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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What Foods Are Toxic to Cats?
As humans, we like to share almost everything we have with our family members including our pets who we treat as part of our family too. However, feeding your cats human foods can sometimes harm them even if you had a good intention in sharing your food with them. Some human foods will not only cause your cat an upset stomach but can even be fatal to them so make sure never to give these foods to your feline friends: advertisement 1. Alcohol Foods and drinks containing alcohol can cause certain health problems to your cat including vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, and even death. 2. Chocolate Chocolates contain methylxanthines which are substances that are toxic to cats. The concentration of these substances varies per chocolate with cocoa powder having the highest concentration of methylxanthines. 3. Coffee Like chocolate, coffee also contains methylxanthines, specifically caffeine, that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and death. 4. Citrus Lemons, limes, oranges, and other citrus fruits contain citric acid and oils that can cause health problems in cats. Small amounts may only cause an upset stomach, but large doses can lead to death. 5. Coconut Coconut water and flesh contain high levels of potassium which are not safe for cats and other pets. It can cause them serious digestive problems. 6. Dairy Most cats are lactose intolerant, so they aren’t able to process dairy found in milk, cheese, and yogurt. Feeding them to your pet can cause digestive problems. advertisement 7. Grapes and Raisins While the reason why grapes and raisins are poisonous to cats and dogs remains unknown, hard evidence exists that they can lead to kidney failure. 8. Nuts Most nuts such as macadamia, almonds, pecans, and walnuts contain rich oils that can cause a digestive upset in pets and even pancreatitis in cats. 9. Raw Meat Raw or undercooked meat such as chicken, fish, pork, and even eggs contain Salmonella and E. coli bacteria that cause food poisoning in both cats and humans. 10. Certain Vegetables Some vegetables are safe and even healthy for cats but onions, garlic, leeks, scallions, shallots, chives, and foods that contain them must never be fed to cats. Before putting your cat on a new diet or giving them food you are unsure is safe for cats, ask your vet first to ensure your pet’s safety and good health.
Why Are Cats Liquid?
One of the states of matter is liquid. While a liquid has a definite volume, it does not have a definite shape since its particles are free to flow. Liquids are generally defined as materials that adapt their shape to fit a container. However, cats may also qualify as liquids under certain conditions. Okay but really, why? One of the reasons cats are so flexible is the structure of their collar bones, which are pretty different from ours. They’re only attached by muscles rather than bones making the cat’s flexibility even more impressive. In other words, if their heads fit through, their bodies probably can as well, which is why some cats can squeeze under doors or cracked windows. advertisement Cat’s gotta cat It would be advantageous for cats to be flexible, as they still haven’t managed to kick their wild instincts after all these years. Flexibility enables cats to catch prey that hides in tight places or escapes predators. Mor science! It might seem like a bit of meme fodder, but some research has been done on kitty liquids. In a paper titled “On the rheology of cats,” Marc-Antoine Fardin analyzed how and why cats of different ages can retain such unique shapes. As a result, Kitty fluid dynamics won the first year’s Ig Nobel Prize, which honors science research that could be considered silly, but still makes you think. If you’re more interested in the crunchy science of it all, read this article Fardin wrote “Answering the question that won me the Ig Nobel prize: Are cats liquid?” advertisement
Polydactyl Cats: Just More Beans to Love
Polydactyl cats have become extremely popular in recent times. As a result, more and more people are interested in learning more about this six-toed cat and want to get one of their own. If you are a cat lover intrigued by polydactyl cats, you have come to the right place. This post covers everything you need to know about this unique breed. What Is A Polydactyl Cat? Now, you might be wondering what a polydactyl cat is and what makes it different from other cats. It is a cat that is born with more toes than the typical cat. Polydactyl cats tend to have more than five toes on their front side or more than four toes on their hind feet, which is less common. When you first look at this cat, you are likely to be drawn away by its cuteness. The fact is that there is nothing more adorable than a kitten’s paws, and it is because the polydactyl cat has received so much attention. Unlike most cats with four toes on their back feet and five toes on their front feet, they have six or even more. There is no reason to worry, though. Even though a genetic abnormality is to blame for the extra toes, polydactyl cats are just as healthy as any other type of cat. In fact, the condition affects just about every kind of cat breed, big or small, male or female. Read on to learn more about this adorable cat as we provide unique insights into the cat species. A Genetic Mutation Causes Polydactyly A genetic mutation in a dominant gene is to blame for polydactyly. It results in the formation of four to seven toes. Generally, the front feet are the most likely to be affected by the condition. However, the hind feet can also be affected. It is quite rare for all four feet of a cat to have polydactyly. It is important to mention here that polydactyly is mostly harmless to the health and wellness of a cat. However, it does not make trimming the nails of the cat more labor-intensive. If you have trimmed a cat’s nails, you would already know just how difficult it can be. But, besides this, they are happy and healthy cats that just happen to have a few extra toes! However, feline radial hypoplasia is a condition that is mistaken for polydactyly and is known for being detrimental to a cat’s health. Similar to polydactyly, feline radial hypoplasia causes extra toes to develop. A notable difference between the two is that the extra toes develop rapidly next to the normal toes, leading to the cat having extremely large feet. If cats with feline radial hypoplasia are bred, their offspring would be likely to suffer from severe paw deformities. Some Polydactyl Cats Have Mitten Paws Another unique fact about polydactyl cats that you need to know is that some of them have mitten paws. Mitten paws tend to occur when the extra toes form
What Is the Ashera Cat Breed?
