 Cats are naturally curious animals and while they are often super capable and independent creatures, they can surely land themselves in hot water every now and then. Your cat could eat something that isn’t good for them, or maybe get in a scrape with a local cat. When our cat is hurt or ill our immediate thought, unless you are a trained veterinarian, is to apply human medicine to cats, as it's what we would do for a child or friend. However, not all human mediations, quite few actually, are safe for cats, and even the ones that are may not be safe in the doses you would administer. We’re here to clear things up for you and your cat surrounding aspirin and what the correct pain medication for a cat would be. So keep reading to keep your cat safe and your conscience clean. Is Aspirin Safe For Cats?As you can imagine, the answer here is not as clear as we might hope. Cats are sensitive to aspirin, in large doses it can cause some side effects in cats that you or your cat want. However, safety is often related to dosage in this situation. Once again, humans and cats are very different in terms of physiology. As a rule of thumb, yes aspirin is safe for cats in theory. However we would advise against giving your cat aspirin using your own judgment, only ever use aspirin at home if your veterinarian has advised you it is okay to do so. Can Cats Have Side Effects From Aspirin?The short answer is yes, but again this can depend on dosage - let's break it down. A high dose of aspirin, which can be hard to judge for the untrained pet parent, can be dangerous for your cat. One issue here is that your cat may be more prone to a clotting or blood related disease than you realize, a high dose of aspirin in this situation can cause blood clots and likely compound whatever issue your cat is undertaking. Another issue is that the wrong dose of aspirin could cause reduced blood flow to the kidneys and result in kidney failure or disease. The most common side effects are an upset tummy, diarrhea, damage to the stomach lining, and potentially more. While these issues may not cause death on their own, if your cat is actually ill with unrelated issues then this can compound into something worse.  Can Cats Benefit From Aspirin? Dosage becomes the main variable to consider here, again, as there are many benefits from aspirin to cats. Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory drug but is also nonsteroidal which means you aren’t throwing steroids into the mix with your cat's already complex hormone system, which is why it is a good medication for cats. In veterinary medicine aspirin is often used as a pre-operation to treat inflammation, also being used for treating arthritis and other potential injuries. When dosed correctly, aspirin has very few side effects as a nonsteroidal medecine, but regular and large doses can be deadly. While it shouldn’t be a pet parent’s first choice, aspirin is a pain reliever for cats and can often be much more accessible than other veterinarian drugs. The issue is that if your cat is in pain, getting them to a vet or calling a vet may not be the easiest or most logical action. Aspirin is very cheap, usually in people’s houses, and when dosed correctly it can be effective. How To Dose Aspirin For A Cat? Firstly, we advise you to speak to your veterinarian before administering any drug that isn’t previously authorized by the former. They can provide the best information about dosage for your cat specifically. In general there are certain calculations that can advise how to dose aspirin to your cat in situations where it is your only resort. The recommended dosage is usually 6-10mg per kilogram of body weight. If your cat weighs 5kg you could give them a 30-35 mg dose to be safe, but not more than this. It generally takes around 1-2 hours for the aspirin to take effect in your cat, and the effects can wear off after around 5 hours. The issue here is that repeated dosing over a 48 - 72 hour period can be damaging in many ways. How Regularly Can You Give A Cat Aspirin? The regularity of dosage is also as important as the level of dose you give a cat. You can only give your cat a dose of aspirin every 48 - 72 hours, although it can be best to err on the side of caution. So once every two to three days is advised. Once more, it is important to consult your veterinarian in these situations. If your cat requires continued treatment for pain it can be best to bite the bullet and take your cat to the vet for a professional opinion. Final Thoughts Aspirin can work on cats, and is a good medicine to use for temporary relief in a domestic setting where you cannot get to the vet, or some other reason is stopping you going to the vet.
It is always best to rely on the professional opinion of your veterinarian, especially when they have treated your cat before. Dosing is a big issue as cats will clearly require less of a dose than human would. As aspirin is nonsteroidal it can be ideal for cats, but repeated doses are warned against as they can be very dangerous, this creates its own issue as dosing more than once over a 48 hour period can also be deadly. There are generally better medicines out there that may be able to treat your cat’s specific issue, so it is always better to rely on your vet’s opinion.
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 When your kids are bringing you toys and asking you to play with them, it seems natural to you, but when a cat does that, it makes you wonder why. Some people think there’s no accurate answer to the question “Why does my cat bring me toys?” while others simply don’t bother even thinking about why they do it. However, if you are wondering why cats bring toys to their owners, you’ve come to the right place and we will look into answering that question below! Why Does My Cat Bring Me Presents? The specific behavior of the cat may have different motives behind it, which one can better by the type of items their cat brings them. It is also worth noting that a cat bringing you toys is something that can happen both out of habit and out of instinct. So, let’s see first why your cat brings you toys. Why Does My Cat Bring Me Toys? In the case of toys, you need to understand how cats perceive toys. To them, toys are not simply objects they play with. Instead, cats see toys more as hunting trophies that they catch and bring to you as a gift to show you their appreciation. And if it’s not because they adore you, they are doing so because they want you to play with them and they are using toys as a way to ask for that and draw your attention to them. Yet, no matter what the reason is, if your cat keeps bringing you presents that are toys, then consider yourself a lucky owner as there are many people whose cats bring them dead birds or rodents! Why Does My Cat Bring Me Dead Animals? As we have already mentioned, if your cat brings you toys, she either wants you to play with her or it’s a way of hers to show her appreciation for you. However, when she brings you dead animals like little birds or mice, that is more of an instinctual outcome rather than a habit it has grown. Cats are hunting species by nature and are naturally drawn to fast-moving objects. Whenever a cat catches a small animal or insect moving in her sight, it will likely attract its attention. It will then probably chase it and jump on it with the intention of catching it and killing it. Even so, each cat's hunting ability varies according to its individual skills and experience, so when a cat has successfully cornered its prey, it can play with it, eat all of it, or just a part of it. Several cats will even end up leaving their food in a favorite corner in the house while others hold the dead prey in their mouths until their guardian comes to check on them. But why do they offer their prey as present to their owners? Cats that grow their kittens carry their prey back to their little ones to train them in hunting, and some cats have similar tendencies and do the same with their guardians. Usually, the guardian tries to move the dead animal away from the cat and may thereby inadvertently reinforce the cat's behavior. If, for example, the cat is holding a dead bird and the owner offers it a treat to get it to throw the dead animal away, then the cat may take this as a reward and bring more and more dead animals in the future.  How Do You Stop Your Cat From Bringing You Dead Animals As A Gift? There are many things you can do with the obvious one being to not let your cat roam unsupervised outside your house. If your cat has constant access to outdoor spaces, it is very likely that it will hunt and kill small game. Therefore, the best thing you can do is try indoor games and activities to keep your cat busy. However, cats can be too stubborn to stay in the house and torture you until you let them out. In that case, you can take your cat for a stroll but keep her on a leash and supervise her during the walk to make sure she doesn’t sneakily catch any animals. Why Is My Cat Carrying Toys Around? Sometimes, your cat might not be bringing you toys but simply carrying them around in the house from one room or corner to another. This is an instinctual behavior, as there are two occasions in which cats are carrying things around a place: one is during a hunt and the other one is when they are moving their little ones from one place to another. When they are not domesticated, stray cats catch their prey and then they either take it back to their safe zone to eat it or find a temporary place to hide it. Domesticated cats’ instincts resurface and because they have no kittens to move around and no dead animals to catch when they live inside your house, they carry their toys around. Why Is My Cat Carrying A Toy And Meowing? This type of play teaches your cat to show off its treasures through meowing and other noises and provides your cat with mental and physical stimulation. Play is a huge part of why your cat keeps meowing with its treasures but another reason why it does make its distinctive sound is that it wants you to pay attention to her and see that they are carrying a toy. Of course, the next thing they want you to do is to play with them and their toy, and this is where you usually start hoping that what it is carrying around is indeed a toy and not another dead little animal. The Bottom Line If you have a cat that is playful and likes to bring you toys all day long, consider yourself lucky. Cats bring toys because they want your company, and they want to show their love for you. Even when that toy turns out to be a dead mouse, it is still brought to you as a symbol of love and a way for them to show how much they care. So, take it, say thank you, and give her a good scratch on the belly!  Cats can have very beautiful eyes in a wide variety of colors. However, a cat’s eyes can also change color as they age and if this happens to your cat, you might wonder why. There are several reasons why a cat’s eye can change color and it can be a sign that your cat has a potentially serious health problem. However, there are also circumstances where a change in eye color is simply a natural process and means nothing at all. In this article, we will look at whether a cat’s eyes can change color. We’ll look at the reasons why and what you should do if your cat’s eyes change. Why Do Cats' Eyes Change Color? There are a few reasons why a cat’s eyes can change color. Depending on the circumstances, this can be a natural change or a cause for concern. Let’s take a look at the different reasons why a cat's eye can change color and what it means. Kitten’s Eyes Can Change Color It is very common for the eyes of a kitten to change color. This is a very natural process and isn’t anything to worry about at all. The majority of kittens are born with beautiful blue eyes but you will probably have noticed that most adult cats don’t have blue eyes. The eyes of adult cats can cover a wide variety of different shades and although blue eyes are seen, they’re not the majority. As kittens grow older, their eyesight begins to develop and change. This can lead to the color of their eyes changing from blue to other colors. It doesn’t take long for your kitten's eyes to change and become their permanent color as this process is usually completed by the time they reach three months old. Adult Changes Can Be A Sign of Illness If you have a cat that has passed the kitten stage and its eyes change color, this can be a sign of an illness. You should especially look out for sudden changes to the eye color that occur over a short period of time. If you do notice this in your cat, make sure you take them to a vet as soon as possible. There are a variety of illnesses that can cause an adult cat’s eyes to change and the most common cause is an eye infection. As with humans, this isn’t a serious condition and if treated quickly it should clear up within a couple of weeks. Loss Of Sight If an adult cat’s eyes change back to their original blue color, it can be a sign of vision problems. It may mean that the cat has experienced some damage to its eye or in more serious cases, it can be a sign that the cat is going blind. Blue eyes aren’t always a sign of blindness so if your cat’s eyes do change to blue there is no need to panic. However, you should consult with a vet as soon as you can. This is especially the case if you notice that your cat is beginning to have difficulty moving around and is more hesitant than normal. These can also be signs that its vision isn’t as clear as it should be.  What Illnesses Can Cause A Cat’s Eye To Change Color?Although we mentioned an eye infection earlier, there are some other more serious illnesses that can cause the eyes of your cat to change color. To see if your cat has any of these illnesses, you will need to consult with a vet. Uveitis This eye condition is an inflammation found in the uveal tract of the eye. It can either be an isolated eye condition that is related to no other illness, or it can be a symptom of a variety of other illnesses. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, metastatic tumors, an infection, or a viral disease. It usually presents as a cloudy or red eye. You might also notice that your cat becomes more sensitive to light, squints, and rubs at their eye because of the irritation it feels. Glaucoma This is a condition caused by an increase in pressure in the eye. If it is left untreated for long enough it can cause permanent damage and vision loss, so you should get symptoms related to glaucoma checked out as soon as you can. The typical symptoms of glaucoma are an eye that turns milky, cloudy, or white. Glaucoma can also be related to uveitis and both can appear very similar in a cat’s eye. Portosystemic Liver Shunt This is an illness that is commonly shown in cats that have copper-colored eyes. For many cats, copper is their natural color and it isn’t a sign of any illness at all. It is a popular eye color with breeders and many cats are selectively bred just for this eye color alone. However, it can also be a sign of a liver shunt. This condition can be either congenital or one that appears later in a cat’s life, so be on the lookout for symptoms such as lethargy, reduced appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, and vomiting. Although it is more common in cats with copper-colored eyes, it is not exclusive to them. If you notice your cat exhibiting the symptoms listed above, make sure to consult with your vet. Final Thoughts In this article, we answered whether a cat’s eyes can change color or not. We found out that there are three different circumstances where a cat’s eyes can change color.
