If you have ever experienced hiccups, someone has probably tried to scare or shock you to get rid of them. But, we do not recommend going down this route with your cat. Instead, simply offer them some water.

The best method is to try and prevent the hiccups from occurring in the first place. Try to slow your cat’s eating habits. You can do this by using a puzzle feeder, or an automatic feeder. You can also try to push their wet food to the bottom of their food bowl.
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Once your cat starts to eat more slowly, there is a lower risk of them ingesting extra air and suffering from hiccups. 

And, you can also try to prevent hairballs by regularly brushing your cat (whether they like it or not). Try to make this a routine and after some time, you and your cat may start to enjoy the relaxation of it. 

If you feel like your kitten isn’t sleeping enough, there are a few things that you can do to help boost their sleep, but a visit to the vet should also be the first thing you do. 

If the vet has given your kitten the all-clear but they still aren’t sleeping enough, then thankfully there are a few ways to help ensure that they’ll get the sleep they need. So try some of these steps to help your kitten sleep:

• With kittens being as sleepy as they are, then it means that they can’t really just sleep when you want them to sleep. But, you can help by creating a routine for your kitten, and sticking to it, you’ll help bolster their sleep! 

 

• Ensuring that your cat has a comfy place to sleep is important, keep it warm and cozy and the chances are your cat will love it! 

 

• You can help to tire your kitten out by playing with them whilst they’re awake, just be sure not to overdo too much, so if your kitten seems exhausted, then let them get some sleep. 

 

• If your kitten isn’t sleeping through the night it could be due to hunger, so try feeding them their dinner a little later on in the day. 

 

• Sleep toys are a good idea, a toy or blanket that smells like their mother or their previous home is a good way of getting them to sleep as they adjust to their new home. 

It is important that no matter how tempting it is, you don’t let your cat sleep in bed with you, as you may accidentally injure them if you move in your sleep!

Kittens, much like human babies, require a lot of sleep. However, their sleep patterns differ quite a bit from mature cats. Here's a general overview of a kitten's sleeping patterns:
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1. Age: Birth to 2 weeks (Neonatal period)
   • Sleep Duration: Almost constantly, up to 22 hours a day.
   • Activity: Most of their time is spent eating or sleeping. They'll wake up for short periods, primarily to feed from their mother.
2. Age: 2 weeks to 3 weeks
   • Sleep Duration: Still around 20-22 hours a day.
   • Activity: Eyes open, and they begin to wobble-walk a little. They're still mostly feeding and sleeping, but there are increased awake periods.
3. Age: 3 weeks to 9 weeks (Socialization period)
   • Sleep Duration: 18-20 hours.
   • Activity: This is a crucial time for socialization. They become more active, playful, and curious about their surroundings, though they still sleep a lot. Play periods are intense but short-lived, followed by long naps.
4. Age: 2 months to 6 months (Most active kittenhood)
   • Sleep Duration: 16-20 hours.
   • Activity: Kittens are most active during this time, with frequent playtimes. They're curious and will often explore their environment. However, after bursts of energy, they'll retreat for a good long nap.
5. Age: 6 months to 1 year (Adolescence)
   • Sleep Duration: 16-18 hours.
   • Activity: Activity levels are still high, but there's a gradual decrease as they approach their first year. They may adopt more of an adult cat's sleeping pattern, which includes more nocturnal activity.

General Notes:

• Sleep Location: Kittens prefer warm and cozy spots, close to their siblings or mother. If you're raising a kitten, providing soft bedding or a cat bed is a good idea. As they grow, they might find various napping spots throughout the house.
• Activity Peaks: Like adult cats, kittens are crepuscular, meaning they're most active during dawn and dusk. This pattern is instinctual and aligns with the natural hunting times of wild cats.
• Growth During Sleep: Just like human babies, kittens do a lot of growing during sleep. Hence, their high sleep needs during their early months.
• Disturbances: Try not to disturb a sleeping kitten too much. Adequate rest is crucial for their development. However, interactions and play when they're awake are essential for socialization.
  ​

As with any general guidelines, individual variation exists. Some kittens might be more active than others, and sleeping patterns can change based on health, diet, and environment. If you're concerned about your kitten's sleep or activity level, it's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian.

