 One thing is undeniable: the flexibility, speed, and height that cats possess, so this is made possible by their unique bone structure. So looking at the spine and legs of a cat, we can see that this gives them good footing and agility while giving them the power in their legs to reach high areas. While a cat has somewhere around 230-245 bones in its system, depending on the type, you might be thinking about how all of this works, so to find out more, we'll look closely at each section to remove the air of mystery that surrounds your feline friend. An Overview Of A Cat's Skeletal SystemWe know that a human has around 206-213 but starts with 270, so you can get a good idea of how this stacks up, and this is made possible by a human's bones fusing as they grow, but what if we want to take a closer look? You can find out how each section of the skeleton is made up, so this can be seen as:
How Tough Are A Cat's Bones?You can see from many examples that a cat's musculoskeletal system can absorb quite a lot of shock from falls or damage, so it's going to take some considerable shock or sustained pressure to break or fracture a bone. However, cats do experience broken leg bones more often than any other part of the body, and there are usually signs that your cat shows that there could be a fracture or break.
Are There Any Interesting Aspects Of A Cat's Skeleton? The way the structure remains light while allowing them to walk on the tips of their toes and sneak around is more to do with sneaking up on prey, although the domestic cat doesn't need this and is similar in explaining why they spend so much time sleeping. What's more interesting is that a cat's skeleton is made up of four distinctly-made types of bone, and these are known as the long bones, irregular bones, short bones, and flat bones, which all work to keep everything in place and allow movement. This all means that a cat can jump as high as 4-5 feet, which is five or six times its height on average, and through their evolution, they have developed a righting reflex that has made landing easier for them with retractable claws that assist them. Are There Any Limits To How Far A Cat Can Fall?The thing here is that there isn't a definitive answer, and you'd not want to put it to the test, but it is said that a cat fell 32 stories and suffered a damaged tooth and a collapsed lung, but don't worry, the cat was discharged after two days. There have also been stories of cats that have fallen seven and even 19 stories and received minor injuries, with a relatively large surface area in proportion to its weight, and can slow their descent if you compare this to humans. This means that your cat can go wondering up trees and high balconies and have gained a fundamental instinct for being able to sense which way is down, so cats are more adept to these kinds of environments than what we initially expect. Final ThoughtsYou love your cat, and now you know more about them, you can perhaps work out why they act the way they do, as this is something that has puzzled many and may feel like spontaneity instead of instinct. The bond that exists between you and your cat is something you cherish, so picking up on these behaviors is an excellent way to identify issues that may arise with your cat, plus you two make the best of friends.
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 For a cat owner, seeing your feline best friend throwing up white foam can be really distressing, and you’ll no doubt wonder if there’s something seriously wrong with them. While hairballs on occasion are common for cats, if your pet is repeatedly throwing up white foam, it may be more of a concern. Does A Cat Throwing Up White Foam Mean They’re Sick?There can be many reasons why your cat might be throwing up. The causes can range from completely harmless to potentially life-threatening in its severity. If your cat is throwing up white foam it’s usually an indicator that it’s throwing up on an empty stomach, with the foam being the natural mucus present in the stomach. It’s not entirely unusual, but can be a good starting point for figuring out what might be wrong with your little feline! If your cat has only thrown up once, and hasn’t done so since and is otherwise in good health, it’s likely just an isolated incident caused by an irritated stomach due to something it ate or a minor illness. If, however, it’s recurring frequently, it may point to an underlying issue. There’s a great many potential reasons that your cat might be throwing up, so it’s important to remember that you’re unlikely to find the cause through your own research based on it alone, or through the internet. If you’re really concerned about your cat’s condition, always contact your vet to be safe. When Should I Get Concerned About My Cat Throwing Up?Your cat vomiting once isn’t likely to be a sign of concern, as long as they are otherwise healthy and acting normal. In this case, it’s unlikely you will have to call a vet, and you should instead just keep an eye on your cat for the next couple of days to make sure their behavior is normal and there are no other signs of sickness. If you notice other signs of illness, such as diarrhea, tiredness, or your cat refusing to eat, then it’s likely time to consider talking to a vet. You should also contact your vet if the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours. Your vet can help you find a diagnosis for your cat through tests and physical examinations, so always go to them for any potential issues. They can also help you treat any issues that might arise from your cat vomiting frequently, such as dehydration from loss of fluid. Vomiting cats can also develop fatty liver disease from being on an empty stomach. Your vet can prescribe fluid therapy to rehydrate your kitty and also reduce the risk of disease through treatment. Can’t I Get Medicine To Treat My Cat’s Throwing Up At Home? In short, no. There aren’t any over-the-counter medications to help stop your cat from throwing up. Most human medications aren’t safe for cats to consume and are toxic to them. This can cause issues much more severe than vomiting, so you should always stay away from any home remedies to treat your cat. If you think your cat is sick, always contact your vet for proper treatment. How Is Throwing Up Diagnosed?Your vet should be able to diagnose the cause of your cat throwing up white foam. They will give your cat a physical examination for any issues, such as insect bites that might be infected or have caused disease. They will check the hydration levels of the cat, measure its heart rate, check to see if they’re breathing properly, and check the abdomen for any internal issues, such as masses that could point