It’s very common for the color of a kitten’s eyes to change and this is no cause for concern. However, if the color of an adult cat’s eyes changes, this should be investigated further as it can be a sign of an illness. Make sure you consult with your veterinarian if this happens. We hope that this article answered all of your questions about whether a cat’s eyes can change color or not.  Cats, like any other animal, can be really susceptible to disease and infection, especially when sharing a habitat with other animals and mammals, even humans. Interspecies infection is common, as recent events have discovered, so cats can suffer infection and disease through human interaction. In this case, ‘strep throat’ should be defined for referential reasons, as cats can indeed contract streptococcus, but the type of streptococcus we are referring to here is a little different. What Is ‘Strep Throat’? ‘Strep Throat’ commonly refers to a sore throat that is quite common in humans. It is often diagnosed with pain swallowing, dryness in the throat, red or swollen tonsils, or even swollen lymph nodes on the neck. It is commonly not related to a cough or runny nose, this is likely a common form of influenza. Specifically, ‘strep throat’, at least in humans, will almost always be caused by a group of bacteria called A Streptococcus, which is important when analyzing if this occurs in cats or not. This type of streptococcus is very contagious and is spread very easily either through direct contact with someone's mouth, such as kissing, or through respiratory droplets in the air. Put simply, strep throat is commonly caused by contact infection from other humans, so it is plausible we could infect a cat. Can Cats Contract ‘Strep Throat’? Per our definition in the previous section, strep throat specifically refers to group A Streptococcus. The evidence suggests that cats and dogs cannot contract group A streptococcus, the evidence suggests it is not really a match for their DNA. However, cats and dogs can both carry other forms of streptococcus which can be transmitted to a human. It’s important to note that the evidence here is often circumstantial and not always written in stone. For instance, a 2002 report from the American Veterinary Medical Association does suggest that evidence does not support the fact that animals can contract group A streptococcus and give it to humans, or vice versa. Yet, the case of the Levitis family suggested otherwise and caused researchers to change their tune. In this case a family essentially passed group A streptococcus between them for a number of months, with the only changing variable being a cat they had adopted. Scientists concluded that cats, and we assume dogs and other animals, can indeed contract group A streptococcus and in very direct contact they can transmit it to humans. However the ‘strep throat’ does not cause symptoms in the cat, rather they are a neutral carrier of the bacteria and can potentially pass it to a human through direct contact. The case concluded that their cat was certainly contributing to infections the family were receiving. So, in summary, cats can contract group A streptococcus but are often symptomless and merely a host for the bacteria. Through direct contact such as kisses your cat can indeed transmit the infection to you too. Cats can contract other types of streptococcus, that aren’t strep throat, which can also be transmitted to humans.  What Types Of Streptococcus Can Cats Carry? A cat, or a dog, is more likely to carry a strain of streptococcus called streptococcus canis. The pathogen was first identified in dogs, hence the name, and is commonly transmitted to humans, from other animals, in the form of bites or other direct contact. If your cat has strep canis they will suffer from these symptoms: coughing, fevers, tiredness, displaying signs of pain. The symptoms are similar to humans but affect the physiology of cats differently. In some serious cases cats have been known to develop pneumonia and even arthritis or starvation as a result of enlarged and swollen tonsils. How To Treat Cats With Strep Canis? When correctly treated, this type of strep in cats can pass quickly and not cause too many issues, although always pay attention to your pet while they are on medication for any reactions they may have. If your cat has strep they will most likely provide a round of antibiotics to weed out the infection. It’s likely your vet will also encourage you to motivate your cat to hydrate more than normal as this can really help with the infections. As the infection can go quickly, a little love and care can go a long way to make them feel better. IF you are in the winter months it can be good to provide blankets or even a heated bed while they are ill as this can speed their recovery up, as well as keep the dangerous cold temperatures away from an immunocompromised cat, or keep them cool in the heat. It’s important to note that kittens, which are obviously young, are more susceptible to the symptoms of strep as their immune system won;t be developed enough to combat the bacteria as well. Equally, senior cats will suffer the same issue. If your cat falls in either of these vulnerable groups try to keep them away from large groups of animals that could infect them. Final Thoughts As you can see there is a biological issue that prevents cats from being able to suffer from group A streptococcus. The latter is what is commonly called ‘strep thraot’ and while common in humans a cat can’t really contract strep throat in the way we expect. However, studies and certain rare cases show that a cat can be a vessel or host for group A streptococcus bacteria, and pass it onto humans through direct contact while not suffering any symptoms themselves. The bottom line is that if you have strep throat in your household, be careful about how you come into contact with your cat, there is a chance that respiratory droplets can find their way into your cat's hair, and even into their body, and they can silently transmit this back to you and others. In the case of strep throat, simply reduce your contact with those in your house where possible.  If you’re a cat owner, there will probably come a time when you need to clean one or both of your cat’s eyes. Depending on whether you’re cleaning regular eye discharge, irrigating the eyes, or even cleaning a wound around the eye area, you may need to use a different cleaning method. Read on to find out how to clean a cat’s eye in the safest, most efficient and stress-free way possible. Cleaning Gunk Around Cat’s Eyes The most common reason cat owners ask how to clean a cat’s eye is because they have noticed some discharge, commonly referred to as ‘gunk’ around one or both of their pet’s eyes. This is especially common with flat-faced cat breeds such as Persian cats because they have watery eyes. In other breeds, a small amount of gunk, particularly when they wake up from a nap, is quite normal and not a cause for concern. However, you might want to clean it for the sake of your cat’s comfort. Simply use a clean cloth or a cotton wool pad and some clean water to gently wipe the gunk from around your cat’s eyes. It’s best to start at the corner of the eye (where most of the discharge will accumulate) and work your way outward. Ideally, boil the water first and allow it to cool down completely to make sure it’s free from bacteria. When cleaning the eyes, please be careful not to make contact with your cat’s eyeball as this can be both painful and frightening for your pet. How To Flush A Cat’s Eye  If your cat has something in their eye that is bothering them, or if they’re experiencing eye irritation or allergies, your pet may need to have their eyes flushed. This is not something you should attempt to do yourself without the advice of your veterinarian. If you suspect that something is irritating your cat’s eyes, you should book them in for a check-up. Your vet will examine your cat’s eyes and diagnose the problem if possible before prescribing treatment. Foreign Object If something is stuck in your cat’s eye, your vet might flush out the eye themselves using sterile eye wash. However, if the source of the irritation is an eye infection, treating the issue will be a longer process. Infections If you suspect your cat has an eye infection, you must see the vet as soon as possible. Eye infections can progress very fast in cats, leading to severe complications including blindness. Your vet will be able to diagnose the infection and prescribe antibiotic eye drops. The best way to apply eye drops to your cat’s eyes is to wrap them in a towel to keep their limbs controlled (understandably, cats don’t love having things squirted in their eyes). Then, using one hand, you’re going to hold your cat’s head with your thumb on top of their head and your fingers under their chin. With your other hand, hold the eye drop bottle and use that same hand to gently pull one eyelid upward so that the eye opens. Then, maintaining your grip on the cat, squeeze the bottle slightly so that a single drop falls into the eye. Repeat with the other eye if necessary. If you have someone to help you, this process is easier because one person can hold the cat steady while the other can use one hand to hold the eye open and the other to administer the drops. If the infection is severe, you might also need to flush the eyes out using sterile, pet-safe eye wash or saline solution. You would do this using the same method as you do for eye drops. However, only do this if you have been instructed to do so by your vet and only use eye wash products prescribed by your vet. Allergies If your cat’s eyes are irritated due to allergies, you should see the vet to learn what the best course of treatment is. Allergies can sometimes be treated using steroids or a regular injection. However, you may also be able to manage the irritation using prescription eye drops. If your vet recommends this, use the eye drop application method described above. How To Clean A Wound On Cat’s EyeIf you notice a wound on your cat’s eye, the best thing to do is get them straight to the vet. After all, you don’t want an infection developing. If there is an injury to the eyeball itself or if an injury to the eyelid is severe or looks infected, call your vet’s emergency line. In the above cases, your vet will clean the eye and proceed with treatment based on the severity of the wound. It might require stitches or surgery. However, if your cat has a very minor graze around their eye that isn’t bleeding or is only bleeding slightly, you may be able to clean it yourself. It’s still a good idea to see the vet, but in the meantime, you can reduce the risk of infection by cleaning the area. You can use either distilled water, pure saline solution (0.9% concentration) or a mild, pet-safe antiseptic solution to clean the wounded area with a clean cloth. Don’t use cotton wool since pieces of cotton could get stuck in the wound and make sure not to get any solution in the eye itself. You may need to repeat the cleaning process two or three times per day. If the wound isn’t healing or seems to be getting infected, see your vet as soon as possible.. Final Thoughts Cleaning your cat’s eye can be tricky since cats don’t love this experience, but it may be necessary if your cat has a lot of eye discharge, an eye injury, an infection, or suffers from allergies. Be careful never to touch your cat’s eyeballs during the cleaning process and if in doubt, always consult your vet before attempting any cleaning or treatment yourself. For infections or eye injuries, seek veterinary advice as a rule.  