over time to be the best little baby they can be. And we love that for them.
