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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Caring for a Kitten Mill Survivor
Fostering a kitten from a traumatic setting can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences for any animal lover. As a foster parent, you may encounter a kitten who is not just shy but completely shut down and terrified. The emotional scars from their traumatic past can be visible, and their fear of humans runs deep. Fostering cats that were specifically victims of a kitten mill is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a lot of love. Here are some insights and tips for anyone who is promoting or considering fostering a kitten who has come from similar circumstances. advertisement Kitten Mill Cats Kitten mills are large-scale breeding operations that prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. Cats from these mills are often kept in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and are not given the opportunity for proper socialization. Many of these cats have never had positive interactions with humans. They are isolated, frightened, and distrustful of people. The trauma of these early experiences can leave long-lasting effects. Most cats show extreme fear and shutdown behavior. For those unfamiliar with “shut down” cats, they often display behaviors such as hiding, avoiding eye contact, and exhibiting little to no social interest. The First Steps in Fostering a Kitten Mill Survivor The most important thing to remember when fostering a kitten mill survivor is that patience is key. Every cat is different, and their recovery process will vary depending on their level of trauma. It may take weeks, months, or even longer, but with time, progress can be made. 1. Provide a Safe and Quiet Space Spend the first few days in their new home in a quiet, low-traffic area where they feel safe. Providing them with a designated “room” to call their own is important. This space should be stocked with essential supplies, including food, water, a litter box, and comfortable bedding. Be sure to add lots of hiding spaces for them to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. 2. Let Them Come to You Building trust with a kitten mill survivor requires a hands-off approach at first. You cannot force them to interact with you; instead, allow them to approach you when they feel ready. Patience is crucial here. Sit quietly in the same room and give them time to observe you from a distance. Avoid any sudden movements or loud noises that could be startling. 3. Slowly Introduce Socialization Once they start feeling comfortable in their safe space, you can begin introducing gentle socialization. Talk to them softly to help them get used to the sound of your voice. Use treats as a way to create positive associations. Offer treats when they come closer or show any interest in you. This helps build trust and reinforces the idea that humans bring good things. 4. Avoid Pushing Them Don’t be discouraged if they don’t immediately respond to your attempts at affection. It may take time for them to trust you enough to let you touch them. Sometimes it
Finding the Right Cone for Your Cat After Surgery
When your poor kitty cat needs surgery, especially a major one, the recovery process can be challenging. Along with the physical healing, your cat must wear a cone or collar to prevent licking and aggravating the incision site. While most of us are familiar with the standard hard plastic cone, many pet owners want something more comfortable for their cats. Let’s explore alternatives to the traditional plastic cone, focusing on comfort, functionality, and how to ensure your cat stays hydrated, fed, and at ease while they heal. advertisement Why Cats Need a Cone After Surgery Cats may need a cone or collar post-surgery to prevent them from licking or biting at their stitches or the surgical site, which can cause infections or delay the healing process. However, many cats find traditional cones uncomfortable and restrictive, making the recovery process even more stressful. The key is to find a solution that keeps your cat comfortable while still fulfilling its purpose of protection. What to Look for in a Comfortable Cone or Collar When choosing a cone or collar for your cat after surgery, there are a few features you should consider: Effectiveness in Preventing Licking: The cone should prevent your cat from reaching the surgical site, ensuring the healing process is not disrupted. Comfort: A comfortable cone will reduce stress and irritation, allowing your cat to rest and heal properly. Secure Fit: The cone should stay on your cat without being easily removed or slipping off. You don’t want it to be an easy escape route. Ease of Eating and Drinking: A good collar will not obstruct your cat’s ability to eat or drink, especially for cats who are free feeders. Sleep-Friendly: After surgery, your cat will likely need more sleep. A collar that is comfortable enough to let them rest peacefully is crucial. Best Alternatives to the Hard Plastic Cone Here are some alternatives to the traditional plastic cone that offer better comfort and effectiveness: 1. Soft Collars Soft fabric collars are a popular alternative to