last posts

Cat Care FAQ


Cat Care FAQ
Cat Care FAQ


Why do cats lick themselves?

Cats, by nature, lick themselves as a way to clean off food odors along with other odors to essentially ward of potential predatory animals. They also do this to cool themselves down. This is important because of the thick coat. The cat is also able to distribute it’s natural oils as a way to keep in heat and guard against dampness. Another use of licking is to clean wounds, it is a widely held belief that cat saliva contains natural enzymes that can turn into an antibiotic to help prevent infections. Licking is done to improve circulation and blood flow as well.


Why do cats knead?

Cats knead because it simulates being close to the mothers tummy and when they are kittens, they knead when getting milk. Some cats will replicate this behavior when older. Cats also happen to have scent glands in the bottom of their paws, and kneading releases the scent as a sort of territorial marker for the cat. Read also: Petting Your Cat: A How-To Guide.


Why do cats sometimes eat grass and puke?

Cats eat grass and sometimes throw up immediately after because it’s a way for the cat to clean out the stomach. Sometimes there may be some undesirable objects like bones or feathers and eating grass is a way to help clean these objects out. Grass also contains folic acid, and this helps clean and move the cat’s blood. Some theories include the fact that grass acts as a laxative and helps with a cat’s sore throat.


Why do cats love catnip so much?

Cats love catnip because it contains a chemical called nepetalactone that stimulates the cat’s senses. Catnip is part of the mint family, and typically about 2/3rds of cats really enjoy catnip. They will lick it, roll in it, sniff it and lay in it.


How do cats get worms?

Cats can get worms from the infected feces of other cats. Mother cats can also pass them along to their kittens. Cats that play outdoors can also get them just from being outside. Humans can also get worms from their cats, like roundworms or hookworms. Read also: The Basics Of Caring For Cats.


Are cats colorblind?

Not totally. Some research shows that cats are mainly able to distinguish between just blues and greens, but cannot tell the difference between reds, oranges, yellows and greens. Blue and purple are about the same to a cat.


Are cats smarter than dogs?

This is a highly debatable question, being that what is considered “smart” is purely subjective. The overall consensus is that dogs and cats are about equally smart, but also, not as much research has been done on feline cognition compared to canine cognition.


Why are cats so afraid of cucumbers?

Over the years, there has been an increasing number of videos online showing cats getting scared and jumping away from cucumbers that are placed behind them while eating or drinking water. The cats turn around slowly and as soon as they see the unsuspecting cucumber, they immediately jump and run away while knocking over just about everything in the room. Some theories explain that the cucumber could look like a snake or other predator to the cat. Others say that anything placed close by when the cat doesn’t expect it could startle the cat no matter what it is. Read also: Surviving car travel with your cat.


When should I get my cat sterilized?

About four to six months is the best time to get your cat sterilized.


Is it OK to introduce a second cat into the household?

Yes, but consult with your vet about how to approach this properly. Your vet should be able to provide some guidance and advice on this subject.


Why does my cat keep hiding?

Cats will hide behind couches and other objects when they are feeling stressed out or sick. If you are vacuuming, it is advisable that you place the cat in a separate room on the other side of the house with the door closed so you can limit the noise that your cat hears. Cats get scared easily, especially with loud noises.


My cat has hairballs. What should I do?

It is recommended that you give your cat hairball paste. They usually love the taste of it, so this makes it easy to supply to your cat. Read also: Average lifespan of a cat and how to increase it.


Why do cats sleep so often?

Cats sleep on average around 15 hours a day. This is completely normal, and is to support your cat’s natural hunting instincts. This gives them the rest and rejuvenation they need to have a sharp eye along with plenty of energy to hunt their potential prey.


Is it a good idea to give my cat a haircut?

It might look nice, but it’s probably not the best idea to trim your cats fur because it regulates body temperature. If you have a mainly indoor cat, you can do this, but make sure the temperature inside the house stays consistently the same.


Comments



Font Size
+
16
-
lines height
+
2
-