Whether you are looking for a new addition to your feline family or getting your very first cat, the Ashera cat breed is a great option. This cat is popular for its beautiful slender figure as well as its quiet and silent character. The Ashera cat is among the most exotic and rarest cat breeds in the world. advertisement Asheras are a cross between an African Serval, an Asian Leopard, and a domesticated cat weighing up to 30 pounds. There is also a hypoallergenic version that starts at $28,000. Though exotic, it is a domestic house cat that is easy to look after and extremely friendly. TAn Ashera is no aloof cat, as it is very vocal and capable of opening doors and walking on a leash. They’re more like dogs than cats. Designer cats like the Ashera are becoming increasingly popular. Hybrid variety names include the Toyger, which is a cross between a Bengal and a domestic cat, the Chausie, which is a mix between jungle and domestic cats, and the Savannah, which is a cross between an African Serval and a house cat. According to the International Cat Association, the Savannah is classified as an African Serval crossed with a domestic cat. Personality Traits Of The Ashera Cats, like people, have their own personalities, and while each one is unique in its own way, every cat breed has different qualities that are prevalent among cats of that breed. Before deciding to buy an Ashera cat, it’s essential to understand what to expect from them. Ashera cats aren’t exactly lap cats. These cats will be happy to play on their own even when their humans aren’t around. Just don’t expect them to curl up in your lap for a long and lazy afternoon. Ashera cats are easily trainable. Asheras are cats with high levels of intelligence, so it is easier to teach them tricks. A popular one to try is a version of fetch! Ashera cats are highly energetic. Make sure to provide your Ashera cat with enough toys and space to play around. It’s also fun to put a leash on and take her for a walk. Ashera cats are incredibly adaptable and easy to socialize with. These cats may look intimidating because of their large size but they are reasonably gentle and can be trusted around kids. advertisement The Ashera Cat Price The Ashera cat is considered to be a designer cat possibly due to its rarity and exoticness. This cat breed is also among the most expensive cat breeds around the world. In regions where this cat is easier to find, as, in the United States, the average price is around $22,000. These cats can cost as much as $125,000 in places where they aren’t as easy to locate. If you have the money to spend on the Ashera cat, then it is an excellent cat breed to add to your family. As with other cat breeds, be responsible and research thoroughly first before deciding to
Dogz r g8
Dogs are so great, they def don’t drool all the time. Here are our top five reasons dogs are so great: advertisement 1. They take dumb baths (because they don’t know how to clean themselves, lol) 2. They always know who’s boss (cats, duh) 3. They take the blame even when it’s the cat’s fault 😹 4. They make our humans happy (but we know cats make them happier) advertisement 5. They can be kinda fun to snuggle with sometimes (I guess) In all seriousness, happy April Fool’s day everyone! We really do love our doggie buddies. Have fun today and don’t forget to pet both kitties and doggies alike 😸.
