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 You might also notice your cat eating less or acting more withdrawn than usual.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

Why More People Are Using In-Home Pet Euthanasia to Say Goodbye

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most complex decisions any pet owner has to make. At some point, we move from ensuring a quality of life to providing a quality of death. This understanding is at the core of in-home pet euthanasia services, which offer a gentle, supportive, and respectful farewell to your pet, all within the comfort and familiarity of their home environment. advertisement What is In-Home Euthanasia? In-home pet euthanasia is the process of peacefully allowing a pet to pass away in their own home, surrounded by family, rather than in a veterinary clinic. The goal is to provide a calm, loving experience, free from the stress or discomfort that often comes with traditional euthanasia procedures in a hospital setting. Here’s what you can expect from in-home pet euthanasia experts: 1. Personalized Care and Consultation Before proceeding with the euthanasia, veterinarians will sit down with you to discuss your concerns, thoughts, and questions. Your veterinarian will guide you through the process, ensuring that you are informed and comfortable with each step. 2. Sedation for Comfort To ensure your pet’s comfort and minimize any stress, your veterinarian will administer a gentle sedation injection before the final euthanasia injection. This allows your pet to fall into a peaceful sleep, ensuring their final moments are calm and serene. Once your pet is deeply relaxed and no longer responsive to stimulation, your vet will proceed with the euthanasia procedure. 3. The Euthanasia Procedure Euthanasia, which translates to “good death,” is performed with the highest level of care. The final injection will peacefully and quietly put your pet to sleep. This is done with complete respect for your pet, and they will pass away comfortably, surrounded by love and compassion. 4. Memorial Keepsakes Many in-home pet euthanasia services offer meaningful keepsakes to cherish and remember your beloved companion. Such as a clay paw print as a tangible reminder of your pet’s love and devotion. 5. Aftercare and Support Once the euthanasia is complete, many in-home pet euthanasia services also provide transportation to a local crematory. This is where you can select the best aftercare option for your pet. advertisement Why Choose In-Home Euthanasia? In-home euthanasia is often the most peaceful option for both pets and their owners. Pets are most comfortable in their environment, surrounded by familiar smells, sounds, and family members. The process allows you to say goodbye most lovingly and intimately, ensuring that your final memory of your pet is one of peace and comfort. For many, the idea of taking their pet to a clinic in their final moments can feel overwhelming and distressing. By choosing in-home euthanasia, you can avoid the stress of traveling, the cold clinical atmosphere, and the impersonal experience of a clinic setting. Your pet will remain in the safety and warmth of their home, with you by their side, providing the love and comfort they need. In-home pet euthanasia is more than just a service; it’s a deeply compassionate way to

Do Cats Inherit Genetic Diseases?