If you suspect your kitten isn't sleeping enough, it's essential to first determine whether there is genuinely a problem. Kittens are often very playful and curious, and during their awake periods, they can be incredibly active. However, there are some steps you can take and things to consider:

1. Observe and Document:
   • Before jumping to conclusions, track your kitten's sleep for several days. This will give you an accurate picture of its actual sleep patterns.
   • Remember, while kittens sleep a lot, they don't necessarily sleep for long stretches like adult cats. Instead, they often take multiple short naps throughout the day and night.
2. Environment:
   • Ensure the environment is conducive to sleep. Provide a quiet, dark place with a comfortable bed or blanket.
   • Reduce loud noises or disruptions that might be keeping your kitten awake.
   • Consider using white noise machines or soft music designed for cats to help soothe them.
3. Play and Engagement:
   • Ensure your kitten gets plenty of playtime. Active play can tire them out and help them sleep better.
   • Use toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or interactive toys to engage with your kitten.
4. Diet:
   • Ensure your kitten is on a balanced diet suitable for its age. A hungry kitten may have trouble sleeping.
   • Stick to a feeding schedule. Avoid feeding them too close to bedtime, as it can make them more active.
5. Health Concerns:
   • Overactivity or restlessness can sometimes be due to underlying health issues.
   • Signs like diarrhea, vomiting, excessive thirst, or noticeable weight changes could be indicative of health problems and warrant a visit to the vet.
   • Certain parasites, like fleas or intestinal worms, can cause discomfort, leading to restlessness.
6. Routine:
   • Try to establish a routine for your kitten. Cats, in general, thrive on routine, and having set times for feeding, play, and rest can help regulate their internal clocks.
7. Consult a Veterinarian:
   • If you've tried various strategies and still feel your kitten isn't sleeping enough, consult a veterinarian. They can offer guidance tailored to your kitten's specific situation and can rule out potential health concerns 

​Remember, each kitten is unique. Some may naturally be more active than others. It's crucial to understand your kitten's individual personality and habits. If they seem healthy, are eating well, and are active and playful when awake, they are likely getting the rest they need, even if it seems less than expected.

​Kittens don't need their own bed, but they often benefit from having a designated safe and cozy space. Whether your kitten sleeps in its own bed or with you is a personal decision, and both options have pros and cons.
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Benefits of Providing a Bed for Your Kitten:

1. Safety and Security: Especially for tiny kittens, having a space that's just theirs can provide a sense of security. A bed with raised edges can also offer warmth and a feeling of protection.
2. Established Territory: Cats are territorial animals. Providing a bed for your kitten gives them a designated spot that they recognize as their own.
3. Hygiene: It's easier to regularly clean a cat bed than it is to wash human bedding. Cats, especially kittens, can sometimes have accidents or bring debris into bed.

Benefits of Letting Your Kitten Sleep with You:

1. Bonding: Sleeping together can strengthen the bond between you and your kitten.
2. Warmth and Comfort: Kittens love warmth, and there's nothing warmer than a human companion.
3. Security: Being close to their human can provide kittens with a feeling of safety and security.

Things to Consider Before Letting Your Kitten Sleep with You:

1. Disturbances: Kittens are often active at night and early morning. This could disturb your sleep.
2. Safety: Ensure there's no risk of rolling over onto your kitten in your sleep. This is especially crucial for very young or tiny kittens.
3. Allergies: If someone in the household has allergies, allowing a kitten in the bed may exacerbate the issue.
4. Behavioral Issues: Setting boundaries early can prevent future issues. If you decide later that you don't want your cat in your bed, it can be challenging to change the established habit.
5. Health: Ensure your kitten is free from fleas and other parasites before allowing them in your bed.

A Compromise: Some cat owners choose to provide a cat bed in the bedroom, but not on their own bed. This way, the kitten is close by and can benefit from the bond and security while still having its designated space.

​Ultimately, the decision is personal. Some cat owners cherish the experience of snuggling with their feline companions at night, while others prefer to set boundaries from the start. Whatever you decide, make sure it works for both you and your kitten.

