One thing is undeniable: the flexibility, speed, and height that cats possess, so this is made possible by their unique bone structure. So looking at the spine and legs of a cat, we can see that this gives them good footing and agility while giving them the power in their legs to reach high areas. While a cat has somewhere around 230-245 bones in its system, depending on the type, you might be thinking about how all of this works, so to find out more, we'll look closely at each section to remove the air of mystery that surrounds your feline friend. An Overview Of A Cat's Skeletal SystemWe know that a human has around 206-213 but starts with 270, so you can get a good idea of how this stacks up, and this is made possible by a human's bones fusing as they grow, but what if we want to take a closer look? You can find out how each section of the skeleton is made up, so this can be seen as:
How Tough Are A Cat's Bones?You can see from many examples that a cat's musculoskeletal system can absorb quite a lot of shock from falls or damage, so it's going to take some considerable shock or sustained pressure to break or fracture a bone. However, cats do experience broken leg bones more often than any other part of the body, and there are usually signs that your cat shows that there could be a fracture or break.
Are There Any Interesting Aspects Of A Cat's Skeleton?The way the structure remains light while allowing them to walk on the tips of their toes and sneak around is more to do with sneaking up on prey, although the domestic cat doesn't need this and is similar in explaining why they spend so much time sleeping. What's more interesting is that a cat's skeleton is made up of four distinctly-made types of bone, and these are known as the long bones, irregular bones, short bones, and flat bones, which all work to keep everything in place and allow movement. This all means that a cat can jump as high as 4-5 feet, which is five or six times its height on average, and through their evolution, they have developed a righting reflex that has made landing easier for them with retractable claws that assist them. Are There Any Limits To How Far A Cat Can Fall?The thing here is that there isn't a definitive answer, and you'd not want to put it to the test, but it is said that a cat fell 32 stories and suffered a damaged tooth and a collapsed lung, but don't worry, the cat was discharged after two days. There have also been stories of cats that have fallen seven and even 19 stories and received minor injuries, with a relatively large surface area in proportion to its weight, and can slow their descent if you compare this to humans. This means that your cat can go wondering up trees and high balconies and have gained a fundamental instinct for being able to sense which way is down, so cats are more adept to these kinds of environments than what we initially expect. Final ThoughtsYou love your cat, and now you know more about them, you can perhaps work out why they act the way they do, as this is something that has puzzled many and may feel like spontaneity instead of instinct. The bond that exists between you and your cat is something you cherish, so picking up on these behaviors is an excellent way to identify issues that may arise with your cat, plus you two make the best of friends.
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For a cat owner, seeing your feline best friend throwing up white foam can be really distressing, and you’ll no doubt wonder if there’s something seriously wrong with them. While hairballs on occasion are common for cats, if your pet is repeatedly throwing up white foam, it may be more of a concern. Does A Cat Throwing Up White Foam Mean They’re Sick?There can be many reasons why your cat might be throwing up. The causes can range from completely harmless to potentially life-threatening in its severity. If your cat is throwing up white foam it’s usually an indicator that it’s throwing up on an empty stomach, with the foam being the natural mucus present in the stomach. It’s not entirely unusual, but can be a good starting point for figuring out what might be wrong with your little feline! If your cat has only thrown up once, and hasn’t done so since and is otherwise in good health, it’s likely just an isolated incident caused by an irritated stomach due to something it ate or a minor illness. If, however, it’s recurring frequently, it may point to an underlying issue. There’s a great many potential reasons that your cat might be throwing up, so it’s important to remember that you’re unlikely to find the cause through your own research based on it alone, or through the internet. If you’re really concerned about your cat’s condition, always contact your vet to be safe. When Should I Get Concerned About My Cat Throwing Up?Your cat vomiting once isn’t likely to be a sign of concern, as long as they are otherwise healthy and acting normal. In this case, it’s unlikely you will have to call a vet, and you should instead just keep an eye on your cat for the next couple of days to make sure their behavior is normal and there are no other signs of sickness. If you notice other signs of illness, such as diarrhea, tiredness, or your cat refusing to eat, then it’s likely time to consider talking to a vet. You should also contact your vet if the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours. Your vet can help you find a diagnosis for your cat through tests and physical examinations, so always go to them for any potential issues. They can also help you treat any issues that might arise from your cat vomiting frequently, such as dehydration from loss of fluid. Vomiting cats can also develop fatty liver disease from being on an empty stomach. Your vet can prescribe fluid therapy to rehydrate your kitty and also reduce the risk of disease through treatment. Can’t I Get Medicine To Treat My Cat’s Throwing Up At Home?In short, no. There aren’t any over-the-counter medications to help stop your cat from throwing up. Most human medications aren’t safe for cats to consume and are toxic to them. This can cause issues much more severe than vomiting, so you should always stay away from any home remedies to treat your cat. If you think your cat is sick, always contact your vet for proper treatment. How Is Throwing Up Diagnosed?Your vet should be able to diagnose the cause of your cat throwing up white foam. They will give your cat a physical examination for any issues, such as insect bites that might be infected or have caused disease. They will check the hydration levels of the cat, measure its heart rate, check to see if they’re breathing properly, and check the abdomen for any internal issues, such as masses that could point to a tumor, and to see if there are any intestinal blockages. After this, your vet will likely recommend some sort of diagnostic test depending on what they find. This might be a blood test or a test of a sample of your cat's poop to check for parasites, and possibly an x-ray. If your vet cannot find a cause after these tests, they may do more advanced tests, such as an ultrasound. They may also put your cat on a temporary hypoallergenic diet, to make sure that it isn’t being caused by any food allergies you might not know about. The last resort would be a biopsy of your cat's intestines to check for cancer or bowel diseases. How To Treat Cats Throwing Up White FoamIf your cat has vomited but seems relatively stable afterward, and there is no obvious underlying cause, then your vet will likely simply prescribe anti-nausea medication in the form of a tablet or an injection to help settle your cat's stomach. They may also tell you to keep your cat on a diet of bland, prescription foods that are unlikely to upset your cat's stomach. This is often all your cat will need to get over an upset stomach and they’ll be feeling better in no time! If the issue is more severe, and the vomiting is ongoing, then your cat may need to be hospitalized by your vet. This way, they can keep your cat on an IV drip to keep them hydrated, while also being able to keep them medicated and safe and watch over them to help monitor any changes. Once your cat is hydrated and your vet has managed to stop them vomiting, you’ll be able to take them home again while your vet continues to give you medication for treatment. It’s impossible to say what this treatment will be until your cat has been diagnosed, but it will most likely involve some oral medication and further follow-up visits to your vet for check-ups and injections. If you see your cat throwing up white foam, always watch to see if this is an isolated incident or if they continue to be sick. An isolated incident of throwing up white foam is unlikely to mean anything serious, and won’t warrant a call to the vet if your cat is otherwise healthy. If your cat is vomiting frequently, however, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will work with you to create the best treatment possible for your furry friend. Persian cats are one of the most distinctive cat breeds in the world. Their squashed faces and incredible long-haired coats truly make them stand out from the crowd. When considering introducing a feline friend into your home, it’s important to think about your allergies and which breeds are hypoallergenic. If a Persian cat is at the top of your list, then you need to know exactly what that entails. In this article, we’ll answer the question: “Are Persian cats hypoallergenic?” This way, you can be confident in your choice when it comes to bringing a Persian cat into your home. So, Are Persians Hypoallergenic?The short answer to this question is no; Persian cats are not hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, not even the hairless Sphynx cat. And with their long coats and frequent shedding, Persian cats are definitely not ideal for allergy sufferers. However, that doesn't mean you can’t have a Persian cat as the perfect pet. With a few household changes and the proper care, this flat-faced beauty can be an incredible companion that won’t make you sneeze every ten seconds! What Makes Them Not Hypoallergenic?Most assume that Persian cats aren’t hypoallergenic because of their thick coats, but this isn’t actually the cause. The issue is the dander, not the hair. Dander is the dead skin that falls off your cat's skin, and it can spread around your home and become airborne for extended periods of time. Other than dander, allergies can also be triggered by a Persian’s salvia, urine, feces, sweat, mucus, and tears. This is why grooming and bathing your Persian cat regularly is essential to keep dander at bay. They carry more dander than other breeds, so even though they hate water, they’re going to need to get in that tub! How Bad Are Persians For Allergy Sufferers?Before adopting a Persian cat, you should be aware that males produce more allergens than females. Furthermore, neutered cats also produce fewer allergens than intact ones. How bad these cats are for your allergies really depends on how severely you suffer from them. Before adopting a Persian, it’s best to spend a day with one so you can monitor your reactions. If you have no reaction, or just a mild one, it should be safe to adopt a gorgeous Persian cat. A mild reaction consists of the following symptoms:
However, if your reaction is severe, then it’s better to choose a different breed, or maybe a different pet altogether. A more extreme reaction would manifest in the following ways:
How To Minimize Persian AllergiesIf you suffer from allergies, caring for a Persian cat might be challenging. Thankfully, you can alleviate some of your symptoms by focusing on your environment, grooming, diet, and personal hygiene. Environment Creating the ideal environment and taking care of your home is essential for controlling your allergies. Dander is airborne and can cling to furniture in your home, so to make sure your space is allergen free, you should:
Grooming Every Persian cat owner will tell you that their cat’s beautiful coats are extremely high maintenance. This is why a regular grooming routine will not only keep your cat’s coat looking shiny and soft but also help prevent an allergic reaction. The more you groom your Persian, the less dander will build up around your home. You can keep those allergens away by:
Diet To avoid shedding and associated skin issues, preserve their general health, and lengthen their lifespan, you should follow your cat's natural diet. The right diet will help to prevent allergens. It ought to include:
Personal Hygiene Practicing good personal hygiene can also help you combat allergies. You can keep them at bay by:
Final ThoughtsWhile Persian cats aren’t hypoallergenic, there are ways to control your mild allergic reactions when owning one. With the right environment, diet, grooming routine, and personal hygiene practice, there’s no reason why you can’t have a Persian cat as your new feline companion. If you’re here to find out if our furry little friends can get headaches then your answer is yes! Well, we think so… there is no clear-cut evidence for cats getting headaches and it's not like we can ask them. However, vets believe that they can get three types of headaches: tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. If you think your cat is suffering from one of these, then there are things you can do to help. DETERMINE IF YOUR CAT HAS A HEADACHEAs humans we have the ability to communicate if we are feeling unwell, sadly our furry friends don't have this luxury, so we need to be on the lookout for them. What Is A Headache? A headache is most commonly known to be pain or discomfort inside your head or around your face. What Do Headaches Look Like In Cats? Due to cats’ survival l instincts, they tend to seclude themselves when they are feeling unwell because they don’t like to show weakness. Therefore, they hide their pain from us. This is why it is important to look out for any changes in your cat's behavior because otherwise, we may miss when they are suffering from a headache in silence. Behaviour Changes to be on the look-out for:
In general, look for any changes to your cat's usual behavior, because this will help determine that something is wrong. Causes Of Headaches In CatsSimilar to us humans, there are many reasons why your cat could be suffering from a headache. Main Causes:
How To Treat A Cats Headache?Just like we would treat our own headaches, pain medication can be given to our cats to help treat their headache. Although, this should not be done without consulting with your vet prior. A vet will be able to diagnose what is wrong with your cat, and hopefully discover the trigger. They will be able to conduct an exam and run blood tests or scans. Medications that are generally safe for cats include; Corticosteroids, Opioids, Gabapentin, and Amitriptyline. But, please consult your vet before offering your cat any of these medications. If you're wanting a way to initially help your cat before seeking medical advice, a kind way to help your little friend is to find a dark place, that's nice and cool, as well as quiet. Bright lights will only make a headache worse, especially if it's a migraine. Offering a dark relaxing atmosphere will help your cat to relax and heal. Make sure you keep your cat fed and hydrated. Offering some gentle petting may also help your furry friend to calm down and feel better. How To Prevent A Cats Headache?The best way to prevent your cat from having a headache is by keeping it healthy as possible. This can be done by making these regular checks on your cat: Eating Habits Don’t let them skip meals, cats will starve themselves if they don’t like the food you’re giving them. They’re fussy and very stubborn animals. Make sure they like the food that you feed them, to ensure they get the nutrients they need to live a healthy lifestyle. Staying Hydrated Dehydration is a common issue in cats and causes many problems for their health. Many cats ignore the water in their drinking bowl because they are only attracted to running water. So consider buying your cat a water fountain or introducing them to your kitchen tap! Mood We don’t realize how important it is to play with our cats. Playing keeps their brains and bodies active. Whether it be with catnip, some string, or a toy they love. Regular Check-Ups Make sure you're taking them to the vet at least once a year so that no irregularities are missed. Protect Against Parasites Keeping your cat healthy and itch-free. If you notice any itching, check your cat for ticks and parasites and get them treated as soon as possible. Parasites can lead to stress, which of course we know leads to headaches. Does Your Mood Affect Your Cats Health?Yes. Cats are extremely mood sensitive. They know when we are sad, they know when you are happy, they know when we are angry and they know when we are stressed. Your home is your cat’s colony, therefore emotional signals are important because any signs of distress will have a lasting effect on your cat. Our stress can therefore be passed on to our little fury friends, which as a result could cause a headache! Managing our emotions, will not only help our own emotional well-being and physical health, but it will help our cats' health too. Final thoughtsOur furry friends sadly can get poorly in the same way that we can, and unsurprisingly their headaches are caused by the same things that cause our own headaches. There are always ways to treat headaches, but the most important thing for cats is to try and avoid the cause of the problem. By keeping your cat well-fed, hydrated, clean, and happy, your furry friend is unlikely to suffer from a headache. Cat grass, often referred to as pet grass, is an annual plant that is safe and nutritious for consumption by both humans and animals. This mixture of cereal grasses can be grown indoors or outdoors and provides a natural way to increase the amount of vitamins in both your and your pet's diet. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to grow your own cat grass for yourself and your feline friend. WHAT IS CAT GRASS?A variety of grasses known as cat grass are primarily grown from the seeds of barley, rye, oat, or wheat. Wheatgrass, barley grass, oatgrass, and ryegrass are the four most popular varieties of cat grass. Cat grass is well-liked among cats and other animals as a digestive aid. Although cats like both catnip and cat grass, the two are not identical; catnip is a perennial herb in the mint family that when taken causes a behavioral response in cats. What You’ll Need To Grow Cat GrassBefore you get started, you’ll need the right equipment for the job. Most of these items can be found around the house or at your local garden store or pet store. To grow cat grass, you will need:
How To Plant Cat GrassYou can try growing your own cat grass or purchase kits from a nearby pet store. Check out the steps listed below to learn how to make your own cat grass from seeds of oat, barley, rye, and wheatgrass:
How To Look After Cat GrassOnce you’ve planted your cat grass, you need to make sure you care for it properly. To ensure your cat grass continues to grow, follow these steps:
Why You Should Grow Cat Grass?For pet owners, cat grass is especially beneficial. It gives animals a healthy, fibrous snack while also acting as a laxative to help their digestive systems and a vomit-inducer to make it easier for them to cough up indigestible substances. This kind of grass can keep animals away from your houseplants and the vegetables in your garden, in addition to providing a healthy salad mix for your pet. Cat grass is also consumed by people because it contains vitamins. It has chlorophyll, niacin, folic acid, and vitamins A and D. A variety of cat grass called wheatgrass is frequently added to smoothies or used as a shot by those looking to increase their vitamin consumption. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow Long Does Cat Grass Last? Due to the insufficient sunlight, cat grass grown exclusively indoors may barely live one week. On the other hand, cat grass that is grown outdoors can thrive for three weeks. Cat grass should be planted every two weeks for maximum results, so that there is always a new crop available for the cats to snack on. To encourage growth, you can also clip your cat grass. However, it will ultimately die off, so it's best to just keep sowing new seeds. What’s The Difference Between Cat Grass And Catnip? Catnip is inedible and has strange effects on your cat, but cat grass refers to young shoots that cats can eat. The latter is used in many cat toys due to its stimulating qualities. So long as your cat isn't insensitive to it, you can give them a toy that contains catnip and watch how they react. Your cat may roll, rub, sniff ferociously, purr, or perform other behaviors when under its influence. In fact, they might behave euphorically and like they're high as a result. Your cat, however, is experiencing a period of great joy, which is quite normal. Is Cat Grass Safe? Cat grass is a risk-free substitute for certain houseplants that can be toxic, as well as outdoor grass that may be sprayed with weed killers or other pesticides. It also gives your cat a chance to engage in their usual behavior. An indoor garden offers outside kitties a nutritious substitute to the neighbor's potentially pesticide-laced lawn, and it gives indoor cats a tantalizing taste of the great outdoors. Final ThoughtsThe first shoots will grow in only a few days if you follow these easy instructions, and the mature plant will appear in about 10 days. Before you know it, your cat will have an amazing treat that they are sure to love! As a cat owner, it is crucial that you understand the process of deworming your furry friend. To discover everything you need to know from cause to treatment, and most importantly, how long after will the worms be gone, keep reading on. HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CAT HAS WORMS?How To Tell If Your Cat has Worms?There are many signs which could indicate that your cat is suffering from worms. Signs of Worms
If you are suspicious that your cat may have worms, the best thing to do is to take a poo sample to your vet for it to be tested. What Do Worms Look Like?There are typically four species of worms that infect cats: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Unfortunately, only two of them are visible: roundworms and tapeworms. Roundworms look like spaghetti and these move around - gross! Tapeworms look like little grains of rice - look out for these in the litter box or around the tail. How Do Cats Catch Worms?Worms are carried by insects, flies, and mosquitoes, as well as other small animals, such as mice. When our cats come into contact with something that is infected, the worms can be passed on to our cats. For indoor cats that are less likely to come in contact with something which is infected, a way in which they can catch worms is through worm eggs which can be brought into our house on the soles of our shoes, from the street, causing them to catch worms. Catching worms is unpreventable, the majority of cats will catch worms at some point. Luckily, with regular worm control, we can remove any further threat to our cat’s health. Treatment for WormsThe most effective and safest treatment to deworm your car is to see your vet and have them prescribe the best medication. Oral Treatment Available in liquid form and tablet form, oral medications are easier to administer when given in your cat’s food. Topical Treatment Oil-based topical medication can be applied to the back of your cat's neck. Please ensure that your cat doesn't get wet for 24 hours after the medication is applied. Can I Deworm My Cat At Home?You can deworm a cat at home, as treatment is available to order online. However, it is not recommended, especially with kittens. It is always best to get your cat checked at the vet so the safest and most appropriate medication can be prescribed. Can Cat Worms Transfer To Humans?Yes, some worm infections can be transmitted to humans. Ensure you wash your hands after playing with your cat if you suspect that it might have worms. To avoid further transmission, ensure the litter tray is always cleaned after each use to reduce the risk of re-catching the worms, If you worry that you have caught worms from your cat, then contact your doctor as soon as possible for medical advice. Side Effects of A DewormerAfter deworming, many cats do become temporarily ill, but this shouldn't be a big concern as it is normal. Common side effects may include: Sensitive stomach, diarrhea, increased Salivation, and loss of appetite These side effects tend to last between one to two days, but if it goes on much longer then please take your cat back to the vet. Cats can poop out worms after being dewormed - alive or dead worms could be found In your cat’s litter tray. Please don’t be alarmed, this is perfectly normal! Whilst this is a gruesome image it is a positive thing as it suggests the worms are no longer inside your cat. How Long After Deworming A Cat Are The Worms Gone?So, to answer your question most medications can kill adult worms within 24 hours of intake. In some cases, it takes up to 4 days to kill the worms. Some dewormers will work faster than others. On average, the worms will usually be gone within 2 to 3 weeks of the first dewormer. It may need a second dose, a few weeks later to get rid of all the worms. Unfortunately, even after your cat has been dewormed, it can get infected again, and this is highly likely. To be on the safe side, it might be necessary to deworm your cat once a month, especially if they like to hunt because they are more likely to become re-infected. Final ThoughtsWorms can be a cruel and nasty infection for a cat to suffer with. Symptoms must be spotted sooner than later to avoid our furry friends suffering longer than needs be. Once dewormed, our job isn’t done, as it is super important to keep an eye on our cat for signs of re-infection, which is extremely common amongst cats. To avoid reinfection, it is sensible to have your cat dewormed regularly. Speak with your vet for advice on how regularly your cat should be dewormed. Changing food portions may not be the solution you need, as there are many factors that can affect your cat's weight; from health conditions to access to their food, you might be led to ruling out different things. Before making any decisions, though, it is essential to have your cat checked over by a veterinarian who can help you plan how to make your cat healthy. There is the question of the type of food you feed them and what portions these are in. That's why, below, we give you some ways that you can introduce food that is not only adored by them but has all their nutritional needs packed in as well, and this, in turn, will get your furry friend all excited about mealtime. First Of All, Determine If Your Cat Is UnderweightThis can be done simply by feeling your cat's ribs by gently running your hand over their side, and if it feels like a layer of fat is over them, this might be ok, but if it's quite a thick layer, they could be overweight. If you feel just the ribs, your cat is underweight, and you can also check along their spine. Where if you only feel vertebrae and no layer on top of them, they are definitely underweight, and you can take some steps to change this. As for the reason, well, it could be a number of things, from dental issues to reduced appetite, or disease and even hyperthyroidism, and this is where getting a comprehensive check-up of your cat is important, especially as they get older. Create A Feeding PlanOnce you've figured out the issue, if it's a treatable condition, you can make a plan with your vet to ensure the diet works to their needs and specific medical condition and can help you get the right balance of micronutrients and macronutrients in your cat's diet. Part of the issue could be that your cat needs more meals per day, but it is provided in a way that makes it palatable and inviting, so your cat has access to food that they have a preference for, as many cats do, especially with textures and flavors of food. When calculating how much to feed your cat, you should aim for your cat's metabolic needs, so as most cats consume 200-250 calories per day, the resting metabolic rate is measured by it being 84 times the metabolic body weight, which you can find out from your vet. You then want to feed them that amount of calories plus 20% more, and you usually don't need to go higher than this unless your cat's weight is very dire, which we hope it isn't. What Should I Feed My Cat To Gain Weight? You