Crystal Therapy and Cats
If you believe in the healing powers of crystals during your meditation or if you collect them because they are shiny and pretty, there is no denying that crystals have been beneficial in your life. What many people do not know is that healing crystals can be used on animals as well as humans. There is no doubt that crystals can also be beneficial for cats due to their calming and balancing effects. advertisement How Crystal Therapy Works for Cats Crystal healing is a technique for healing that works through resonance. Depending on their type and nature, healing crystals have vibrational frequency and amplitude that resonate with and attract the energies of some desirable traits. Cats are creatures who are sensitive enough to the subtle energies of crystal healing, so they too can reap the benefits of healing crystals. When it comes to cats, the effects of crystal therapy may include: Calming or balancing emotions. Reducing stress and anxiety. Energizing the physical body. Treating common cat ailments. When using crystal therapy for your cat, the most crucial factor is to have a clear intention of your desired outcome. In addition, make sure to maintain a positive atmosphere throughout your house to maximize the specific effects of the crystals. For large crystals, you may place them in areas your cat likes to hang out, like his cage, bed, or garden. Tiny crystals, meanwhile, can be embedded into your cat’s collar or harness. advertisement Best Healing Crystals for Cats Each crystal has its own unique “personality” in the form of vibrations that can attract different desirable traits for your cat. Here are the top crystals used for cat crystal therapy: Clear Quartz. Due to its helical spiral crystalline structure, Clear Quartz is one of the most versatile, multipurpose, and powerful healing stones available. There is no condition that it cannot treat, making it a master healer. By stimulating the immune system, restoring balance to the body, and restoring and amplifying energy systems, it can facilitate any healing your cat may need and enhance and cleanse her organs. Chevron Amethyst. This crystal is ideal for cats who suffer separation anxiety. An overactive mind is calmed by using this stone, which will quickly soothe your cat’s body and prevent her from being overstimulated. It will help her remain calm in times of stress and confusion. Howlite. Howlite is the best crystal to use for improving your cat’s mood. Howlite is a calming stone that also helps to alleviate pain and stress and balances calcium levels. Sodalite. Sodalite is especially beneficial for cats who exhibit aggressive and hyperactive behaviors. The mind is calmed by sodalite. Sodalite brings emotional balance and also soothes panic attacks. Rose Quartz. This crystal effectively opens the hearts of rescued or mistreated cats. Positive vibrations are transmitted through Rose Quartz to dispel negativity. There is no need to worry about your cat’s safety since crystal therapy is a non-invasive and harmless modality. To be safe, however, it is recommended to conduct
How to Help Your Cat Deal With Hairballs
Cleaning up nasty soggy hairballs is something that most cat owners have learned to live with. But hairballs from cats are not only unpleasant for the one who has to clean them up but especially annoying and uncomfortable for your pet too. Hairballs are pretty common among felines especially since they groom themselves all the time. However, serious cases of hairballs can cause intestinal blockages and other health problems in cats. As a responsible pet owner, it’s your job to help your feline friend deal with hairballs better. advertisement Cat Hairballs Causes and Symptoms To learn how to deal with hairballs, first, you should know what causes them and the early symptoms your cat may exhibit when they catch it. Hairballs develop in your cat’s stomach from his healthy and fastidious grooming routine. Cats have hook-like structures on their tongues that catch loose dead hair which they swallow. While most of these hairs pass through the digestive tract smoothly, some fibers stay in the stomach and form a hairball. Long-haired cat breeds are more likely to throw up hairballs. Hacking, gagging, and retching are common symptoms that cats manifest when trying to vomit the hairball. Watch out for the following hairball symptoms that may pose life-threatening risks to your pet: Ongoing vomiting without producing a hairball Lack of appetite Lethargy Constipation Diarrhea advertisement Remedies for Hairballs While hairballs aren’t typically dangerous for your pet, they can be unpleasant for them to cough up. Here’s what you can do to help your cat get through it better next time: Groom your cat regularly. Less loose hairs mean less fur down your cat’s digestive tract. Feed your pet specialized “hairball formula” cat food. Instead of regular cat food, feed specialized cat food formula with natural fiber to control hairballs. Give your cat a hairball laxative. If your cat is having a hard time coughing up hairballs, give him some hairball medicine or laxative to help him expel the hairballs and treat related constipation. With your cat’s hairball problem dealt better, you will not only ensure your cat’s good health but also a great relationship with your pet.