Getting a kitten to sleep at night, or at least be more calm during nighttime hours, involves a combination of environmental manipulation, scheduling, and patience. Here are some steps to encourage your kitten to sleep during the night:
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1. Play and Activity During the Day:
   • Engage your kitten in active play several times during the day. This can tire them out and make them more likely to sleep at night.
   • Use toys that mimic prey, like feather wands or battery-operated toys, to allow your kitten to use its hunting instincts.
2. Evening Play Session:
   • Have a vigorous play session with your kitten right before your bedtime. The idea is to tire them out so they'll be more inclined to rest when you do.
3. Feeding Schedule:
   • Cats tend to sleep after a big meal. You can use this to your advantage by feeding your kitten its largest meal right before your bedtime.
   • Consider splitting their daily food allowance into smaller portions given throughout the day, culminating in a larger meal before bed.
4. Establish a Routine:
   • Cats, in general, are creatures of habit. By establishing a consistent routine for feeding, play, and bedtime, your kitten will be more likely to adapt to your schedule over time.
5. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Area:
   • While your kitten doesn't necessarily need its bed, providing a warm, cozy space might encourage sleep. This could be a soft blanket in a quiet corner, a plush cat bed, or a heated bed if your home is on the cooler side.
6. Limit Distractions:
   • Ensure your kitten's environment is calm at night. This might mean turning off televisions or radios and dimming lights to signal "bedtime."
7. Safety and Security:
   • Some kittens might be more nocturnal because they feel insecure or unsafe at night. Ensure their environment feels safe. This might involve providing hiding spots, ensuring they aren't being disturbed by other pets, or even using feline pheromone sprays or diffusers to create a sense of calm.
8. Avoid Reinforcing Bad Behavior:
   • If your kitten wakes you up in the middle of the night wanting to play, don't reinforce this behavior by giving in. It can be challenging, but try to ignore nighttime disturbances. Responding to them can create a routine that's difficult to break.
9. Patience is Key:
   • Remember that kittens are naturally more nocturnal, and it might take some time for them to adapt to your schedule. Be patient and consistent in your efforts.
10. Consider a Companion:
    • Sometimes, having another kitten or cat as a companion can help. They can play with each other and keep each other company, making them more likely to sleep during the night.

​If you've tried multiple strategies and are still having difficulty, you might consider seeking advice from a veterinarian or a feline behaviorist to ensure there are no underlying health or behavioral issues.

When you first bring your new cat home, whether it’s a kitten or an adopted, older, cat, it can always be slightly nerve-racking when it comes to deciding whether or not you should allow your cat to venture into the outside world.

​A lot of cats love the freedom they get from being able to explore their surroundings, especially as they’re naturally curious animals. 

However, as an owner, it can be terrifying to think that your cat is out there and having to fend for themselves in the wide world, as you won’t be able to protect them if there’s something out there that could hurt them. 

It’s important to know the potential dangers to your cat before you decide whether or not they can explore your neighbourhood. One of the risks to your cat is raccoons. And some people even say that raccoons will eat your cat!

Will a raccoon eat a cat? Are they dangerous to your pet? Read through our guide below to find out more!

Typically, a raccoon shouldn’t be a danger to your cat, and it’s unlikely they will actively try to hurt, attack, or eat it. But, it doesn’t depend on the situation in which your cat and the raccoon find themselves.

​Raccoons are really scavengers, and will tend to survive and thrive off eating rubbish and thrown away food, and aren’t really an animal that will go out of their way to hunt, especially a difficult animal to catch like a cat. 

But, a small kitten might just be seen as potential prey to a raccoon, and even to older cats, a raccoon still poses plenty of danger. If you want to know more, then find out why below.

Raccoons and cats are similar in the way that they’re both nocturnal animals, so both of these species are much more active in the nighttime.

​But, whilst your cat gets to enjoy the comfort and warmth of your home, raccoons have to survive and fend entirely for themselves, and are wild creatures, so they won’t stop looking for food if they're hungry! 

When it comes to a raccoon’s senses, they’re extremely sharp, so if you’ve thrown away a load of leftovers, there’s a good chance that a raccoon will be finding its way to your home in order to try and find something to eat, so you should be careful when you place stuff into your trash cans, and should ensure that you have a way of securing them and keeping them shut overnight, just in case a raccoon happens to come sniffing!

Alternatively, pet food is another thing that can attract a raccoon to your backyard, so if you feed your cats outside of your house you should be careful you don’t leave any laying around in the nighttime!

Territory
Once a raccoon finds its way into your garden, this is where the problems will begin to arise. See, cats are naturally incredibly territorial, so if your cat likes to roam outside, it probably views the backyard of your house as its own domain, and a wild raccoon coming around looking for food will undoubtedly anger your cat! 

