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 Courageous Tale of the Ship Cat Simon
Aboard the esteemed Royal Navy sloop-of-war, HMS Amethyst, a remarkable feline named Simon, etched his name into the annals of history. Simon, a ship’s cat, embarked on a journey that would test his resilience, showcase his bravery, and touch the hearts of all who crossed his path. Born in the bustling dockyards of Hong Kong in 1947, Simon’s early days were marked by hardship. Then, in March 1948, that fate intervened, as a compassionate 17-year-old Ordinary seaman named George Hickinbottom stumbled upon the undernourished and ailing cat. Recognizing the cat’s desperate need for care, Hickinbottom smuggled him aboard the HMS Amethyst, forever altering the course of their destinies. A Charismatic Mascot: Simon’s Rise to Prominence Quickly endearing himself to the crew and officers, Simon showcased his exceptional rat-catching skills and mischievous charm. His reputation as a cheeky feline grew as he left grisly gifts of dead rats in sailors’ beds and even took up residence in the captain’s cap. As a result, the crew began to view Simon as their lucky mascot, a source of joy and morale in their naval journey. As the torch of command was passed from one captain to another, Simon’s presence remained constant, becoming a steadfast companion to Lieutenant Commander Bernard Skinner. Little did they know that their next mission up the Yangtze River would take a turn. The Amethyst Incident unfolded when Chinese PLA artillery opened fire on the frigate, tearing through the captain’s cabin and gravely injuring both Skinner and Simon. In a testament to his resilience, Simon crawled onto the deck and was rushed to the ship’s medical bay; the brave feline underwent treatment for his burns and had four pieces of shrapnel carefully removed. Against all odds, Simon defied the bleak prognosis and made a remarkable recovery. With the ship anchored in the river, rats had overrun the vessel. Here, Simon’s true valor shone as he took on the task of eliminating the infestation and boosting the sailors’ morale. Simon became an icon of resilience and determination, inspiring all who witnessed his unwavering spirit. From Hero to Legend News of Simon’s heroic acts spread like wildfire, capturing the attention and admiration of the world. In recognition of his extraordinary service, Simon was awarded the prestigious Dickin Medal by the PDSA, becoming the only cat to receive this distinguished honor. His courage was further acknowledged with the Blue Cross Medal, the Amethyst campaign medal, and the fanciful rank of ‘Able Seacat.’ Even letters poured in from adoring fans, necessitating the appointment of a dedicated “cat officer” to handle Simon’s correspondence. Every port that welcomed the HMS Amethyst became a stage for Simon’s hero’s welcome. From the public’s adoration to official ceremonies, Simon’s presence elevated the spirits of all who encountered him. Finally returning to Plymouth in November, the ship and its beloved feline were greeted with a special celebration. A Final Farewell: Mourning the Loss of an Icon However, Simon’s journey took an unexpected turn when he faced the quarantine regulations upon
The Unlikely Hero: How a Stray Cat Rescued a Railway Station from Bankruptcy
Our heartwarming story began in the picturesque town of Kinokawa, nestled within the beautiful Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. This story revolved around a calico cat named Tama, who would ultimately become a beloved and legendary figure in the world of railways. Tama’s tale began in Kinokawa, where she was born and raised among a group of stray cats that had found solace near Kishi Station. Passengers and the informal station manager Toshiko Koyama often fed these furry friends, creating a bond between humans and felines. A Station in Crisis In 2004, the fate of Kishi Station hung in the balance due to financial troubles on the rail line. Just when closure seemed imminent, Koyama made a life-changing decision. She adopted Tama, seeing potential in the adorable cat. The citizens of the town passionately rallied to keep the station open, and their efforts proved successful. In April 2006, the newly-formed Wakayama Electric Railway decided to destaff all stations on the Kishigawa Line to reduce costs. As part of this change, the stray cats were evicted from their shelter to make way for new roads. Koyama, refusing to abandon her beloved Tama, pleaded with Mitsunobu Kojima, the president of Wakayama Electric Railway, to allow the cats to live inside Kishi Station. Recognizing Tama’s potential as a maneki-neko (beckoning cat), Kojima granted Koyama’s request. And so, on January 5, 2007, Tama officially received the title of the station master. Her primary duty was to greet passengers and bring smiles to their faces. In recognition of her invaluable service, Tama was given a year’s worth of cat food and a prestigious gold name tag for her collar, proudly displaying her name and position. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tom&co Athus – Pet Store (@tomandcoathus) Rise to Stardom Tama’s appointment as station master catapulted Kishi Station into the limelight. The publicity surrounding her newfound role resulted in a remarkable 17% increase in passengers during her first month compared to January 2006. Furthermore, ridership statistics for March 2007 showed a 10% increase over the previous year. Tama became an emblematic figure, symbolizing a phenomenon known as “Nekonomics” or “cat economy,” showcasing the positive economic impact of having a feline mascot. A study estimated that Tama contributed a staggering 1.1 billion yen to the local economy. Tama’s remarkable journey continued in October 2008 when she was knighted and awarded the prestigious title of “Wakayama de Knight” by the prefectural governor. This distinction served as a testament to her exceptional work in promoting local tourism and bringing joy to the community. 2009 marked another milestone for Tama as the Wakayama Electric Railway introduced a new “Tama train” to honor her third year as stationmaster. The train was beautifully customized with charming cartoon depictions of Tama, capturing her essence and spreading her contagious enthusiasm throughout the railway. Tama’s unwavering dedication and contribution to expanding the customer base led to another promotion in January 2010. She was bestowed with the esteemed title of “Operating
Do Cats Suffer From Separation Anxiety?
Cats are known for their independent nature but also form strong bonds with their owners. When these bonds are disrupted, such as when a cat is left alone for extended periods of time, she may experience separation anxiety. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not cats can suffer from separation anxiety and how to help them cope with this condition. What is Separation Anxiety? First, let’s define separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a condition that occurs when an animal becomes distressed and anxious when separated from their owner or caregiver. Dogs are the most commonly associated animals with separation anxiety, but cats can also experience this condition. Cats that suffer from separation anxiety may become stressed, destructive, or vocal when left alone. So do They? So, do cats really suffer from separation anxiety? The answer is yes. While cats are typically more independent than dogs and may not show their distress similarly, they can still experience anxiety when left alone for extended periods. This is especially true for cats that are very attached to their owners or those that have been through a traumatic experience, such as being abandoned or losing a littermate. Some signs that a cat may be suffering from separation anxiety include excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, over-grooming, and inappropriate elimination. Cats with separation anxiety may also become more clingy when their owner is around, following them from room to room and seeking constant attention. So, how can you help your cat cope with separation anxiety? Here are some tips: Provide plenty of toys and entertainment: Cats left alone for extended periods may become bored and anxious. To prevent this, provide your cat with plenty of toys and entertainment, such as puzzle feeders, cat trees, and scratching posts. These can help keep them mentally stimulated and engaged while you’re away. Create a safe space: Cats that are anxious may benefit from having a designated safe space where they can retreat to when feeling stressed. This can be a cozy bed or crate in a quiet room away from any loud noises or distractions. Use pheromone sprays: Pheromone sprays, such as Feliway, can help reduce anxiety in cats. These sprays mimic the pheromones that cats produce naturally to mark their territory and feel more secure. Simply spray the product in your cat’s safe space or on their bed to help them feel more relaxed. Gradually acclimate your cat to being alone: If your cat is experiencing separation anxiety, it’s important to gradually acclimate them to being alone. Start by leaving them alone for short periods of time, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend alone over several weeks. This can help them adjust to being alone and feel more comfortable. Seek veterinary advice: If your cat’s separation anxiety is severe or is causing them distress, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. Your vet may recommend anti-anxiety medication or behavioral therapy to help your cat cope. Cats can indeed suffer from separation anxiety. While they may not show
Top 10 Smartest Cat Breeds