don't have to change your food type drastically, as this may have the opposite effect where your cat avoids their food altogether, so stick to a food that you know they enjoy and aim for small and frequent meals scattered throughout the day. One tablespoon of your chosen food every few hours should be tolerable. Your cat should be able to consume this and not vomit afterward, and it's important to keep an eye on how your cat interacts with their food to identify any behavioral changes as a result. There are ways you can prepare the food to make it more inviting, so you could try warming it up or opting for a different consistency to make your cat more drawn to it, as long as it's not too hot. What If My Cat Still Doesn't Eat? There could be a range of different reasons why your cat may be hesitant to try your chosen delicacy, and it could be something as simple as moving the food bowl to a different location, as your cat could be nervous and requires a quieter feeding spot. This could be due to the bowl being near a washing machine, air conditioner, or other pets like dogs that could be nearby, or it might be that your cat has a particular taste, so you may have to try different flavors of wet and dry food, and find what they enjoy best. If this doesn't work, you can try offering snacks between meals like cat treats or pieces of chicken breast, as long as this is balanced and doesn't upset your cat's stomach too much, so your cat has some variety without it being too much. Does Mood Affect My Cat’s Appetite?There's no secret that cats have emotions too, and the simplest of changes to your home environment or even the type of bowl you feed your cats with could cause behavior changes, and a symptom of this can be a loss of appetite. You also could have a nervous and unsociable cat that doesn't like the fuss of mealtimes, so picking out a corner somewhere and leaving them to it can be helpful in some situations, especially if you have other cats who like to protect their food. You'll notice if there are any changes in your cat as new behaviors will emerge that you aren't familiar with, so you can identify what you need to change, and, in extreme cases, you can access the medicine that accelerates your cat's appetite. Final Thoughts Before making any significant changes, the vet is always the best place to go to get recommendations for your cat, which is vital if your cat were to develop a condition you have no knowledge about, so you can treat it and have a happy cat in the end. It's worth taking the time to spend some quality time with your cat and make them as fulfilled as possible, so eating for your cat is the best part of the day while being healthy as well. Welcoming a new kitten into the home is always an exciting time. There’s no denying that these little balls of fluff are totally adorable, and they are super fun to have around too. Kittens really are great. But as well as being totally adorable, and bringing joy to your life, kittens will need you to look after them. Unfortunately, a big part of looking after your kitten is monitoring their bowel habits to ensure that they are remaining healthy. When cats are kittens, it is critical that you spot any issues early because if left untreated it can be detrimental to your kitten’s health. As kittens are babies, it is not uncommon for them to have stomach issues from time to time. These creatures are still growing and developing, and this can cause them to have sensitive stomachs. If you notice that your kitten is a little constipated, you might be wondering how to make a constipated kitten poop. Find out how in this guide. SIGNS YOUR KITTEN IS CONSTIPATEDAs we have said, it is really common for kittens to have sensitive stomachs when they are young. As well as growing and developing, kittens will need to adjust to different types of food when they are young, and they also require regular worming as it is common for kittens to get worms. All of these things can cause your kitten to have a bad tummy. In addition to getting diarrhea, it is fairly common for kittens to become constipated from time to time. This is especially common if you have recently brought your kitten home to their forever home as the change of environment can affect their bowel movements. But what are the signs that your kitten is constipated? Well there are lots of things to watch out for that may suggest your kitten is constipated. These include:
The last one can often be difficult to spot, especially in kittens, as it is sometimes tricky to tell if they are trying to pass feces or urinate. If there is liquid or mucus around the anus, or redness and swelling of the anus, this is a sign that your kitten is constipated. Is it Common for Kittens to Become Constipated?As we said earlier, while constipation isn’t exactly common in kittens, it isn’t that rare either. Just like human beings, a kitten’s bowel movements are affected by a number of things, and this can cause them to become constipated from time to time. When kittens are newly born, they do not have the ability to urinate or defecate on their own. The responsibility of this falls to their mother. Mother cats are supposed to lick the anus of their kittens to allow them to defecate, however sometimes mother cats can struggle to do this. Especially if they have large litters and this can cause kittens to become constipated. This is often why humans have to step in and help out. As kittens grow older, there are a number of things that can cause them to become constipated. As we have said, often kittens will take a while to urinate and poop when they first leave their mothers to go to their new homes. The ability to poop can also be affected by changes in diet and the presence of intestinal parasites (most commonly worms). This is why it isn’t that rare for kittens to become constipated from time to time. How to Make a Constipated Kitten PoopIf you notice that your kitten hasn’t passed feces for a while, then there is a good chance that they are constipated. Regularly checking the litter box will help confirm your theories. If you know that your kitten is constipated, you might be wondering how you can help them poop, so let’s take a look. De-Worm The Kitten If you suspect that worms may be the cause of your kitten’s inability to poop, then deworming them is a good place to start. Roundworms in particular are common for kittens, so regularly de-worming your kitten is crucial. Keep The Kitten Hydrated If your kitten is not drinking enough, then this could cause them to become constipated. Ensure that your kitten is drinking a sufficient amount, and provide an electrolyte solution if needed (if the kitten is still bottle fed). If your kitten is on kitten food (rather than milk), try adding a splash of water to their bowl as this will increase the amount of water they are consuming. Try A Probiotic or Laxative If you consult with your vet, then they may recommend giving your kitten a probiotic or laxative. Probiotics can help improve gut health through the use of good bacteria, and laxatives will help move your kitten’s bowels. These should only be given after seeking veterinary advice. Keep The Kitten Active and Moving Moving around is really good for your bowels, and the same principle applies to kittens. To help promote healthy bowel movements in a constipated kitten, try massaging their tummy, bicycling their hind legs and get them walking about and playing. This should help get things moving in their tummy. When to Seek Veterinary HelpMost of the time, you will be able to treat a constipated kitten at home without having to visit a vet, so don’t panic! However, there are some circumstances in which you should seek veterinary advice. The main sign that you should seek veterinary attention is if your kitten hasn’t pooped in more than 48 hours. You should also seek advice if your kitten is displaying signs of distress (lethargy, distention of the tummy, and crying in the litter box). If you are worried, it is best to speak to your vet. SummaryIn short, it isn’t that rare for kittens to become constipated from time to time.
If you suspect that your kitten is constipated, try out the methods above and this should encourage them to poop. If they don’t work, it is best to speak to your vet. Thanks for reading! Even though it has been argued whether a bobcat and a domestic cat have ever mixed, there have been reports that at least seven hybrid types have been found in the US. These can be done naturally or purposefully to get different fur patterns or characteristics. If you have a cat that you have either found as a stray or in a shelter, you may know less about your cat and are wondering about the nature of its breed, which is especially useful if it has a mix of a wild cat breed. With this in mind, we’ll look over some ways you can identify whether your cat is a hybrid of this species and if there are any implications for owning it in the first place, just in case you are interested in getting one. Signs To Look Out For In Your CatThere is a good chance that you can tell if your cat is a hybrid by looking at and observing them. Still, it is unlikely that you’ll own one of these as bobcats are unsociable felines who rarely interact with other animals except when hunting them. However, if you have a kitten, you might notice some characteristics that may make you think otherwise, which we look at below. Physical Features This is easier to see in a kitten as bobcat kittens are usually double the size of a normal kitten, and if you have one to compare it to, you’ll notice this size which is a sign that your cat has some aspects of a bobcat in their make up. Their fur is also a good indicator as bobcats have a distinctive spotty coat with stripes on the legs, which is more noticeable in cats with shorter hair, so raised ears and tufts, and the stumpy black-tipped tail is a crucial way of identifying your cat to this breed. Behavior As we know, bobcats are known as wild and exotic cats and don’t like to be domesticated, and this is evident by looking at their aggression, so if your cat overtly shows tendencies like this, that is another sign there may be some wild blood in them. You might confuse this with playfulness or curiosity, but knowing that wild bobcat kittens tend to be very aggressive, this might have you second-guessing and is mainly due to the kitten lashing out in fear. You’ll also notice evidence of this breed if your cat takes to water very quickly, as they don’t have an intense fear of it like domesticated cats, and while your cat won’t be a fully-fledged bobcat, you’ll see signs of a wild heritage, and it may have more needs as well. Am I Allowed To Own A Bobcat Hybrid?Even though it is possible to own a bobcat outright, there are restrictions to this, and it is illegal in some states, but for hybrid species, as they aren’t considered medium-sized cats, they should be allowed to be kept as pets as permitted by local laws. There does remain an ethical issue as domestic cats and bobcats are forced to reproduce by breeders for capital gain, so keeping the offspring as a pet can seem counterintuitive to their standards of living, as these hybrids more than likely want to be able to roam freely. This is why researching the cat you have or hope to get is essential, so if any surprises such as crossbreeding come up, you can provide the cat with the proper diet and environment for it to thrive, where more effort than you had expected could be used up. Similar Cat Breeds There is one breed of cat that is a natural blend of a domestic cat and a bobcat, and this is the pixie-bob, which is native to the United States and resembles that of a wild cat, and also has a lively personality, so these are more tamer than what you’d expect. These cats have identifying features such as short fur, a spotted pattern, and a distinct bobtail, and they can live up to 15 years, but they are rare and expensive to buy due to their exotic features. They can also get quite heavy, but if this doesn’t put you off, they can be rewarding cats to own as they can be playful and get along with other cats and dogs, and happily greet any guests that visit your home. Are Hybrid Cats Easy To Care For?This all depends on the hybrid type, as it has been known that some hybrids, especially Bengal ones, as some of these types can be very destructive to furniture, clothing, flooring, and personal items, so many owners may be unprepared for this. They can also be harder to tame and may have foul-smelling urine, which can be used to mark their territory, so you may want to consider getting a natural hybrid if this doesn’t sound like something you could accommodate, as beautiful as they look. You also might find that it’s harder to cater to their diet, as some hybrids have a defect where they cannot properly digest food, and abandoning these kinds has been linked to a growing feral cat problem in the US, as these can be detrimental to wild cat populations. Final Thoughts However you feel about hybrids, many conservationists of wild cat species feel this crossbreeding should be banned, as they see that there isn’t a redeeming reason why these cat breeds should be crossed in the first place. We’ve seen a natural example that can be a great addition to any home, especially if you have young children, and as long as you are attentive to common issues with this breed, you should have a happy and healthy cat that can add a bit of joy to your day. You find a stay cat or kitty and go through your cupboards in a panic looking for food that will give them a balanced meal, and while you may have the best of intentions for this cat, the food you give them might not be what they need. While there are a few options of what you can feed a stray cat, this is made easier if you already have a cat of your own, as you can start looking for food options from there. Find out below more about what you can give a cat to keep it going and how you can appreciate these felines more, or if you simply love cats. WHAT DO STRAY CATS EAT?If you live in a big city, there's a good chance that there are groups of stray or feral cats, and while there is a distinction between the two, it's the stray cats who are more likely to seek food and help from humans, and it's feral cats who look to whatever's convenient to survive. While feral cats are those who are less sociable around humans and prefer to be active during the night, there are quite a few things they will eat, even garbage. Out of all the things you'll see cats hunting, the most common ones are:
Things You Can Feed ThemWith everything that you hear about stray cats and how they decimate populations, this may be an issue in some locations, but at the same time, it balances out the ecology of an environment. Before you go pick one up and take it home, you should find out what foods are best for a cat when they are in real need of some nutrition, and these are:
Things You Should Avoid Feeding ThemWith this in mind, you might have an idea of what you want to feed a stray cat but not have any idea of what you think may be harmful to a stray. These are but are not limited to:
How To Improve Your Bond With A Stray Cat You've seen a stray cat and are wondering how you should approach it, and while the cat seems harmless, there are many things you may not have considered. Below, we explore a few of these. Look For Signs From The Cat One sign that a cat trusts you is by meeting you at the same place to receive food, and another thing you might notice is that it follows you around or near your home and may even stop by your front or back door and wait to be fed. If this sounds like your situation, you can leave food outside for the cat and even somewhere relax if you find they spend a while at your property, and they may even meow at you and brush up against you to gain your attention and care. If You Can't Feed The Cat You might be in a position where you cannot feed or have a cat come around to your property, and if the cat looks healthy, it's ok to leave it as it is. If you think it looks underweight or in pain is a time when you should get advice from an animal welfare organization that can walk the area and find out where the cat is and whether it's part of a group or not, as cats aren't everyone's favorite. Adopt One If Possible You might be able to take a stray cat in as long as it's healthy and is safe to be around people, and even if you don't let it indoors, you can feed it from a front porch area, and your cat will be just as thankful for your hospitality. If you find a stray cat, be realistic and don't get your hopes too high with the idea of taking it in straight away, as the process for the cat to trust you can take a while. The Bottom Line With this advice, you can approach any cat while keeping yourself safe, and who knows, you may make a new friend who you can meet on occasion and feed, if possible, so as long as you are gentle and friendly, you shouldn't have any issues except if the cat is feral. Helping Mommy With WorkMommy works every day to make those monies. Mommy was sick for a while and stopped working. Now she is working the whole day until it gets dark outside. Usually, Mommy plays with me multiple times a day, but now she only plays every now and then when she is not busy on the tapping box. I miss getting all the attention, but at least when Daddy gets home, he gives me my favorite food and plays with me. In the morning, I cuddle Mommy until she gets up. When she gets out of bed, she has breakfast and gives me attention and food. After breakfast, she sits on the wooden frame with a cushion, taps on the long tapping box, and stares at the big, black, flat movement box. She keeps tapping until she gets hungry, then she gets lunch and plays with me a bit. After lunch, she goes back to working on the tapping box. She works until Daddy gets home. While Mommy is working, I play outside with the bugs and chase around birds. I also play with my toys, the new one's as well! I got used to most of the toys. I play the most with the ball and the wool mouse while alone. My favorite is still to play with my humans! When I get bored, I try to help Mommy by getting on her books, eating her file, making art with my muddy paws on her papers, tapping on her tapping box, and chewing her writing stick. I also cuddle Mommy throughout the day when she doesn't want me to help her with work. Sometimes I even fall asleep on Mommy's lap or arm, the table, the books, or the tapping box. I like to sleep by Mommy when I get tired. She is so calming, and I feel so safe sleeping with Mommy. I can't wait till Mommy has time to play with me again. I miss spending time with her during the day. When Daddy gets home, Mommy and Daddy will eat dinner, and Daddy will give me food. After eating, Mommy carries on with work until it is dark and she gets tired. I always wait up for Mommy until she gets into bed. When Mommy gets into bed, I cuddle her and keep her warm. I love to cuddle her at night. It is the only time I have left to spend with her and to get her attention. I am going to cuddle her until the sun comes up. Bye, I want to cuddle with Mommy and Daddy now! I have feelings too!Our kind is brave, independent, and strong. Some humans get confused and think that we don't have feelings and that all we want is food. This is not true! We are brave but need to feel safe as well. We are independent and can easily survive, but we also need love and affection. We are strong and can fight, but we can't always defend ourselves from humans and the obstacles around us. Yes, we love and need food, but we love our humans even more! Do I have feelings? Well! I also wait at the door for my humans to get back home. I also get excited to see my humans. I also get scared of the unknown. I also love to play with humans and toys, but some humans don't always realize it because we are independent. I love to learn new tricks and to have human interaction. I also need to be active and get stimulation. I love to cuddle my humans. I like to get a massage and lots of love from my humans. I also love to make new friends and play with them often. So yes, I do have feelings! I love to see my humans happy! I love it when they are active and playful. I can feel it when Mommy or Daddy is angry, irritated, frustrated, sad, or stressed. I don't like to see them this way. I always try to make them feel better by cuddling up to them, purring on their chest, playing around to make them laugh, or licking their face or hands. I hate when my humans are sick. When humans are angry or fighting, It makes us nervous and scared. When they are irritated, we don't know where to be and try to find a place to stay out of the way. When they are frustrated, we feel the same because we don't know how to help them. When they are sad, we try our best to make them feel better and to take the pain away. When they are stressed, we calm them down and look out for any danger. We try to heal humans with our purring superpowers when they are sick! I don't like to be alone! I love to have my humans nearby all the time! I love to follow them around to see what they are doing. I always sleep with Mommy or Daddy at night and cuddle multiple times during the day. They keep me busy and give me fun activities while they can not play. When they leave the house, they always hide alot of treats for me inside the house to keep me active. The toys are also always ready for me to play with. My humans make me feel safe and loved. Bye! I need to give all my powers to Mommy so she can feel better! Mommy and Daddy bought me new toys. I am so excited! I love toys and can't wait to play with all of them. There is plenty of toys to play with, but I don't know where to start! They are all different and have different purposes. They all have a funny smell, and I don't know if I like them yet. It is a bit new to me. I got small wires with them as well! How exciting! So I've got a weird soft toy on a string with a long fluffy tail. It looks scary, but I like to play with its tail. The face is big and a bit weird too. So I don't want it too close to me all the time. I love it when Daddy pulls the string so I can chase it and catch its tail. I like it to entertain Daddy! When it lies still, I am a bit afraid to play with it or walk past it. I only like it when it moves. I also got a new small ball to play with, and I love it! I immediately knew how to play with it and liked it immediately. It is nothing new to me as I already have a similar one. It is easy to play with, and I don't need humans to play with it. All I need to do is to tap it with my paw until it rolls, chase it and repeat! I also like it when my humans throw it around so I can run after it and show off how fast I am! There is also another ball that has spiky rubbery things all over it. It doesn't hurt, but it looks too scary to play with. I tried to inspect it, but it's got a weird texture, smell, and taste. Sometimes it makes me gag! Mommy put took it away because I am scared of it. And the taste makes me nauseous. Some of my kind like the smell of the flavor inside, but I am not a big fan. Then the last gift was a dead mouse with a wool texture and a tail. I don't know what I am supposed to do with the mouse because it is not alive. And it doesn't move at all! It doesn't even have a string for my servants to pull around for me to chase it. The mouse also has a funny smell like the rest. I like this toy the least! I don't know why anyone would give you a dead mouse! I like my old toys the most! I am familiar with them and know what to do with them to entertain my humans. I like the smell of my old toys. It smells like my humans and like home. My favorite toys are my mouse on the stick that my humans can move for me to chase and the small black wire that keeps me busy even when I am alone! The new ball is also now one of my favorites. Cheow, I am going to attack my mouse now! I decided to sneak out of the yard to explore the neighborhood and make friends. The Garden service cut a branch off for me so that it is easier to escape. I think I like him now! I sneak out only at night when my humans can't see me very well. Otherwise, they will try to get me inside. I like the feeling of freedom. I haven't felt it before! My humans are overprotective, but my kind like to take risks. I made a few friends on my way out, but I also made enemies. It looks like some of my kind don't like to make friends and Meow at me in a screaming way! It is a little bit scary to be out here now. Usually, my humans are always there to protect me. Although if I am inside the house the whole time, I won't be able to make new friends. When I'm scared, I run and try to find my way home back to my humans. There are too many moving travel things on wheels! I don't like other people, too much movement, and those angry ones of my kind. How I wish I could be home right now! While I struggle to find my way back, I hear my humans calling me. I decided to follow the voices until I reached home. It is early morning, and it is cold and raining. I am so glad to be back. I will never escape again! I cuddle up to my humans under the soft blankets to get warmth. Oh, how I missed them! I am so tired of all the stress. It is dangerous out there, just like Mommy and Daddy warned me! As I fall asleep, I realize that I am hungry! On my way to eat my same old food, I spot Mommy's delicious dairy treat in a mug. Mommy fell asleep, and now it is my chance to eat her dairy! I hope she doesn't see me eating it. I know I'm not allowed to eat human food, but it looks delicious. Oh no! Mommy woke up and caught me eating the dairy! Bye! I need to run away again before I get into trouble! Cats are strange but wonderful creatures – having many unusual habits that make them truly unique. One such habit includes sucking on blankets. Whether you find this endearing, with your cat snuggled up in your blanket, or maddening, after you’ve found your favorite woolen sweater wet, knowing the reasons behind your furry friend’s behavior can be beneficial. While your cat sucking on a blanket isn’t something that is generally a cause for concern, understanding what is influencing this behavior will only improve the connection between you and your pet. With all this in mind, this article will explore everything you need to know about your cat sucking on a blanket and whether or not this is good for them. Without further ado, let’s get straight into it! So, Who Do Cats Suck On Blankets?If you find your cat sucking on blankets or any other warm, fuzzy material, then you shouldn’t be concerned; it is a natural behavior of most cats! However, to help you understand the reasons behind these habits, below, we have outlined some different factors that may influence this behavior. 1. Comfort Since cats are extremely independent animals, so it should come as no surprise that they self-soothe during times of illness or even stress, and one way of doing this is by sucking on a blanket. By doing this, they are able to make themselves feel better due to the comforting nature of the action. You may even notice them beginning to purr, which too is another method of relaxation. 2. Natural Instinct Cats rely on their mothers for everything when they are kittens. To get their food, they suckle on their mothers, this provides them with the required nutrition while strengthening their bond. Plus, it also provides them with happy hormones such as oxytocin, which can put them in a trance-like state – helping them to relax. One reason you may notice your cat sucking on a blanket is due to natural instinct. They may suckle and knead on something that reminds them of the same safe and warm feeling they would get from their mothers. 3. Marking Their Scent While sucking on the blanket, you may notice your cat kneading the wool using its claws. This can be another instinctual instinct whereby kittens would knead on their mother's stomach while feeding to stimulate milk production. However, while doing so, they are also transferring their scent onto the material and surrounding areas. Cats contain many scent glands, especially surrounding their paws and faces. Therefore, this behavior may work as a way to mark their territory and comfort them with a familiar scent. 4. They Feel Close To You Now that we have outlined that this behavior can sometimes be rooted in instinctual nursing habits, it can be understood that cats may reserve this behavior for the ones they love. So, if you notice your kitty curling up on your blanket, then it may be their way of saying I love you. It could mean that you have a strong bond, your cat feels close to you, and they are comfortable around you. Not only are you their favorite human but you may act as a substitute mother for them. While this may seem adorable, it could also be a sign of separation anxiety, so make sure to keep a close eye on their behavior. 