Although it depends massively on your cat’s personality, it is likely that your cat might decide to protect its territory against the trespasser and attack the raccoon, which will then lead to a nasty fight. So whilst a raccoon might not attack your cat, your cat will probably attack the raccoon!

Size
As everyone knows, a larger fighter is almost always going to be a smaller fighter, and it’s absolutely no different when it comes to a fight between your cat and a wild raccoon. 

Although your cat will more than likely be the better fighter due to its sharper instincts and reflexes, a raccoon is much too big for your cat to take on in a fight and win successfully.

Thankfully, it is unlikely that a raccoon will go as far as killing a cat in a fight, with most fights lasting a few quick moments before one of the parties gets deterred by the premise of a full-blown fight. 

But, as you’ll find out below, a raccoon doesn’t have to kill your cat in a fight for it to be considered dangerous. 

Illness
If there was a fight, then there’s a good chance that both your cat and the wild racoon endured some bites and scratches, which might seem fine at first, but in reality this is where the real threat from raccoons comes from.

You see, raccoons are known to carry a varied number of diseases and parasites that could cause some serious harm to your cat, and in some circumstances, could even be fatal. Most notably, some raccoons can be found to be carrying rabies, which is an incredibly bad disease for your cat to have, and will lead to them being put down. 

So, if you know that your cat has been in a fight with a raccoon at all then you should immediately make a visit to the vet, otherwise there is a high risk that you cat will contract one of the of the nasty diseases from the raccoon and their wound will become infected, and without proper care, then they’ll likely die. 

Raccoons don’t do most cats as prey, and most mature cats will understand the sort of threat an animal like a raccoon poses. But, they are wild and unpredictable, and also opportunistic predators, so they might attack a kitten unprovoked.

Overall though, raccoons are simply looking for scraps, so they’ll likely just be looking to find their scrap foods, and then disappear!

Raccoons might not want to eat your cat, but they can cause a dangerous infection if they fight, so you should watch out!

Cats are one of the most loved animals in the world. Alongside dogs, these furry friends have been kept as pets for thousands of years, with the Ancient Egyptians worshiping them as Gods (some of us still do that!)

Cats and humans have a lot in common. We both love affection and companionship, and a quick (or long) cuddle with your cat can ease stress in both you and them.

Because we spend so much time with cats, it is easy to look for human characteristics in them and human-like connections. And, whilst cats seem to have the same kind of moods as us, such as being content, happy, and, of course, moody, it’s important to remember that they are unique animals.

The behavior of cats can be linked to humans, but sometimes this behavior can seem a little different to other cats. 

Many pet owners have wondered if their cats have autism, due to how they act. Of course, the autism spectrum is wide and varied, but the behaviors found on this spectrum can often be exhibited by cats. 

But, can cats actually have autism? Research into autism has mainly been centered around human behavior but experts and cat owners have noticed similarities between cats and people with autism. 

Read on as we discover whether cats have autism and the behavior that is attributed to this developmental disability.

Autism represents a wide range of different conditions, caused by variations in the brain. Most of the time, these conditions are signified by issues involving someone’s social skills, nonverbal communication, speech, and behaviors that are repetitive.  

The autism spectrum is wide and there can be a significant difference in the severity and type of issues experienced. One person’s autistic symptoms may be hugely different from someone else, however.

The clinical term for autism is “autism spectrum disorder” but many experts prefer to call it “autism spectrum.” This is because some people with autism only experience very slight issues, whereas others require extensive care for their entire lives. 

Because it is a developmental disability, autism tends to affect a person’s thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ability to learn. As for physical appearance, there are rarely any physical characteristics that show someone is autistic. This is why it has been so difficult to diagnose autism throughout the past, and even today.

Because it is challenging to diagnose people with autism, it can cause issues for those who are not diagnosed with it early in life. They may not know why they think or behave differently from others and because there are no physical clues to the condition, others do not know the person has autism. 

There is a wide range of behaviors that can be present in someone on the spectrum. Some of these can be found in cats. The main behaviors include:

• Wanting to be left alone and avoiding eye contact
  
• Not wanting to be cuddled, touched, or held
  
• Having difficulty relating to others
  
• Repeating the same actions time and time again
  
• Having trouble adjusting to changes in routines
  
• Having an interest in others but not being able to play or communicate with them effectively 

Generally speaking, cats can not have autism. Nevertheless, they can be diagnosed with certain conditions and can have special needs. 