hard plastic cones. They are lightweight, more flexible. Often, they come in fun shapes, such as strawberries or flowers, which can also add a bit of cuteness to the recovery process. Many cats find these collars more tolerable, and they can still prevent licking and biting, while allowing your cat to move more freely and sleep more comfortably. Recommendation: The Soft Cat Recovery Collar is adjustable, comfortable, and comes in various designs, making it a great choice for post-surgery use. 2. Inflatable Collars Inflatable collars are another great option. They’re more comfortable than the traditional plastic cone, as they don’t restrict your cat’s vision as much. These collars are made from soft, air-filled material, and while they are effective at preventing licking, they are often less intrusive and more comfortable for cats to wear for extended periods. 3. Onesies or Surgical Suits For cats who are particularly averse to collars, a onesie or surgical suit may be a viable alternative. These outfits cover the
Why do Some Cats Have That Extra “Ear Fold”
Have you ever noticed the curious fold or “pocket” near your cat’s ear? Most cats possess a unique anatomical feature that has intrigued both cat owners and scientists alike. Known as Henry’s Pocket, it is a small, flexible fold of skin found in the corner of a cat’s ear. But what exactly is it for? Let’s examine the potential functions and theories that underlie this fascinating feature. advertisement What Is Henry’s Pocket? Named after a cat named Henry, whose anatomical feature drew attention, this “pocket” is a fold of skin located just below the cat’s outer ear. It’s often visible, especially in certain breeds, and has been a topic of curiosity for many years. While it’s not a trait that all cats possess, many cats, particularly those with rounded ear shapes, are born with it. Possible Functions of Henry’s Pocket Despite being present in many mammals, including humans (in the form of earlobes), the precise function of Henry’s Pocket remains unclear. However, there are several theories based on its location and anatomy: Aiding in Sound Detection. One prominent hypothesis is that Henry’s Pocket plays a role in helping cats hear high-pitched sounds. Cats have exceptional hearing abilities, particularly in detecting the high-frequency sounds of rodents and small prey. This little pocket may filter out lower sounds, allowing cats to focus on higher-pitched noises, which is critical when hunting. This function is supported by the fact that the pocket is often positioned just below the ear canal, where it could assist in sound attenuation. Vestigial feature. Some speculate that Henry’s Pocket could be a vestigial structure, a remnant of an ancestor’s more functional anatomical feature. Over time, this fold may have lost its original purpose, but it remains part of feline evolution. The presence of this pocket in various mammalian species may indicate its evolutionary heritage. Social and Behavioral Significance. From a behavioral standpoint, the pocket may also serve as an area where cats use subtle communication or mark their territory. In some instances, it could play a role in scent-marking, especially if cats rub or nuzzle against their surroundings. Cats and Their ‘Pockets’ While the specific functions of Henry’s Pocket are still a mystery, what’s clear is that cats are equipped with fascinating anatomical traits that serve multiple purposes. Cats also have a primordial pouch, another flap of loose skin along their abdomen that protects their vital organs from other cats who often use ‘bunny kicks’ as an attack on their prey’s belly. Fun Facts About Henry’s Pocket Not Every Cat Has One: Although common, not all cats have a pronounced Henry’s Pocket. It’s more visible in certain breeds, particularly those with large, round ears. The Downside: The pocket is a frequent gathering spot for parasites and should be examined by a vet. A relatively recent discovery: Despite being common, Henry’s Pocket has only recently garnered attention, with many new pet owners noticing and researching this curious feature. advertisement What Do We Know About Henry’s Pocket? While the precise function
How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated in Summer
As the days grow longer and the sun beams brighter this season, you may notice your cat sprawling out in shady spots, grooming more frequently to cope with the heat, or even panting noticeably after playing several rounds of fetch. While we are free to cool off by sipping cold drinks, our cats feel the heat as much when the sun is blazing outside. Hydration is just as essential for them as it is for us, yet it can be tricky to tell if your cat is drinking enough water. To keep your cat hydrated in summer, it helps to recognize the signs of dehydration and understand the simple changes you can make to support their healthy water intake. advertisement Why Hydration Matters More in Summer Evolved from desert dwellers, cats are naturally prone to drinking less water than many other animals. However, elevated temperatures can lead to faster fluid loss and increase the risk of dehydration. During warmer months, cats may groom more often to stay cool, losing additional