Like humans and other animals, cats can be susceptible to genetic diseases. While they can occur in any cat, certain health conditions are more commonly seen in purebred cats due to the selective breeding practices employed. Inbreeding, which is often used to maintain specific breed traits, can also lead to the inheritance of genetic disorders. While some of these conditions may become apparent at birth, others may not show symptoms until later in life. advertisement Here are some of the most common genetic disorders in cats: 1. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Polycystic Kidney Disease is a hereditary condition characterized by the development of numerous large cysts in the kidneys. Over time, these cysts can lead to kidney failure. Breeds that are more prone to PKD include Persians, British Shorthairs, Exotic Shorthairs, Ragdolls, Devon Rexes, and Birmans. Common symptoms of PKD include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. However, these signs often don’t appear until the cat reaches middle age, which can make it difficult to know if a younger cat carries the gene without genetic testing. 2. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is the most common heart disease in cats, causing the heart muscle to thicken and impair the heart’s ability to contract effectively. This condition can lead to sudden death or heart failure, especially if left untreated. Breeds at higher risk for HCM include Maine Coons and Ragdolls, both of which have been found to have a genetic mutation linked to the disease. 3. Spina Bifida (Manx Syndrome) Manx cats are well known for their distinctive short tails, a feature caused by a genetic mutation. However, the shortened tail can also cause spinal issues such as spina bifida, a condition where part of the spinal cord does not develop properly. This condition may result in urinary and fecal incontinence, difficulty moving, or even paralysis of the back legs. The condition is a direct consequence of the Manx breed’s taillessness and can be severe in some cases. 4. Osteochondrodysplasia (Scottish Fold Disease) Scottish Folds are famous for their unique folded ears, but this trait is the result of a genetic mutation that affects cartilage development throughout their body, not just their ears. This mutation leads to poor bone development and severe, crippling arthritis. Often, affected cats experience these symptoms at a young age, and the condition can lead to long-term pain and mobility issues. 5. Congenital Deafness Deafness is a genetic condition that affects some cats, particularly those with white coats and blue eyes. This condition can cause partial or complete deafness, and it is more likely to affect both ears. The syndrome is congenital, meaning it is present from birth and is linked to a genetic defect that affects both coat color and ear development. 6. Hypokalemic Myopathy Hypokalemic Myopathy is an inherited condition that causes muscle weakness and neck bending, commonly seen in Burmese and Tonkinese cats. This disease can cause episodes of severe weakness, seizures, or the inability to lift the head, with the chin

Turns Out Office Cats Boost Workplace Productivity and Happiness

If you’ve ever wondered if the presence of cute office pets could improve your workday, look no further than Ferray Corporation, an internet solutions company in Tokyo, Japan. While the specifics of the job itself remain somewhat of a mystery, one aspect of the company culture is clear: it’s purrfectly delightful. Ferray Corporation has adopted nine office cats, rescued kitties who now enjoy a permanent home among employees, computers, and copiers. The decision to bring these furry friends into the workplace wasn’t just for their cuteness factor (although that’s certainly a perk!). It was driven by the company’s desire to enhance employee productivity and foster a happier, less stressful work environment. advertisement The Cat-Friendly Office Culture Why adopt nine cats, you may wonder? Tokyo is known for its cramped living spaces, and many apartments in the city have strict no-pet policies. This leaves many residents without the opportunity to keep a pet at home. So, what do the employees at Ferray Corporation do when they’re craving some furry companionship? They head to the office, where nine cats are more than happy to provide cuddles, entertainment, and relaxation. For many of the employees, this is a rare treat, as they often cannot have pets in their apartments. The office kitties offer a daily dose of cuteness and comfort. Which not only boosts morale but has a direct impact on productivity. Increased Communication and Reduced Stress Since the introduction of the office cats, employees have noticed a positive shift in the office dynamic. The cats have become an unexpected icebreaker, encouraging more interaction between coworkers. As employees stop to chat about their feline colleagues, the overall office atmosphere has become more relaxed and friendly. According to reports from RocketNews24, even the company’s boss is a fan of the new office arrangement. The presence of the cats has led to an increase in collaboration, with employees often discussing their favorite cats or sharing pictures. The kitties’ calming presence has had the added benefit of reducing stress levels in the office, leaving everyone feeling a little more zen. A Cat-Friendly Work Environment The cats seem to be enjoying their new work environment just as much as the employees. The office is equipped with everything the felines need to stay happy and comfortable, including beds, toys, litter boxes, and, of course, treats. There’s no shortage of spaces for the cats to curl up, nap, or play. Of course, as with any office pet program, there are a few minor challenges. The cats have developed a knack for walking across keyboards, chewing on cords, and occasionally shredding important documents. However, Ferray Corporation embraces these little quirks, understanding that the joy and productivity the cats bring far outweigh any inconveniences. A Pet-Friendly Policy for All Employees The feline-friendly policies at Ferray Corporation don’t stop at the office cats. The company encourages employees to bring in their own pets, and they even offer a bonus of $42 per month to any worker who adopts a cat while employed