The Cat Nap Conundrum

If you’ve ever wondered why your cat seems to spend a significant portion of their day dozing, you’re not alone. The average domestic cat sleeps 12 to 16 hours daily, with some cats clocking in even more slumber hours. To put it into perspective, two-thirds of their lives are dedicated to rest. The question is: why do cats sleep so much?

The Evolutionary Roots of Cat Naps

To comprehend the sleep habits of cats, it’s essential to consider their evolutionary history. Cats are obligate carnivores, descendants of solitary hunters who needed to conserve energy for the hunt. This lifestyle has translated into their modern sleep patterns.

Cats are crepuscular creatures, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk. Their heightened activity during these times necessitates ample rest daily and night to recharge. When they wake up, they often display bursts of energy, engaging in play, hunting imaginary prey, or simply exploring their surroundings. So, their extended cat naps are essentially power naps to fuel their bursts of activity.

Survival Instincts: Cat Naps with One Eye Open

Cats’ sleep habits are closely tied to their survival instincts. Even though most domestic cats live in secure environments, their instincts remain intact. Cats are predators and prey in the wild, and being alert and well-rested is vital for survival.

You might have noticed your cat sleeping with one eye partially open or their ears perked up. This is their way of staying vigilant and always prepared to respond to potential threats. In the wild, their lives depend on this ability to wake up immediately, so it’s a behavior deeply ingrained in their DNA.

The Phases of Feline Sleep

Feline sleep is not just a simple on-off switch. Cats, like humans, experience different sleep phases. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep and non-REM sleep are the main phases.

Cats’ brains are highly active during REM sleep, much like humans. This is the stage where they might dream. You can often spot the signs of REM sleep in your cat when their paws twitch and their eyes move rapidly beneath their closed eyelids. It’s a fascinating insight into their inner world.

Non-REM sleep, on the other hand, is a deeper and more restorative sleep phase. In this stage, their bodies recuperate, and they get the physical rest needed to tackle their next adventure.

Whether you’re curious about your cat’s sleep habits or concerned about their well-being, a visit to Saltwater Animal Hospital can provide valuable insights and expert care to ensure your feline friend enjoys their catnaps and beyond to the fullest.

The Perfect Nap Spot

Cats have a knack for finding the coziest nap spots. Warm and snug places are their favorites, whether a sunny windowsill, a soft blanket, or your favorite chair. They are also notorious for seeking out high vantage points, like the top of bookshelves or the back of the couch. These spots offer security, as they can watch over their territory from a safe perch.

In conclusion, the sleep habits of cats are a testament to their complex biology and evolutionary history. Their cat naps aren’t merely about indulgence; they serve a crucial role in their lives, recharging them for bursts of activity and keeping their survival instincts sharp. As cat owners, we should appreciate and respect these habits, ensuring our feline friends can enjoy their well-deserved beauty and rest in peace and comfort.

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Say goodbye to anxiety and embrace relaxation. Whether your cat faces separation anxiety, noise phobias, or general nervousness, these treats offer the comfort they crave.

The best CBD cat treats provide natural relief for your feline companion’s well-being and overall health.

Learn the proper administration and safety tips for CBD cat treats. Join us on this tranquil journey to find the best calming and comforting CBD cat treats for your feline companion.

Key Takeaways

• CBD cat treats can have calming effects on cats
• It is important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it for the best results
• Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage for your cat’s size and needs
• Observe how your cat responds to the treats and find the right balance for their comfort

Understanding CBD and Its Effects on Cats

Curious about CBD’s effects on your feline friend? Discover the potential calming power of this natural compound found in hemp plants.

Start with low CBD doses and consult your vet for the right dosage based on your cat’s needs. Be mindful of potential medication interactions. Provide your furry companion with soothing comfort, and consult your vet for a perfect CBD experience!

Choosing the Right CBD Cat Treats for Your Feline Friend

Choose CBD snacks that bring tranquility to your feline friend. Opt for flavors like salmon or chicken for a delightful experience. Start with a low CBD dosage and gradually increase as needed, following guidelines.

CBD can calm and comfort, but finding the perfect balance is key. Each cat is unique, so observe their response patiently. Provide your beloved cat with the peace they deserve through the power of CBD cat treats.

The Benefits of CBD Cat Treats for Calming and Anxiety Relief

By using CBD cat treats, you can calm your feline companion and bring them a sense of tranquility. These treats contain natural CBD, derived from hemp plants, which is known for its soothing effects.

They interact with your cat’s body to regulate mood and promote relaxation. Moreover, CBD cat treats are a safe and convenient alternative to oils or tinctures, making stress relief easier for both you and your kitty. Say goodbye to anxiety and hello to a happier, serene cat with CBD treats.

How to Properly Administer CBD Cat Treats

To give your cat the benefits of CBD treats, follow these steps:

1. Consult with your vet to determine the right dosage based on your cat’s weight and health.
2. Administer the treats according to the prescribed dosage.
3. Timing matters! Give the treats at least 30 minutes before a stressful event, such as a vet visit or a thunderstorm.
4. Consistency is crucial for maximum benefits. Stick to a regular schedule when giving your cat CBD treats.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of CBD Cat Treats

To ensure your cat’s safety, understand the potential side effects of CBD cat treats and follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage guidelines.