moisture through their saliva. While panting is uncommon among cats, it can occur after a full-on play session, like chasing feather wands or laser dots. Staying hydrated helps cats regulate their body temperature, support kidney function, and maintain energy levels. While it may seem like your cat is doing just fine lounging in the sun, a lack of water can affect their health more than you might expect. Some early signs of dehydration include dry or sticky gums, reduced energy, sunken eyes, and irregular urination. You might also notice your cat eating less or acting more withdrawn than usual. A quick, simple way to check for dehydration is the skin pinch test: gently pinch the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades and see how quickly it turns to place. If it stays up for a moment, your cat may be dehydrated. How to Get Your Cat to Drink More Water (Without a Fuss) Cats can be particular about when, where, and how they drink water. The good news is that keeping your cat hydrated does not require a complete routine overhaul. Several thoughtful adjustments can go a long way in helping your cat stay healthy throughout summer. Water bowls Depending on your cat’s habits and preferences, the placement of their water bowl can make a big difference to their liking. Some cats may turn up their noses and walk away if the bowl is too close to their food or litter box. Cats love cleanliness and prefer their water fresh in a quiet spot, ideally away from strong odors or heavy foot traffic. The material of the bowl can also affect your cat’s drinking habits. Glass bowls are smooth, easy to clean, and do not absorb odors or flavors over time, though they can chip or shatter if dropped. Stainless steel is durable, lightweight, and bacteria-resistant, but may slide on hard floors unless placed on a mat. Ceramic bowls tend to stay in place due to their weight and are
A Look Inside Operation ‘Cattitude’
Mars Petcare, the maker of Temptations cat treats, has discovered a unique “treat gap” between cats and dogs. According to the company, dogs receive more treats than their feline counterparts, and they are working to change that. To better understand feline behavior and preferences, Mars launched a unique internal campaign called “Cattitude” to explore the needs of cats and promote more attention to our four-legged feline companions. advertisement The Cattitude Initiative The initiative, which started as an internal project within the company, recognizes that cats are often not as pampered as their canine counterparts. While cats are known for their aloofness, many pet owners still don’t realize the importance of treating their cats with the same level of care as dogs. As a result, Mars launched a mission to get its dog-loving employees inside the minds of cats and understand how best to serve them. From executives wearing cat ears in the office to handing out “I Love Cats” stickers, the company aims to shift its focus toward feline care. The ‘Treat Gap’ Mars discovered a notable discrepancy in the frequency with which cats and dogs receive treats. According to their research, dogs are nearly 32% more likely to receive daily treats compared to cats in households with only dogs or cats. When both pets are present in a household, 38% of owners report that they do not give cats the same amount of treats as they give dogs. The company believes this “treat gap” stems from an underlying assumption that cats don’t require the same level of affection or indulgence as dogs, especially in the form of snacks. The Cat’s Side of the Story For many cat owners, the idea of giving their cats more treats might seem redundant. After all, cats are often seen as self-sufficient and picky about their food. But the reality is that cats, just like dogs, enjoy a little extra pampering. As many cat owners will tell you, their feline companions have no trouble asking for what they want, especially when it comes to snacks. Cats, it turns out, may be more vocal than many believe when it comes to expressing their desires, whether it’s snacks or extra attention. Cats’ Need for More Love and Attention Although cats may not be as overt in their affection as dogs, they still require emotional attention and love from their owners. Cats don’t always show love by jumping into their owners’ laps, but they communicate their affection in more subtle ways, like rubbing against their owners’ legs, head-butting, or purring when near them. The key takeaway here, according to Mars, is that cats require affection and attention, just like dogs. The “treat gap” is only a symptom of a larger issue: the tendency to underestimate the emotional needs of cats. advertisement Why It’s Time to Pamper Your Cat Too While it’s true that cats are more independent than dogs, this doesn’t mean they should be neglected in terms of treats and attention. Mars’ “Cattitude” initiative aims to
Why Some Cats Are Chattier Than Others
Cats, known for their independent nature, have often surprised us with their vocal abilities. Some cats are chattier than others, engaging in what seems like full conversations with their humans. A new study has discovered that this “chatty” behavior might actually be written in their DNA.