If you’ve ever seen a cat catch a bird or a mouse, you’ll know that they don’t tend to kill their prey straight away, unlike other hunting animals. Instead, what you’ll notice is that cats typically ‘play’ with their prey for a while. This kind of behavior may seem cruel to us humans, but there’s actually a very logical reason why cats exhibit this unusual hunting tactic. Read on to learn exactly why cats play with their prey and how this relates to the ‘gift-giving’ behavior many owners have observed in their pets. Feline Hunting Behavior Before we get into why cats seem to play with their prey before killing it, we should mention that the ‘playing’ aspect of feline hunting isn’t the only way cats differ from other animals when it comes to their hunting behavior. If you’ve ever watched how your cat behaves when you play with their toys, you probably already have a good idea of how cats hunt. Rather than chasing down their prey, they like to stalk it instead, crouching low to the ground and moving slowly before pouncing suddenly. Domestic cats are also solitary hunters, which sets them apart from other felines, who tend to hunt in packs. This solitary hunting strategy is actually where most people get the idea that cats like to be alone in general when, in fact, many cats love both human and animal company. Why Cats ‘Play’ With Their Prey So, we know that domesticated cats hunt differently from most other animals, including wild cats. But why do cats play with their prey before going for the kill? Actually, the ‘playing’ aspect of cat hunting behavior is one way in which domestic cats are similar to their wild ancestors. Despite how it might look to us humans, this strategy is not just a cruel game. Experts in feline behavior suspect that cats ‘play’ with their prey because their goal is to disorient and tire out the other animal. By doing this, they’re making the actual killing part easier on themselves and minimizing their chances of getting injured, so this is actually a very smart strategy. This theory makes a lot of sense considering the other ways in which cats like to avoid being vulnerable in their daily lives. Cats are not big risk-takers, which is why when a cat feels threatened, they will typically hiss and try to back away first, only using their claws and teeth as a last resort. Similarly, cats are notoriously good at hiding when they’re sick or injured. This is another way to keep themselves safe by not making themselves appear vulnerable. So, it makes sense that cats would try to make their prey as tired and confused as possible to minimize the risk to themselves. Where Does Gift-Giving Come Into It? Once your cat has finally finished playing with its prey and decided to kill it, you might notice another strange behavior widely known as ‘gift-giving’. This is when a cat will bring a dead animal into the home, even leaving it in a place that seems as though it’s meant for its owner to find. There are a couple of theories about this. First, since most domestic cats are neutered nowadays, it’s possible that cats are bringing gifts to their owners because they are transferring their instinct to care for their young onto their owners. However, it’s also possible that these rather unpleasant ‘gifts’ are not actually gifts at all. Instead, it might be another aspect of your cat’s strategy when it comes to acquiring and storing food. Experts have suggested that cats may simply prefer to store their food in a safe place to eat later, which is something else they tend to do in the wild. Almost stepping on a dead mouse your cat has left on your kitchen floor might not be the most fun experience in the world, but there is a plus side. If your cat feels comfortable leaving their next meal in your care, it’s clear that they see your home as a safe place and consider you to be a safe person. Frequently Asked Questions Why Does My Cat Bring Me Live Prey? Many cat owners are familiar with the experience of having dead prey brought to them by their pets. However, some owners have also noticed that their cats bring them live prey. As much as it might be alarming to see your cat bring a live rodent or bird into your home, there’s actually a sweet intention behind this behavior. Usually, if a cat brings home live prey, it’s because they want to share with you. This is a behavior typical of female cats who are taking care of their kittens, so they’re basically saying they see you as family. Why Do Cats Make Clicking Noises When They See Prey? The clicking noise you might hear your cat make when they spot potential prey is actually known as chattering. This is a sound cats make when they’re excited by visual stimuli and it generally means that their hunting instincts are kicking in. Should I Let My Cat Kill Mice? You might think you’re doing your cat a favor and protecting your home against rodents by letting your cat play with and then kill mice, but cats can pick up parasites or even ingest rodent poison if you allow this. It’s best to step in if you notice your cat playing with rodents for this reason. Instead, provide plenty of toys to allow your cat to exercise and practice their hunting. Final Thoughts We humans might think of a cat’s playing behavior during hunting as cruel, but it’s actually a clever strategy to confuse and exhaust prey to minimize the cat’s risk of getting injured during the kill.
A cat may follow up this playing behavior by bringing the live prey into the home with the intention to share. Alternatively, they may kill the prey first and bring it to their owners to save for later.  Some cats are playful, some others not so much, but if there’s one thing they all go crazy with that is a string hanging in front of them. While we people love watching them play with a string all day long, not all of us ever wonder why cats like playing with a string that much. Well, since you clicked on this article, you are probably one of those people looking for an answer to that, so keep reading below to get it! Why Do Cats Like String?Cats Eyes Are Highly Sensitive To MovementA cat's visual acuity is inferior to that of a human with static objects. Their vision is especially sensitive to movements, which is the reason cat owners are perplexed whenever their little felines unintentionally ignore a snack that's left right in front of them. As a result, when something like a string moves in front of them, their eyes immediately catch that movement and want to chase it, which brings us to the second reason why cats love playing with strings. Cats Are PredatorsThese little felines might look innocent and cute, but they are predator animals from nature, which means that their instincts tell them to hunt. Cats that are not domesticated are hunting mice, rats, and other small animals, even insects. However, when they are being served their cat food at home, those wild instincts can resurface when they see a string. Pulling and moving a string in front of them can appear to their eyes similar to the movement of those small animals they would hunt, and so their playing with it might actually be more of a hunting quest for them. Cats Are Playful The above is not to say that cats are not playful animals. Even if you throw a ball at them or bring them other toys, you will see them playing with them. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, your cat is also cuddly and loves playing even with you. Therefore, playing with a string is yet another thing that looks like fun to them. Cats Love Using Their Claws These pets love using their claws and holding on to objects, which is why a string is ideal for them to do so. Some strings might be way thinner than others, but cats can still claw them and use their sense of touch. Cats Can Trains Their Brains By Playing Just like humans, sitting all day long doing nothing provides no stimulation to their brains, which is why cats play with strings as a means of staying active mentally and physically. In addition to that, it is very easy for cats to feel bored and agitated and ruin your furniture by scratching it before you know it. That is why cat owners can and should use a string and engage their cats in play to keep them from being bored and becoming aggressive. Cats Think Of String As A TailHave you seen a rat’s tail? Well, you might be able to distinguish it from a string, and cats might do so too, but their instinct tells them to go after it. Since it looks and moves similar to their prey’s tails, a string becomes an object they must hunt and catch, so don’t look surprised if your cat keeps trying to catch it repeatedly for hours! The Danger Of Cats Playing With A String Cats can easily get all tied up and wrapped with a string, which might sound like fun, but it can also turn out to be very dangerous to them. Leaving a cat unattended while it is playing with a string might lead to it getting its legs wrapped too tight with the string that it’s unable to move. Not only that but some felines have also had an eventful death caused by a string that got tied around their neck to the point where they could no longer breathe. In addition to that, cats can also get tangled up in objects such as table legs, houseplants, and many other ordinary objects you have at home. They can start chewing the string until they start choking. Therefore, if you want to let the cat play alone with a string that you’ve tied around a table chair, think twice before doing so as you can never be too certain of what can happen.  How To Act When You Notice String Coming From Your Cat's Mouth?In the unwanted event that your cat accidentally swallows and chokes on a string, you will hear it cough or see it paw its mouth. You might see the end of the string coming out of its mouth and your immediate reaction might be to pull it out. While that sounds like a reasonable thing to do, it could make things way worse as the string might be wrapped around the cat’s insides. Therefore, the best thing you can do is call your veterinarian and visit them immediately as your cat will be in need of a professional’s help. How To Keep My Cat Safe From Harming Itself With A String The obvious solution to preventing any string accidents is to keep the string away from the cat. However, as it is a beloved game for all cats, you can still use it for playing with it. To keep your cat safe from harming itself with a string, you should, however, stay alert and keep an eye on her at all times. In addition, you need to tell your kids or anyone who might be unaware of the potential risks of a cat playing alone with a string not to leave her alone when she’s playing. Finally, you need to think of other string-like objects you have at home, such as wires, and use cord covers or organizers to keep them out of the cat’s sight. The Bottom LineCats love playing with string for lots of reasons which are both habitual and instinctual. Nevertheless, playing with strings can be harmful and even lethal in certain cases, so make sure you look after your cat while she’s playing with her string.  As cat owners, especially first-time cat owners, it’s important to understand the ways in which your cat’s behavior might change between seasons, especially during the transition from summer to fall, and fall to winter, and although the changes aren’t often too drastic, it is worth knowing what you can expect from your cat when the temperature begins to drop and the days become darker quicker. One of the most commonly asked questions about cats during the winter is whether or not they sleep more during the winter. It’s a fair assumption given that cats like to stay as warm and cozy as possible, but is it actually true? So, if you want to find out more about whether cats sleep more in the winter, as well as other behavior changes your cat might have during the colder months, then read on and we’ll provide you with all of the information you need to know! Do Cats Sleep More During The Winter? It’s no secret that cats already love to snooze, in fact, most cats tend to spend around 12 to 16 hours sleep each day, so seeing your cat all bundled up and asleep is far from a rare sight. However, during the winter months, you can expect your cat to sleep just a little bit longer, this is because of a number of factors, including the shortening of daylight hours, as well as possible changes in your routine too, such as waking up later, and going to bed earlier. Extra napping during the winter is super common for our feline friends, so don’t be too concerned about them if you feel like they’re asleep for most of the day. Although, if you notice that your cat is extremely lethargic, and has begun to skip meals, is refusing playtime, or maybe even showing potential signs of illness, then it is vital that you get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Caring For Your Cat During The Winter If you’ve never experienced a winter with your cat before, then it’s important to learn all of the tips and tricks to ensure that your feline family member is kept warm and safe as the temperatures begin to drop. If you’re unsure on how to do this, don’t worry, as we’ve compiled all of the information you need to know about caring for your cat during the winter right here! Keeping WarmKeeping your cat nice and warm during the winter is super important, and is incredibly easy to do too, so if you’re worried about your cat being too cold, then here are some of the things you can do to ensure that your kitty is warm and cozy this winter!