If you share your home with a cat, you already know that cats often catch us by surprise with their kitty cleverness. While we can all agree most cats can be smart cookies (with the exception of the orange cats, let’s be honest), these ten breeds shine as the best of the best when it comes to smarts. Siamese One of the world’s most popular and recognizable cat breeds, the Siamese is known for its beautiful coat, curious nature, and chatty tendency. These cats are intelligent, affectionate, and energetic. They love to play and crave attention and company. Keep this kitty’s brain busy with puzzles and teaser toys. If you can, get her a big cat tree for climbing; this kitty would appreciate it! If bored, a Siamese will entertain itself by turning on faucets, opening cabinets, or rummaging where she shouldn’t. View this post on Instagram A post shared by 😻 Siamese Cat (@siamesecatlovers_) Bengal The Bengal is perhaps best known for its exotic coat that resembles a jaguar or leopard. This breed originated from crossing a domestic cat with an Asian leopard cat. Bengals are highly intelligent, athletic, and still a bit wild. They love to run, jump, climb, and play. They require ample exercise space (especially vertical) and mental challenges like puzzle games and toys. Its nimble paws are almost as good as its hands; some can turn light switches on and off, pluck out pet fish from aquariums, and pull out small items from drawers. You should have easy success if you ever decide to clicker-train your Bengal! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Albert & Mia, the Adventure Bengal Cat (@outdoorbengal) Korat The Korat, named for a province in Thailand, is another rare breed, considered good luck in its homeland. They’re brilliant and attentive to the world around them. Korats are moderately energetic and enjoy interactive games but love their naps. This breed can learn tricks, like playing fetch and walking on a leash. You can easily teach this cat the household rules if you reward it with praise or treats. This kitty loves its toys and is sometimes too stubborn to share with others. They thrive on attention and are typically affectionate with their families. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annie (@anniethekoratcat) Abyssinian This sleek-looking cat is athletic, agile, and affectionate toward humans. Abyssinians are very intelligent and highly in tune with the activities of their families. This breed enjoys heights, perching above the room, and surveilling everything. Of all the cat types, this one learns tricks quickly and will enjoy running a feline agility course. Generally, they’re not lap cats but love getting petted or brushed. They also tend to enjoy the company of other animals and adapt well to most living arrangements. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thea (@thea_abycat) Singapura As its name implies, the Singapura originated on the streets of Singapore. The
10 Things Cats Hate About You
Cats are known for being independent and self-sufficient animals, but they also have their own preferences and dislikes. As a cat owner, it’s important to understand what your feline friend may dislike to provide them with a comfortable and happy living environment. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 things that cats hate. Loud noises: Cats have a highly developed sense of hearing and are sensitive to loud noises, which can be very stressful for them. Fireworks, thunderstorms, and loud music are all examples of things that can make cats feel anxious or scared. To help your cat cope with loud noises, create a safe space for them to retreat to, such as a quiet room with their bed and toys. You can also play calming music or use pheromone sprays to help reduce their anxiety. Rough handling: While many cats enjoy being petted and cuddled, it’s important to be gentle and respect their boundaries. Rough handling, such as pulling their tail or squeezing them too tightly, can be painful and frightening for cats. Pay attention to your cat’s body language and watch for signs that they may be uncomfortable, such as hissing or swatting. Be sure to give them plenty of positive reinforcement and rewards when they respond well to your affection. Strong smells: Cats have a keen sense of smell and can be bothered by strong odors, such as cigarette smoke, perfume, or cleaning products. These smells can be overwhelming for cats and may cause them to avoid certain areas of the house. To make your cat more comfortable, use unscented cleaning products and avoid using strong perfumes or colognes around them. Dirty litter boxes: Cats are known for being fastidious animals, and they prefer a clean litter box. Dirty litter boxes can be a source of stress and discomfort for cats, and can even lead to litter box aversion. Be sure to scoop your cat’s litter box daily and change the litter frequently to keep it fresh and clean. You can also experiment with different types of litter to see which one your cat prefers. Being sprayed with water: Some people use water as a disciplinary tool for cats, but this can be stressful for them and damage the trust they have in their owner. Spraying cats with water can be a form of punishment that they do not understand, causing them to become fearful or anxious. Instead of using water to discipline your cat, try positive reinforcement training techniques to encourage good behavior. Sudden movements: Cats are hunters by nature, and sudden movements can trigger their predatory instincts. This can cause them to become scared or anxious. Try to move slowly and calmly around your cat to avoid startling them. If you need to move quickly, be sure to make noise or announce your presence so that your cat knows you’re there. Being picked up: While some cats enjoy being held and cuddled, others do not like to be picked up. It’s important to respect
Do Cats Dream?