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The Chatty Cat Gene Research from Kyoto University in Japan identified a gene variant that makes cats more likely to vocalize and purr at their humans. This discovery links to the androgen receptor (AR) gene, which affects how cats process hormones like testosterone. Variations in this gene, particularly in genetic repeats, influence whether a cat is more talkative. The study, which analyzed the DNA of 280 mixed-breed cats, found that those with shorter versions of this gene were significantly more likely to vocalize or purr toward humans. Interestingly, the gene variant is more common in mixed-breed cats, especially those that were once strays, suggesting that vocalization might have served an evolutionary purpose for survival. Why Are Some Cats More Vocal? The study sheds light on how vocal cats might have had a survival advantage. In the wild, strays and feral cats that could effectively communicate with humans were more likely to secure food, shelter, and care. Cats that purred appealingly or made specific meows for food were more likely to thrive. Over time, this trait became more prominent in cats that needed to rely on humans for their survival. What the Study Found The research team found that cats with shorter gene variants (18 repeats or fewer) consistently scored higher on vocal behaviors such as purring and directed calls toward humans. The differences between cats with short and long gene variants were significant. Cats with short variants were much more likely to engage in vocal communication with humans, with some even having what seemed like conversations. For male cats, those with short gene variants were especially vocal, making more directed meows and purrs toward their owners. Female cats, on the other hand, were more likely to display aggression toward strangers—another behavior linked to how they respond to unfamiliar situations, researchers believe. Purebred vs. Mixed-Breed Cats The study also compared the genetic patterns of domestic cats to those of their wild relatives, such as leopards and lions. Researchers found that wild cats typically had shorter gene variants, while domestic cats, particularly purebred ones, had longer gene variants. This suggests that the longer gene variants evolved as cats became domesticated. Interestingly, purebred cats often have longer gene repeats, whereas mixed-breed cats—many of whom started life as strays—are more likely to have shorter repeats. The findings suggest that strays and mixed-breed cats needed to be more vocal in their interactions with humans for survival, while purebred cats were bred in controlled environments where human care was guaranteed. What This Means for Cat Owners and Shelters This research could have important implications for pet adoption. Genetic testing could eventually help shelters determine which cats are likely to be more vocal and social, allowing them to match pets
What Is Overgrooming?
Grooming is a normal behavior in cats that helps keep their coats clean, free of dirt, and in good condition. It also provides them with comfort, as grooming triggers the release of endorphins, chemicals that promote relaxation and well-being. However, when grooming becomes excessive, it can lead to bald patches, irritated skin, and other health issues. Overgrooming is often easy to spot, as you may notice thin or patchy areas in the fur, particularly around the back, belly, and legs. In extreme cases, a cat may develop completely bald spots. The hair that remains might be rough, brittle, and uneven, indicating that the cat is pulling or chewing on the fur rather than the hair falling out naturally.
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Why Do Cats Overgroom? There are several reasons why a cat might overgroom. The most common causes include skin diseases, pain, or stress. Let’s dive into each of these in more detail: 1. Skin Diseases One of the leading causes of overgrooming in cats is skin disease. Cats may groom excessively in response to itching, which is typically caused by parasites such as fleas, mites, or allergies. A flea infestation, for example, can cause severe itching, especially in flea-allergic cats, who may overgroom in an attempt to relieve the discomfort. Skin infections or fungal issues can also cause excessive grooming as a form of self-soothing. When skin disease is the culprit, the grooming behavior is often a response to itching or discomfort. Flea-infested cats tend to groom more around their lower body (where fleas are most likely to be found), whereas cats with environmental or food allergies might overgroom anywhere on their bodies. 2. Pain or Discomfort Pain can also cause overgrooming, particularly if it’s affecting your cat’s joints or urinary system. Older cats suffering from osteoarthritis, for example, might groom excessively around their painful joints to alleviate discomfort. Similarly, cats with bladder issues, such as cystitis, may focus their grooming behavior on their lower abdomen. 3. Stress or Anxiety Overgrooming can also be a result of stress, anxiety, or frustration; this is often referred to as “psychogenic alopecia.” Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment, and even small shifts like a new family member, renovations, or a change in their routine can lead to anxiety. Cats may resort to grooming as a coping mechanism, as it provides comfort and helps alleviate feelings of stress. 4. Behavioral Issues In some cases, cats may develop compulsive behaviors, including overgrooming, due to underlying psychological factors. These are often linked to a lack of stimulation or an inability to express natural behaviors in their environment.