Dry SkinMuch like us humans, the colder weather can cause a cat’s skin to dry out, becoming red, scaly, and flaky, which means your cat is likely to scratch or bite at it, which will ultimately make it bleed. You should always keep an eye on your cat’s skin throughout the colder months, and if you do notice any problematic patches of dried skin, then simply contact your veterinarian, who should be able to provide you with treatment to help keep the skin healthy. FleasDespite common belief, fleas can still be an issue even in the depths of winter, as they’ll often enter our homes as a way to escape the cold outside, which makes your cats susceptible to fleas. If you suspect that your cat has fleas, then contact your veterinarian, who will help to provide you with advice to combating fleas during the winter months. Seasonal DepressionIt’s common for us humans to become slightly restless during the winter because of the lack of sun, and this is a problem for cats too, who often mimic our emotions and feelings. If your cat seems to be less energetic or happy during the winter, it’s important to keep them engaged. Try buying them a new toy to play with, or you could even try teaching them a trick! Just show your cat plenty of love and affection during the winter months and you can be sure they’ll be back to their usually lively selves during the warmer months again. SummaryTo summarize, yes, it is common for cats to sleep more during the winter months, so don’t panic too much if you notice your kitty snoozing more than usual. Looking after your cat during the winter can be difficult, but with our guide, you should have no problems at all!  Even if you’ve owned a cat for years or multiple cats, they always have unique behaviors that help to form their personality, even if you don’t quite understand them at the time. However, there are a few behaviors that most cats share as a collective which can be confusing to owners. Some of these behaviors usually come around close to a cat’s death, the death of your cat is an extremely sad time, but sometimes a cat’s behavior will change as they’re close to dying, which can provide a telltale sign as to whether or not your cat is going to die soon. One of the most common things that people believe cats do when they’re ready to die is run away. So, if you want to learn more about if cats run away to die, as well as why they might do this, then keep reading, and we’ll explain all of the information you need to know! Do Cats Run Away To Die? If you’ve ever had a pet cat die before, you know that one of the things they do is leave home and run away, however, they aren’t running away from you and your family! Cats will actually run and hide when they’re close to death because they feel more threatened and vulnerable to any potential predators, as they are too weak or sick to put up a fight should they be attacked. Although you might be wondering why cats do this even if they’ve been domesticated, and don’t necessarily have to worry about defending themselves when they live in a nice comfy house, the reality is that this is a natural instinct that is hard-wired inside them, and it’s ultimately a final form of protection, which means it’s common for your cat to leave home before it dies. They also might wander away in order to try and recover or deal with their injuries or sickness in a peaceful and quiet spot, away from any environmental stress, which there can be a lot of in a busy household. So whilst it might seem like your cat is running away purely with the intention of dying, the reality is that they’re just trying to protect themselves and remove themselves from any loud or stressful environments whilst trying to heal, which often means they will leave home. Do Cats Isolate Themselves When They Are Dying?  To many people, it does seem like cats isolate themselves when they’re close to death, and this is true, as many cats prefer to live out their last few days in peace and serenity, and there are a number of reasons why they do this. The main one is instinct, as previously stated, cats will often try to find a less stressful and more peaceful environment out of a defensive instinct, even if it’s no longer necessary as a domestic pet. They also do this to conserve energy, most dying cats pass away as a result of organ failure or tumors, which can cause immense amounts of pain to them, which is why they’ll often find a safe spot to rest in order to conserve their energy. However, their lack of energy often means that once they have chosen their spot, they won’t move to eat or drink, or even eliminate, which means that this spot is where they’ll die. We all know cats can sometimes struggle to be sociable, which is why if they’re in pain, it can take a lot of energy to be around their human owners. In addition to this, cats are extremely sensitive, and if their owners are upset because they know the cat will die, the cats will be able to detect the negative emotions too. Where Do Cats Go To Die? As we know, cats who go between the outdoors and indoors will often leave home when it comes to trying to find that safe and secure place in which they can rest during their final days. Places such as bushes, dense woodlands, inside sheds or garages, in small boxes, or even in abandoned buildings are all places where a cat might go to spend its last few days. Alternatively, inside cats, who have never left the house, will often find places within the home that offer the same sort of conditions as they would look for outside, which is a warm and dark spot with the most protection. So places such as under the bed or furniture, in a cellar or basement, inside any boxes, or storage cupboards or wardrobes are all common places for a house cat to seek out during their final days. What Are The Signs Of A Dying Cat? Although they tend to run away close to their death, there are some telltale signs that your cat might be close to dying. These signs include drastic personality changes (becoming much more withdrawn and less sociable than usual), heavy or labored breathing, seizures (which can occur a few days before dying or right as their body shuts down before finally dying, despite this, however, their death is actually a peaceful one usually), refusing to eat and drink, appearing unkept or ungroomed as well as losing patches of fur. Any of these signs will point towards the fact that your cat is dying, and whilst it might be tempting to try and take them to the vet in order to see if they can be helped, the likelihood is that they’re already too far gone, so it’s best to try and make them as comfortable as possible during their final days. SummaryTo summarize, cats do run off when they’re close to death, as they look to protect themselves from any potential danger or predators whilst they are vulnerable. However, they also seek the peace and quiet of a secluded spot so that they can conserve as much energy as possible.  As everyone who owns a cat will know, they are animals that thrive on a daily routine, which means that you will often find them demanding their food at the same time every day, as well as coming to you for your daily playtime too. Cat owners also know that if they deviate from their regular routine that it can actually cause major distress to the cat. This leads a lot of people to believe that cats have an adept sense of time, but is this really the case? For those who aren’t aware of whether or not a cat has a sense of time like humans, it can be a confusing topic. However, the answer is actually super simple. So, if you want to find out if cats have a sense of time, as well as more information about how cats can tell what time it is, then read on, and we’ll give you all of the answers you want to know! Do Cats Have A Sense Of Time? Since cats seem to work around the routines of their owners, it’s pretty normal to assume that they have a sense of time that is similar to ours, however, this is actually not the case. Instead, your feline friend will adhere strictly to the human clock of their owner, meaning that they will demand to be fed and will go about their daily activities strictly by reacting to the environment around them. This is because cats actually have circadian rhythms. This means that they operate on a 24-hour wake and sleep cycle, which is what allows them to tell what time of the day it is through the sunlight and the darkness, so a cat’s bodily reactions are entirely dependent on the sun rising and falling throughout the day. Cats will also memorize any patterns that can be associated with time, from there, internal cues will then be back-chained, which ultimately means that in order for it to be the correct time, a certain sequence of things must occur in the correct order. Cats will also use cues such as sounds and sights in order to help determine what time of day it is, which is why routine plays such an important role in influencing their behavior.  Do Cats Experience Time Differently? Quite often you will hear people refer to the way a cat experiences time as “cat years”, explaining that our feline friends experience the passing of time in a different way than we humans do. However, the reality is that this is simply a theory, and has no scientific basis. Cats have no real reference to how time passes, which means that your cat exclusively lives in the moment, with no real thoughts about the time that has passed in relation to the past or the future. When it comes to a cat’s experience of time, the reality is that the way in which they experience time depends on how hungry they are, how cold they are, or how tired they are, other than this, they don’t really know anything else. Do Cats Know What Day It Is? Everyone’s favorite cat, Garfield, is known for his distaste for Mondays, but can real-life cats actually tell which day of the week it is? As fun as Garfield’s hatred for Monday is, unfortunately, cats can’t actually tell what day of the week it is at all! As far as cats are concerned, their understanding of the calendar is similar to that of the clock! Cats will understand your routine, and if you have each weekend off, then your cat will begin to understand exactly when they can expect to see you at home! If you have a visitor to your house that comes once a week, then your cats might have some semblance of how long a week might be, as over time, they’ll begin to expect the arrival of the visitor on the day that they’re due to visit, but this doesn’t mean they actually know what day of the week it is. Do Cats Know When It Is Day Or Night?Whilst they may not have a great sense of the time or what day it is, cats do have a sense of whether it is the daytime or the nighttime, and they will instinctively know when night begins to fall, thanks to the diminishing light (both from the sun, and the lights in your home once you’ve gone to sleep), as well as the drop in temperature. Cats do prefer to sleep in the day for the most part, because their temperature lowers whilst they sleep, which means they can keep warm in the sun’s rays, and since they’re also nocturnal predators, and their prey is nocturnal too, it means that cats are naturally more active in the nighttime. Cats are easily able to recognize when it is nighttime, as this is when they would traditionally set out to hunt and explore, and since there are less human distractions during the nighttime, you can expect your cat to be much more alert and willing to explore whilst it’s dark. However, don’t be surprised if you do see your cat napping during the nighttime, especially if your cat remains indoors the entire time, as cats are ultimately great imitators, and will mimic their owner’s routine as closely as possible. SummaryTo summarize, no, cats have no indication of what the time of day is, or what day of the week it is either. However, they are able to tell the difference between daytime and nighttime as they’re traditionally nocturnal predators, which means they’re naturally more active and alert once the sun has gone down. However, cats will adhere to a routine pretty strictly, so they will know exactly when to wake you up so you can feed them!  As humans, stress is something that we’re used to, whether it’s from a long day at work, or because of a particular issue or problem, stress is a horrible feeling that can lead to some serious health issues if it persists. But did you know that it’s actually possible for cats to feel stress too? That’s right, as carefree as our feline friends might seem, they too can become stressed due to a variety of different issues, and much like us humans, chronic stress can lead to some quite severe health issues in cats, which is why it is so important to be able to identify the signs of it so early on. Perhaps the most common question about stress and cats is if it is possible for a cat to die from stress. So, if you want to know more about cats and the effects stress can have on them, including if it is possible for them to die from stress, then read on, and we’ll provide you with all of the information you need to know. What Are The Signs Of Stress In A Cat?As a cat owner, you’ll know how hard it is sometimes when it comes to trying to figure out exactly how your cat is feeling, as they’re often quite hard animals to decipher. Despite this, however, there are some telltale signs that your cat is stressed, so if you notice any of these signs, you should seek help immediately! One of the most common signs of a stressed cat is urine spraying, which can be a sign that your cat doesn’t feel safe or secure in their home, which is always going to stress them out. If your cat is excessively self-grooming, or experiencing significant hair loss, then this can also be a sign of a stressed cat too. They might be self-grooming too much due to an infection or because of parasites, such as fleas. So this is definitely a sign that something is wrong with your cat. If your cat has become particularly aggressive, then there’s a chance that it might be stressed. Much like us humans, cats that are stressed have a tendency to act out, which not only leads to aggression but also an increased amount of vocalization too, which means these signs aren’t to be ignored. Alterations to your cat’s appetite are another potential sign of stress, so if your cat is eating a lot more food than usual, or has stopped eating their food, then you should definitely consider seeking advice. Changes to your cat’s general behavior aren’t to be ignored either, and if you’ve had your cat for a long time you’ll know how they usually act, so anything out of the ordinary should be monitored. Finally, the last sign that your cat might be suffering from stress is if they begin to eliminate outside of its litter tray. This could be due to a number of things, but the stress caused by a medical issue is a common reason for your cat to begin eliminating outside of their tray, so you should consider seeking help as soon as possible if this is the case.  