Special needs in cats usually stem from physical disabilities or physical issues attributed to old age. For example, a cat who is missing a leg is classified as one with special needs. 

Other examples of special needs in cats include:

• Deafness
• Blindness 
• Entire immobility 

As well as physical impairments, some cats with special needs have mental impairments. Whilst most of these conditions are from birth defects, some occur after an accident or a serious illness. 

You may also be wondering if cats can have down syndrome. Well, some have been found with symptoms of this condition, such as wide-set eyes, unusual facial features, behavior that is not common in others, and issues with vision and hearing. 

If you believe your cat has any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should visit the veterinarian to find a cause. Therefore, you can start to care for your furry friend properly going forward. 

Many cat owners have noticed autistic-like behaviors in their pets. Maybe you have seen your cat getting obsessed with catching certain items or animals. Or, your cat likes to spend most of its time alone (although this is quite normal for most cats).

Maybe your fur ball gets spooked easily by bright lights and noises or is easily overstimulated. Try to show affection and they get spooked by this as well?

Cats tend to like having a routine and are generally an intelligent species. Therefore, changing their routine can have an effect on their behavior and is not necessarily a sign of a deeper issue.

Cats may also make unusual sounds from time to time. Therefore, many cat owners start to think their feline may have autism. However, cats tend to make different sounds for a variety of reasons and these can differ from one breed to another.

​All of these are similar behaviors to those who are on the autistic spectrum, but are also typical behaviors found in cats. Therefore, it is hard to conclude that cats can have autism.

​Nonetheless, if you have noticed that your cat is acting differently or very strangely, you should call your vet for a wellness check.

​This can often put your mind at ease but, if issues are present, your veterinarian can identify them and help you in caring for your special needs cat in the future.

A cat’s typical behavior can easily be attributed to autism. Although further research is required, experts do not believe cats can have autism but, if they are acting differently, you should get them checked out by your vet for clarification on any possible issues.

As much as we all try to be the best possible pet owners for our feline friends, situations can and do arise where we worry our cats will hold a grudge. 

Maybe your cat is being standoffish with you after you’ve returned from vacation, or perhaps you’ve accidentally tripped over them or stepped on their tail (it happens). 

Regardless of why you feel your cat may be upset with you, you’re probably eager for the dynamic to return to normal, which begs the question: how long does a cat hold a grudge?

Cats have a short-term memory span of about 16 hours. This means that generally speaking, cats don’t remember small slights or accidents after the 16-hour mark. 

So, if you’ve done something minor to upset your cat, such as making a loud noise and accidentally scaring them, you can expect them to return to their normal, affectionate self within a few hours - 16 hours at the most.

Here are some examples of things that your cat is likely to forgive you for quickly: 

• Picking them up. If you pick up your cat, they may let you know that this kind of interaction is unwanted with a scratch or a bite, and they might give you the cold shoulder for a few hours. However, this type of incident is usually quickly forgotten about.
  
• Excessive petting. Similar to picking up your cat when they don’t want it, petting your cat excessively can lead to them reacting out of annoyance, and this can extend to a few hours of avoidance or general grumpiness. This is especially true if you touch some of your cat’s more sensitive or vulnerable areas like their belly or the pads of their paws.
  
• Sleep deprivation. We all know how annoying it can be to have our sleep disturbed. If you interrupt your cat’s nap time, expect some grumpiness for a while. However, this is a minor transgression that is typically forgiven quite quickly as long as you let your cat go back to sleep and leave them be.
  
• An accidental hit/kick. Accidents happen. Flinging out an arm or walking around without watching your feet can result in accidentally hurting your cat. Naturally, this is very unpleasant for your pet, and you probably feel awful about it, but as long as your cat doesn’t seem to be injured, try not to worry too much. Cats are sensitive to their emotional environment, so they can usually tell when there’s anger or malice behind an action and when something is an accident. Because of this, they will most likely forgive you for this one within a day.

While cats will typically forgive their owners for unintentional upsets within 16 hours, or 24 at most, there are some things that our feline companions won’t forgive so easily. The following things are likely to result in your cat holding a prolonged grudge against you:

• Stepping on their tail. As we mentioned earlier, your cat will probably understand that you stepping on their tail was an accident, but they may still hold a grudge. The tail is a very sensitive area for felines and they depend on it for balance and mobility. Therefore, if you accidentally hurt your cat’s tail, they might feel threatened and avoid you or behave aggressively for a few days.
  