Start with a low dosage and gradually increase it to find the right amount for your cat, as every cat is different. Also, consider possible interactions with other medications your cat is taking, consulting with your vet for any contraindications.

By being cautious, you can provide your cat with the soothing benefits of CBD treats.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing this informative journey about CBD cat treats! With your newfound knowledge, you can confidently choose the right treats to soothe your cat. These treats offer incredible benefits for calming and anxiety relief.

By administering them properly and prioritizing safety, you can provide your beloved cat with the comfort they deserve. Embrace the power of CBD treats, and watch your furry companion thrive with peace and tranquility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CBD cat treats safe for all cats, regardless of age or breed?

Yes, CBD cat treats are generally safe for all cats, regardless of age or breed. They can be effective for pain management and have minimal potential side effects. Give your furry friend the comfort they deserve!

Can CBD cat treats help with other health issues besides calming and anxiety relief?

CBD cat treats have the potential to provide more than just calming and anxiety relief. They can also help with pain relief and stimulate your cat’s appetite, promoting overall feline health and well-being. Try them today!

How long does it take for CBD cat treats to start working?

CBD cat treats work quickly to provide relief, typically within 30 minutes. The effects can last for several hours, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation for your furry friend. Give them the treat and watch their stress melt away!

Are there any potential interactions between CBD cat treats and other medications my cat may be taking?

“Ensure your cat’s safety and effectiveness of CBD cat treats by consulting with a veterinarian about potential interactions with other medications. They will guide you on the optimal dosage and frequency for maximum comfort and well-being.”

Can CBD cat treats help with aggressive behavior in cats?

Using CBD cat treats for aggressive behavior in cats: Does it work? Discover the potential of CBD cat treats in calming aggressive felines. Unlock a new level of peace and harmony in your cat’s behavior with the power of CBD.

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Talking about it with friends I came to realize there is no handbook for parents for these things. It is a very uncomfortable place and people handle the situation in very different ways. In this article, I want to share with you some of the key lessons I learned during this time.

1. Be honest about what is happening

We had a 19-year-old cat, we knew the cat would not live forever. In the last year or two, every once in a while, we started talking to the kids the cat would not be with us forever.

In the last few months, when we went to the vet and learned time was going to run out soon, we let them know as well. We were not dramatic about it but we let them know.

We always had an open dialog about the subject with our kids. It was not always easy and we had moments were hard as a family.

2. Focus on enjoying the moments

The last few months were cool in many ways. Our son took care of the cat in amazing ways. It was painful for him when our cat passed away but he cherished this time.

The last few weeks were difficult because the cat was having accidents around the house. Our focus was to make the cat more comfortable so we banded together as a family. We made sure everything the cat needed was on the same floor and the kids pitched in to help us clean up messes.

3. Let them see how you feel

As parents, we often feel the need to be strong for our kids. For some of us, we do not let them see us being emotional. On the last day, when I called the vet to make an appointment to euthanize the cat, I was in tears.

When my son saw me that way, he was in shock and laughed. That single moment helped me see how much I shielded him from seeing me vulnerable.

4. Give them space to talk

After our cat died, my son was very upset. After all his efforts in the last few months, he was angry at life. We spent an hour together where all we did was listen to him and talk him through his feelings.

It did not make things better right away and it was not an easy moment as a parent seeing our son this way. Allowing him to talk about his feelings and helping him put words to them created a different kind of bond.

5. Trust they can handle it

This was the biggest lessons that I learned in this experience. By being honest and up front with our kids it created trust with them. The challenge with this point is that it does come down to your own capacity as a parent to handle the situation.

If you are unable to have uncomfortable talks in your life, you will be unable to do it with your kids as well. If you shield your kids from pain and discomfort they will never know you need these to grow as a person.

I shared these lessons from my personal point of view. My belief is that it is important for us to be conscious parents and leaders for our children. Sometimes, conscious parenting means becoming aware of our own limitations and overcoming them. Other times, it means having a clear intention around how we parent our kids.

The situation with our cat forced us to be very conscious parents. We worked hard to be honest and transparent with our kids without creating drama for them. Tell me how have you handled this kind of situation with your kids? What did you learn from your experience?

Steffan Surdek is an in-demand leadership development coach and corporate trainer. He has always been driven to expand the notion of leadership to include each member of the team. As a widely recognized principal consultant, Steffan’s work has a strong business impact, helping reshape business cultures and guiding them in becoming more collaborative and efficient. He is the founder of Pyxis Cultures, a consulting and training company based in Montreal, Canada.

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The situation may be brought on by a trip to the vet or a front door left open, but the worst of nightmares begins when a beloved four pawed family member escapes or goes missing. If you have never encountered this situation, the experience can be quite a shock. For many of us it can be paralyzing at a time when we need to be on our best game. It is a time for action when you may feel the need to curl up and just cry. Below is a list of the most immediate activities to pursue when first you realize your cat has escaped or is missing.

First Response Protocol…

A step by step list

Relax and don’t panic… but also don’t wait to start looking. Statistics prove that pet owners with the greatest likelyhood of recovering their pet start looking immediately and have an organized approach. Be one of these pet owners.