Cats are fascinating creatures, and their behavior often seems mysterious to humans. But have you ever wondered if cats dream like humans do? Do these furry companions have vivid dreamscapes that they experience while they sleep? In this article, we will explore the science behind cat dreams and whether or not they actually occur. REM First, let’s consider the evidence. There is no way to ask a cat directly whether or not they dream, so scientists must rely on observing their behavior during sleep to draw conclusions. Researchers have found that cats, like humans, go through different stages of sleep, including rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is typically associated with dreaming. During REM sleep, cats’ bodies are mostly immobile, and their eyes move rapidly beneath their closed eyelids. This suggests that they may be experiencing some sort of mental activity, which could potentially include dreaming. However, the fact that cats experience REM sleep does not necessarily mean that they dream in the same way that humans do. While humans can recall dreams and describe their content, cats obviously cannot communicate what they experience during sleep. It is also possible that cats’ brains process information differently than human brains do during REM sleep, which could impact their dreaming experiences. Kitty Sleep Studies Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology conducted one study. In the study, the researchers observed the brain activity of sleeping cats using an electroencephalogram (EEG), which measures electrical activity in the brain. They found that cats’ brain activity during REM sleep was similar to that of humans during dreaming, suggesting that cats may indeed experience dreams. Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki in Finland found that cats appear to experience “cat-specific” dreams. The researchers monitored cats’ behavior during sleep. They found that they often twitched their whiskers, tails, or other body parts, suggesting that they were experiencing dream content related to their experiences as cats. For example, cats recently playing with toys might twitch their paws as if they were still playing in their dreams. While these studies suggest that cats may indeed dream, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the nature of cat dreams. It is also possible that individual cats may vary in their dreaming experiences, just as humans do. To Dream a Dream So, why might cats dream? One theory is that dreaming helps animals process and consolidate memories. This could be particularly important for cats, who rely heavily on their memories to navigate their environments and hunt for food. Dreaming could also allow cats to practice and perfect their hunting skills in a safe, controlled environment. While we cannot say for certain whether or not cats dream, the available evidence suggests that they may indeed experience some sort of mental activity during REM sleep. It is possible that cats’ dreams are related to their experiences as cats and that they may serve important functions such as memory consolidation and skill practice. As
Why is the Internet Obsessed with Cats?
It’s no secret that the internet loves cats. From cute kitten videos to funny memes, feline-related content has become a staple of online culture. But why exactly is the internet so obsessed with cats? Let’s explore a few reasons. Firstly, cats are incredibly adorable. With their fluffy coats, bright eyes, and playful personalities, it’s no wonder they capture the hearts of so many. Whether it’s a video of a kitten chasing a toy or a photo of a sleeping cat curled up in a sunbeam, there’s something undeniably charming about these little creatures. And thanks to the internet, we now have access to an endless supply of adorable cat content. View this post on Instagram A post shared by imgur (@imgur) In addition to their cuteness, cats are also hilarious. Anyone who has spent time around cats knows they have a unique sense of humor. From their unpredictable behavior to hilarious facial expressions, cats can be a constant source of entertainment. And again, thanks to the internet, we now have access to countless videos and images that showcase just how funny cats can be. Another reason why the internet loves cats so much is because they are highly relatable. Many people can see themselves in their feline friends, whether it’s their love of napping, independent nature, or mischievous tendencies. Cats are also notorious for their strange habits, like sitting in boxes or knocking things off tables, which many people find endearing. Furthermore, cats are low-maintenance pets compared to dogs or other animals. They don’t need to be walked, they’re content to spend hours alone, and they don’t require constant attention. This makes them a popular choice for people who lead busy lives or live in small spaces. And because so many people have cats as pets, it’s natural that they would want to share their love for them online. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nala Cat ™ (@nala_cat) The rise of social media has also played a significant role in the popularity of cats on the internet. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have made it easier than ever for people to share photos and videos of their pets with the world. As a result, cat owners can now create dedicated accounts for their furry friends and build a following of like-minded individuals who share their love for all things feline. But it’s not just cat owners responsible for the internet’s obsession with cats. Several popular cat-focused websites and social media accounts have helped to fuel the trend. For example, the website I Can Has Cheezburger? has been around since 2007 and features user-submitted photos of cats and humorous captions. The site has since expanded to include other types of animal content, but cats remain at the core of its brand. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICanHasCheezburger (@icanhascheezburgerz) Another popular cat-related website is The Daily Kitten, which features a new kitten photo and profile every day.