• Punishments. Most experts in cat behavior will tell you to refrain from punishing your cat in any way because they can perceive it as a threat and become avoidant for anywhere up to several days after such an incident.
  
• Abuse. It should go without saying, but being violent or aggressive with your cat is abusive. If you abuse your cat, they will avoid you, become anxious, and develop behavioral problems.

If you’re not sure whether your cat is mad at you, here are some telltale signs that you have some reconciliation to do:

• Avoidance or aggression. If your cat is running away or hiding from you, or giving you the cold shoulder when you try to be affectionate, they are probably upset and holding a grudge. Similarly, if your cat lashes out physically, they are likely feeling scared and annoyed after what happened.
• Looking annoyed. Cats have expressive eyes and faces. If your cat is fixing you with a haughty, irritated look, it’s possible that they’re holding a grudge.
• Body language. Tail switching, a puffed-up tail with an arched back, and flattened ears are all signs of an unhappy cat.
• Bathroom issues. If you’ve done something to upset your cat, they may start urinating or defecating outside of the litter box, either due to anxiety or in protest.

After upsetting your cat, you probably feel sad and guilty, but don’t be tempted to overcompensate by getting in your cat’s space to give them affection since this could backfire. Instead, sit somewhere accessible with your cat’s favorite blanket or toy near you. This will encourage your cat to approach you. 

Other ways to get back in your cat’s good books is to give them their favorite food and speak softly to them while still giving them space so they know you’re not ignoring them. 

After a few hours, try approaching your cat gently and offering a treat or a toy. By this point, they may be ready for love again. 

Most of the time, cats will hold a grudge for a maximum of 16 hours due to how their short-term memory works. However, in some cases, such as if you step on their tail or punish them, cats might hold a grudge for several days. 

Signs your cat is holding a grudge include aggressive or fearful body language, avoidant or aggressive behavior, or bathroom problems. 

You can speed up reconciliation with your cat by giving them space, speaking softly, and giving their favorite food, treats, or toys as peace offerings.

When it comes to cat ownership, there are often a lot of questions that can be raised by prospective or first-time cat owners, especially when it comes to the more niche stuff, like a cat’s anatomy. 

In fact, one of the questions we see asked rather frequently is regarding a cat’s nipples, and whether or not male cats have nipples. Although it might sound rather strange at first, it’s a very valid question to ask, especially if you’ve never spent much time with a male cat before. 

So, if you’re a new cat owner, you’re thinking of owning a cat, or perhaps you just have some questions about a cat’s anatomy, then here’s our guide to everything you need to know about a cat’s nipples!

It might shock some people, but the answer to this question is actually yes! Male cats do indeed have nipples. 

The nipples of a cat are developed whilst they are in the early stages of growth as they reside in the mother cat’s uterus, and much like most other animals that have nipples, their nipples are formed long before the sex of the cat is determined, which is why both male and female cats have nipples!

A male cat’s nipples are much less pronounced than a female cat’s nipples, which might be why you’ve never seen a male cat’s nipples before, but it’s worth noting that a female cat’s nipples aren’t especially large either!

It might be obvious as to why cats have nipples, but just in case you’re still not sure, allow us to explain!

Cats are mammals, which means their babies grow inside of them and are then birthed, which means that these babies (called kittens) then need to be fed by their mother, which is done through the milk produced by the mother, which the kittens take through the nipple.

Unlike female cats, male cats can’t actually produce any milk at all despite having mammary glands, which means that when it comes to feeding a litter of kittens, it’s all up to the mother cat to do her job and ensure that her young are fed and healthy!

Mother cats (which are called queens) often give birth to numerous kittens at once, so it’s important that they’re able to feed them all when they need it, which is why they have so many nipples!

Typically, a cat will have 6 or 8 nipples on average, but it’s not impossible for a cat to have more or fewer nipples than others, so don’t worry if you notice that this is the case with your cat!

​Despite this, what is interesting is that cats will always have an even number of nipples and that the variation in their number of nipples is actually completely random, and isn’t down to anything to do with their gender, breed, health, or age! So it’s totally random for each cat!