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When to Seek Help If your cat’s grooming behavior seems excessive, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause. Some common signs that you should seek veterinary advice include: Hair loss or bald patches Skin irritation, redness, or scabbing Frequent grooming, especially in specific areas like the belly or hindquarters Changes in behavior, such as increased anxiety or changes in appetite or activity levels
Research Finds How Cats Identify Their Owners by Scent
New research from the Tokyo University of Agriculture has revealed that cats can easily distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar humans using only their sense of smell. This discovery helps us further understand feline behavior and their sensory processing. Cats Can Recognize You by Your Scent Alone According to the study, cats spend significantly more time sniffing strangers than their owners, which suggests they already know exactly who you are based on your scent. Researchers presented 30 domestic cats with three scent samples: one from their owner, one from a stranger, and a blank control sample. The results showed that cats spent much longer investigating the scent of a stranger compared to the familiar smell of their owner. This behavior underscores the significance of scent to cats in recognizing individuals and distinguishing between those they know and those they don’t. The study supports the idea that cats can identify their owners without needing to see them; they already have a solid mental profile of their humans based solely on their scent. Right Nostril, Left Nostril What makes the findings even more fascinating is how cats process smells. The study revealed that when cats encounter an unfamiliar scent, they predominantly use their right nostril. After several sniffs, however, they tend to switch to their left nostril. This pattern is not random. It suggests that cats have specialized brain functions for processing new versus familiar smells, a trait shared by other animals, including dogs and horses. The researchers also observed that cats would often rub their faces on the scent containers after sniffing them, particularly after using their right nostril. This face-rubbing behavior is linked to territorial marking, showing that cats may be linking scent exploration with marking their territory. Personality Matters in Scent Exploration Another interesting aspect of the study was the role that personality plays in how cats explore scents. Cats with higher anxiety levels, especially males, tended to sniff different scent tubes more frequently, showing a more erratic pattern. In contrast, more outgoing and agreeable cats were calmer and visited the scent tubes fewer times. This suggests that a cat’s personality can influence behavior in social situations, including how they react to and explore human scents. The study did not definitively prove that cats recognize specific individuals by smell alone, but it confirmed that they can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people. This reinforces the idea that scent plays a key role in the cat-human relationship, even if it’s not always apparent to us. Why Does Your Cat Ignore You? For those who feel like their cats are aloof or indifferent, it’s worth noting that cats may ignore you because they’ve recognized you as a familiar, “safe” individual. According to the study, cats are likely to file you as a “known entity” and treat you accordingly, which might include ignoring you when you come home. In the feline world, being considered boring enough to ignore is possibly the highest form of trust and affection you can earn. Final Thoughts While
When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Bathe Your Cat
Bath time is a stressful experience for both cats and their owners, leaving many wondering whether it’s necessary to bathe their cats at all. The good news for most cat owners is that, in most cases, bathing cats is not required. Cats are typically self-sufficient when it comes to grooming. Generally, cats do not require their owners to bathe them. Their natural grooming behavior typically keeps them clean, and many owners appreciate this.