5. It’s In Their Breeding Certain breeds of cats are more likely to exhibit this behavior than others. For instance, breeds such as Birman and Siamese are known to suckle on blankets – which you may or may not have already known! 6. They’re Content While cats may suck on a blanket to make themselves feel better, it is also a sign that they are contented and happy. After all, behaving as they would a kitten is showing their vulnerable side, so this could be their way of saying they’re comfortable, secure, and relaxed in their environment. Frequently Asked Questions Is Blanket Sucking Bad For Your Cat? You may be wondering if your cat sucking on a blanket can lead to any adverse effects. As long as the behavior doesn’t become destructive or obsession, there should not be anything to worry about. However, if they begin sucking on materials they can ingest, then this may be cause for concern. For instance, they could eat materials that can cause internal damage and blockages. So, ensure your cat is safe at all times, whether or not the behavior seems cute. How To Prevent Your Cat Sucking on Blankets? If this behavior is becoming obsessive or destructive to your cat, then you may want to remove the materials they are suckling on. Make sure not to punish your cat as they may become confused and hurt over their natural instincts. When To Call the Vet? For some cats, sucking on blankets is just an occasional habit. As long as they are only doing this once in a while and aren’t ingesting any harmful materials, then they can continue doing so. However, if the behavior becomes compulsive, then you may want to look at consulting the opinion of a professional veterinarian to make sure your cat doesn’t have any underlying health conditions that may prompt this behavior. Whether this involved adjusting your cat's diet or assessing their teeth, there could be many factors influencing the habit. Final Thoughts…Cats are extremely adorable creatures. However, they can sometimes have some questionable behaviors that set them apart from other animals. One such behavior involves sucking on blankets. While this isn’t usually a cause for concern, it could be a sign of underlying issues if you aren’t careful. That being said, it usually just means they are comfortable. Hopefully, this guide has informed you on everything you need to know about why your cat may be sucking on a blanket. One thing we know for sure about our Love4Cats community is that we all love our feline friends. Cats are fascinating, intelligent, and adorable creatures, which is why so many of us across the world choose to share our lives and homes with them. With that being said, there’s one thing some cats have a tendency to do that drives even the most tolerant cat owners to distraction: peeing on clothes. If your cat pees on your clothes, whether it’s frequently or just on occasion, you’re probably desperate for a way to make the mess and the smell stop. There are a few different reasons why your cat might be peeing on your clothes, and while some of them are actually pretty understandable and have easy fixes, others might point to a serious problem. Keep reading to find out why your cat is peeing on your clothes and what you can do to stop it. Reasons Why Cats Pee on Clothes (And What to Do)If Fluffy has peed on your favorite sweater (again!) you might be feeling frustrated and confused. However, we can assure you that they’re most likely not doing it to spite you. Here are the main reasons why a cat might pee on your clothes instead of in the litter box: 1. Unsuitable Litter Box One of the most common reasons for a cat to choose to pee on a pile of clothes is simply that they don’t like something about their litter box. It could be that the levels of cat litter in the box have dropped too low and they don’t feel comfortable using it. In this case, simply topping up the box with more litter might help. If you have recently changed the type of litter you use, this could also be the cause of the inappropriate urination. A very common situation is that cat owners will switch to a scented cat litter to cover up unpleasant odors, but the scent is off putting to the cat, so they choose to go elsewhere. A change in the texture of your cat’s litter could also drive them to find somewhere more comfortable to pee. If you have changed the litter you buy for your cat, try switching back to the old cat litter and see if their bathroom habits return to normal. With that being said, if your cat has always been fine with their litter box and you haven’t changed anything, but your pet has suddenly started urinating on your clothes, the litter box is probably not the cause. 2. Emotional and Biological Causes Cats, particularly male cats, like to mark their territory with urine. If you have recently introduced a new pet to the home, or if there are other animals roaming around outside (other cats or even dogs), your cat might respond to a perceived threat to their territory by peeing in places they shouldn’t. Inappropriate urination in cats may also be a symptom of anxiety, which can stem from territorial issues, negative interactions with other animals or people, or even something scary in the home (vacuum cleaners and washing machines are common culprits). If your cat has been fighting with other pets in the household, try separating them and see if this has an impact on their urination. If they seem disturbed by an animal outside the home, you could try providing your cat with more elevated places to sit. This way, they will feel more confident because they have the high ground and may not feel as threatened or anxious. Try to keep noise in your home to a minimum and watch your cat’s responses to certain stimuli when you’re around. If they run and hide when you’re vacuuming and you later find cat pee on your clothes, for example, there might be a connection there. 3. Medical Conditions Unfortunately, if your cat starts peeing on your clothes seemingly out of nowhere, it could be caused by a medical condition. If you haven’t changed anything in the litter tray and anxiety doesn’t seem to be a factor, you should take your cat to the vet for an examination. Inappropriate urination in cats can be caused by a variety of conditions, some of which are more serious than others. A common medical cause of inappropriate urination in cats is a urinary infection. This might lead a cat to pee on clothes because they are looking for a softer place to relieve some of the discomfort. Luckily, this is an issue that can often be treated inexpensively with antibiotics if it’s caught early, but a urinary infection can spread to the bladder and kidneys or turn into a life-threatening blockage if left untreated. Other medical reasons behind your cat peeing on clothes include bladder stones, kidney disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism. In some cases, it may even be caused by stress-related inflammation. Unfortunately, without veterinary knowledge, it’s quite difficult to tell what specific issue might be causing the problem, which is why we recommend making an appointment with your local vet at the earliest opportunity. It’s best not to assume that your cat’s urinary issues are stress-related or caused by something minor since this symptom is associated with numerous life-threatening conditions. A check-up is the best way to put your mind at rest and get the most effective treatment for your cat’s problem, whether it’s anxiety or an infection. Final Thoughts There are many reasons why your cat might be peeing on your clothes, ranging from litter box changes, anxiety and stress-related inflammation to serious problems such as kidney disease or a urinary blockage. Some causes of inappropriate urination can be life-threatening, so it’s important to take this symptom seriously and not write it off as stress or anxiety straight away. If your cat has started peeing on clothes and you can’t identify a clear external cause, please see your vet at the earliest opportunity. This is the best way to ensure the health of your furry friend and keep your clothes pee-free in the future. When it comes to feline behaviors and mannerisms, it can often be difficult to tell whether something is a cause for concern or just normal. One movement you might notice your cat making is twitching their nose. While this can have totally benign causes and could be a totally normal reflex caused by external factors, if your cat’s nose is twitching constantly or you notice other symptoms, it could be something more serious. If you’re trying to work out why your cat’s nose is twitching, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to be going over all of the most common causes, from mild allergies to more concerning conditions you should be aware of. Common Causes of Nose Twitching in CatsTo start with, we should clarify that your cat’s nose twitching doesn’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong. The occasional nose twitch could just be a fleeting itch or minor irritation. Just as our noses will occasionally get itchy, the same is true of your cat’s nose, and it’s usually not something you need to worry about. Here are some less concerning causes of nose twitching in cats:
More Serious Reasons Your Cat’s Nose Might be Twitching While a twitchy cat nose isn’t usually something to panic about, especially if the twitching is infrequent, it’s important to bear in mind that there are some more serious causes. If your cat’s nose is twitching a lot for an extended period of time or if the twitching is accompanied by other new symptoms, you should see a vet as soon as possible because it could be one of the following conditions: Hypocalcemia Hypocalcemia is a calcium deficiency that can be the result of lactation in female cats. However, it can also occur in male cats as a result of vitamin D deficiency, chronic kidney disease, hypoparathyroidism, or pancreatitis. The main symptom of hypocalcemia is neuromuscular irritability, which might manifest as facial twitching (including the nose and whiskers) along with random muscle contractions and a nervous disposition. Other symptoms include lethargy, heavy breathing, weight loss, stiffness, or even seizures. Since hypocalcemia is usually a symptom of another problem rather than the sole cause of twitching, you should take your cat to the vet if they are exhibiting these symptoms. Hyperesthesia More commonly known as rolling skin disease, hyperesthesia is most often diagnosed in Siamese cats, but all breeds can potentially suffer from this condition. If your cat’s nose twitching is accompanied by skin rippling on their back and erratic behavior (such as suddenly biting their tail, anxiety, or aggression), hyperesthesia might be the culprit. Other symptoms include seizures, increased vocalization, and touch-sensitivity. You should see your vet if you suspect feline hyperesthesia. If your cat is having seizures, they will need anticonvulsant medication. Even if seizures are not a concern, hyperesthesia can lead to self-mutilation and the other symptoms are indicative of anxiety and stress. Your vet will be able to guide you through making changes to your cat’s routine or environment to reduce their stress levels and hopefully ease the symptoms. Poison Facial twitching, which includes twitching of the nose, can be an indication of toxicity or poisoning in cats, especially if it’s accompanied by symptoms such as lethargy, drooling, trembling, convulsions, or loss of coordination. If you think that your cat has ingested a harmful substance, contact your vet’s emergency line immediately. If you have recently applied flea treatment and your cat is drooling along with nose twitching, it’s possible that your cat has got the product on its nose and in its mouth, which could be causing irritation. If there are no other symptoms, calling the emergency line at this point might not be necessary, but you should still inform your vet immediately and follow their advice, which may be to monitor your cat and call again if other symptoms present themselves. Final ThoughtsThere are many potential causes of feline nose and facial twitching. Some of them are benign whereas others can be more serious and even life-threatening. Any consistent twitching of any part of your cat’s body, including the nose, is worth a trip to the vet. This is particularly true if other symptoms are present as well. It may be nothing to worry about, but it’s always worth taking the time to rule out serious conditions and ensure the wellbeing of your furry friend. Cat harnesses are a great and safe way to get your cat outdoors. A harness can keep your cat safe while also allowing them to explore. However, fitting a cat harness isn’t always the easiest task. In this article, we will look at how to put on a cat harness. We’ll give instructions for the most common types of cat harnesses. Why Should You Use a Cat Harness?Letting your cat outside to stretch its legs is a great way to provide them with some exercise as well as physical and mental stimulation. However, allowing them to roam free can be dangerous to both your cat and the other wildlife in the area. This is where using a harness comes in. They’re more secure than a collar and a leash and they can allow your cat to safely explore the environment. How to Put on a Cat HarnessFor many cats, this is unfortunately not as simple as merely fastening the harness onto your cat. Many cats will react badly to being put into a harness so there are several steps you should take before you attempt to put the harness on. 1. Acclimatize Your Cat The first step is to get your cat used to the harness before trying to put it on. You should leave the harness out somewhere for your cat to inspect it to their heart’s desire. It’s best to leave it in a spot that your cat frequents and likes, such as near their food dish or in their favorite napping spot. Give them plenty of time to sniff and get used to the presence of the harness. You can even try giving your cat treats whenever it approaches the harness so that the cat associates it with good things. Be aware that this process could take a few days. You can’t expect to put the harness down and have the cat get used to it within 10 minutes. Once your cat seems used to the harness, you can try to put it on. The methods for putting on a harness depend on the type of harness you purchase. Always take care to ensure your cat isn’t getting stressed and if it starts biting or scratching, consider trying again another day. 2a. Fitting A Figure-Eight Harness Figure-eight style harnesses are so-called because they have a loop that goes around the cat’s head and one around the body. The harness looks like a figure-eight when it’s not on the cat. The first step is to slip the small loop over your cat’s head. The place where the two loops connect should be on the cat’s back and sit just above and between the cat’s shoulder blades. To fit the larger loop, you will need to unbuckle this first. Make sure the ends aren’t twisted at all and slip it around your cat’s body before fastening the buckle. It should fit below the cat’s front legs but in front of the back legs. The harness should be snug to your cat’s body but should still allow enough room for you to comfortably fit two to three fingers between the harness and the cat. The harness should have some adjusters that will allow you to individually tighten or loosen the loops. 