Ground Zero Property Search: Make sure your pet is really missing. If you did not see him or her escape or do not know of anyone who did, take the time to do a quick search of your property and the most obvious hiding spots before bolting for the front door to look. With cats you need to take a little longer with your ground zero property search as a cat that is feeling poorly can be right inside the house hunkered down and feeling miserable. Think dark and concealed spots that are out of the everyday traffic pattern of your home or property. Check your home, yards, garage, outbuildings, shed, barns, etc.

Preparing to search:

What to bring: You can gather this in 5 minutes or less. A better idea is to have all of this prepared ahead of time and stored with your Pet ID kit*. You can also have some one else do this while you do the ground zero search.

• Full body photo of cat – preferably taken from the side
• 20 cards with 24 hour phone number & the words LOST CAT
• Treats
• Carrier
• Whistle, squeaky toy or clicker if pet has been trained to one or thinks they are fun and will respond.

Immediately, grab your pet’s ID* kit with photo. If you do not have an ID Kit* or have not finished the identification requirements, grab a photo of your pet and a business card with your phone number on it. If you don’t have a business card or if the card does not have a phone number on it that you will answer 24 hours a day, take a yellow sticky, index card or any scraps of paper and write your cell phone number on them with the words LOST CAT. Make at least 20. Don’t forget the carrier and treats in case bribery is necessary. There is something in your refrigerator that will work in an emergency. Hot dogs, last night’s dinner, bologna, cheese, tuna fish may all work in an emergency. A missing pet is an emergency.

Bring in the troops: This is the time to call in your friends, family and neighbors. If possible, recruit those who will be supportive in your efforts and understand your concern and attachment for your pet. Call in your supportive friends and not the naysayers… you need to keep yourself focused and energized in your efforts.

Make it easy for the pet to return: Leave someone at the point of escape or your home in case pet returns. If no one is available leave a gate open, back door, car door, crate or something that pet is familiar with and may want to stay near. In the worst case and with nothing else to leave, take off a piece of your clothing and leave it at the front door, near the gate or on the front porch.

Head for the door and begin to search the surrounding neigborhood or area.

Searching for a Missing CAT in the first hours

Choose a Direction: If you know in which direction the cat went, go that way, (and forget the ground zero search as you know he’s out). If you are not sure of the direction and your cat has got out before, go in the direction he went the last time he got out. If you have no idea what so ever, go to the spot where you think the cat escaped and assume he went right. This is a percentage call because cats, like dogs, turn to the right more often than they turn to the left. If however, there is something scary to the right or something is blocking the way then choose another direction.

The cat that lives indoors or bolted in fear

Cats will bolt in a direction and tend to stay straight. Cats tend to run under cover, up against houses, bushes or fences if they are frightened or tend towards skittish behavior. When frightened all cats will bolt towards cover so if your cat lives indoors all the time or was most likely scared, look for cover that the cat could have traveled along. Think in terms of straight lines for direction of travel.

Get down on you knees and look from a height close to the level of your cat’s eyes, (about 18 inches is fine). You will be surprised at how different the landscape looks from this vantage. Look for obvious cover and things a cat could get under. Also if the cat has escaped before, retrace the direction he ran towards the last time.

The cat that has access to the outdoors and occasionally or regularly is let outside

When a cat that has regular outdoor access does not come home as usual, the highest probability is that something has kept him from returning. There is myriad of situations that occur in this situation but one usually must assume it is an incident of some sort. Male cats and females in heat may go wandering on occasion but there is usually something that will alert you to a change in behavior beforehand. If your outdoor access cat goes missing, it is necessary to consider an event or situation has occurred that is keeping the cat from returning as has been his or her routine.

Neighborhood QUIK search

Easy to remember formula:

5 for 2 no more than 1 in 12 (explained in the paragraph below)

Look within a radius of five houses for the first two hours using the techniques mentioned. If after two hours there is no resolution, expand your search spiraling out from the point last seen as the center of the spiral. In the first twelve hours it is generally not necessary to go more than one block in each of the eight compass directions.

Calling for your cat: One of the most difficult parts of a search is trying to remain calm when you feel something may have happened. As you call your cat it is important to use your inside, affectionate voice. When we are stressed or trying to project our voice, we put tension in our voice which most pets perceive as something wrong. Always use a low, soft voice and affectionate clicks and noises you use regularly when playing or talking to your cat. Screaming or yelling a cat’s name is not effective and sends most cats further away in panic. Most of us have funny, affectionate or maybe even goofy pet names we call our beloved pet… this is the time to use them.

• Call the cat’s name but stop to listen…
• Call… listen (pause to count of 10).
• Call (pause to count of 10)… listen.
• Continue calling in the areas you feel are more probable and likely for your cat to explore or hide in.

Remember to use your indoor, happy affectionate voice like you want to play or give affection.

Talk to everyone you see…

As you are looking, show your cats picture to everyone. Remember to leave them one of your telephone cards or premade flyer from your PET ID Kit*. Askeveryone you see outside, “Have you seen this cat?” Listen for their response but do not stop to chat unless they have recent information about your pets disappearance.