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When Might Your Cat Need a Bath? Although cats are excellent self-groomers, there are instances when they may require some extra assistance. This may occur in cases where a cat has trouble grooming itself due to health issues, such as obesity, arthritis, or other medical conditions. If you notice any changes in your cat’s grooming habits, consult your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. Even if your cat’s grooming abilities are impaired, a full bath is usually unnecessary. In most cases, a simple brushing is sufficient, unless there are specific health concerns, such as urinary or fecal incontinence or any other medical reason for a bath. For skin infections, for example, a leave-on antiseptic mousse may be more appropriate than a full bath. When Is a Bath Necessary? There are, however, some situations where a bath may be warranted. For example, in cases of fungal infections, skin allergies, or other dermatological issues, a bath with a medicated shampoo may be recommended. However, owners should feel confident in their ability to safely bathe their cat before trying this at home. In general, remember that bathing cats can be stressful for both the animal and its owner. This stress may impact the cat-owner relationship. Bathing can cause behavioral trauma, especially in adult cats who are not used to it. The experience may be so stressful that the cat could lash out, scratch, or bite, posing safety risks to its owners.
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Exceptions to the Rule: Sphynx Cats There is one major exception to this rule: hairless cat breeds, like the Sphynx. These cats require regular baths as part of their skincare routine due to a genetic condition that causes them to produce excessive amounts of skin oil. Routine bathing helps reduce oil buildup and prevent skin infections. Sphynx cats should be bathed once every one to two weeks. Getting them used to baths early on is key. The earlier they’re introduced to bathing, the less stressful it will be for them in the future. To help your Sphynx kitten adjust to bath time, make the experience as enjoyable as possible by using treats and offering plenty of praise. In short, only bathe your cat when necessary. For most cats, it’s best to leave bathing to the professionals and let them enjoy their natural grooming habits. And, as always, if you’re concerned about your cat’s hygiene or behavior, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian for advice.
Why You Should Avoid Flooding to Change Your Cat’s Behavior (And What to Do Instead)
When trying to modify your cat’s behavior, it can feel like an impossible task, especially with a particularly spicy cat. While some techniques are practical and gentle, others, such as flooding, can do more harm than good. If you’re looking for solutions to a cat’s behavioral issues, understanding the risks associated with flooding and exploring more effective alternatives is key.
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What Is Flooding? Flooding is a controversial behavior modification method that involves exposing a cat to a stressful or fearful situation at full intensity, with no opportunity to escape. The aim is to desensitize the cat by exposing it to her fears until she stops reacting. However, this approach relies on the cat becoming overwhelmed and developing a state of learned helplessness, where she no longer believes she can escape the distressing situation. While flooding might seem quite effective from the outside, it is harmful to your cat and carries serious risks. Example of Flooding in Practice One of the most common examples of flooding used in shelters involved shy, fearful cats. In some cases, these cats were forced to stay in open spaces without access to their usual hiding places in the hope that they would stop hiding and start interacting with people. Thankfully, this outdated method is now widely discouraged. Cats need safe, quiet spaces to retreat to when they feel anxious or threatened, and depriving them of this security is damaging to their well-being. Problems with Flooding Although flooding can sometimes alter a cat’s behavior in the short term, it can have lasting adverse effects: Increased Stress: Flooding is highly stressful for your cat. Forcing them to confront their fears at full intensity can worsen the behavior over time rather than improve it. Short-Term Changes, Long-Term Consequences: While your cat may appear to have adapted in the short term, their fear or anxiety may return later on. Repeated exposure to the feared stimulus can cause long-term emotional damage and result in more severe behavioral problems. Fear-Based Behavior: Flooding doesn’t address the root cause of the fear. It merely suppresses the response, which may resurface later. The cat may continue to associate the situation or environment with stress and anxiety. How to Spot Flooding It’s important to recognize when your cat is overwhelmed, as it can happen unintentionally. Here are signs that you might be using flooding without realizing it: No Gradual Increase: The cat is exposed to the fear-inducing stimulus at full intensity right from the start, with no gradual increase in intensity. Ignoring Stress Signals: There’s no encouragement to stop the exposure when the cat shows signs of stress or anxiety, such as hiding, avoiding the stimulus, or displaying defensive body language. No Exit: The cat is unable to leave the situation and is forced to remain exposed to the stressor. Reinforcement of Fear: If the cat’s behavior worsens once the stimulus is removed and reintroduced, it may indicate that flooding is being misused. What to Do Instead Flooding may seem practical, but it’s far