Can A Cat Die Because Of Stress? Whilst there’s no possible way of ensuring that your cat’s life is entirely stress-free, stress can have an extremely negative effect on your cat, especially if it is stressed out on a regular basis. Like humans, chronic stress can lead to severe health issues in your feline friend, such as diarrhoea, balding, a decrease in the immune system, and a dramatic decrease in appetite, all of which can ultimately lead to your cat dying. As you can see then, it is extremely important that you take notice if your cat is displaying signs of stress, but what should you do if you notice that your cat is stressed out? How To Help A Stressed Cat The first way that you can begin to relieve your stressed cat is by identifying the problem, it could be anything, from a change of location (e.g. moving house), loss of a family member (human or animal!), the introduction of a new pet, or other changes to their environment. From there, you can begin to figure out how to best help your feline friend relax. If you plan on redecorating or making dramatic changes to your home, do so over a prolonged period of time, as it will allow your cat to adjust better. Introducing a new pet should be done extremely slowly, and you should give your cat plenty of time to interact with them before introducing them fully. Ultimately, the best way to help relieve a stressed cat is to show them plenty of love and affection. It will help reassure your cat that things will be okay, so make sure that you pet them, brush them, or even just have them on your lap if you notice that they’re slightly stressed out. If you’re struggling to identify what is causing your cat to be stressed, then you can consult an animal behaviorist, who will schedule a visit to see if they can help you to identify what is wrong with your feline friend. However, if there’s nothing in your home that will lead your cat to be stressed, and you think your cat’s stress is due to a medical issue, then it’s always smart to schedule a visit with your local veterinarian, who will be able to provide a full check-up of your cat and identify any possible issues that might be causing your cat any stress. SummaryTo summarize, stress in cats can be caused by a large number of things, and stress can have a detrimental effect on your cat’s health, resulting in death if left unresolved, so always try to relax your cat!  If you notice a cyst on your cat, this could result from infection or a clogged duct, and in some cases, they can be harmless and don't require treatment, as these can be absorbed back into the body or remain unchanged. There are occasions when you want to get your cat checked out, and this is if the cyst is infected or causes pain and discomfort to your cat, in which case, it will have to be drained by your veterinarian. So if you need to go down this route, let's discuss what this procedure looks like, which you can find below. What Kind Of Mass Is It? This can be pretty scary to consider, but any bumps that appear on your cat can come under two main categories; Benign masses are tumors that don't spread, and malignant tumors can be cancerous and attack surrounding tissue and spread as a result. This is why it's essential to check over your cat regularly by grooming or petting them so you can identify any lump and get it looked at as soon as possible, as if left, they could cause further pain and restrict their movement if the lump grows. So if the lump does not reduce in size on its own after a week, it changes color and grows large quickly, or your cat is visibly bothered by it, you should schedule an appointment with your vet to be able to diagnose and treat it. What Is The Drainage Procedure Like?A procedure like this is an option for when other medications and treatments don't work on the cyst and involves making an incision, then inserting a drain, which is likely to be a surgical tube, and leaving it in place so the cyst can drain continually. This allows the wound to heal correctly by clearing itself of all the fluid and tissue that forms the cyst. If an infection is present, you will be prescribed antibiotics, painkillers, or anti-inflammatories when needed. For this treatment, your cat will need to be put under anesthetic, and an exam will be done to determine if any conditions may make the use of anesthetic an issue, and your cat will have to fast before the procedure. If the nature of the cyst isn't fully known, the veterinarian may want to take a biopsy to see if there are any cancerous cells inside, which could be a cause for concern in the future. What Does The Recovery Look Like? Once your cat is back to its old self and the proper medication is prescribed, you'll have to administer this while keeping an eye on them, so they don’t bite or lick the area where the incision was made. In some cases, the drain will be left on your cat while in recovery, which is why it's essential to make sure the drain is clean and isn't blocked, and if your cat is eager to go outside, put them in a cage so you can limit their activity as much as possible and they can rest as well. If you're worried about how to use medication with a cat that may be fussy, you can mix it with a bit of its food, and your cat can eat it without having any leftovers. Avoid crushing any pills into food or water as this can taste bitter to your cat, and you want them to get the full dosage. Can I Prevent Cysts With My Cat?  Not all cysts are avoidable, as they can appear quite quickly, and the cause can be unknown, but sebaceous cysts are the most common type in cats, especially older ones, as hair and these follicles can get blocked up. You can lower the risk this poses to your cat by having a clean environment around them and giving them baths if there is dirt that the cat can't remove itself, and this way, you can have a healthy cat that can move around freely. While grooming and playing with your cat, you can notice when these lumps appear, and then you can get them checked over, as there is a chance that the cyst can become infected and cause more complications and invasive surgeries. What If My Cat's Cyst Is Malignant?This is relatively rare, but it is still something you can look out for, and you won't know for definite if the lump is cancerous unless you get it seen by a veterinarian. To help determine this, you may be asked about any changes in your cat, such as eating and drinking habits, how often they go outside, activity levels, and any changes in temperament or behavior. If you make sure that your cat has its vaccinations if it's at risk of developing certain cancers, spaying a female cat at an early age, and keeping lighter-skinned cats out of direct sunlight as much as possible are some measures you can take. For example, suppose your cat suddenly starts to lose interest in its food. In that case, this may indicate another issue, including kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or pancreatitis, and you want to keep on top of this as your cat ages. Final Thoughts There are other kinds of lumps that you can find on cats, and these may resemble warts that can be spread by a virus that can come from bedding, toys, or carpets, so it's a good idea to keep these areas clean as your cat can wander anywhere. Mostly, the more severe types of growth are rare, but if your cat has a history of illness, it's a good idea to keep on top of its health as illnesses and cancers can return and be more severe, and you want your cat to live a long and happy life.  As adventurous as your cat can be, there is a chance that it can pick up infections and viruses that can stay hidden on many surfaces and get into contact with your cat, especially ringworm, which can be highly contagious. For this, you’ll need to quarantine them for around 2 to 4 weeks, and here you need to isolate them to prevent spreading the infection, which can travel in spores. Read further below to find out how ringworm is treated and the measures you can take to prevent the spread. Why A Quarantine Is Necessary Once your cat has become infected, the spores that come from this can survive up to 20 months, so during this time, this can pose a threat to you and other animals in your household and cause hair loss and scarring in your pets. You also don’t want it to spread to yourself, which can cause unwanted rashes or a scattering of bumps that can be unpleasant to have and deal with, and in cases where the nail and scalp are affected, treatments like uni-fungal creams will need to be applied. This fungus is most common in kittens and older cats as they have weaker immune systems, so if you have either, be sure to be vigilant if you notice any changes in their skin or fur. How To Treat Your Cat For RingwormYou can use anti-fungal treatments that work as remedies for fungal and bacterial issues your cat has so that you can get a cotton swab or ball and apply it to the affected areas, and you’ll need to do this 2-3 times a day which can take up to 6 weeks to disappear. You can use disposable gloves and spare clothes so that after you apply the treatment, you can disinfect your clothes immediately in hot water and dry them on the highest setting to remove any spores that may have spread to them. During this time, you want to wash your hands thoroughly and use medicated shampoos for your other pets, so the ringworm doesn’t spread to them, and these won’t dry out their skin or cause any discomfort if you’re worried about the prolonged use of it. How To Prevent It from Spreading  The first thing you can do is separate the cat and keep it in one area, like a playpen, so it can move around but be less a risk of spreading the ringworm, so every time you enter the area, you can clean and disinfect the area easier, which you can do daily. Make sure toys, bowls, and brushes are separated and can be cleaned daily if your cat still uses these. Below are more specific ways you can reduce the risk of it spreading. Clean The Area Around You Any rugs, pillows, throws, or sheets that your cat may have come into contact with should be cleaned, and this applies to any cloths you use to clean out the area your infected cat is in, so anything that cannot be cleaned, you may want to throw away. If you do this daily, there won’t be many places for the fungus to hide and spread even further, and it is even more essential if you have young children in the house who could pick it up from any untreated areas. Be Careful When Using Disinfectant When cleaning the pen your cat is in, it might be tempting to use bleach, Lysol, or any products containing ammonia, or benzalkonium chloride, as these can irritate your cat’s paws while in heavy use. Some of these disinfectants can be toxic. When looking for anti-bacterial sprays, find ones that are pet friendly and if you do have to use bleach, make sure you rinse the area with plenty of water and let it dry before your cat goes near it. You may be able to dilute the mixture of your disinfectant, and for others, you may have to put the cat in another room and let the treated area completely dry before putting them back. This is especially the case for disinfectants that have a strong-smelling odor. Give Your Cat Medicated Baths You’ll want to do this twice a week, and you can use lime sulfur or anti-fungal shampoo, and even though the lime solution is usually the most popular way to treat ringworm, it can dry out your cat’s skin and leave areas irritated. Whichever method you choose, you could use a spray bottle to apply it easier, and you want to make sure this covers all the areas of the cat, but avoid spraying the head, and for this area, you can use a small sponge and gently dab the ears and face. When you finish the bath, you want to return the cat to fresh bedding and a sanitized area that is completely dry, and if you’re treating a kitten, make sure you use a heating pad, as letting them dry off naturally can cause their body temperature can drop quickly. Use Other Treatments If you contact a veterinarian, they can point you to over-the-counter medications you can use after their baths, usually topical ointments. On other days you can clean any areas and apply the ointment as required. As for the frequency, this can depend on the severity of the ringworm, and you may be given a prescription that deals with the inflammation and allow the skin to heal. Some of these medications are based on the cat’s weight, so make sure you use the optimal amount. In SummaryThis might sound like a hassle, but to ensure the safety of your cat and others around you, these measures can prevent the spread of ringworm and allow for a much easier and, hopefully, speedier recovery, which is the best outcome for your cat.  