2b. Fitting An H-Style Cat Harness H-style cat harnesses are quite similar to figure-eight ones as they also feature two loops. The big difference, however, is that there is a long straight piece that connects the two loops. When placed on the cat, this straight piece will run down the cat’s back. Pick up the harness by the straight strap and ensure that the loops are hanging down. Slip the smaller loop over your cat’s head and make sure the straight strap sits neatly along your cat’s back. Unbuckle the larger loop and wrap the two ends of the loop around the cat’s body, behind the cat’s front legs. Fasten the buckle and check the fit. As with the figure-eight harness, a H-style harness should be snug but with enough space for two to three fingers to be inserted between the cat and harness. 2c. Fitting A Vest Harness Fitting a vest harness is pretty straightforward and isn’t much different from putting a vest on yourself. Make sure all of the fasteners on the vest are open and then place it on your cat’s back. Wrap the ends of the vest around your cat and fasten the clips, starting from the neck and working down. Some vests have their fastenings on the cat’s stomach and others on their back but the method remains the same. As before, the vest should be snug without being restrictive. Check that your cat has enough room by ensuring you can fit a couple of fingers between the cat and the harness. Make sure there is enough space at both the neck and the bottom of the vest and adjust as necessary. 3. Let Your Cat Wear The Harness In The Home First Even after you get your cat safely and snugly in the harness, you shouldn’t rush outside. The harness will feel strange for your cat at first so allow your cat some adjustment time in the home. Don’t be worried if your cat flops to the floor at first as the weight of the harness will feel strange to the cat until they get used to it. Let your cat roam around the home in the harness until it's moving as freely and quickly as it would do without the harness. Final ThoughtsIn this article, we looked at why cat harnesses are important and how the most popular styles should be fitted. It’s important to take your time when putting on a cat harness for the first time so that your cat gets used to it and doesn’t become stressed. If you follow the steps in this article, you and your cat should be able to enjoy the great outdoors together. Cats are one of the best animals to have as a pet in the world, and owning a cat is often filled with joy, mischief, and fun, which is why so many people decide they want to have one of these feline companions for themselves. However, whether you’re an experienced cat owner or a first-time owner, all cats will agree that there are some things about cats and how they behave that are just a complete mystery! One of the things about cats that confuses people the most is their tails, especially when a cat begins to wag its tail. Most people know what it means when a dog wags its tail, but what does it mean when a cat does it? It may surprise you that a cat wagging its tail differs from a dog wagging its tail. So, if you want to learn more about why cats wag their tails, then read on, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know! Why Do Cats Wag Their Tails While Lying Down?One of the first times you may have noticed your cat wagging its tail is whilst it was lying down next to you, but what does this mean exactly? Some people might mistake it as a sign of the cat being happy and wanting more attention, which isn’t the case. In fact, when a cat is laying down and wagging its tail, it can mean one of two things. The first is that your cat is overstimulated, whether you’ve been playing around or petting it, your cat is now ready to relax and is letting you know that it is overstimulated, so you should leave them to calm down before you interact again. Alternatively, it might also mean that your cat is ready for playtime! So if you’ve been cuddling, and you notice that your cat is getting excitable, why not reach for their toy and begin to play with them? This not only helps to stimulate your cat’s brain but also to prevent your hand from getting scratched by your excited feline friend. Why Do Cats Wag Their Tails While Sleeping?If your cat is lying down and asleep, then you might also notice that its tail wags then too. If you notice your cat doing this, the likelihood is that your cat is simply sleeping deeply, and their tail just happens to be twitching as a result of the dream they’re having, similar to how we humans are known to twitch and move around in our sleep too! Your cat might not be sleeping deeply, however, so if you call its name out and they don’t wag, but its tail begins to wag, then there’s a chance that your cat is actually awake, but is trying to make up its mind on whether or not it should disturb its rest to come and see you. It’s essentially a way of signalling to you that they know you’re there! Do Cats Wag Their Tails Whilst Hunting?Natural predators, if you allow your cat to regularly explore the outside world, then there’s a good chance that they will begin to go hunting, as this is their natural instinct, and if you ever happen to see your cat attempting to hunt, you’ll notice that as it is lying down, their tail will wag ever so slightly, so why do they do this when they’re trying not to be seen? Well, the tail has an important role to play for cats and their mobility, as it helps them to balance and maintain their high-agility whilst climbing, running, and of course, hunting! So don’t be surprised to see your cat’s tail wagging or thumbing whilst it tries to channel its inner tiger chasing rodents and birds! Why Else Do Cats Wag Their Tails?Aside from these reasons, there is actually another cause for cats and their tail wagging, and although we said that tail wagging meaning happy was more of a dog trait than cats, is it possible that cats will also wag their tails when they are happy too? Whilst we understand that the difference between a dog’s wagging tail and a cat’s wagging tail is incredibly different, with a dog’s tail often wagging frantically and with little restraint, which makes a load of noise if they find themselves against a wall or a hard surface. Your cat’s tail will wag much more softly, and will never make more than a soft thump, and it’s not unknown for a cat to wag its tail when it is happy! When your cat is confident and content, it’s not unusual to see your cat strut around the house with their tail high in the air, with the end of its tail, most notably the slight curve that can occur towards the tip, and wag it ever so slightly as it walks, and whilst it’s not as obvious or clear cut as it is for dogs, it’s a good way to know that your cat is happy. You’ll notice that your cat’s tail will also wag whilst they play with toys, and it will swish from side to side, this includes playing too, even with other cats, so if you’re ever worried about whether your cat and another is play fighting or fighting seriously, then a great way to tell is to simply look at the tails of the cats. If they’re swishing and wagging their tails, then you know that they’re just playing around, whereas if their tails are puffed up and tense, that the fight is real! SummarySo, there are a whole bunch of different reasons why your cat might be wagging their tail whilst lying down, so if you do notice your cat doing so, don’t worry, nothing’s wrong. Thanks for reading, and we hoped that this helped! As cat owners, especially as first-time cat owners, it’s essential to get to grips with all of the things your cat will experience as they grow older and mature, so you should try to research as much of this information as you can before you receive your adorable new feline friend. Some of the most common questions surrounding cats, especially female cats, are about them experiencing “heat”, which simply means that she is undergoing their estrus (reproductive) cycle, and is particularly receptive sexually. If you have a female cat, you might notice that she “sprays” her urine against tall or vertical objects in order to mark her territory, but is this a sign of heat? Well, to find out more about your cat spraying, and whether or not it means it's in heat, then continue to read this article and allow us to explain all you need to know! The Signs Of EstrusYou might be wondering as an owner if it’s at all possible to spot when your female cat might be undergoing their estrus cycle. Well, most of the signs that your cat is in heat are purely in their behavior. Most cats will become extremely affectionate during this period of time and will make a point of consistently rubbing up against their owners or objects and demanding attention. There’s also a chance that if you rub along their back and spine, they will lift their rear into the air and tread solely with their back legs. Female cats will also become incredibly vocal during this period, which is known to drive unsuspecting owners crazy! Do Female Cats Spray When In Heat?One of the more common signs that a female cat is in heat is that it will actually begin to urinate more, or even spray its urine against walls and objects. They do this because their urine contains both pheromones and hormones, which to cats, is a type of reproductive signal which helps the queens to attract the tomcats (male cats) to mate. This usually tends to be the first sign that your once adorable kitten has finally reached puberty, and before long you’ll have all sorts of feline visitors in your backyard attempting to mate with your cat! When Do Female Cats First Get Their Estrus Cycle?Typically, female cats will undergo their first estrus cycle upon reaching puberty, this can vary between individual cats, and mainly depends on the time of the year, due to the varying daylight hours, but this typically happens at around six months old. What many people refer to as the heat cycle is also what's known as the estrus, and whilst this cycle has several different stages, the estrus or “heat” stage is when a female cat is at her most sexually receptive point, which is more commonly known as being in heat. How Often Does A Female Cat Experience Heat?Cats are actually polyestrous, and during the breeding season, they can undergo multiple different breeding cycles. When the breeding season occurs is actually all depending on a number of different geographical and environmental factors, for example, the breeding season in the Northern Hemisphere tends to occur between January all the way to the later end of the Fall season. However, if a cat lives in a more tropical region in the world, then the cycle can last all year round, which is due to the increased daylight hours. It’s also worth noting that a cat that lives predominantly inside can also experience a lengthened breeding season! How Long Does Estrus Last In Cats?The period of time a cat experiences their estrus/heat cycle varies significantly, and whilst the average period of time tends to be around 7 days, the period can last anywhere from a single day all the way to three weeks! If a queen (the name for an unneutered female cat) doesn’t get mated with during her heat, then she will typically go out of heat for a period of time, again this period of time tends to only be seven days long, but it can be as short as two days, or as long as 19 days! When Can Cats Get Pregnant During Their Estrus Cycle?As an owner, having your cat suddenly become pregnant isn’t great, especially if it’s unexpected, which is why it’s so good to know exactly when your cat will be able to be bred and become pregnant during its estrus cycle. Unfortunately, queens are actually able to fall pregnant at any point during their estrus cycle, and there’s no specific period in which they’re able to fall pregnant easier than the others. Cats are induced ovulators, and it’s the breeding process that actually begins to cause the initial release of the eggs in the first place, so it’ll take a queen and a tomcat three to four matings throughout a 24-hour period in order to successfully begin ovulation. It doesn’t take long for cats to mate, and most mating sessions don’t last any longer than 2 minutes, so it’s common for cats to mate multiple times during a short period of time. In addition to this, it’s not uncommon for queens to mate with multiple different tomcats during their ovulation, so a litter of kittens can actually have multiple different fathers! Upon the end of her ovulation, the queen will then go out of heat for a couple of days. SummarySo to summarise, a female cat spraying is a sign that your cat is in heat, and they do this in order to help attract tomcats in order for them to mate, as their urine contains hormones and pheromones which the male cats will find attractive. Your female cat spraying is also probably one of the first signs you will see as owners that will indicate that your cat has reached puberty. We hope this helped! Having a cat as a pet is an