Cat Meows: What Are They Telling Us?
Body postures, scent signals, and vocalizations all contribute to cat language. Most cats’ communication consists of tail talk and ear signals, which humans often overlook. Our undivided attention is drawn to feline yowls, growls, hisses, and purrs, especially at 5 a.m. But what are they trying to say? Meowing types Cats meow in four major categories: There are several murmur patterns, including purrs and trills. A cat’s vowel patterns include meows in all their variations (and diphthongs, too). In articulated ways, frustration is expressed through chirps and chattering. Hisses and growls with a restricted intensity pattern are warning signs. According to experts, cat vocalizations may also be so subtle or pitched so high that only other cats can hear them. Some cats are not vocal. Generally, Persians and blue Chartreux breeds are quiet. On the other hand, siamese cats are incredibly talkative; other cat breeds never stop talking. Is there a meaning behind meowing? Although cats use various vocalizations to communicate with each other, they seem to reserve “meows” for talking to their humans. Cat’s meows are demands, especially when they want to be fed or let outside. Their meows become more strident and lower-pitched as they become more passionate and insistent. Meowing at night Because cats are crepuscular, they sleep 16 hours a day and are most active at dawn and dusk (low light hours). No matter where they are, they are always on mouse patrol. There’s nothing wrong with it, but it isn’t ideal. During the night, the determined and savvy cat may snuggle and sleep with you in the bedroom until it decides you have both had enough sleep. First, it gives you a loving head-bonk, nibble on your nose or toes, or drop toys on the top of your head. The meows will escalate if that doesn’t wake you up. The cat scampers to its empty food bowl when you leave the bed. The yowling may be temporarily stopped by filling the bowl. When your mouth is full of kibble, it’s hard to meow. Congratulations, you have been trained by your cat. What to do when your cat meows When you give in to your cat’s meow demands, you are telling it that pestering you is effective, but remember that your cat might also be telling you something is wrong. Health issues can cause excessive meowing. For example, it is common for cats to meow or howl when they are in pain. Deaf cats, old cats suffering from feline dementia, stressed cats suffering from separation anxiety, and cats with thyroid, heart, or kidney problems might yowl. Have your cat evaluated by a veterinarian if constant meowing is a new behavior. Ignoring this behavior in otherwise healthy cats is the only way to stop them. You don’t feed her, play toe-tag with her, yell at her, spraying her with water, or give her any attention. Consider investing in earplugs, closing the bedroom door, or confining the cat to another room. When this behavior has been going on
Feral & Stray Cats: What’s the Difference?