to a tumor, and to see if there are any intestinal blockages. After this, your vet will likely recommend some sort of diagnostic test depending on what they find. This might be a blood test or a test of a sample of your cat's poop to check for parasites, and possibly an x-ray. If your vet cannot find a cause after these tests, they may do more advanced tests, such as an ultrasound. They may also put your cat on a temporary hypoallergenic diet, to make sure that it isn’t being caused by any food allergies you might not know about. The last resort would be a biopsy of your cat's intestines to check for cancer or bowel diseases. How To Treat Cats Throwing Up White FoamIf your cat has vomited but seems relatively stable afterward, and there is no obvious underlying cause, then your vet will likely simply prescribe anti-nausea medication in the form of a tablet or an injection to help settle your cat's stomach. They may also tell you to keep your cat on a diet of bland, prescription foods that are unlikely to upset your cat's stomach. This is often all your cat will need to get over an upset stomach and they’ll be feeling better in no time! If the issue is more severe, and the vomiting is ongoing, then your cat may need to be hospitalized by your vet. This way, they can keep your cat on an IV drip to keep them hydrated, while also being able to keep them medicated and safe and watch over them to help monitor any changes. Once your cat is hydrated and your vet has managed to stop them vomiting, you’ll be able to take them home again while your vet continues to give you medication for treatment. It’s impossible to say what this treatment will be until your cat has been diagnosed, but it will most likely involve some oral medication and further follow-up visits to your vet for check-ups and injections. If you see your cat throwing up white foam, always watch to see if this is an isolated incident or if they continue to be sick. An isolated incident of throwing up white foam is unlikely to mean anything serious, and won’t warrant a call to the vet if your cat is otherwise healthy. If your cat is vomiting frequently, however, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will work with you to create the best treatment possible for your furry friend.  Persian cats are one of the most distinctive cat breeds in the world. Their squashed faces and incredible long-haired coats truly make them stand out from the crowd. When considering introducing a feline friend into your home, it’s important to think about your allergies and which breeds are hypoallergenic. If a Persian cat is at the top of your list, then you need to know exactly what that entails. In this article, we’ll answer the question: “Are Persian cats hypoallergenic?” This way, you can be confident in your choice when it comes to bringing a Persian cat into your home. So, Are Persians Hypoallergenic?The short answer to this question is no; Persian cats are not hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, not even the hairless Sphynx cat. And with their long coats and frequent shedding, Persian cats are definitely not ideal for allergy sufferers. However, that doesn't mean you can’t have a Persian cat as the perfect pet. With a few household changes and the proper care, this flat-faced beauty can be an incredible companion that won’t make you sneeze every ten seconds! What Makes Them Not Hypoallergenic?Most assume that Persian cats aren’t hypoallergenic because of their thick coats, but this isn’t actually the cause. The issue is the dander, not the hair. Dander is the dead skin that falls off your cat's skin, and it can spread around your home and become airborne for extended periods of time. Other than dander, allergies can also be triggered by a Persian’s salvia, urine, feces, sweat, mucus, and tears. This is why grooming and bathing your Persian cat regularly is essential to keep dander at bay. They carry more dander than other breeds, so even though they hate water, they’re going to need to get in that tub! How Bad Are Persians For Allergy Sufferers?Before adopting a Persian cat, you should be aware that males produce more allergens than females. Furthermore, neutered cats also produce fewer allergens than intact ones. How bad these cats are for your allergies really depends on how severely you suffer from them. Before adopting a Persian, it’s best to spend a day with one so you can monitor your reactions. If you have no reaction, or just a mild one, it should be safe to adopt a gorgeous Persian cat. A mild reaction consists of the following symptoms:
However, if your reaction is severe, then it’s better to choose a different breed, or maybe a different pet altogether. A more extreme reaction would manifest in the following ways:
How To Minimize Persian Allergies 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:
Grooming Every Persian cat owner will tell you that their cat’s beautiful coats are extremely high maintenance. This is why a regular grooming routine will not only keep your cat’s coat looking shiny and soft but also help prevent an allergic reaction. The more you groom your Persian, the less dander will build up around your home. You can keep those allergens away by:
Diet To avoid shedding and associated skin issues, preserve their general health, and lengthen their lifespan, you should follow your cat's natural diet. The right diet will help to prevent allergens. It ought to include:
Personal Hygiene Practicing good personal hygiene can also help you combat allergies. You can keep them at bay by:
Final ThoughtsWhile Persian cats aren’t hypoallergenic, there are ways to control your mild allergic reactions when owning one. With the right environment, diet, grooming routine, and personal hygiene practice, there’s no reason why you can’t have a Persian cat as your new feline companion.  If you’re here to find out if our furry little friends can get headaches then your answer is yes! Well, we think so… there is no clear-cut evidence for cats getting headaches and it's not like we can ask them. However, vets believe that they can get three types of headaches: tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. If you think your cat is suffering from one of these, then there are things you can do to help. DETERMINE IF YOUR CAT HAS A HEADACHEAs humans we have the ability to communicate if we are feeling unwell, sadly our furry friends don't have this luxury, so we need to be on the lookout for them. What Is A Headache? A headache is most commonly known to be pain or discomfort inside your head or around your face. What Do Headaches Look Like In Cats? Due to cats’ survival l instincts, they tend to seclude themselves when they are feeling unwell because they don’t like to show weakness. Therefore, they hide their pain from us. This is why it is important to look out for any changes in your cat's behavior because otherwise, we may miss when they are suffering from a headache in silence. Behaviour Changes to be on the look-out for:
In general, look for any changes to your cat's usual behavior, because this will help determine that something is wrong. Causes Of Headaches In CatsSimilar to us humans, there are many reasons why your cat could be suffering from a headache. Main Causes:
How To Treat A Cats Headache?Just like we would treat our own headaches, pain medication can be given to our cats to help treat their headache. Although, this should not be done without consulting with your vet prior. A vet will be able to diagnose what is wrong with your cat, and hopefully discover the trigger. They will be able to conduct an exam and run blood tests or scans. Medications that are generally safe for cats include; Corticosteroids, Opioids, Gabapentin, and Amitriptyline. But, please consult your vet before offering your cat any of these medications. If you're wanting a way to initially help your cat before seeking medical advice, a kind way to help your little friend is to find a dark place, that's nice and cool, as well as quiet. Bright lights will only make a headache worse, especially if it's a migraine. Offering a dark relaxing atmosphere will help your cat to relax and heal. Make sure you keep your cat fed and hydrated. Offering some gentle petting may also help your furry friend to calm down and feel better. How To Prevent A Cats Headache? The best way to prevent your cat from having a headache is by keeping it healthy as possible. This can be done by making these regular checks on your cat: Eating Habits Don’t let them skip meals, cats will starve themselves if they don’t like the food you’re giving them. They’re fussy and very stubborn animals. Make sure they like the food that you feed them, to ensure they get the nutrients they need to live a healthy lifestyle. Staying Hydrated Dehydration is a common issue in cats and causes many problems for their health. Many cats ignore the water in their drinking bowl because they are only attracted to running water. So consider buying your cat a water fountain or introducing them to your kitchen tap! Mood We don’t realize how important it is to play with our cats. Playing keeps their brains and bodies active. Whether it be with catnip, some string, or a toy they love. Regular Check-Ups Make sure you're taking them to the vet at least once a year so that no irregularities are missed. Protect Against Parasites Keeping your cat healthy and itch-free. If you notice any itching, check your cat for ticks and parasites and get them treated as soon as possible. Parasites can lead to stress, which of course we know leads to headaches. Does Your Mood Affect Your Cats Health?Yes. Cats are extremely mood sensitive. They know when we are sad, they know when you are happy, they know when we are angry and they know when we are stressed. Your home is your cat’s colony, therefore emotional signals are important because any signs of distress will have a lasting effect on your cat. Our stress can therefore be passed on to our little fury friends, which as a result could cause a headache! Managing our emotions, will not only help our own emotional well-being and physical health, but it will help our cats' health too. Final thoughtsOur furry friends sadly can get poorly in the same way that we can, and unsurprisingly their headaches are caused by the same things that cause our own headaches. There are always ways to treat headaches, but the most important thing for cats is to try and avoid the cause of the problem. By keeping your cat well-fed, hydrated, clean, and happy, your furry friend is unlikely to suffer from a headache.  Cat grass, often referred to as pet grass, is an annual plant that is safe and nutritious for consumption by both humans and animals. This mixture of cereal grasses can be grown indoors or outdoors and provides a natural way to increase the amount of vitamins in both your and your pet's diet. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to grow your own cat grass for yourself and your feline friend. WHAT IS CAT GRASS?A variety of grasses known as cat grass are primarily grown from the seeds of barley, rye, oat, or wheat. Wheatgrass, barley grass, oatgrass, and ryegrass are the four most popular varieties of cat grass. Cat grass is well-liked among cats and other animals as a digestive aid. Although cats like both catnip and cat grass, the two are not identical; catnip is a perennial herb in the mint family that when taken causes a behavioral response in cats. What You’ll Need To Grow Cat GrassBefore you get started, you’ll need the right equipment for the job. Most of these items can be found around the house or at your local garden store or pet store. To grow cat grass, you will need:
How To Plant Cat GrassYou can try growing your own cat grass or purchase kits from a nearby pet store. Check out the steps listed below to learn how to make your own cat grass from seeds of oat, barley, rye, and wheatgrass:
How To Look After Cat GrassOnce you’ve planted your cat grass, you need to make sure you care for it properly. To ensure your cat grass continues to grow, follow these steps:
Why You Should Grow Cat Grass? For pet owners, cat grass is especially beneficial. It gives animals a healthy, fibrous snack while also acting as a laxative to help their digestive systems and a vomit-inducer to make it easier for them to cough up indigestible substances. This kind of grass can keep animals away from your houseplants and the vegetables in your garden, in addition to providing a healthy salad mix for your pet. Cat grass is also consumed by people because it contains vitamins. It has chlorophyll, niacin, folic acid, and vitamins A and D. A variety of cat grass called wheatgrass is frequently added to smoothies or used as a shot by those looking to increase their vitamin consumption. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow Long Does Cat Grass Last? Due to the insufficient sunlight, cat grass grown exclusively indoors may barely live one week. On the other hand, cat grass that is grown outdoors can thrive for three weeks. Cat grass should be planted every two weeks for maximum results, so that there is always a new crop available for the cats to snack on. To encourage growth, you can also clip your cat grass. However, it will ultimately die off, so it's best to just keep sowing new seeds. What’s The Difference Between Cat Grass And Catnip? Catnip is inedible and has strange effects on your cat, but cat grass refers to young shoots that cats can eat. The latter is used in many cat toys due to its stimulating qualities. So long as your cat isn't insensitive to it, you can give them a toy that contains catnip and watch how they react. Your cat may roll, rub, sniff ferociously, purr, or perform other behaviors when under its influence. In fact, they might behave euphorically and like they're high as a result. Your cat, however, is experiencing a period of great joy, which is quite normal. Is Cat Grass Safe? Cat grass is a risk-free substitute for certain houseplants that can be toxic, as well as outdoor grass that may be sprayed with weed killers or other pesticides. It also gives your cat a chance to engage in their usual behavior. An indoor garden offers outside kitties a nutritious substitute to the neighbor's potentially pesticide-laced lawn, and it gives indoor cats a tantalizing taste of the great outdoors. Final ThoughtsThe first shoots will grow in only a few days if you follow these easy instructions, and the mature plant will appear in about 10 days. Before you know it, your cat will have an amazing treat that they are sure to love!  As a cat owner, it is crucial that you understand the process of deworming your furry friend. To discover everything you need to know from cause to treatment, and most importantly, how long after will the worms be gone, keep reading on. HOW TO TELL IF YOUR CAT HAS WORMS?How To Tell If Your Cat has Worms?There are many signs which could indicate that your cat is suffering from worms. Signs of Worms
If you are suspicious that your cat may have worms, the best thing to do is to take a poo sample to your vet for it to be tested. What Do Worms Look Like?There are typically four species of worms that infect cats: roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Unfortunately, only two of them are visible: roundworms and tapeworms. Roundworms look like spaghetti and these move around - gross! Tapeworms look like little grains of rice - look out for these in the litter box or around the tail. How Do Cats Catch Worms?Worms are carried by insects, flies, and mosquitoes, as well as other small animals, such as mice. When our cats come into contact with something that is infected, the worms can be passed on to our cats. For indoor cats that are less likely to come in contact with something which is infected, a way in which they can catch worms is through worm eggs which can be brought into our house on the soles of our shoes, from the street, causing them to catch worms. Catching worms is unpreventable, the majority of cats will catch worms at some point. Luckily, with regular worm control, we can remove any further threat to our cat’s health. Treatment for Worms 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. Can I Deworm My Cat At Home?You can deworm a cat at home, as treatment is available to order online. However, it is not recommended, especially with kittens. It is always best to get your cat checked at the vet so the safest and most appropriate medication can be prescribed. Can Cat Worms Transfer To Humans?Yes, some worm infections can be transmitted to humans. Ensure you wash your hands after playing with your cat if you suspect that it might have worms. To avoid further transmission, ensure the litter tray is always cleaned after each use to reduce the risk of re-catching the worms, If you worry that you have caught worms from your cat, then contact your doctor as soon as possible for medical advice. Side Effects of A DewormerAfter deworming, many cats do become temporarily ill, but this shouldn't be a big concern as it is normal. Common side effects may include: Sensitive stomach, diarrhea, increased Salivation, and loss of appetite These side effects tend to last between one to two days, but if it goes on much longer then please take your cat back to the vet. Cats can poop out worms after being dewormed - alive or dead worms could be found In your cat’s litter tray. Please don’t be alarmed, this is perfectly normal! Whilst this is a gruesome image it is a positive thing as it suggests the worms are no longer inside your cat. How Long After Deworming A Cat Are The Worms Gone?So, to answer your question most medications can kill adult worms within 24 hours of intake. In some cases, it takes up to 4 days to kill the worms. Some dewormers will work faster than others. On average, the worms will usually be gone within 2 to 3 weeks of the first dewormer. It may need a second dose, a few weeks later to get rid of all the worms. Unfortunately, even after your cat has been dewormed, it can get infected again, and this is highly likely. To be on the safe side, it might be necessary to deworm your cat once a month, especially if they like to hunt because they are more likely to become re-infected. Final ThoughtsWorms can be a cruel and nasty infection for a cat to suffer with. Symptoms must be spotted sooner than later to avoid our furry friends suffering longer than needs be. Once dewormed, our job isn’t done, as it is super important to keep an eye on our cat for signs of re-infection, which is extremely common amongst cats. To avoid reinfection, it is sensible to have your cat dewormed regularly. Speak with your vet for advice on how regularly your cat should be dewormed.  Changing food portions may not be the solution you need, as there are many factors that can affect your cat's weight; from health conditions to access to their food, you might be led to ruling out different things. Before making any decisions, though, it is essential to have your cat checked over by a veterinarian who can help you plan how to make your cat healthy. There is the question of the type of food you feed them and what portions these are in. That's why, below, we give you some ways that you can introduce food that is not only adored by them but has all their nutritional needs packed in as well, and this, in turn, will get your furry friend all excited about mealtime. First Of All, Determine If Your Cat Is UnderweightThis can be done simply by feeling your cat's ribs by gently running your hand over their side, and if it feels like a layer of fat is over them, this might be ok, but if it's quite a thick layer, they could be overweight. If you feel just the ribs, your cat is underweight, and you can also check along their spine. Where if you only feel vertebrae and no layer on top of them, they are definitely underweight, and you can take some steps to change this. As for the reason, well, it could be a number of things, from dental issues to reduced appetite, or disease and even hyperthyroidism, and this is where getting a comprehensive check-up of your cat is important, especially as they get older. Create A Feeding PlanOnce you've figured out the issue, if it's a treatable condition, you can make a plan with your vet to ensure the diet works to their needs and specific medical condition and can help you get the right balance of micronutrients and macronutrients in your cat's diet. Part of the issue could be that your cat needs more meals per day, but it is provided in a way that makes it palatable and inviting, so your cat has access to food that they have a preference for, as many cats do, especially with textures and flavors of food. When calculating how much to feed your cat, you should aim for your cat's metabolic needs, so as most cats consume 200-250 calories per day, the resting metabolic rate is measured by it being 84 times the metabolic body weight, which you can find out from your vet. You then want to feed them that amount of calories plus 20% more, and you usually don't need to go higher than this unless your cat's weight is very dire, which we hope it isn't. What Should I Feed My Cat To Gain Weight?  