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.
​

We 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:
​

• In the skull, 29 bones make up the facial and cranial bones.

 

• The spine is divided up into four sections which are made up of 30 vertebrae, which gives your cat more flexibility and allows them to land on their feet.

 

• There are 18-23 bones in the tail, and here is where 10% of a cat's bones can be found, with cartilage and nerves giving the tail more sensitivity. 

 

• From the spine to the pelvis, all the way to the feet, can have as many bones as there are in a human foot, which is about 26, but it depends on whether we're talking about the front or hind feet as you can find more toes on the fore leg. 

 

• Cats have a free-floating collarbone, which gives them more flexibility, and this clavicle is buried in the shoulder region and doesn't connect with other bones.

 

• A cat's ribs are made up of 13 bones, which is just one more than a human's ribs, and are a great way to determine the weight of a cat and whether it's healthy or not. 

​

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.

• They might have a stumbled gait where they try to avoid walking on a part that gives them pain.

 

• If your cat is struggling to move or is acting out of the ordinary, avoid situations that could cause the cat more pain.

 

• You might hear them before you can locate them, as, like us, some cats like to moan or cry, but some will suffer in silence, so knowing your cat's temperament is essential here. 

 

• If your cat is older and is starting to take it easy, so in this state, their metabolism slows down, and it loses muscle and bone mass, and here is where more issues can occur, so it's best to keep an eye on your cat. 

 

• If your cat is unlucky to be hit by a car or fall from a significant height, don't assume that any fractures picked up will heal on their own, as we know how cats like to wander and get into trouble. 
  ​

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.
​

You 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.
​

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

If 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.

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!

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!

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:

• Cough
  
• Facial pressure
• Swollen under-eyes
• Itchy nose and throat
  
• Sneezing
  
• Runny nose
  
• Red, watery, and itchy eyes
  
• Restless sleep

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:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Wheezing when exhaling
• Skin rash
• Swelling hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Trouble sleeping due to coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing.

​If 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:

• Vacuum clean your carpets, drapes, floors, and furniture to prevent allergen buildup.
• Install an air filtration system to create constant airflow and remove dander.
• Train your Persian cat to stay off furniture, especially your bed.
• Avoid touching allergen collectors, such as cat toys and cat trees.

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:

• Brushing your Persian outside - Persian fur can easily spread throughout your home during grooming sessions, so brushing them outside will allow you to breathe freely and prevent dander buildup inside. Ideally, you should brush your Persian cat daily to prevent tangling and matting.
• Wiping your Persian’s coat with a damp cloth - By wiping your cat’s coat with the grain of their hair growth, you’ll be able to get rid of any extra dander that brushing didn’t remove.
• Bathing your Persian as much as they’ll let you - Cats hate water: that’s a fact! And Persians are no different, but you need to try and bathe them every two to three months, using soap powder during periods in between baths. You should try and get them familiar with this routine.

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:

• Animal fat - It has fatty acids that support metabolic functions, enhance skin health, and facilitate a healthy inflammatory response. Even the pickiest cats, who reject wet food, go crazy for the taste since fat also makes it delicious!
• Animal protein - To obtain the necessary amino acids, including taurine, arginine, and histidine, which support the immune system, help maintain a smooth and healthy coat, and aid in the development of muscle and bones, your Persian's diet should contain at least 50% animal protein. Being obligate carnivores, cats thrive on meat, but a diet high in vegetables like peas, carrots, and sweetcorn lacks the necessary levels of micronutrients. Lean meat and fish, such as chicken, liver, turkey, salmon, tuna, shrimp, and mackerel, should make up a large portion of your cat's diet.
• Vitamins and minerals - These micronutrients keep cats' coats glossy, moisturize the skin, and control shedding.

Personal Hygiene

Practicing good personal hygiene can also help you combat allergies. You can keep them at bay by:

• Washing your clothes often.
• Washing your hands after touching your Persian.
• Avoiding touching your face, nose, or eyes after touching your Persian.
• Taking allergy medication
• Wearing protective gloves when grooming your Persian and handling their litter tray.
• Using dander-removing spray and wipes.

While 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.

As 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:

• Changes in breathing (faster or slower)
• Panting or breathlessness
• Decreased appetite 
• Changes in grooming behavior; not cleaning itself. (this is due to stress)
• Increased aggressiveness; your cat may be more bitey or scratchy than usual
• Less energetic 
• Sensitive to touch; unwanting of affection
• Red gums

In general, look for any changes to your cat's usual behavior, because this will help determine that something is wrong.
​

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. 

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.

​

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.

​

How 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.

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?There are many signs which could indicate that your cat is suffering from worms. 
Signs of Worms

• A swollen or tight belly, that may look like a barrel or pot. Bloating, your cat may even look pregnant
• Duller fur coat, disheveled hair, that is not as shiny or fluffy as it should be
• Grey, pale, or even whitish gums
• Dried crusts constantly accumulate in the corners of the cat’s eyes

• Spotting worms in their litter tray
• Spotting worms on their fur; particularly around the tail
• More itching than usual
• Vomiting
• Increased appetite; this symptom is a tough one because it can be a symptom of several other issues in pets. However, it is very common when a cat has worms because the worms are also eating what your cat is eating, so your cat won't be getting all the nutrients that it needs leading to increased eating habits
• Weight loss; worms steal nutrition from their host, which could cause your cat to lose weight 
• Diarrhea; or blood in their bowel movements. 

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. 
​

The 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. 
​​

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. 
​

After 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.
​

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. 
​

Worms 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. 
​

Once 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.
​

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.
​

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.
​

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.

​

Most 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.
​

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. 
​

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.
​

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.
​

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'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. 
​

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. ​

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.
​

There 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.

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.

For 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. 

In 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.

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!
​

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!

You 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!

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!

​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. 

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!

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!

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.

So 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!

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.
​​

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.
​

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 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.

One 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:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Something stuck or lodged
  
• Excessive licking by your cat
  
• Lameness and limping. 

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.

You 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!

Overall, 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.

Like 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!

If 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:

• Humidity and Heat
• Undiagnosed or Underlying health conditions
  
• Stress and Anxiety
  
• Improper or Poor Hygiene
  
• Bad diet.

​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!

Since 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!

A 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:

• Allergies (Food mainly, especially things such as beef, dairy, or grains)/ 
• Food Poisoning - infection can cause a cat’s immune system to be disrupted, and begin to shed.
• Kidney and Liver diseases.
• Fleas or Ticks infestation
• Bacterial or Fungal disease. 
• Cancer.
• Diabetes or Hyperthyroidism (Endocrine disorders).
• Sunburn
• Medication side effects

Excessive shedding could be an indication that your Maine Coon is stressed or anxious, along with other signs, such as: 

• Constipation or IBS
• Excessive chewing of objects
• Rejecting food
• Eating more
  
• Hissing
  
• Unfriendliness to other animals and humans.
  
• Not using their litter tray.

Consulting an animal behaviorist is the best idea if you think your cat is anxious or stressed, and should help you identify the problem at its source.

Bad 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!

• Excessive shedding is due to weakened fur roots. 
• Imbalances in weight 
• Tooth loss and dental infections
  
• Gastrointestinal issues such as regurgitation and gagging. 
  
• Bad eating habits.

If you think your cat’s food is affecting their shedding pattern or is causing any of these other problems, then it’s imperative that you stop feeding them their current pet food and consult an animal nutritionist or a vet in order to help decide what food is going to be best suited for your feline friend’s requirements!

​So, 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.

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.
​

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.
​

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. 
​

Cats 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.
​

Cats 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. 
​