Siberian cats can be a fun and playful breed that can be easy to maintain if their coat is brushed and maintained, but one thing that can be frustrating with these cats is their shedding, which can get in many places and be a task to clean. Knowing how often they do this can be helpful, so they do this twice a year to prepare for the winter and summer seasons, so this cat is considered to shed moderately, so they may not leave as much hair after they’ve made contact with a surface. This cat has a lot of other characteristics, which we can look at in more detail below, and it may convince you to have one as a pet if you haven’t already. Siberian Cats: An OverviewWhen you think of these cats, you might see them with a thick white coat, but these cats can come in different colors, some of these being grey, black, brown, sable, lilac, lavender, ebony, or even silver colored. With this, you have a solidly-built cat that can be highly active but can take it easy as they can be pleasant and kind with people, so if you want a cat to play with, this is a perfect choice. The only real issue with these cats is their hair, which can put some people off, but if you don’t mind grooming your cat more often than usual, you two should get along, and what makes this more of a plus is that its hair is hypoallergenic so more people can own them. However, when something is hypoallergenic, it doesn’t mean that some people will be completely free of allergies. Symptoms might be reduced, so if a cat triggers your allergies in a particular room, you may want to consider this. Caring For Your Siberian Cat If you already own this cat, you’ll already have an idea of what the caring and maintenance this cat requires, and surprisingly, it can be a cat that isn’t too demanding, as you only need to brush its fur once or twice a week to avoid tangles or matting. As they molt more at the end of winter and have some light molting in the summer, you can brush them during this time, and you can focus on areas like the armpits, lower belly, under the chin, or behind the ears, as these are places that can get matted. When it comes to health issues, the main one for this breed is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart disease in cats that can be detected early if you have screenings of your cat a few times a year. If you’re thinking of getting one, it may be a good idea to have another cat or pet which it can accompany, as these cats are a social breed that thrives with other cats, so your cat may get jumpy or easily excited otherwise, which may be something you don’t want. What About Cleaning A Siberian Cat? There is a good reason why these cats are so low-maintenance, and one of these is due to their thick coats, which have three layers, so you rarely have to give it a bath, but you can consider other things like keeping their nails trimmed and making sure their ears and eyes are clean. If you are considering getting your cat trimmed, consider its role during that time of year, as in the summer, these cats can lick and cool themselves down, so the fur can keep out both the heat and cold. If your cat seems uncomfortable, you could get them trimmed, but you can focus on the belly area so they can lay on a colder or warmer surface while having the properties of their coat, and if your cat likes to spend a lot of time outdoors, it could get sunburnt. Are There Any Other Considerations? If you intend to keep your cat indoors, this can be a good thing, but you want to ensure that you have enough climbing areas and toys for it to play with, as this cat can be pretty energetic, so any fragile items you have in your house should be moved. Be sure to keep an eye on its food levels, as indoor cats have a higher chance of becoming obese, but you also want a balance in their nutrition, so you can use some high protein types as your cat is likely going to be active wherever they are. If You Have To Clean Cat Hair In Your House If you have a few pets, you know how frustrating they can be, so if your Siberian cat does leave some hairs, you can do things like drape their favorite lounging areas with a removable fabric covering so you can put it in the wash every so often. If your cat makes many areas of its lounging spot, you can use lint rollers or duct tape, which should make easy work of things, and for rugs and carpets, you can mist them with some water and brush any thicker clumps of hair before you use the vacuum. You can do this alongside switching up the direction of your cleaning, so rugs with patterns or grooves can have the most effective cleaning, so no bits of hair remain afterward. For any odors, you can sprinkle some baking soda onto the rug before you vacuum. Closing Thoughts Your Siberian cat can spread a lot of joy in your house as they don’t mind the occasional cuddle, and with this affection comes an energetic cat that can be difficult to keep up with. There’s no doubting how fun and easy these cats can be to care for, as this can be a change of pace for those who have other more demanding cats.  Genetically speaking, humans and cats are quite similar, so it may be tempting to think that we share some of the same illnesses, especially when we look at conditions such as hemorrhoids. So do cats suffer from this as well? Even though some of the symptoms can look the same, cats don't experience hemorrhoids the same way we do, instead is known as rectal prolapse, which can come in different forms and be just as painful and uncomfortable for your cat. Find out what the symptoms are and how they can be treated below. Types Of Rectal Prolapse In CatsWith humans, there are four grades of hemorrhoids, but cats are confined to two main groups, and the first is known as incomplete, which is rectal tissue that protrudes when your cat tries to defecate, and the tissue goes back to its original position. The second type is complete, where all layers of the rectum extend through the anal opening, as the rectum's inner lining is always visible. This type requires immediate veterinary intervention. What Are the Causes Of Rectal Prolapse In Cats? It can be caused by conditions or behaviors that cause the cat to strain more while pooping or peeing; over time, this weakens the tissue that supports the rectum. These causes include constipation, diarrhea, intestinal parasites, rectal mass, and urinary or colon obstruction by a foreign object. They can even affect cats that have given birth, while some cats may have tail amputations, making them more prone to this. How Is It Treated? If you notice any reddening or swelling around your cat's anus, and if your cat is struggling to do its business, it's a good idea to get them checked out so the issue can be treated early, as complete prolapses usually require surgery. Once you take your cat to the vet, they will look into any underlying issues with it, especially if there are intestinal parasites, masses, or an enlarged prostate. These can be looked at to solve the rectal prolapse issue. For A Simple Prolapse The tissue around your cat's anus will be carefully cleaned if it's a simple procedure. If there is any swelling, they can use a solution to help decrease the inflammation, and after the rectum is flushed out, it can be lubricated and replaced in the pelvic cavity. Once this has been done, a stitch is made to make the anal opening smaller, so there's less of a risk for the rectum to prolapse again. For Advanced Prolapse More invasive surgery will be needed here, especially if the tissue around the rectum has turned black and is dying. Here is where healthy rectal tissue is reattached to more healthy tissue if any remains. If rectal prolapse is a persistent problem for your cat, a procedure called a colopexy will be required to remove the dead tissue, so the rectum will be attached to the abdomen wall with a suture, which will prevent any repeat prolapses. What Does The Recovery Look Like?  After the surgery, your cat can be prescribed painkillers and stool softeners, which will depend on the health of the rectal tissue, and epidurals can be used with cats with the urge to strain when they do their business. If your cat has undergone an intensive treatment plan, their rest and recovery will likely be longer, but with other more straightforward cases, they can be brought home the same day, and here is where you'll want to keep an eye on your cat. At home, your cat will likely need a collar to prevent them from licking the area or trying to remove the suture where it could become infected. Be sure to limit your cat straining by using soft foods and stool softeners so the area can heal. Depending on the prolapse's severity, this can last around 14 days or longer. There is a chance for complications where the sutures can come out, or the prolapse can reappear, leading to incontinence or infection if not treated. How Do I Prevent Rectal Prolapse In My Cat? While there isn't a sure way to prevent this from happening, you can look for signs of underlying issues, such as parasites or constipation, which can cause prolapse. For this, you can use deworming medication and stool softeners. Even though cats can be good at healing and often hide illnesses pretty well, rectal prolapse won't heal on its own. This will need some intervention, whether through surgery or antibiotics if there is a bacterial infection. You can also prevent prolapse from becoming an issue if you spay your cat, especially in females, where giving birth can cause the rectum to extend from the anus, and you can do this when the cat is four months old. Can My Cat Become Incontinent?It is quite rare for a cat to become incontinent after this surgery, but it can depend on how severe the prolapse is and how much tissue is healthy. If this becomes a problem, you may be given muscle stimulants or antibiotics for your cat. With older cats, there isn't any way to prevent this as it is linked more to cognitive impairment, so you should aim to make the cat as comfortable as possible with more regular cleaning to avoid issues with their skin. Conclusion It can be challenging to notice the prolapse until it is near the complete stage, so you want to make sure you look for signs in your cat that indicate that they're struggling to go to the bathroom, plus any sudden changes to your cat. Of course, many of these issues can be dependent on the cat’s age, so for older cats, you want to be sure that you check them over for any issues which can be managed and allow your cat to remain comfortable.  Even indoor cats can have their moments when they run around like crazy playing, so it should come as no surprise that on occasion, accidents do happen. What’s more, cats can often be super quiet, so it can be pretty easy to accidentally hurt them, whether by stepping on them or opening a door on them. And if your cat is particularly accident-prone, it can make owners like us quite anxious about what to do if they accidentally get a bad head injury. So in order to ease your worries, it makes sense to want to find out what can happen if your cat has a head injury, and more specifically, whether they can get a concussion, and if so, what’s the best way to handle the situation. And that’s exactly what this article is going to cover. Please feel free to scroll ahead to any section that jumps out at you. What Exactly Is A Concussion?A concussion is basically a mild, yet traumatic brain injury. It is commonly assumed that a concussion is a loss of consciousness following shaking or a blow to the head. But the truth is, a concussion can occur without a loss of consciousness. Despite being described as a mild brain injury, a concussion can lead to temporary cognitive symptoms, and several other symptoms besides. This includes headache, confusion, memory loss, sleepiness, excessive fatigue, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, lack of coordination, and ringing in the ears. How Serious Is A Concussion?Thankfully, however, because a concussion is defined as a mild brain injury, it is not usually life-threatening. Sadly, however, symptoms can last for several weeks. And worse yet, about 20% of sufferers could get post-concussion syndrome, which lasts for over 6 weeks. Can Cats Get Concussions?Unfortunately, yes, cats can get concussions. Even something as simple and “minor” as being stepped on can be all it takes to cause a severe head injury and bring about a concussion. How Do You Tell If A Cat Has A Concussion?The truth is, it can be really hard to spot when your cat has a concussion. Even if they could, they probably wouldn’t tell you anything was wrong. Their instinct following injury is simply to hide away to recover on their own. Thankfully, however, there are a handful of more obvious symptoms to look for. These include unresponsiveness, trouble walking, seizures or vomiting. A frequent symptom of concussion is a loss of consciousness, but that can frequently be mistaken for simple napping, which is very problematic for assessing whether your cat has a concussion. If you’re not entirely sure of whether or not your cat has a concussion, we would recommend a “belt and braces” approach, where you take all the measures you can, just to be on the safe side. As the saying goes, better safe than sorry. What To Do If Your Cat Has A Concussion?If, in the worst case scenario, you suspect that your cat has in fact suffered a concussion, you need to take action immediately. You must contact your veterinarian’s office right away for the cat’s condition to be first assessed over the phone through a series of questions. There is a good chance that the veterinarian will ask you to bring your cat to their office, so that they can keep a close eye on your cat to monitor their condition and recovery. How Do I Know If My Cat Hit His Head Too Hard? Here follows a quick run down of some of the most common symptoms of head trauma in cats:
What Should I Do If My Cat Hits His Head?Whenever your cat gets hit on the head, by anything, you should keep a close eye on them for at least the next 24 hours, because their condition can change rapidly from one moment to the next. Keep an eye out for the symptoms of conditions laid out earlier in the article. And if you have any suspicion whatsoever that your cat may have sustained a concussion following an injury to the head, you should seek assistance from a veterinarian with immediate effect, for close monitoring and pain relief at the minimum. If your veterinarian is unavailable, for whatever reason, then it is down to you to keep an eye on the cat, and monitor their condition, On return from the veterinarian, it is strongly recommended that you keep the cat indoors, so that you can keep an eye on them and make sure that they don’t do anything that may make their condition worse, such as hitting their head on something again. How Does A Veterinarian Diagnose A Concussion?If you bring your cat to the veterinarian with suspected concussion, they will typically check your cat’s blood pressure, occasionally give oxygen, and if deemed necessary, order an MRI brain scan. How Is A Concussion In A Cat Treated?Thankfully, there are several things that a veterinarian can do to help a cat with concussion. The nature of the treatment applied will vary according to the type and severity of the head injury. There will be pain relief provided in the form of IV fluids, and anti-inflammatory medication to bring down any swelling. Wrap UpSo, unfortunately, cats can get concussions, and they are more common than you might think, not to mention very easy to accidentally cause. There are some obvious signs to look for, as mentioned earlier. And it is not always accompanied by loss of consciousness. But it can be tricky to diagnose because cats often like to hide when they are in pain. If you suspect that your cat may have incurred a concussion, it is imperative that you seek the help of a veterinarian as soon as possible. And you must monitor their condition. Although concussions aren’t usually fatal, they can be very serious and cause a great deal of pain.  Many owners choose to have their cat spayed for a number of reasons, however, it might be that your cat has gone into heat before you’ve had the chance to. If this is the case, then you might be wondering: can a cat be spayed while in heat? In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about spaying your cat during heat and everything else you need to know about your cat’s heat cycle. So, let’s dive in. Can A Cat Be Spayed While In Heat?While it's not recommended, veterinary experts claim that it is possible for a cat in heat to be spayed during this time. Veterinarians are a little cautious to do this surgery on a cat while it is in heat because during heat, blood vessels and tissues might swell, increasing the risk of excess bleeding during surgery. What Happens During A Heat Cycle?When a cat's body is hormonally prepared and receptive to becoming pregnant, they enter a heat cycle. When they are in heat, some cats might urinate more frequently or spray urine on vertical surfaces. This is because of the hormones and pheromones in their pee, which actually aid in attracting male cats. Feline dating customs are peculiar, but they do work! Even stranger male cats may begin to emerge in your yard when your cat is in season. Your cat may become more vocal at night during the cycle if she senses potential mating partners outside and wants to approach them. She may also be more receptive to being petted on the behind and may rub it on her owners. Thankfully, cats do not bleed when they’re in heat, unlike dogs. If your cat does, then you should contact your local vet straight away. How Long Does A Heat Cycle Last?An indoor cat will cycle into heat every two to three weeks, with each cycle lasting three to five days if she isn't spayed. Until your cat is spayed or becomes pregnant, the heat cycles will continue. It is advised that cat owners have their cat spayed around the time she turns six months old since the cycles begin when the cat is four to five months old. How To Calm A Cat In Heat It can be quite agitating dealing with a cat in heat; they become very excitable, loud, and often messy. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to calm your cat during a heat cycle:
Spaying Your Cat During A Heat CycleYour cat will try to mate if she is in heat because her hormones and instincts are telling her to. She will therefore take tremendous measures to escape the house and find males to mate with. Living with a cat who is in heat can be frustrating. You can ask your vet about having her spayed as soon as possible if you don't believe you can handle her behavior for about a week. Although spaying a cat during heat is not recommended, it is possible. There are certain drawbacks to this, though. Some veterinarians choose to avoid doing surgery on a cat in heat because of these risks. The blood vessels that supply the reproductive organs and the tissues around them grow swollen with blood when a cat is in heat, which increases the susceptibility of the tissues to tearing. This means that your cat will undergo a procedure that is more involved and time-consuming than a standard spay. Additionally, it will cost more due to the additional labor and materials required. If you have arranged a spay procedure for your cat in advance and discover that she has begun her first heat cycle just before the surgery, be sure to call your veterinarian for guidance. Postponing the procedure can be more advantageous for you, your cat, and the veterinarian. Spaying Your Cat Before A Heat CycleIf the cat is not in season, an ovariohysterectomy, sometimes known as spay surgery, is regarded as a regular, low-risk procedure. To make things easier, you should ideally spay your cat before her first cycle. By the age of six months, veterinarians typically advise spaying kittens. This is due to the fact that most female kittens begin to go into heat between the ages of six and nine months. Though it's rare, some kitten cats might go into heat as early as four months old. In animal shelters and rescue organizations, kittens as young as eight weeks old are frequently spayed to prevent unintended pregnancies. If you are concerned about having your cat spayed before her first heat, you might want to discuss having the procedure done early with your veterinarian. Final ThoughtsPlanning is essential if you choose to wait to neuter your cat while she is in heat. Keep in mind that cats will remain in heat until they mate, and a new cycle could start within a few weeks or even days. It can be challenging to find the ideal window. Ask your veterinarian about the optimal time to arrange the spay because they might not be able to accommodate a last-minute operation. Be sure to tell your vet as soon as possible if your cat begins to exhibit indications of heat a day or two before the planned surgery. To summarize, you can spay your cat while she's in heat, however it is not ideal for you or your cat. It's best to stick out the heat cycle and wait until she's between cycles before getting her spayed.  If you notice a fall in temperature, there’s a good chance that your cat will notice too, and even though they are adaptable pets, there are times when even they struggle in these environments. That is why keeping the temperature around 90ºF or higher is essential. This way, your cat won’t have to resort to drastic measures to stay warm, especially if they have short hair or are kittens that struggle to regulate their body temperature. You can find out how to see if your cat is too cold and how you can keep them warm by finding out more below. Why It’s Important To Keep Cats WarmYou might have a cat with a lot of fur or prefers the outside, so they are resilient to any conditions. While this sentiment sounds convenient, cats can get chilly just like us, and it could get to the point where it can become uncomfortable. Just like us, cats can get hypothermia and heatstroke, and while we can cope with lower temperatures more efficiently than cats, this does mean we have to consider their temperature needs as well. So we know when we are cold, but for cats, it may be harder to notice, which is why there are some signs to look out for that your cat may be too cold, which we look at below. What Are the Signs If A Cat Is Too Cold?One of the main signs is that your cat will try to snuggle up more in colder temperatures and seek warmer areas of your home, which could be out of character for your cat. As well as this, your cat can be cold to the touch, especially around their ears, tail, and footpads, while you may notice they are shivering, dilated pupils, have weak movement, have a low heart rate, or have slow and shallow breathing. You can also see if your cat is too cold, as they may want to snuggle on your lap and be reluctant to move, or they may try to burrow under blankets and covers, as cats like to huddle together to stay warm. This drop in temperature can be a painful and stressful change, which could lead to fevers, which may reflect in their habits as they may eat less. In extreme cases, this can lead to hyperthermia, where the cat can look lethargic and pant excessively. How To Warm Up A Cat? One of the best ways you can keep your cat warm up is by offering nesting areas around your home where it can nestle up and bring its temperature up, and if you want to help out a bit more, you can turn your thermostat to 70ºF or higher to help them out. You could also place cat beds around your home, so your cat has a choice of where to rest and you could use heating pads as an option if your cat likes to be in multiple areas, so you can slip it in under them, making sure it doesn’t get too hot. There are other things you can do, like setting up a bed near a porch or window that receives sunlight, feeding them a bit extra, and for hairless cats, you may want to get them a sweater or covering that they don’t try to get out of and are more comfortable. When To Take A Cat To The Vet We don’t like to go to last resort, but if some of the symptoms above get worse and your cat is struggling to breathe, you will want to take them to see a veterinarian, who can determine the severity of any issues and take any measures needed. One of these may be simply covering your cat in blankets or warm towels, and their temperature can be recorded. Hot water bottles and other sources can be used if your cat’s temperature is worryingly low. IV fluids can be used for a hypothermic cat, and even a warm water enema will be used to raise the cat’s temperature. Any other contributing factors like colds and illnesses will be addressed with medication. Keeping Your Kitten WarmWe’ve mentioned cats, but kittens need that extra help as they aren’t as adept as adult cats in maintaining a good internal temperature. So, during the colder months, you’ll have to keep watch on them more often. If the kitten is under five weeks old, you can set up an area for them to stay nice and toasty. So you can use a crate, a heating pad, or a snuggle-safe disk on one half of the bottom so they don’t get too warm. To make it more comfortable, you can put a folded towel over the heat source to cover the whole floor while making a small nest with a fleece blanket or an equivalent. If you want to make this easier, you can put them in a warm and quiet room and keep the temperature around 80-85ºF, which will be ideal until the cat reaches the 8-week age. What If My Cat Likes To Go Outside? Your cat will still try to get outside and wander around, whatever the weather. This can be concerning for owners as temperatures can reach freezing, so here you can provide an outside shelter so your cat can warm up during these unforgiving temperatures. For those colder nights, keep the cat indoors, as temperatures can reach dangerous lows, so if your cat has options, there is a better chance that it can stay warm. Conclusion If you maintain your cat’s temperature, not only will they be happier, but there’s no telling where they may end up, so if it’s bitter cold and your cat is wet for some reason, you’ll want to dry them and keep them as warm as possible.  