You don't have to change your food type drastically, as this may have the opposite effect where your cat avoids their food altogether, so stick to a food that you know they enjoy and aim for small and frequent meals scattered throughout the day. One tablespoon of your chosen food every few hours should be tolerable. Your cat should be able to consume this and not vomit afterward, and it's important to keep an eye on how your cat interacts with their food to identify any behavioral changes as a result. There are ways you can prepare the food to make it more inviting, so you could try warming it up or opting for a different consistency to make your cat more drawn to it, as long as it's not too hot. What If My Cat Still Doesn't Eat? There could be a range of different reasons why your cat may be hesitant to try your chosen delicacy, and it could be something as simple as moving the food bowl to a different location, as your cat could be nervous and requires a quieter feeding spot. This could be due to the bowl being near a washing machine, air conditioner, or other pets like dogs that could be nearby, or it might be that your cat has a particular taste, so you may have to try different flavors of wet and dry food, and find what they enjoy best. If this doesn't work, you can try offering snacks between meals like cat treats or pieces of chicken breast, as long as this is balanced and doesn't upset your cat's stomach too much, so your cat has some variety without it being too much. Does Mood Affect My Cat’s Appetite?There's no secret that cats have emotions too, and the simplest of changes to your home environment or even the type of bowl you feed your cats with could cause behavior changes, and a symptom of this can be a loss of appetite. You also could have a nervous and unsociable cat that doesn't like the fuss of mealtimes, so picking out a corner somewhere and leaving them to it can be helpful in some situations, especially if you have other cats who like to protect their food. You'll notice if there are any changes in your cat as new behaviors will emerge that you aren't familiar with, so you can identify what you need to change, and, in extreme cases, you can access the medicine that accelerates your cat's appetite. Final Thoughts Before making any significant changes, the vet is always the best place to go to get recommendations for your cat, which is vital if your cat were to develop a condition you have no knowledge about, so you can treat it and have a happy cat in the end. It's worth taking the time to spend some quality time with your cat and make them as fulfilled as possible, so eating for your cat is the best part of the day while being healthy as well.  Welcoming a new kitten into the home is always an exciting time. There’s no denying that these little balls of fluff are totally adorable, and they are super fun to have around too. Kittens really are great. But as well as being totally adorable, and bringing joy to your life, kittens will need you to look after them. Unfortunately, a big part of looking after your kitten is monitoring their bowel habits to ensure that they are remaining healthy. When cats are kittens, it is critical that you spot any issues early because if left untreated it can be detrimental to your kitten’s health. As kittens are babies, it is not uncommon for them to have stomach issues from time to time. These creatures are still growing and developing, and this can cause them to have sensitive stomachs. If you notice that your kitten is a little constipated, you might be wondering how to make a constipated kitten poop. Find out how in this guide. SIGNS YOUR KITTEN IS CONSTIPATEDAs we have said, it is really common for kittens to have sensitive stomachs when they are young. As well as growing and developing, kittens will need to adjust to different types of food when they are young, and they also require regular worming as it is common for kittens to get worms. All of these things can cause your kitten to have a bad tummy. In addition to getting diarrhea, it is fairly common for kittens to become constipated from time to time. This is especially common if you have recently brought your kitten home to their forever home as the change of environment can affect their bowel movements. But what are the signs that your kitten is constipated? Well there are lots of things to watch out for that may suggest your kitten is constipated. These include:
The last one can often be difficult to spot, especially in kittens, as it is sometimes tricky to tell if they are trying to pass feces or urinate. If there is liquid or mucus around the anus, or redness and swelling of the anus, this is a sign that your kitten is constipated. Is it Common for Kittens to Become Constipated?As we said earlier, while constipation isn’t exactly common in kittens, it isn’t that rare either. Just like human beings, a kitten’s bowel movements are affected by a number of things, and this can cause them to become constipated from time to time. When kittens are newly born, they do not have the ability to urinate or defecate on their own. The responsibility of this falls to their mother. Mother cats are supposed to lick the anus of their kittens to allow them to defecate, however sometimes mother cats can struggle to do this. Especially if they have large litters and this can cause kittens to become constipated. This is often why humans have to step in and help out. As kittens grow older, there are a number of things that can cause them to become constipated. As we have said, often kittens will take a while to urinate and poop when they first leave their mothers to go to their new homes. The ability to poop can also be affected by changes in diet and the presence