amazing experience, but there is so much to learn and prepare for when you first welcome your new cat into your home that it can be daunting, particularly for first-time owners, so it’s always a good idea to brush up on your knowledge of cats before you decide on one for your new family member. Cat behaviors are part of the reason so many people decide they’d like one as a pet, but as any experienced cat owner will tell you, it’s not all fun and games, as cats have their fair share of annoying traits that you need to prepare for. So, from chewing and scratching furniture, to constantly demanding attention, these are all things you’ll have to prepare for. One of the most annoying things your cat will likely do is spray against the walls! It does this when it’s in heat, so for many people, the answer is simply to get your cat neutered. But does this work? So, to find out if neutered cats spray, read on, and we’ll tell you all you need to know! What Is Spraying? Spraying is something done by cats for a number of reasons and involves them depositing little amounts of urine onto walls and other vertical surfaces they can find around the home. The cat will do this by backing up towards the area they want to spray, and then proceeding to urinate, with no crouching, and only a little quiver of their tails. Cats can also decide to spray on horizontal surfaces, but this is a much less common occurrence. Which Cats Spray?Cats will spray, regardless of whether they’re male or female, but using their urine to mark territory is most commonly seen in intact (un-neutered) male cats, and when a tomcat does spray a surface, you will smell it instantly, as it has the typically pungent and strong odor that so many people refer to when they talk about the odor of cat urine. Do Neutered Cats Spray?Despite popular belief, neutered cats can still spray! Whilst neutering or castration your cat can have a dramatic effect on the smell of your cat’s spray, as well as reducing the overall enticement for your cat to spray in the first place, around 10% of male cats that been neutered and 5% of female cats that have been spayed, will still spray! Spraying tends to occur more often in a house of multiple cats, it can still happen in a household with just one cat too. How Do I Stop My Cat From Spraying Or Marking?When it comes to trying to find the best way to prevent your cat from spraying or marking, there are a number of factors that need to be analyzed and considered before you can begin to weigh up your options. These include: where your cat is urinating, how often they’re urinating, as well as how many different locations they’re urinating in. In addition to this, you also have to consider any potential changes in the environment that have occurred and the social patterns of both the animals and the humans in the household too. Neutering is one of the most common methods of trying to prevent your cat from spraying or marking, but another option would be to improve litter box usage and hygiene, and ensure that your cat(s) are using the litter tray as much as possible, whilst checking for any reasons why they might be avoiding it in the first place. Why Do I Keep Finding Small Patches Of Urine?Spraying is the most common reason why owners will often find small, sometimes even tiny, patches of urine dotted throughout their home, and this is because cats will use their urine in order to mark their territory, and they’ll tend to do it in the same sorts of places where you would typically expect your cat to spray, which includes windows, close to doors, around new possessions, as well as their more favored places in the house. But it’s also not unusual for them to be found on items belonging to their owner too, such as their clothing! Many people will despair at the fact that a cat will return to the locations in which they have marked or sprayed even after it has been cleaned up, which is because the entire purpose of them spraying and marking is to mark that area with its odor, so if the odor is removed, then it won’t be long before they return to the spot to remark their territory. So whilst you might simply try to clean away any sign that your cat has marked or sprayed somewhere in your home, it’s ultimately a losing battle, as they will soon return to remark what they claim as their own! Finding small amounts of urine deposited outside of their litter tray with increasing frequency is a sign of disease in the lower urinary tract, or a sign of litter box avoidance altogether, which can have numerous causes. The same goes for finding stool unexpectedly outside the litter box in such frequency too, which can be a sign of constipation, colitis, or other conditions. If this is the case, then you should ensure that you schedule an appointment with your vet in order for them to give your cat a complete physical examination, as well as run some laboratory tests, which should help them to determine what the issue is. SummarySo, whilst neutering is one of the most common methods to dry and demotivate your cats from spraying or marking, some neutered cats will still spray and mark their territory, so before you jump to castration, you should consider the various factors that lead your cat to spray to begin with. Cat ownership is great, and can be extremely rewarding, but it’s important to care for you cat the best you possibly can, which means that you should always be keeping an eye on your cat’s behavior and health, as even the smallest little thing can cause a drastic change to your cat’s health, so it is vital that you ensure that your feline friend is healthy at all times! Cat’s are curious animals, so it’s natural for them to go exploring in and around your home, and whilst cats are usually particularly cautious animals, there are times where they might manage to injure themselves on their adventures. So, if you notice that your cat is limping, then there can be a number of reasons why this is the case, so to understand more about what might be causing your cat to limp, as well as what you can do to help them, then read on as we provide you with all of the information you need to know about cats limping! Before We StartBefore we begin to look at the reasons why your cat might be limping, it’s worth knowing that cats are actually really good at hiding their pain, which means that if your cat is visibly limping, then whatever the problem is must be severe enough if your cat to be unable to hide it, which means you should try to help it as soon as possible in order to ensure a full recovery. Lameness And Limping SignsOne of the reasons why your cat might be limping is because it has something lodged or stuck in its paw pad, which would make it uncomfortable for it to walk on naturally, alternatively, your cat may have a suffered a minor muscular or soft tissue injury, which will also be enough to make your cat visibly limp too. If your cat has been limping and is now lying down, then you should be able to very gently examine their injured leg to try to see what the problem is, some of the things you need to be looking for include:
If your cat is exhibiting any of these signs, then you should make an appointment with your cat’s veterinarian as soon as possible so that they can evaluate your cat’s injury and help it to the best of their abilities. It’s worth noting that if you suspect that your cat has a broken or dislocated leg, that you should not make any attempt to examine or inspect their leg any further, as this can cause extreme stress and might even make their injury worse. Other Reasons Your Cat Might Be LimpingYou may never fully discover exactly why your cat has been limping if it’s managed to injure itself, but there are also a few other reasons why your cat might be limping that will be easily answered once they’ve been seen by a vet, so if your cat is limping but doesn’t seem to have any visible signs of injury, then here are some of the possible causes for your cat’s limp. Big Jumps And Leaps As we all know, cats love to explore, and this often involves them finding a high place to perch on and relax. Whilst this is natural behavior, it can also end badly for your cat if they fall, and whilst cat’s are notorious for landing well, a significant drop can still have a massive impact on your cat if they’re small or elderly. So, you should always ensure that you leave the highest windows in your house closed whilst you’re not in to monitor your cats, and you should always install window guards to prevent your cats from falling out of windows onto the ground below. Arthritis Much like us humans, as cats begin to get older, they become a little less mobile, but did you know that if a cat is showing signs of limping and stiffness as they go about their daily lives, that it can actually be a sign of arthritis? So if your cat is limping and it lasts for more than a full 24 hours, then you should make an appointment with your vet in order to get your cat seen. Cardiovascular Disease It might surprise some people, but Cardiovascular disease can have a big effect on a cat’s mobility, especially in their hind legs, the disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM for short) thickens the heart muscle, which in turn means that the blood can clot, and prevent blood flow to their rear legs, this actually has a specific name, and is known as feline aortic thromboembolism (FATE). If you notice that your cat’s hind legs aren’t working properly, or your cat is limping as a result of its hind legs, then you need to take your cat to the vet immediately in order for them to be treated. Neurological Did you know that cats can also suffer from neurological conditions that can affect their movement just like humans? These include things such as a stroke, or even compression on the spinal cord (referred to as IVDD). So if there’s no evidence of a physical injury, the vet might consider checking for neurological issues! SummaryOverall, understanding exactly why your cat might be limping can be difficult to know, and the reality is that if it’s simply an injury that occured because of their curiosity and exploration, then you never know. But there’s also a few conditions and other possible causes for your cat to be limping. So, just remember that if you notice that your cat is limping, and has been limping for over 24 hours, then you should make an appointment with the veterinarian to have them examined! Owning a cat is a beautiful experience, and there’s no better feeling than sharing your home with a feline friend. However, for first-time cat owners, cat ownership is often shrouded in mystery and full of questions, and it’s important to learn everything you can about your new pet in order to provide them with the best care and companionship possible. So, if you want to learn more about a Maine Coon Cat’s shedding pattern, how much they should be shedding, and what to do if you think your Maine Coon Cat is shedding too much, then keep reading on as we provide you with all the information you need to know. Maine Coon Cat Shedding PatternLike some other breeds of cat, such as Siberian cats, or Norwegian Forest cats, the Maine Coon comes from a cold climate area, originating from Maine, which is the easternmost state in the USA, which is why they’re a larger breed of cat, with a much fluffier fur coat than others. In fact, a Maine Coon cat’s coat is much more incredible than you would initially think, as they actually have a double coat, there’s the inner layer, which has denser hair to help provide insulation by trapping air, and then the more medium-length coat on the outer of its fur helps to repel water and snow from sticking in the inner fur. It’s common for Maine Coon cats that live in colder climates to shed their fur twice a year, once during spring, and again in the autumn time. Despite this, however, these cats don’t shed their fur all too much due to the thickness of their coat, to begin with and the kittens won’t begin to shed any fur at all until their adults too. However, if your Maine Coon lives inside, then you can expect this shedding pattern to be disrupted quite badly, and whether your Maine Coon sheds right the way through the year, or doesn’t shed at all, is completely random. Typically, a healthy Maine Coon that lives and is kept indoors should experience a low level amount of shedding all year round, much like any other house cat. But, it’s important to keep an eye on the amount of fur your Maine Coon is shedding, as unexpected shedding or unusual shedding patterns could be a result of something wrong with your Maine Coon! Chronic Shedding In Maine Coon CatsIf you find large chunks of fur all over your house because your Maine Coon cat is shedding, then it could be a sign that something is wrong, there are five major factors that are known to affect the shedding pattern of a Maine Coon:
Let’s delve into each of these categories to see if we can help you to figure out exactly why your Maine Coon cat is shedding so much! Heat And HumiditySince a Maine Coon’s fur is a form of regulator for its temperature no matter what season it is, an increase in either humidity or heat will cause them to begin to shed drastically in order to cope with the new climate. So, if the space that your Maine Coon lives in is insulated, then it won’t actually need its heavy undercoat anymore, which is why its body’s reaction is to shed it off as soon as possible. When this happens, however, their overcoat often remains in place. To help your cat in this situation, you should just brush their fur regularly, which should ensure that they stay on top of the hairy mess! IllnessA cat’s coat is often one of the best ways to tell whether or not it is healthy, a coat that is dull and has patchy shedding can indicate that something is wrong with the cat, and it could be just a single issue or multiple! Here are some of the things that could be causing your Maine Coon to shed so much:
Anxiety And StressExcessive shedding could be an indication that your Maine Coon is stressed or anxious, along with other signs, such as:
Nutritional/Food IssuesBad quality pet food is one of the biggest contributors to a cat’s excessive or patchy shedding, and whilst the signs of malnutrition and other flaws in a cat’s diet aren’t particularly obvious at first, they can have a detrimental effect over time!