When you see your cat

When you see your cat, do not give chase but slowly go to your knees and encourage the cat to approach. Try these techniques:

• Drop to your knees and use your inside voice. If your cat stops, encourage him to approach. Offer a tidbit or treat if you have one.
• If the cat is running develop a strategy to “head him off at the pass”. Intersecting an animal’s forward direction is better than flat out sprinting behind. Angulation in the direction you think he or she will go is more effective.

Follow your leads and sightings until you either find your pet or run out of clues and sightings. If you go over three hours with no sightings or clues, head back to the point of escape to update and design a more formal search strategy with public awareness, development of witnesses and effective activities that are more likely to lead to a reunion with your pet.

A quick call to a licensed professional, skilled in missing cat behavior and scenarios, is time and money well spent. Experience has proven that pet owners who use the services of a professional at the onset of the their search, are rewarded with a faster recovery time. A well planned strategy with input from a professional, is an effective tool when a beloved cat goes missing.

*A PET ID Kit is a preventive measure, strongly recommended by Karin for pet owners whose dogs and cats are members of their families.

About the Author
Karin Goin is a licensed private investigator and the President of Pet Detectives, inc. a private investigative agency whose sole mission is the location and recovery of missing pets. By utilizing investigative skills, animal behavior profiling, escape scenario breakdown and environmental influences, she is able to “drill down” to the most likely scenario a missing pet may be experiencing. When not on the road with her K9 tracking team, she spends most of her time on the phone coaching pet owners in the search for their missing pets.

Karin and her K9s are regularly featured in newspapers, magazines and on television news segments across the country. She is the author of Finding Home… The Pet Owners Guide to Finding a Missing Dog and A Meow at the Door: Effective Techniques for Finding and Recovering a Missing Cat. She is in negotiations for a network TV series scheduled to air in 2008. Call 918-368-2228 for further information.

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It’s becoming more popular to bring your pet on vacation with you. With pet friendly hotels and the accepting nature of long distance relatives, you may find yourself traveling with a cat more often than not in the upcoming years. That is, to say the least, if you can figure out how to prevent the shrieking yawl that has the kids covering their ears and begging to for their first rest stop within half an hour of leaving the driveway. It can be enough to make you turn the car around.

Fortunately, there are numerous little tricks you can try before your next road trip. However, not all disgruntled felines will take to anything other than their beloved home, and you may want to consider the quality of the trip in full for those guys who refuse to be comforted.

To rule out general dissatisfaction and loneliness as a main cause for the ruckus your cat is insisting on creating, try keeping the carrier (he is in a pet carrier, isn’t he?) close enough to allow a human that he really likes to reach in from time to time and let him know that he is not alone. For some cats, this is really all it takes. Others seem to be insisting on their own personal private suite for the next traveling go around.

Cats are really quite unique creatures. No two are alike and their personalities can range from dog like companionship to aloof creatures that show up for food and their occasional scratch on the head. How your cat relates to you and how much interaction he prefers will determine, in part, how well he handles traversing the world as your companion.

Cats should always go inside the carrier. Even lap friendly cats who are more than content to roam around the car while you tick the miles off need to be confined for their own safety. Some cats will ultimately go crazy at the thought of enduring a car ride. These cats are usually better off left at home or sedated if the trip is necessary.

Keeping your cat safe is the number one priority. Cat carriers, hotel rooms with pet privacy (which is nothing more than a do not disturb sign and the ability to refuse house keeping services) and some sort of safe confinement while you are out of the room. If you are landing at a relative’s or a friend’s house, you are still going to want to ensure that he can’t escape, especially if there are other animals in the home.

Keeping your cat happy while keeping him safe is not an easy task. He needs to be confined, which can be torturous on a cat that hasn’t adjusted to the carrier. Introducing him to the idea of the carrier well before a trip for random periods of time is highly recommended. Traveling with a cat is so much easier when your cat has a basic understanding of what is happening around him.

The actual act of traveling, whether by car or by plane, is absolutely the most difficult part of the trip for 98% of cat traveling companions. Some cats can be comforted through the bars of the pet carrier while others will actually claw, bite, or scratch at any attempting fingers which reach through the slatted bars in an effort to help console him. How he handles his fear will determine his actions. Never let children try to comfort the cat until after you know how he will react.

Other cats may be more content with a few safe toys and other familiar belongings littered throughout his carrier. Some cats prefer to be completely covered; a blanket over the carrier will serve nicely for the kitty who doesn’t wish to see his world go whizzing by. Other cats are more interested in their whereabouts and thus feel the need to peak out the windows of the car to feel like they are in control. Finding out what works well for your cat is a matter of trial and error. A few short trips in the months before the bug trip will definitely help you figure out what will ultimately work best.

If your cat requires the chronic use of sedatives before taking a trip, you may want to consider whether trips are better for him, or better for you. Sedatives shouldn’t be handed out lightly.

If you know that you are going to be traveling with a cat from the beginning, start car training you cat as early as possible. Small trips here and there (never leave a cat unattended in a car, especially in warm or cold weather) is all it takes to get him used to the idea of traveling right from the very start.

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What is a Microchip and how does it Help My Pet?

Like the name suggests, a microchip is a teeny-tiny computer chip, about the size of a grain of rice, which can be injected below your pet’s skin. The chip has a unique number that identifies that specific chip. When a chip is assigned to your pet the chip’s number becomes your pet’s identifying number.