of intestinal parasites (most commonly worms). This is why it isn’t that rare for kittens to become constipated from time to time. How to Make a Constipated Kitten Poop If you notice that your kitten hasn’t passed feces for a while, then there is a good chance that they are constipated. Regularly checking the litter box will help confirm your theories. If you know that your kitten is constipated, you might be wondering how you can help them poop, so let’s take a look. De-Worm The Kitten If you suspect that worms may be the cause of your kitten’s inability to poop, then deworming them is a good place to start. Roundworms in particular are common for kittens, so regularly de-worming your kitten is crucial. Keep The Kitten Hydrated If your kitten is not drinking enough, then this could cause them to become constipated. Ensure that your kitten is drinking a sufficient amount, and provide an electrolyte solution if needed (if the kitten is still bottle fed). If your kitten is on kitten food (rather than milk), try adding a splash of water to their bowl as this will increase the amount of water they are consuming. Try A Probiotic or Laxative If you consult with your vet, then they may recommend giving your kitten a probiotic or laxative. Probiotics can help improve gut health through the use of good bacteria, and laxatives will help move your kitten’s bowels. These should only be given after seeking veterinary advice. Keep The Kitten Active and Moving Moving around is really good for your bowels, and the same principle applies to kittens. To help promote healthy bowel movements in a constipated kitten, try massaging their tummy, bicycling their hind legs and get them walking about and playing. This should help get things moving in their tummy. When to Seek Veterinary HelpMost of the time, you will be able to treat a constipated kitten at home without having to visit a vet, so don’t panic! However, there are some circumstances in which you should seek veterinary advice. The main sign that you should seek veterinary attention is if your kitten hasn’t pooped in more than 48 hours. You should also seek advice if your kitten is displaying signs of distress (lethargy, distention of the tummy, and crying in the litter box). If you are worried, it is best to speak to your vet. SummaryIn short, it isn’t that rare for kittens to become constipated from time to time.
If you suspect that your kitten is constipated, try out the methods above and this should encourage them to poop. If they don’t work, it is best to speak to your vet. Thanks for reading!  Even though it has been argued whether a bobcat and a domestic cat have ever mixed, there have been reports that at least seven hybrid types have been found in the US. These can be done naturally or purposefully to get different fur patterns or characteristics. If you have a cat that you have either found as a stray or in a shelter, you may know less about your cat and are wondering about the nature of its breed, which is especially useful if it has a mix of a wild cat breed. With this in mind, we’ll look over some ways you can identify whether your cat is a hybrid of this species and if there are any implications for owning it in the first place, just in case you are interested in getting one. Signs To Look Out For In Your CatThere is a good chance that you can tell if your cat is a hybrid by looking at and observing them. Still, it is unlikely that you’ll own one of these as bobcats are unsociable felines who rarely interact with other animals except when hunting them. However, if you have a kitten, you might notice some characteristics that may make you think otherwise, which we look at below. Physical Features This is easier to see in a kitten as bobcat kittens are usually double the size of a normal kitten, and if you have one to compare it to, you’ll notice this size which is a sign that your cat has some aspects of a bobcat in their make up. Their fur is also a good indicator as bobcats have a distinctive spotty coat with stripes on the legs, which is more noticeable in cats with shorter hair, so raised ears and tufts, and the stumpy black-tipped tail is a crucial way of identifying your cat to this breed. Behavior As we know, bobcats are known as wild and exotic cats and don’t like to be domesticated, and this is evident by looking at their aggression, so if your cat overtly shows tendencies like this, that is another sign there may be some wild blood in them. You might confuse this with playfulness or curiosity, but knowing that wild bobcat kittens tend to be very aggressive, this might have you second-guessing and is mainly due to the kitten lashing out in fear. You’ll also notice evidence of this breed if your cat takes to water very quickly, as they don’t have an intense fear of it like domesticated cats, and while your cat won’t be a fully-fledged bobcat, you’ll see signs of a wild heritage, and it may have more needs as well. Am I Allowed To Own A Bobcat Hybrid?Even though it is possible to own a bobcat outright, there are restrictions to this, and it is illegal in some states, but for hybrid species, as they aren’t considered medium-sized cats, they should be allowed to be kept as pets as permitted by local laws. There does remain an ethical issue as domestic cats and bobcats are forced to reproduce by breeders for capital gain, so keeping the offspring as a pet can seem counterintuitive to their standards of living, as these hybrids more than likely want to be able to roam freely. This is why researching the cat you have or hope to get is essential, so if any surprises such as crossbreeding come up, you can provide the cat with the proper diet and environment for it to thrive, where more effort than you had expected could be used up. Similar Cat Breeds  There is one breed of cat that is a natural blend of a domestic cat and a bobcat, and this is the pixie-bob, which is native to the United States and resembles that of a wild cat, and also has a lively personality, so these are more tamer than what you’d expect. These cats have identifying features such as short fur, a spotted pattern, and a distinct bobtail, and they can live up to 15 years, but they are rare and expensive to buy due to their exotic features. They can also get quite heavy, but if this doesn’t put you off, they can be rewarding cats to own as they can be playful and get along with other cats and dogs, and happily greet any guests that visit your home. Are Hybrid Cats Easy To Care For?This all depends on the hybrid type, as it has been known that some hybrids, especially Bengal ones, as some of these types can be very destructive to furniture, clothing, flooring, and personal items, so many owners may be unprepared for