Having a male cat can be both comforting and sometimes stressful if your cat likes to wander, and these genders of cats can have some exciting features which can discern them from females. Male cats are often referred to as Tom-cats which may have been popularized due to publications naming them so, and before this, they were called boars or rams, and some people may agree with these names. Read on to find out more about these cats and how you can identify the gender of any cat, as there may be other considerations you need to make. Are There Other Names For Male Cats? Quite interestingly, if a male cat fathers a litter, it is referred to as a sire, and if your cat is neutered, it is referred to as a gib, and this distinction may be used because of the notable differences between the two. For example, a neutered cat is less likely to be territorial and will prefer the indoors to wander around, as they won’t have the same hormonal changes as Tom cats, so they will be less aggressive. That is why many people decide to neuter their cats to avoid them getting injured in a fight or reproducing, which can be frustrating for any owner. This can be done when the cat is usually around 6-12 months old when they reach sexual maturity. How To Tell The Gender Of A Cat This is very simple and can be done by lifting the cat’s tail, and if the space under this looks like a colon (:), you have a male cat, and this is similar when sexing older cats, as they will have more apparent genitals and they are usually more prominent. You can also identify the gender by looking at other features like their faces, as males tend to have fuller and more rounded faces than females and the cheek pads are more developed, giving them a jowly look. However, neutered male cats can have a less masculine look and, instead, have more fragile faces like female cats, so it isn’t always easy to identify them in this way, and this is the case if the male cat was neutered during puberty. You can also tell by their size, as male cats can be heavier and stockier-looking than females as they have broader shoulders and sturdier limbs. Some colors are specific to certain genders, as more orange-colored cats are male than female. Which Gender Is The Best As A Pet? There aren’t that many differences between the genders, but you may experience different habits or behaviors that you may prefer over the other, so female cats can be docile and easier to handle. At the same time, males can be affectionate once they have gotten used to you. This will depend on whether your cat will be neutered or not, as it is generally recommended to do so as both genders can change in temperament when in heat, as males can spray. At the same time, females can be very noisy, as both can be inconvenient. If you want a more independent cat, you may want to get a female. On the flip side, they can also be quite moody or unpredictable sometimes, so you don’t want your cat to lash out at you if it’s having a bad day. It can all be down to personal preference, as each has its own benefits and, if cared for right, can be docile and willing to be picked up or played with, so if you have a specific preference, you can go with it and see what your relationship is like. Is Neutering A Male Cat Necessary?Some may feel that a Tom cat may be less happy when they are neutered, and this isn’t the case as it can make them healthier, so they are less likely to pick up any diseases that an unneutered cat can get while wandering or getting into fights. If you want to make your male cat an indoor one, you will want to get it neutered, as spraying can become an issue where you’ll have to deal with some strong and unpleasant smells, which can happen more often when seeking female cats in heat. They can also be quite aggressive and unapproachable, so you want to do this if you want a more affectionate cat or if you have children around who could get an unexpected scratch or bite when they try to play with the cat. What If I Want To Breed A Cat?For this, you’ll have to keep both cats healthy and be sure that you can manage both cats that will go through many changes, as you may not be able to approach either cat during this process, plus it can be a timely and costly undertaking. You also have to ensure that the female cat doesn’t get into contact with other Tom cats, as there may be an illness or genetic problem that gets passed down to the kittens, and for pedigree breeds, you will have to register. However, it can be a very rewarding process as you have a litter of kittens that you could sell, but during the early stages of their development, they will have to be watched so you can ensure that they get the right amount of nutrients. The Bottom Line Male cats, as we have seen, can be docile and friendly, but there are the unneutered kinds that can bring a lot of mess and inconvenience that many aren’t prepared for, so the earliest you can get it neutered, the better. With this, you can identify a male cat if you happen to come across one with its features, which can be hard to do in some instances, but in general, you can get a pretty accurate assessment.  It’s no secret that cats are infamous for being independent beings who often don’t show much affection. But what does that say about their loyalties? It can be a tricky question to answer, but in this article, we will give you our thoughts on whether or not cats are loyal. What we do know is that cats love their owners but sometimes don’t show it. Cat owners understand this because it is a normal temperament and personality trait of their feline friends.But whether or not a cat is loyal to its owner is much harder to understand. So, let’s take a look at how loyal they really are. The Definition Of LoyaltyLoyalty is defined as providing or demonstrating unwavering and steadfast support for or allegiance to a person or institution. We have to give our cats some credit, even though they certainly don't come to mind first when considering the meaning of loyalty. Cats do show loyalty in unique ways; it just might be a little unconventional. So, Are Cats Loyal?Someone who is constantly available to us may come to mind when we think of someone who is loyal. Cats tend to be more individualistic and see you more as an equal than as the alpha. Consensual partnerships are the foundation of many cat relationships. They must feel as though they are on an equal footing with you, and you must be given the go-ahead to communicate with them. Cats are loyal, but only when it's convenient for them. Like most things, cats only show devotion when it is reciprocated, and they often show respect after they feel like you've earned it. Cats like having rules established for them and exercising their free will. They are fiercely independent beings that require space to thrive, but these characteristics do not lessen their devotion to their owners. They display their commitment to you in a variety of ways, including by observing your feelings, rubbing up against you, and giving you love. They know you take care of them as their owner, so that is where their loyalties lie. Do Cats Care About You?Cats actually care about the people who own them. Many people assert that cats only like who is feeding them, but data suggests otherwise. It has been established that cats are able to experience emotions and form relationships with their owners. While being the one to provide for them does contribute to loyalty, it goes deeper than that. Cats and humans develop intricate bonds, defined as secure attachments. Cats consider you to be their guardian. On the other hand, they also feel like they look out for you, which strengthens the mutually beneficial relationship. How Cats Show Their Love Cats can express their love through rubbing, purring, and snuggling. Cats are known to feel safer and more cherished when they are with their owners. Cats communicate through body language, and if you pay attention to it, you can often gauge how they’re feeling. Any of these actions are a positive sign that your cat is happy, loves you, and is loyal to you: Following A cat that follows you enjoys having you around. They have complete faith in you and see no difference between you and themselves. Your cat imagines that you two are on an adventure as you go about your regular activities. Gifts Cats will bring us what they believe to be gifts. However, they serve more as decorations for the cat's home than they do for humans. A cat will bring the outside in if she is content with her surroundings. Purring A happy cat purrs when it sees you. They feel comfortable and secure around you because they trust you. This is a very good indicator of loyalty because a cat usually only purrs when it is giving birth to kittens. Staring Staring at you is a good indicator that your cat is happy and loves you. Even better is if they slowly blink at you. This is like a kiss to your cat, so make sure you blink back! Kneading When a cat is content and at ease, it will knead you. The cat first used the motion of kneading to coax milk from its mother's teat when it was a very young kitten. Like when we suck our thumbs, your cat's kneading is an indication of emotional pleasure. Loyalty: Cats Vs. DogsWhen compared to dogs, many people believe that cats are disloyal. But it's important to realize that they are entirely different species, and so cats and dogs behave extremely differently. They each have unique responses to the other organisms in their immediate environment. Dogs show their owners that they are devoted to them by guarding them from danger. If you've ever been in an argument with your dog, you may have noticed that they are quick to defend you. Cats do not appear to have the same basic reaction or understanding as dogs. However, they truly aren't to blame for it. They might be internally committed to you, but they won't attack someone at your command, and that is where the difference between a cat's and a dog's loyalty is apparent. According to research, a human-dog relationship is similar to one between a child and a parent, whereas a human-cat relationship is far more similar to that of best friends. This might be explained by how independent cats are compared to dogs. Final ThoughtsCats can be incredibly loyal companions, despite the fact that they cannot display loyalty the way we are accustomed to. To believe that cats must act in a specific way in order to gain our attention is unfair. They should be accepted for who they are, and we should allow them to act as they please.  If your cat gets fleas or gets a bit dirty to the extent that they can’t clean themselves, a bath is an option, but these can be stressful for both you and the cat, as cats and baths don’t go well together, and you may be putting it off. However, there are ways you can prepare your cat for this experience so it feels calm and patient enough for you to get them nice and clean, but getting your cat used to this change is essential. Below you can find ways to make bathtime for your cat less stressful and prevent you from getting all scratched up. Prep Your Cat Before The Bath Before you do anything, a good idea is to trim your cat’s nails, as it’s likely that when they are in the bath, they will do anything to get away from it. Plus, you can keep yourself scratch-free for the most part. As well as this, make sure you untangle any of the hairs on your cat so you have an easier time when trying to clean them, and once you’ve done this, you can get your cat used to the environment by having them in the same room while you fill-up the bath. Prepare The BathThis can be a daunting part, but it doesn’t have to be, as you can prepare the bath by using a towel in the bathtub so your cat has a good grip and can become used to it more, and for the water, it only has to be a few inches and keep the temperature very mild. If your cat is skittish around running faucets, you can fill up a bucket and fill the tub that way, and for the shampoo, you can find ones that are made for cleaning cats, as other kinds could be harmful to your cat. Once you’ve done this and your cat has adapted to its surroundings, you can begin cleaning it. Clean Your CatFor this step, you want to be as patient and reassuring as you can to your cat, as any hesitation could be picked up on by your cat, which will make them uneasy, and if you are feeling doubtful, ask someone else who the cat recognizes to help keep the cat in position. If you’re struggling to get them in, place their toys in the tub, or if they dip a paw, reward them for taking that step and be sure to wash them gently and avoid any sudden movements, and by assuring them, they will be a lot more comfortable. When washing them, scoop some of the water with your hand and pour it over your cat, being sure not to get any water into their ears, eyes, or nose, and you can do this until they’re wet down to the skin. With the shampoo, you want to work it into your cat and avoid its eyes, and once it’s applied, you can rinse it all off and use a towel to dry any excess water. Let Your Cat Dry Now your cat is nice and clean, you can let them dry out on its own by placing the cat in a warm, draft-free room where it can air dry, and if it has longer fur, you may want to put a comb through it to avoid any of it getting tangled. Some cats will let you dry them off with a towel or hairdryer, which you can do quickly, but make sure that your cat has the temperament and can take a sudden change, as it’s unlikely that nervous cats will let you do this. What If My Cat Refuses A Bath? There are those cats that no matter what you try, there’s no chance you can reassure them enough to get them to stay in place, and if so, there are other alternatives. One of these is by finding a cat-friendly dry shampoo that you can work into your cat and should dry off pretty quickly, or if you’re afraid of fleas, you can use flea and tick spot for cats, which is something you can put on the back of your cat’s neck. You can do this every 30 days, and if you want to prevent these from being a problem in the future, you can spray your carpets, rugs, and yard so that they can repel any critters that are lurking around, as your cat can find itself in many different places. Can I Train My Cat To Like Baths? This can only be done if the cat is a kitten, as you can get them used to the bath easier. As they get older, they can get used to it, and there are many scenarios where this isn’t possible, so all you can do is be as patient and reassuring to your cat as possible. As kittens, though, they can be more fragile, so you want to take extra care when bathing them and dry them off quickly with a towel to maintain their body temperature. Part of getting your cat used to baths is by the proper introduction, so be sure to remove any distractions from the room and use a diffuser that can give off pheromones that can reassure your cat that they are safe. Conclusion Cats can sometimes be unpredictable, so you want to expect any outcome when introducing them to this environment. One of these is that your cat is going to try to escape, which is something that can be frustrating. As long as you keep them as warm and comfortable as possible, there’s a chance your cat can get relaxed while in the water, and while you may have to be patient for this, you may be rewarded with some perseverance. |