​No matter whether your cat is a male or female, their nipples will always be in two rows, that will run parallel to one another on the underside of the cat’s abdomen, and how close they come to the pelvis depends entirely on how many nipples your cat has, it’s not impossible for your cat’s nipples to run all the way from the front to back!

Unsurprisingly, male cats can’t get pregnant, so their nipples will be no indication at all as to whether or not they are pregnant. 

When it comes to female cats, the answer is somewhat complicated. At first, no, the nipples will provide no sign or indication that your cat is pregnant.

​However, if you believe that your cat is pregnant, then from week 3 onwards you’ll be able to tell as their nipples will be enlarged. 

In addition to their nipples being slightly enlarged in comparison to normal, you will also notice that your pregnant cat’s nipples will also change their color slightly, becoming either darker or even pinker.

This change usually happens at the same time as the enlargement too, so you’ll soon be able to tell whether or not your cat is pregnant!

If you notice that your pregnant queen’s nipples are leaking then at first it can be extremely concerning, however, there is absolutely no need to panic at all!

​If the nipples are leaking just a little bit of milk, all it means is that the queen’s body is just increasing the production of milk in anticipation of the arrival of her kittens!

A cat’s pregnancy is on average around 9 weeks long, and it's between days 60 and 70 that the kittens are usually born, and whilst leaking nipples definitely isn’t a sign that the kittens are due to be birthed anytime soon, you will notice the queen’s nipples becoming much larger and more prominent as the birth draws nearer. 

It’s also completely natural for milk to start flowing from the queen’s nipples a couple of days before the birth, so this is a sign that your queen might be ready to be giving birth soon if you do notice it. 

In addition to milk flowing, there’s a good chance that your queen will begin licking around her nipple area if they happen to leak. Again, there’s nothing to worry about, as it’s completely normal, all she is doing is grooming and cleaning herself, so it’s completely natural!

So to summarise, yes, male cats do have nipples. We hope you’ve enjoyed this small guide to a cat’s nipples and anatomy! 

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​Regular Preventative Treatment
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As we mentioned earlier, your vet will recommend preventative treatment moving forward to stop future lice infestations. However, you shouldn’t wait until you have to take your cat to the vet for lice before you start this treatment.

Cats should have at least one routine check-up per year, starting at the age of nine weeks, so you should discuss preventive flea, lice and worm treatment with your vet at your cat’s first appointment.

​If you have multiple cats, it’s vital to make sure that all cats are up to date on their treatment to avoid the possibility of lice spreading from one to another.

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Washing Bedding
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In addition to living on skin and in fur, lice can jump around and multiply in your cat’s bedding, so it’s important to wash this on a regular basis, even if your cat is receiving preventative lice treatment, to be on the safe side.

​Experts recommend washing your cat’s bedding every other week. It’s also a good idea to vacuum the bedding between washes and supplement your cleaning routine with some pet bedding spray.

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​Frequent Grooming
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Most cats can benefit from grooming to some extent, but this one is particularly important if you have a long-haired cat breed. Grooming won’t actually prevent lice, but it will help you to notice changes in your cat’s fur and skin earlier, which is key to quick and effective treatment if lice are discovered.

Grooming also helps to prevent matting, which can make lice harder to spot, so grooming your cat on a regular basis is one of the best ways to monitor for the presence of lice.

When it comes to cat ownership, there can be a lot of questions raised, especially if you’ve never owned a cat before, and simple things such as how often to feed them and how to litter train them can go from being the simplest of tasks to a complicated one!

One of the more popular questions we get asked about caring for our feline friends is how often should I take my cat to the vet? It’s understandable that people want to make sure that their cat is visiting the vet enough, and is being checked regularly to ensure that they are healthy, but the dilemma is often about how often you should visit!

​So, if you’re wondering how often you should take your cat to the vet, then read on through our simple guide in order to learn everything you need to know!

Cats are quite expressive animals, so you’ll soon know if something is wrong, but even if your cat seems completely fine and healthy, it’s still a good idea to take your cat to the vet at least once a year.

​This will allow your local vet to give your cat a basic health check to ensure that there is nothing minor that might be missed or unnoticed until it develops into a bigger problem. 

​If you allow your cat to roam around outdoors, you might also need to pay a visit to keep them up to date with their core and non-core injections, and they may need additional ones too, as this will help to protect them from the conditions and things they might come across during their adventures outside your home. 