this. They can also be harder to tame and may have foul-smelling urine, which can be used to mark their territory, so you may want to consider getting a natural hybrid if this doesn’t sound like something you could accommodate, as beautiful as they look. You also might find that it’s harder to cater to their diet, as some hybrids have a defect where they cannot properly digest food, and abandoning these kinds has been linked to a growing feral cat problem in the US, as these can be detrimental to wild cat populations. Final Thoughts However you feel about hybrids, many conservationists of wild cat species feel this crossbreeding should be banned, as they see that there isn’t a redeeming reason why these cat breeds should be crossed in the first place. We’ve seen a natural example that can be a great addition to any home, especially if you have young children, and as long as you are attentive to common issues with this breed, you should have a happy and healthy cat that can add a bit of joy to your day.  You find a stay cat or kitty and go through your cupboards in a panic looking for food that will give them a balanced meal, and while you may have the best of intentions for this cat, the food you give them might not be what they need. While there are a few options of what you can feed a stray cat, this is made easier if you already have a cat of your own, as you can start looking for food options from there. Find out below more about what you can give a cat to keep it going and how you can appreciate these felines more, or if you simply love cats. WHAT DO STRAY CATS EAT?If you live in a big city, there's a good chance that there are groups of stray or feral cats, and while there is a distinction between the two, it's the stray cats who are more likely to seek food and help from humans, and it's feral cats who look to whatever's convenient to survive. While feral cats are those who are less sociable around humans and prefer to be active during the night, there are quite a few things they will eat, even garbage. Out of all the things you'll see cats hunting, the most common ones are:
Things You Can Feed ThemWith everything that you hear about stray cats and how they decimate populations, this may be an issue in some locations, but at the same time, it balances out the ecology of an environment. Before you go pick one up and take it home, you should find out what foods are best for a cat when they are in real need of some nutrition, and these are:
Things You Should Avoid Feeding ThemWith this in mind, you might have an idea of what you want to feed a stray cat but not have any idea of what you think may be harmful to a stray. These are but are not limited to:
How To Improve Your Bond With A Stray Cat  You've seen a stray cat and are wondering how you should approach it, and while the cat seems harmless, there are many things you may not have considered. Below, we explore a few of these. Look For Signs From The Cat One sign that a cat trusts you is by meeting you at the same place to receive food, and another thing you might notice is that it follows you around or near your home and may even stop by your front or back door and wait to be fed. If this sounds like your situation, you can leave food outside for the cat and even somewhere relax if you find they spend a while at your property, and they may even meow at you and brush up against you to gain your attention and care. If You Can't Feed The Cat You might be in a position where you cannot feed or have a cat come around to your property, and if the cat looks healthy, it's ok to leave it as it is. If you think it looks underweight or in pain is a time when you should get advice from an animal welfare organization that can walk the area and find out where the cat is and whether it's part of a group or not, as cats aren't everyone's favorite. Adopt One If Possible You might be able to take a stray cat in as long as it's healthy and is safe to be around people, and even if you don't let it indoors, you can feed it from a front porch area, and your cat will be just as thankful for your hospitality. If you find a stray cat, be realistic and don't get your hopes too high with the idea of taking it in straight away, as the process for the cat to trust you can take a while. The Bottom Line With this advice, you can approach any cat while keeping yourself safe, and who knows, you may make a new friend who you can meet on occasion and feed, if possible, so as long as you are gentle and friendly, you shouldn't have any issues except if the cat is feral.
Helping Mommy With WorkMommy works every day to make those monies. Mommy was sick for a while and stopped working. Now she is working the whole day until it gets dark outside. Usually, Mommy plays with me multiple times a day, but now she only plays every now and then when she is not busy on the tapping box. I miss getting all the attention, but at least when Daddy gets home, he gives me my favorite food and plays with me. In the morning, I cuddle Mommy until she gets up. When she gets out of bed, she has breakfast and gives me attention and food. After breakfast, she sits on the wooden frame with a cushion, taps on the long tapping box, and stares at the big, black, flat movement box. She keeps tapping until she gets hungry, then she gets lunch and plays with me a bit. After lunch, she goes back to working on the tapping box. She works until Daddy gets home. While Mommy is working, I play outside with the bugs and chase around birds. I also play with my toys, the new one's as well! I got used to most of the toys. I play the most with the ball and the wool mouse while alone. My favorite is still to play with my humans! When I get bored, I try to help Mommy by getting on her books, eating her file, making art with my muddy paws on her papers, tapping on her tapping box, and chewing her writing stick. I also cuddle Mommy throughout the day when she doesn't want me to help her with work. Sometimes I even fall asleep on Mommy's lap or arm, the table, the books, or the tapping box. I like to sleep by Mommy when I get tired. She is so calming, and I feel so safe sleeping with Mommy. I can't wait till Mommy has time to play with me again. I miss spending time with her during the day. When Daddy gets home, Mommy and Daddy will eat dinner, and Daddy will give me food. After eating, Mommy carries on with work until it is dark and she gets tired. I always wait up for Mommy until she gets into bed. When Mommy gets into bed, I cuddle her and keep her warm. I love to cuddle her at night. It is the only time I have left to spend with her and to get her attention. I am going to cuddle her until the sun comes up. Bye, I want to cuddle with Mommy and Daddy now!