Much like your food products are ran across the scanner at the grocery store and their UPC codes give you the information you are looking for on that product, a special scanner is used to scan the pet and read the information that is contained on the chip. The scanner uses low frequency radio waves to read the information on the chip.

This information stored on the chip is only the serial number; the important identifying information for your pet is kept in a database that the chip manufacturer keeps updated. This database can be checked when a lost pet is found, to find out who the pet belongs to and any other pertinent information about the pet.

How is a microchip inserted?

Since microchips are tiny they are able to fit into a preloaded syringe, like those used for vaccinations. These are then injected into the pet between the shoulder blades. The injection takes seconds and is comprised of sterile water and the chip. The needle is a fairly large gauge to allow enough room for the chip to pass through. Most animals don’t notice being microchipped although, due to the size of the needle, smaller animals may feel the injection for a couple of seconds and be tender around the injection site for a few days.

Risks can include infections at the injection site just like any other injection. It is rare that infection occurs but if it does you need to keep the area clean.

What do I have to do to have my pet microchipped?

Having your pet microchipped is easy – you just request it from your vet or you can have it done at a local shelter. Many shelters are not allowing pets to be adopted without chipping them. This gives them a clear picture of how many pets are bounced back into the shelter.

Once the chip is inserted you need to contact the manufacturer and register the chip. Most give you the ability to add information and even a photo of your pet in case your pet is lost.

Drawbacks to Microchipping a Cat

Well, one drawback for the cat is he may have difficulty finding fourteen owners to feed and praise him as he nonchalantly wanders from home to home making everyone believe they are his one and only.

Ok, your cat will most likely still be able to pull off the ‘multiple owner cruise’ if he wants to. Most people won’t bother to take the time to scan stray cats to check to see if he has another owner.  Since the chip isn’t meant to keep the cat honest this isn’t usually a problem.

Drawbacks to the Microchipping process include the many companies that offer microchips. There isn’t a standard chip so it is possible to chip your pet and still have issues with losing the pet and not having it identified. Different chips need different scanners to read them. Most are using the same types now; it is older chips that are an issue.

The biggest drawback to Microchipping your pet is many people forget to register their microchip. If the microchip company only has a record of whom they sold the chip to, and not whom it was inserted in, the database won’t help your pet find his way home.  Too often a lost pet is found, scanned and the vet or shelter that bought the chip is the only information that was entered in the system.

Do indoor cats need to be microchipped?

All pets can find their way outdoors and get lost. It is important for any and all pets to have proper care and have a security system in place that gives him a way to be found and returned to you if something happens.  Some shy cats can get out and become too fearful to return to you for fear of being caught or harmed by others. If your indoor cat gets out and becomes lost having him microchipped can help him to return to you quickly.

Is Microchipping the only protection your pet needs?

Many pet owners allow themselves to believe that a microchip is the only pet identification system that your pet needs. Everyone can look at your cat’s tags that are hanging on his collar to see where he lives. Not everyone has access to a scanner. If your cat gets out of your home and becomes lost he has a better chance of returning to you if he has identification tags and a microchip.

If your cat is an outdoor cat your neighbors can assume he is a stray and ‘adopt’ him as well. In little to no time a friendly cat can find himself a whole neighborhood of owners. Microchipping a cat is not going to keep him from finding new owners in his neighborhood who are willing to care for him and even take him along when they move. If your cat is wearing a collar that clearly labels him as being a loved pet and not a stray.

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True cat lovers know which cat toys make their cats jump (and scamper) for joy, and which toys just clutter up the floor, waiting for Dad’s unsuspecting bare foot in the middle of the night. As a cat owner for seven years, I can say with confident finality which toys get the thumbs up, and which get the big thumbs down.

Fake mouse toys get a huge thumbs down. You surely have seen them – those cheap little toys that you can buy 3 for $1 at the pet store. They are furry, colorful, and have tails to make them appear to be mice. The problem is, they don’t move like real mice do! With a few exceptions, cats are enthralled by things that move, or appear to move. Cats see these furry mouse “toys” on the floor and act as if they don’t even exist, they might as well be a part of the carpet. The only way to make these toys mildly interesting is to attach them to a string or stick and dangle them over your cat’s head. That will give your cat a good five minutes of amusement.

Balls of yarn get a thumbs up. Maybe it’s the fact that they roll, maybe it’s the string that attaches to their claws, but whatever it is, cats love ’em. Cats, especially kittens, go absolutely crazy off of a ball of yarn on a hardwood floor. They will likely end up getting tangled in the yarn and possibly even chew some off, so keep an eye on them.

Want a free toy that gets a huge thumbs up, and will tie up your cat long enough for you to watch an episode of Frasier in peace? Buy a gallon of water and pull the plastic “cord” from around the top to open it. Throw the circular cord on the ground in front of a playful kitty and watch him go wild. He will grab the cord, let it go and then attack it. Once he feels that it is “dead,” he’ll pick it up with his mouth and carry it somewhere to repeat the process again and again, until the circular piece of plastic gets lost under the refrigerator that is.