Trimming Your Cat’s Claws? Here are 5 Easy Tips to Help You
Cats with untrimmed nails are a danger not only to their owners but to themselves as well. That said, trimming their claws is non-negotiable. The problem is that trimming a cat’s nails is not the easiest nor the most enjoyable chore to do. We got you! We’ve gathered some tips on how to do it more successfully and safely this time. advertisement Get Your Cat Accustomed to Getting Their Feet Touched Some cats don’t like having their feet played with as much as they hate having them trimmed. It’s worth the effort to make them comfortable with having their paws touched. You should rub one paw gently for two or three seconds between your fingers. Watch for your cat’s movement as you do this. Extend one nail by squeezing the paw. Then release it immediately and reward your cat. You can repeat this two or three times a day until your cat becomes accustomed to it and doesn’t resist it as much. When to Trim Your Cat’s Nails? Timing is key when it comes to grooming your cat. Always cut your cat’s nails in a clean, calm, and quiet location with no distractions from other pets in the house. Find a comfortable seat where your kitty can lounge on your lap as you trim his nails. It is most ideal to cut your cat’s claws when he is least active such as after a meal when he feels sleepy. Make sure your cat is in a calm mood before attempting to cut his nails. Useful Tips when Trimming Cats Claws Get the tools and your cat ready because you’re about to learn some useful tips on trimming your cat’s claws. 1. Examine your cat’s nail. Familiarize yourself with the quick—the pink, fleshy part of the claw where blood vessels run through. Be very careful not to clip it. If you’re having trouble identifying where the quick is, use a small flashlight to shine through your cat’s claw. 2. Cut no more than 1/16 of an inch. Start by clipping as little of the claw as you can. Doing it slow and steady ensures accuracy and the safety of your cat. 3. Give your cat a treat. Positive reinforcement is important to ensure your kitty is willing to get his nails trimmed again next time. Reward him after a successful clipping process. 4. Have styptic powder ready. Just in case you accidentally clip a part of your cat’s quick, apply styptic powder right away to stop the bleeding and avoid infection. 5. Focus on one nail at a time. Don’t expect to get everything trimmed on the first try. As your cat gets comfortable with having his nails trimmed, you can finish more next time. advertisement Establish a Clipping Schedule It is recommended to trim cats’ claws every week and a half to every two weeks. Keeping your cat’s nails under control is easier if you establish a routine. Ask your groomer or veterinarian for advice if you’re having trouble trimming
Why Does My Cat Cackle?
Cats make all kinds of sounds all the time such as meowing, growling, purring, and many more. Perhaps one of the rare sounds they make is cackling or what others call “cat chirping”. Your cat may have let out a funny sound from his throat, like an abrupt bird chirping, and you’re wondering what he means by it. Cackling in cats may be more common than you think. advertisement When Do Cats Cackle? According to experts, cats produce a cackling or chirping sound usually when they are provoked by prey. When they see a bird or a rodent, for example, cats may display their interest in catching the animal by making that sound. More often than not, cats cackle when they are unable to get to their prey. For example, your cat is watching a bird from the window, and he can’t get to where the bird is. Many experts interpret the cackling sound from cats as an overwhelming excitement and frustration for not being able to catch their prey when they want to. advertisement Why Does My Cat Cackle at Me? You’ve just learned that cats make a chirping sound when they are excited by a potential prey they have spotted. Now, you recall a time when your cat cackled at you. Does this mean he thinks of you as prey? Not at all, so don’t panic! It might just mean that your cat is demanding something from you like food, attention, or some extra treats. Next time your cat cackles at you, try giving him one of those things and see if it does the trick. Cats are mysterious creatures, and their silly behavior can easily put a smile on any cat lover’s face. You’ve just solved the mystery of why your cat cackles but don’t expect it to be the last strange thing your cat will do. After all, it’s the weird things that your cat does that make you fall in love with him.
8 Different Types of Litter: Which One is Best for Me?
Kitty litter is the one thing that cat owners should never run out of. Cats are clean creatures, and they prefer to bury their urine and poop when defecating. Litter is the medium in which cats will bury their wastes plus it can control the odor. If you’re buying kitty litter for the first time or are looking to switch your old one, here’s what you should know about it. advertisement What are the 8 Kinds of Cat Litter? Knowing what the types of cat litter are and how they differ from others will help you decide which one to choose. Clay. It is the most popular type of kitty litter which uses carbon and plant extracts to control odor. Corn. Litter made from corn is an eco-friendly alternative as it is biodegradable, and it comes in scented or natural-scented variants. Coconut Husk. This type of litter has a natural scent and is dust-free. It is, however, more difficult to find than traditional litter. Wheat. Wheat kitty litter absorbs odor well and clumps naturally although not as much as clay litter. Wood. Wood litter often has a pine odor that some pet owners may find too strong. It doesn’t clump and it acts as a natural deodorizer. Walnut Shells. Litter made from walnut shells are highly absorbent and are low in dust. They are great for the earth-conscious as their source is renewable. Recycled Newspaper. Most cat litter made from recycled newspapers is unscented and they are the cheapest type too. They are best for cats recovering from surgery. Silica. Silica cat litter is more expensive than other types but they are reusable for about one month so they can be more practical. advertisement Choosing the Right Type of Cat Litter To help you decide on which type of kitty litter is best for you and your pet, ask yourself these questions: Do I prefer scented or natural? Does biodegradability matter to me? Is clumping or non-clumping litter better for my cat? How much odor control do I need from the litter? Once you have the answer to these questions, we’re sure that you can settle on the right type of kitty litter for your fur baby. Our list of litter types above can serve as your guide in choosing the right one.