The age and maturity of your cat also plays an important role in determining how often you should take your cat to the vet as well, so check the guidelines below to see how often your cat visits the vet:

• Kittens: If you have a kitten, aged between 6 to 16 weeks, then you should make sure that your kitten visits the vet at least once a month. This is mainly so that they can receive all of the vaccinations they need, but it’s also a great time for you to discuss things such as spaying or neutering, and microchipping your cat.
• Adults: Once your cat is an adult, between the ages of 1 to 7 years old, then you shouldn't really need to have to take them to the vet too often, as long as they’re healthy that is. So you should just be sure to take them for an annual checkup to ensure that everything is going well and that there are no underlying problems. A typical annual checkup will include things such as a full physical check, some blood tests, as well as some other forms of testing too.
• Seniors: If your cat is getting older, and is into its senior years, which is from 7 years old and beyond, then they would probably benefit more from visiting the vet around twice a year. Cats do have quite long lifespans, but two checkups a year will ensure that any developments with health issues or age-related problems will be caught in enough time which means they can be treated easily before they become problematic.

If your cat is healthy, then there should be no reason for you to take them to the vet for just a regular checkup more than once a year.

However, if you have any concerns about your cat’s health for whatever reason, then you should absolutely take them to the vet.

Unless it’s an emergency, where your cat has eaten and swallowed something they shouldn’t have, or if it has been hit by a vehicle, then you’ll probably have to book and schedule an appointment with your vet before your cat can be seen.

​There are a few things you should look out for with your cat that might be a sign that they need to visit the vet:

• Coughing and sneezing: This could be a sign of a respiratory infection, such as feline herpes, or even feline calicivirus. These are both highly contagious but can be solved easily if you contact your vet. 
  
• Changes in appetite and drinking: If your cat isn’t eating or drinking enough, or is eating too much, then you should definitely schedule an appointment.
  
• Changes in activity, grooming, or sleep: If your cat is sleeping too much or too little, there could be something wrong. If your cat is less active it could be a result of an injury. And a lack of grooming could be a sign your cat is ill, and has something such as gum disease.
  
• Vomiting and weight loss: If your cat is losing significant amounts of weight or is vomiting, then you should take them to the vet as soon as possible as there is something severely wrong.
  
• Avoiding the litter box: If your cat is avoiding the litter box, is straining to urinate, or isn’t eliminating at all, it could be a sign of an undiagnosed health issue, so you should take your cat to the vet.
  
• Shivering: If your cat is shivering regularly, then it could be a sign of something such as hypothermia, so you should try to schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible in order to get them checked out.

Overall, taking your cat to the vet is something that you should ensure you do at least annually, this will mean that your cat is kept healthy and happy, so be sure to look after them!

​I love my Daddy

Mommy adopted me when I was a kitten, and I love her a lot as well. She has always been around.
Mommy only met Daddy when I was a teen. I don't really accept anyone in my life. I like people, but
only to a certain point. When I met Daddy, I loved him a lot from the start. I knew that he loved me
as well. We understood and accepted each other immediately.

A while after I met Daddy, I visited Daddy alot. I loved it when we played at his place! He has a big
house and a yard with lots of space, grass, trees, and bugs. It is the best house ever! Eventually, we
moved in, and it is now also my home. Daddy and I are best friends now. He loves me and others of
my kind as well! He is a cat lover, or should I say a cat servant. Mwahaha!

I like to play with Daddy a lot! He always plays with me. Sometimes we play with my toys. I also love
to play by chasing and attacking his hands or feet. He also plays hide and seek! Mommy trained him
to play it, and he is a quick learner. How cool is that? Daddy also follows me outside to see what I am
doing. Mostly we end up playing afterward!

Daddy always brings home toys to play with. Sometimes he brings paper bags, boxes, and toys on
strings home and plays with me with them. The other day he bought home a small red dot that runs
on the wall! Sometimes it just disappears and reappears, but it is alot of fun to play with!

Daddy loves to cuddle a lot! Especially at night before we go to bed! I love cuddles and sleeping on
top of him. We always get into bed, watch TV, and then cuddle until we fall asleep. I don't like it
when Daddy moves around or gets up while I sleep. Sometimes when I bite him softly, he usually
lays still. Dad also gives me my favorite food. He is the best Dad ever!

I am going to attack his feet now!