Electronic toy mouses are a relatively new cat toy product on the market, and get a big thumbs down. They come either in a plastic casing, or with a fake fur coat on the outside to make it actually appear to be a mouse. Some of them are activated when the cat touches it. When I purchased one of these toys I was sure that it would be a toy that my cats would love, but I was wrong. I put in the batteries, set it on the ground, and waited for a reaction from my cats when it rolled across the floor. My cats recoiled and ran for cover, which isn’t very reassuring in the event that there was an actual mouse in the house. My older cat is fearless, so there had to be something else up. I believe that cats are too smart to believe that these electronic toys are actually mice. They know that it is some type of foreign man-made object. The sounds the toy makes give it away. Eventually, my cats got used to the toy and just ignored it. Definitely not a top choice if you want to give you cat a toy they will cherish.

Laser pens get a thumbs down. Not because of their ineffectiveness as an interesting toy for your cat, but for the potential negative effect this “toy” has on your cat. The laser dot pen emits a red dot wherever you point it, which cats happily chase to no end, to the point where they start to look like they are going insane. That’s the problem though; they are participating in a chase that will never be fruitful. Cats love the chase because it will eventually result in the capture of its prey. With a red laser dot, you are tricking the cat into believing they have a chance of getting the dot in their hands, but of course they can’t. Continued use of a toy that results in no capture for the cat may lower his or her self-esteem; you don’t want that. Laser dots have also been shown to create overactivity in the brains of cats, potentially harming them. Most animal lovers agree that laser dots are meant to amuse the human more than the animal. Cruel little kids who use magnifying glasses to kill ants will most likely love messing with the heads of their cats with a laser pen. It comes highly unrecommended by this cat lover.

After many years as a pet owner, I believe that in a cat’s mind, any game involving interaction with their human companions is preferred over a store bought cat toy. Dangling a string over their heads or hanging a stick with something attached to it in the cat’s face is sure to get them to swatting. Another toy that cats love is electrical cords, such as the cord to an iron. But this only becomes interesting to a cat when their owner is participating in the game. If you run through the house with the iron, cord dragging behind you, you will quickly find that every cat in the house is following you. Again, they love the chase, and the end of the iron cord is a very tangible moving prey. The movement of the cord may also remind them of a snake or mouse. Other cats will participate in the game because they just like to chase after their owner.

After many trials I’ve found that the most effective cat toys are those that don’t cost much, or anything at all. Cat owners who love their pets can save a lot of money and time shopping by realizing that the best tool for effective playtime is human interaction.

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While a well-groomed long-haired cat can be a lovely addition to any feline-friendly household, nothing is worse than a badly matted long-haired cat, with feces stuck in their coat and trapped under layers of matted hair that can’t be undone. Cats with matted coats are uncomfortable, and the hygiene problems associated with the tangles can often lead to severe health problems.

All long-haired cats, regardless of breed, need to be brushed on an almost daily basis in order to maintain their coats. Although cats are often fastidious self-groomers, their efforts alone are not enough to combat the constant barrage of soft, downy hair their coat produces.

Cats shed year-round, and during the main shedding seasons of the spring, the undercoat of the hair will loosen and begin to fall out. Without intervention, this undercoat will become tangled in the outer hair, and a hair nightmare is born. A small tangle will continue to accumulate more loose hair from the coat, and can grow seemingly overnight into a very large problem.

If you can, start when your cat is a kitten getting her used to being groomed. Handle the paws to get her accustomed to being touched and prepared for future nail trims. The best type of grooming tool for longhaired cats is a wide tooth comb. Using the comb, start in the most common places for tangles to start- between the back legs, behind the front legs, and behind the ears. Break apart tangles by hand, then take small sections and comb upward, pulling away the shed hair from the coat.

Many cats learn to enjoy these grooming sessions- but some take time to warm up to the idea. If your cat is hesitant to allow you to comb her out, start with small sessions- several times a day, comb one or two strokes through her hair, getting her used to the idea without a long, drawn-out session. As she learns to tolerate the comb, slowly extend out the grooming sessions until you are able to work through the coat. Done daily, the combing shouldn’t take long, and the benefits to your cats’ health and happiness greatly outweigh the time out from your day.

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, some cats simply won’t tolerate being groomed or brushed. In these cats, shaving the coat down is the best way to prevent the complications associated with long hair.

While shaving may be a last resort for keeping some cats clean, it shouldn’t be viewed as an awful alternative. In fact, shaving the coat of your long-haired cat might be the best thing you can do to promote quality of life.

Longhaired cats are prone to several health problems related to their hair. Cats love to groom themselves, and the tongue of the cat is a rough surface, covered with papillae that act as a “comb” when they lick their coat. This “comb” in the tongue catches dead hair, and unable to spit it out, cats swallow this hair. The hair is not digestible, and accumulates in the stomach and intestines. This accumulation continues to grow and combine with digestive acids, mucous and undigested pieces of food, eventually causing a blockage. Food and water will begin to have trouble passing through the hair, causing coughing and gagging episodes. In most cases, the retching will produce the hairball and solve the problem temporarily, until the cycle begins again. In severe cases, hairballs can cause obstructions in the stomach and intestinal tract, a life-threatening condition.

While all cats are prone to hairballs, long haired cats are at greater risk, and can develop more serious hairballs over shorter periods of time. While hairballs can be controlled with medication, special food, and attentive grooming, the most effective way to reduce hairballs in long hair cats is by shaving the coat.