I have feelings too!Our kind is brave, independent, and strong. Some humans get confused and think that we don't have feelings and that all we want is food. This is not true! We are brave but need to feel safe as well. We are independent and can easily survive, but we also need love and affection. We are strong and can fight, but we can't always defend ourselves from humans and the obstacles around us. Yes, we love and need food, but we love our humans even more! Do I have feelings? Well! I also wait at the door for my humans to get back home. I also get excited to see my humans. I also get scared of the unknown. I also love to play with humans and toys, but some humans don't always realize it because we are independent. I love to learn new tricks and to have human interaction. I also need to be active and get stimulation. I love to cuddle my humans. I like to get a massage and lots of love from my humans. I also love to make new friends and play with them often. So yes, I do have feelings! I love to see my humans happy! I love it when they are active and playful. I can feel it when Mommy or Daddy is angry, irritated, frustrated, sad, or stressed. I don't like to see them this way. I always try to make them feel better by cuddling up to them, purring on their chest, playing around to make them laugh, or licking their face or hands. I hate when my humans are sick. When humans are angry or fighting, It makes us nervous and scared. When they are irritated, we don't know where to be and try to find a place to stay out of the way. When they are frustrated, we feel the same because we don't know how to help them. When they are sad, we try our best to make them feel better and to take the pain away. When they are stressed, we calm them down and look out for any danger. We try to heal humans with our purring superpowers when they are sick! I don't like to be alone! I love to have my humans nearby all the time! I love to follow them around to see what they are doing. I always sleep with Mommy or Daddy at night and cuddle multiple times during the day. They keep me busy and give me fun activities while they can not play. When they leave the house, they always hide alot of treats for me inside the house to keep me active. The toys are also always ready for me to play with. My humans make me feel safe and loved. Bye! I need to give all my powers to Mommy so she can feel better!
Mommy and Daddy bought me new toys. I am so excited! I love toys and can't wait to play with all of them. There is plenty of toys to play with, but I don't know where to start! They are all different and have different purposes. They all have a funny smell, and I don't know if I like them yet. It is a bit new to me. I got small wires with them as well! How exciting! So I've got a weird soft toy on a string with a long fluffy tail. It looks scary, but I like to play with its tail. The face is big and a bit weird too. So I don't want it too close to me all the time. I love it when Daddy pulls the string so I can chase it and catch its tail. I like it to entertain Daddy! When it lies still, I am a bit afraid to play with it or walk past it. I only like it when it moves. I also got a new small ball to play with, and I love it! I immediately knew how to play with it and liked it immediately. It is nothing new to me as I already have a similar one. It is easy to play with, and I don't need humans to play with it. All I need to do is to tap it with my paw until it rolls, chase it and repeat! I also like it when my humans throw it around so I can run after it and show off how fast I am! There is also another ball that has spiky rubbery things all over it. It doesn't hurt, but it looks too scary to play with. I tried to inspect it, but it's got a weird texture, smell, and taste. Sometimes it makes me gag! Mommy put took it away because I am scared of it. And the taste makes me nauseous. Some of my kind like the smell of the flavor inside, but I am not a big fan. Then the last gift was a dead mouse with a wool texture and a tail. I don't know what I am supposed to do with the mouse because it is not alive. And it doesn't move at all! It doesn't even have a string for my servants to pull around for me to chase it. The mouse also has a funny smell like the rest. I like this toy the least! I don't know why anyone would give you a dead mouse! I like my old toys the most! I am familiar with them and know what to do with them to entertain my humans. I like the smell of my old toys. It smells like my humans and like home. My favorite toys are my mouse on the stick that my humans can move for me to chase and the small black wire that keeps me busy even when I am alone! The new ball is also now one of my favorites. Cheow, I am going to attack my mouse now!
I decided to sneak out of the yard to explore the neighborhood and make friends. The Garden service cut a branch off for me so that it is easier to escape. I think I like him now! I sneak out only at night when my humans can't see me very well. Otherwise, they will try to get me inside. I like the feeling of freedom. I haven't felt it before! My humans are overprotective, but my kind like to take risks. I made a few friends on my way out, but I also made enemies. It looks like some of my kind don't like to make friends and Meow at me in a screaming way! It is a little bit scary to be out here now. Usually, my humans are always there to protect me. Although if I am inside the house the whole time, I won't be able to make new friends. When I'm scared, I run and try to find my way home back to my humans. There are too many moving travel things on wheels! I don't like other people, too much movement, and those angry ones of my kind. How I wish I could be home right now! While I struggle to find my way back, I hear my humans calling me. I decided to follow the voices until I reached home. It is early morning, and it is cold and raining. I am so glad to be back. I will never escape again! I cuddle up to my humans under the soft blankets to get warmth. Oh, how I missed them! I am so tired of all the stress. It is dangerous out there, just like Mommy and Daddy warned me! As I fall asleep, I realize that I am hungry! On my way to eat my same old food, I spot Mommy's delicious dairy treat in a mug. Mommy fell asleep, and now it is my chance to eat her dairy! I hope she doesn't see me eating it. I know I'm not allowed to eat human food, but it looks delicious. Oh no! Mommy woke up and caught me eating the dairy! Bye! I need to run away again before I get into trouble! |