Not every cat living outside is lost or abandoned. Feral cats, who have never been pets and live like raccoons and possums and other wild animals, roam the alleyways of cities and the fields of the countryside. Such cats can benefit from human care, particularly spaying and neutering, and they’ll appreciate feeding—but you definitely shouldn’t try to rescue them. They don’t want to become pets or live in houses. They don’t need to be rescued. advertisement What is a feral cat? A feral cat is a cat who has either never had any contact with people or her contact with people has diminished over time. She is not socialized to people and survives on her own outdoors. Most feral cats are not likely to ever become lap cats or enjoy living indoors. Feral cats have had little or no contact with people, and so they are wary of us, and cannot be adopted. Feral cats have kittens that can be socialized at an early age and adopted into homes. A feral cat’s level of socialization and behavior is not always black and white, particularly for feral cats that recognize their caregiver. They may show signs of familiarity, such as a tail up or hanging out on a caregiver’s porch, but these behaviors are usually limited to the cat’s interaction with the caregiver and only develop after building a relationship over time. Always remember: this does not mean that the cat is a good candidate for living indoors. Feral cats have a home—outdoors. They live and thrive in every landscape, from the inner city to rural farmland. Since feral cats are not adoptable, they should not be brought to animal pounds and shelters, because there they will likely be killed. How to tell the difference Distinguishing a stray house cat from a feral cat isn’t always easy, though there are some clear indicators. A cat that has been “ear-tipped,” for example, is almost certainly feral. Look for one ear, usually the left, that’s cleanly squared-off rather than pointy. This mark indicates that a feral cat has been trapped before and spayed or neutered. It prevents those who work with feral cat colonies from retrapping cats unnecessarily. A cat that’s friendly and comfortable around people, on the other hand, is definitely domesticated. “If it comes and rubs on your leg or meows at you, it’s a house cat,” says Jessica Gotthold, CEO of The National Foundation for Animal Rescue. Some lost or stray domesticated cats, however, won’t be that comfortable with you right away. If they’ve been living outside for a while, they may have become more cautious and fearful of humans, even if they’re still struggling to survive on their own. “Sit outside with them, even if you can’t touch them,” says Doreen Kaminski, a longtime volunteer with Whiskers Pet Rescue in Southbury, Connecticut. “Bring food out, earn their trust.” Abandoned or lost cats Some pets are cruelly abandoned to fend for themselves, but there’s just as good a
Can Cats Eat Dog Food?
Many cats seem to go out of their way to eat dog food. Sometimes the grass is greener on your neighbor’s lawn, and sometimes the food on someone else’s plate looks better. While you probably wouldn’t spoil your neighbor’s property or steal food from someone else’s plate, cats probably would. Even if the tasty morsel is in a large dog’s food bowl, a cat may gently eat it when the dog’s attention is distracted. It seems counterintuitive that cats should not have dog food. There are cases where cats prefer dog food, and it appears to be essentially the same. Could it be a problem if you feed your cat dog food? Are other issues than provoking an identity crisis? advertisement Would it be okay for a cat to eat dog food? The most straightforward answer is: not daily. The more detailed explanation is that dog food does not contain all the necessary vitamins, nutrients, and amino acids that cat food does. It’s not healthy, it’s not moist enough, and it’s not even tasty. Why is dog food harmful for cats? Cats and dogs are two very different animals. This does not only refer to temperament or appearance. They are entirely different on a biological level and have different nutritional needs. A dog may prefer meat but is an omnivore. A cat is an obligate carnivore. Cats also need more moisture, which is not enough in most dog foods. Cat food is formulated for a cat’s nutritional needs, and dog food is prepared for a dog’s dietary needs. A comparison of ingredient labels reveals three fundamental differences between cat food and dog food. Dog Food Lacks Vitamin A Cats need vitamin A. A deficiency of vitamin A in cats can lead to night blindness, poor fur, and weak muscles. The cat’s immune system needs vitamin A daily. Kittens especially need vitamin A to promote growth and neurological development. Vitamin A is found in the liver, fish oil, and egg yolks. As a carnivore, a cat has a greater tolerance to vitamin A than an omnivore and a greater need. The recommended daily vitamin A dose for cats is between 650 – 850 IU (international units). Dog Food Lacks Taurine Taurine is an essential amino acid mainly found in organ meats. Cats cannot provide their taurine and must be fed taurine-rich foods. This essential nutrient is typically lacking in dog food. Taurine is required for cats’ eyes, ears, and hearts to function correctly. To aid digestion, taurine binds to bile acids. Similar to a vitamin A deficiency, a cat with a taurine deficiency may experience night blindness and weak immunity. Dog foods often do not contain taurine, nor are they necessary because dogs can make their own. Dog Food Contains Too Little Protein Cats have a higher protein requirement than dogs. The minimum protein content in dog food is 18 to 24 percent; this percentage is used globally. The available amount of protein that should be present