In addition to hairballs, matted coats can become a haven for bacteria to grow, leading to skin infections and pyoderma, as well creating an optimal environment for fungal infections such as ringworm to thrive. In addition, fleas, lice and other parasites can take up residence in the matted coat, enjoying the relatively protected area between the hair and the skin.

Left untreated, mats in the coat will continue to progress, and can eventually cause your cat to have difficulty walking, and tangles around the rectum can prevent the cat from urinating and defecating normally.

While shaving a long-haired cat, usually called a “lion cut” can seem extreme, most cat owners find that their cats, after an initial embarrassment period, seem to prefer their newfound short-haired status. Cats in hot climates can be particularly relieved to be cooler in the summer, and older cats with more difficulty grooming themselves can be kept cleaner.

While not difficult to perform, many cats don’t overly appreciate the process of being shaved down at first, and it is best to let your veterinarian or groomer do the shaving, to minimize stress at the experience. In the traditional Lion Cut, every part of the cat except for the head and mane, the front and back feet, and tip of the tail are shaved to a shorter (usually about ½”) length. Shaving instantly removes mats, creates are cleaner and more easily groomed cat, and drastically reduces shedding.

While you may not be able to imagine your beautiful long-haired cat without his luxurious hair, if you find it difficult to keep up with your cats grooming needs, shaving your cat may be the best thing you can do. Your cat will be cleaner, more comfortable and healthier- and you might just find that she looks pretty adorable in her new ‘do, too!

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Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is a type of Tabby cat that is native to the Americas. It is the only breed of cat that is considered indigenous to the Americas, with its origins in New England. Most cat experts believe that the Maine Coon came to the Americas on the boats from Europe, and have been around since colonial times. Some say that they are direct descendants of the cats owned by Marie Antoinette, which were said to have been saved when she was led to the guillotine.

The Maine Coon is listed as the second most popular type of cat under the Persian. It is a long haired cat with a kind disposition, a rugged coat designed to withstand bad weather, and a tiny voice; ironic when you look at its relatively large size. This breed is known as the “gentle giant.”

Maine Coon cats like water, but only in small doses. This may be due to their history of sea travel to the Americas. Associations that determine and confirm the pedigrees of cats say that true Maine Coons can be any color except chocolate or lavender.

Persian

Persian cats are the most popular breed in the world with appoximately 25,000 Persian cats currently registered by the Cat Fancier’s Association. Persians originated in the area that was formerly known as Persia, now Iran. These cats were brought to Europe by caravan travelers in the 1500s. They were finally transported to the Americas in the late 1800s. They have been bred over a hundred years to have the characteristics that they boast today.

Persian cats are beautiful and elegant, with long lustrous hair, wide, round eyes, and full cheeks. Persians also have short round ears that are set lower on the head than other cats.

Siamese

Siamese cats are most popular for their association with ancient rulers—they have a history of being favored by royalty, and thought of as the only cats worthy to live among royal opulence. These cats originated in Thailand, formerly known as Siam, thus we have the origin of their namesake.

Siamese cats are slim, have shortly cropped coats, and striking blue eyes. Their main body is a light color detailed with darker hues on the face, tail, and ears (called points). The CFA only recognizes four colors of Siamese cats: seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac points. There are two varieties: the show Siamese, and the traditional or “Applehead” Siamese. The show Siamese can best be described as “svelte.” They have a long thin body and a tapered, petite head. Their eyes are slanted and their ears are very large. Applehead Siamese cats are more substantial and robust, with larger, rounder heads and features. Some Siamese breeds had a strange trait of being cross-eyed, a trait which has been eliminated through the process of selective breeding.

Siamese cats are not quiet, gentle breeds like the Maine Coon—in fact they are just the opposite. They have a loud, yelping meow that is sure to get their owners’ attention. They are the “mean girls” of the cat world, seeming to think that the world revolves around them. Most of the time these cats own their humans, not the other way around.

Burmese

Burmese cats are definitely not as popular as Persian cats, with only roughly 800 registrations in the world, but they are still one of the most distinctive and well-recognized pedigreed cats. Burmese are originally from Burma, an area now known as Myanmar. All Burmese cats in the United States and Europe can be traced to one cat that arrived in the Americas in 1930. Burmese cats in the US were originally mixed with Siamese to create a unique breed of Burmese that is still recognized by the CFA today. The Burmese is believed to be a breed that was once worshipped in Burmese temples. They are playful cats that love to show affection and attention to their owners.

Burmese cats have short satiny coats, and are built like brick houses. They are sturdy and strong, and have a rich brown coat that is sometimes described as “copper.” There are three main body types associated with Burmese cats: contemporary, European, and traditional. Contemporary Burmese are show cats that are stocky with round heads and widely spaced eyes. They come in several striking colors such as champagne and platinum. The Traditional Burmese have a slightly different head type than the contemporary ones, but otherwise the same. Finally, The European Burmese is a more elegant cat with slightly slanted eyes and a smaller body than the others. European Burmese also come in more colors than the contemporary or traditional, including seal, chocolate, and lilac.

While mixed breed cats are the most popular cats of all as far as numbers are concerned, pedigreed cats have a special place in the hearts of cat fanciers, some of whom dedicate their lives to the quest for cats of a specific breed.