SummarySo, to summarise, if your Maine Coon cat is an outdoor cat, then its bi-annual shedding is completely natural. But if your Maine Coon cat is kept inside, then you can expect there to be a slight disruption to its shedding pattern. Ragdoll cats are very popular. And a kitten won’t come cheap either. But considering they are one of the cutest, laid-back, loveable, and social cats going, it’s not hard to see why they are so sought-after by cat owners. They are well-known for their personalities and they are also very popular for their looks too. To look at a ragdoll is to love them. How can you not when those adorable bundles of fluff look up at you with those large and vibrant big blue eyes? And then, of course, when you hold them they go limp which is where they get their name. If you’re looking for a kitty to snuggle on the sofa, then you can’t get much better than a ragdoll kitty. Being a cat lover, there is nothing worse than nature trying to get in the way of your bond through allergies. I couldn’t think of anything worse than being allergic to those little bundles of fluff. But people are. And there’s often a rumor circulating around that if you’re allergic to kitties you should opt for a ragdoll because they are hypoallergenic. And as much as I hate to be the bearer of bad news, and I really do, unfortunately, these cats are not hypoallergenic. They may not shed as much hair as some other cats, which is where the rumor may have surfaced from, but they will still cause allergic reactions if you’re allergic to cats. WHY AREN’T RAGDOLL CATS HYPOALLERGENICJust because ragdolls don’t shed that much hair, it doesn’t make them hypoallergenic. The only reason they tend not to shed hair is that they have no undercoat. But cat allergies don’t actually develop from the cat's hair. Allergies to cats actually come from their skin, saliva, and urine. When a cat grooms itself, their saliva is all over their fur, and then their fur gets everywhere. Honestly, especially in long-haired cats, you’ll find cat hair in every possible crevice of your home. And if you’re allergic, it means that those allergens are going to be all over your home. ARE ANY CATS HYPOALLERGENIC?I really wish I could give you some good news, but there really isn’t such a thing as a hypoallergenic cat. As we mentioned above, it’s not actually the hair of the cat that you’re allergic to, it’s their urine and saliva, which just cannot be avoided. You’ll find that there are cats that are lower on the allergy list. These cats can sometimes be referred to as hypoallergenic. But they’re not, not really, they’re just less likely to cause a reaction. Even hairless cats can cause a reaction in those that are allergic to cats. DO RAGDOLL CATS HAVE LESS DANDER?Dander is something that cats' skin can produce. Many that are allergic to cats are allergic to their dander. If you’ve heard that ragdolls have less dander, I hate to deliver even more bad news, but that simply isn’t true. Ragdolls are the exact same as any other cat breed in terms of producing dander. They also contain the Fel d 1 protein in their dander and their saliva, and this protein is known to cause allergic reactions in those that suffer from cat allergies. HOW CAN I LIMIT SHEDDING?The best way to minimize shedding is to keep a strict and consistent grooming schedule for your pet. Now, these cats don’t tend to shed as much hair as other breeds, but they should still have a good brushing a minimum of twice a week. They will also shed more during the spring and fall seasons when the weather changes. Ragdolls have very soft hair, but this hair is also quite thick. This means that you’ll want to ensure that you are using the correct type of brush for their hair. Pin and bristle brushes are always a good option. It may be necessary to bathe your ragdoll once a month, but if you’re planning on doing this you’ll want to acclimatize them to the water fairly early on in their lives. As we are all aware cats and water don’t tend to mix together very well. HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M ALLERGIC TO CATS?The worst way to find out that you’re allergic to cats is to find out once you’ve adopted one. There is already a crisis with cats without homes, so before you consider bringing one permanently into your home, it’s worth trying to spend some time around cats beforehand. You’ll want to stroke, hold, or cuddle a cat and then keep an eye out for any developing symptoms. If you find that you have a runny nose, sneeze, cough, itch your eyes, or have red skin from the contact, it may be worth reconsidering homing a cat. HOW CAN I TREAT CAT ALLERGIES?For some, not having a cat is out of the question, allergies be damned. And I can’t say I blame you, I couldn’t live without my kitties. If you are sure that you are happy to just manage your symptoms, here are some ways you can make things a little easier for yourself.
FINAL THOUGHTSUnfortunately, Ragdoll cats are not hypoallergenic. And even worse, neither is any other breed of cat. If you are unlucky enough to be allergic to cats, you only really have two options. Don’t own a cat. Or manage the symptoms of the reaction. There’s nothing quite like worry. And when you have pets I tend to find you worry about everything. And that’s probably because we can’t relate symptoms to ourselves. For example, if our eyes start to water, we know it’s probably because we’re tired, we’ve got something in our eye, or we’re crying. Either way, it’s usually pretty obvious when there’s an issue in humans. But cats? Who knows why their eyes water? Is it okay? Is it normal? Are they sick? Are they okay? These are all anxiety-riddled questions that flood through your mind on a daily basis when your kitty does something different or new. If your kitty’s eyes are weeping or watering, unfortunately, there probably is some form of issue. How serious this issue is can vary. Sometimes it can be something as simple as an allergy but it could also be an indication of something a little more serious such as a respiratory infection. Throughout this article, we’ll go over some of the main reasons why your feline friends eyes may be weeping. However, I will say now, that if your cats eyes have been excessively weeping, it’s probably best to take them to the vets to get checked out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. REASONS FOR WATERING/WEEPING EYESCats often produce tears or water in their eyes to protect them. The fluid will help to remove anything in their eyes, it keeps their eyes moist and even provides essential nutrients. So some water, or the occasional crusting around the eye is no immediate cause for concern. However, if they water excessively, or you notice a mucousy discharge from the eye it can be an indication of a more serious issue. Reason 1: Conjunctivitis Your cat may have conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which is causing your babies eyes to weep. This is actually a fairly common eye issue for cats. It’s not a very nice thing for them to experience, though. Conjunctivitis can cause painful inflammation around either one or both eyes. This inflammation will turn the eyes red and they may swell too. Cats with this condition are usually fairly sensitive to light as it hurts their eyes. With conjunctivitis cats can have watery eyes that appear very teary although sometimes they will produce a thick mucus. You cat may have conjunctivitis for several different reasons. Their eyes may be fighting an infection, they may be expierencing an allergy, or they may have a lot of dust in their eyes. If you notice these symptoms in your cat, take them to the vets straight away. Conjunctivitis is very contagious and so it may spread to other cats in the home. Also, poorly eyes in cats can deteriorate at incredible speeds and so the sooner you can get treatment the better. Reason 2: Feline Upper Respiratory Infections Weepy eyes can also often be a symptom of a respiratory infection. There are many different types of respiratory infection, and the symptoms for each can be really varied. In most cases, your vet will need to do lab tests to find the cause of the problem. Upper respiratory infections can also lead to conjunctivitis. If your cats eyes are watery and they show visible signs of being under the weather and poorly, I would recommend taking them to see the vet. Reason 3: Allergies Cats are more like us than you may realize, and they are often allergic to many of the things that we are. And these allergies can cause watery eyes just like we get too. For example, common allergens such as pollen, mould, mildew, dust, perfumes, and cleaning products can all set off cat allergies. So if you’ve made a change in your house, or the seasons have changed, this could be the cause of watery eyes in your feline. If you do suspect that your cat has allergies, you should take them to the vets where they can discuss how to move forward. Reason 4: Eye Ulcers If the watery eyes is also accompanied by a whole lot of squinting, your cat may have eye ulcers. This is when there is damage to the cat’s eye. You can usually tell if this is the problem, as your cat will rub their head often and their eyes will become very red and sore. There are several different reasons why your cat may have eye ulcers. It could be that they’ve scratched their eye, they have an infection, or they have been exposed to certain chemicals. If you suspect this is the issue, you must take your cat to the vets immediately. Eye ulcers can be extremely painful for your cat and in more extreme cases, it can even cause the eyeball to rupture. Reason 5: Epiphora Sometimes cats eyes can weep because there is a problem with the drainage of their tear ducts. This is known as Epiphora. This is usually caused by the tearducts getting blocked. If left untreated this can cause rhinitis or sinusitis and this causes the tissue in the area to swell which can be pretty painful for your cat. WHEN TO SEE THE VETWhen it comes to any signs of eye pain or discomfort, it is always best to see your vet immediately. The issue with eye problems is that they rarely get better alone, and they can worsen at incredible speeds. Plus, most eye problems can be seriously painful for your pet and no one likes to see their pets in pain and distress. FINAL THOUGHTSCats eyes need a certain amount of water to protect them. So a small amount of water being noticeable isn’t a major cause for concern. However, if your cats eyes are weeping or particularly watery, you should take them to see the veterinarian. It is often the first symptoms of an eye issue which can deteriate the eyes very quickly. And it is always best to be safe than sorry, and double check. A fast diagnosis is the first step towards a speedy recovery. |