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• Abyssinian. These shorthaired, slender cats have a tabby coat pattern similar to wild cats which is usually a ruddy color, but they can also e found in red, blue, and fawn. They are active, playful, and inquisitive.
• American Bobtail. These cats are named after their tails, which are about half the length of the average cat’s tail. It is a similar genetic trait to the Manx.
• American Curl. This breed gets its name from their ears, which are curled backwards. They come in a variety of color patterns, as well as long and short hair. They are as affectionate as they are energetic.
• American Shorthair. These stocky, even tempered cats come from Native American working cats. It is best known as a silver tabby.
• Angora. These British felines are the Oriental Longhair’s counterpart, which are long haired Siamese. They have similar temperaments to the Siamese, as well as coat patterns, with the exception of the long hair.
• Bengal Cat. These well muscled cats resemble leopards or tigers. They are the result of a cross between the Asian Leopard Cat and a domestic one. They are large, loving, and loyal.
• Birman. These cats have numerous legends associated with them. They are semi-longhaired, and come in a pointed coat pattern. It is also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma.” It has a stocky body and four white feet.
• Burmese. These medium sized, muscular and compact cats are extremely people orientated. They come in sable, champagne, blue, and platinum colors.
• Bombay. These cats have sleek, glossy, black coats with copper colored eyes. It was developed from the Burmese breed, and retained the playful and loving temperament.
• British Shorthair. This stocky cat resembles a teddy bear. This calm and quiet breed is usually found in blue, but all other colors are possible.
• Chartreux. Originating in France, this old, natural breed was said to have been raised as a companion by the Carthusian monks. They are famous for their wooly blue coats and orange eyes. They are quiet and even tempered.
• Cornish Rex. The Cornish Rex is known for its soft, wavy, curly hair: even the whiskers curl. Its coat feels like crushed velvet to the touch. They originated in Cornwall, and have a racy, slender body, and are found in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
• Egyptian Mau. This cat bears a striking resemblance to paintings of ancient Egyptian cats. They are active, athletic cats with a spotted tabby pattern that resembles wild cats. They come in colors such as bronze spotted, silver spotted and black smoke.
• Exotic Shorthair. The Exotic Shorthair has the body and head type of the Persian, but has a short plush coat. The breed was developed by crossing Persians and various shorthaired breeds. Exotics are available in the same colors and patterns as the Persian breed.
• Himalayan. These stocky cats have long hair, and placid temperaments like that of the Persian, but is pointed like the Siamese.
• Japanese Bobtail. The Japanese Bobtail has existed in Japan for at least 1000 years. It is distinguished by its naturally short tail, which resembles a bunny tail. The most commonly seen Japanese Bobtail pattern is the tri-color, which is white with red and black. They have both long and short coat varieties.
• Korat. These beautiful cats are well known for their silvery-blue, sleek coats. They have heart-shaped faces that are dominated by gooseberry-green eyes. They originated in Thailand, where they are regarded as good luck.
• Maine Coon. The Maine Coon is known for its large size, easy-going temperament, and rugged appearance. The breed is native to New England, and is well-adapted to harsh climates. They have a heavy, shaggy coat, bushy tail, and tufted ears and toes. Though the brown classic tabby pattern is perhaps the best known, Maine Coons are available in a variety of colors and patterns.
• Manx. This cat is distinguished by its missing tail. This natural mutation is thought to have originated on the Isle of Man, hence the name, Manx. Manx cats are stocky and rounded in appearance, with short backs and long hind legs that make them appear rabbit-like. The thick coat can be either short or semi-long. Manx are available in a variety of colors and patterns.
• Oricat. This small cat looks like a wild, spotted cat. It was created by crossing Siamese, Abyssinian, and American Shorthairs. “Ocis” are active, affectionate, and very social. They are available in various patterns, though only the spotted patterns may be shown, and in several different colors.
• Persian. The Persian is perhaps the most widely recognized cat breed and has the most registered numbers. The Persian is known for its extremely long, fluffy coat, very stocky body type, round head, large eyes, and flat face. Persians have a sweet and gentle temperament, and are among the most placid of all breeds. They come in many different colors.
• Ragdoll. Known for its docile temperament, the Ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat with a pointed color pattern. They come in seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac colors.
• Russian Blue. The Russian Blue is a natural breed thought to have originated in northern Russia. It is noted for its short, plush, silvery blue coat, brilliant green eyes, and semi-foreign body type with long legs and body. This is a graceful, playful breed with a quiet temperament.
• Scottish Fold. This breed derives its name from its distinctive ears, which are folded forward and down, and by its large, rounded eyes, which give it a sweet, wide-eyed expression. They are mellow and affectionate cats. Scottish Folds are found in both longhair and shorthair varieties, in a great number of color and pattern combinations.
• Siamese. The Siamese is distinguished by its brilliant blue eyes and its colored “points” (ears, face, tail, and feet), which provide a striking contrast to its light-colored body. This is a demanding breed, which is quick to voice their opinion. It is lively, and affectionate.
• Sphynx. This hairless breed is actually covered by a soft down. Because the Sphynx lacks hair to absorb natural skin oils, it must be bathed frequently. Despite the lack of hair, coat color and pattern are visible in the downy coat and the underlying skin.

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