Smart Cat Lady

The Secret Reason Your Cat Is Staring At You

Are you wondering why your cat is staring at you? Most people who own cats might probably curious about the same thing since cats often stare without their eyes blinking. If you are constantly losing with your cat in a staring contest, this article could give you a hint on what’s on their mind. Learn your cat’s behavior in three, two, and one.

Why Do Cats Stare?

Our cats are also interested in our lives, especially on what we do. One of the main reasons why your cat is staring at you is to get cues in order to determine how to respond.

When the time is near for mealtime, you can observe your cat starting to stare and become active. The best guess is, your little tailed buddy is waiting for some clues of when you are going to feed them. Try to stand up while your cat is staring at you and it will surely follow you wherever you go. This is how you know the reason why they impatiently watch over your activities.

Naturally, cats are nocturnal hunters so their eyes and vision are special. Once you see their pupils fully dilate which could expand almost twice as ours, this might make you feel some creeps but it is actually their way to see even in darkness.

As a matter of fact, cat eyes are special. It can see about one-sixth of the illumination required for human vision but they are relatively week in handling bright lights. This is the reason why they constrict their pupils into small slits.

Cats also talk using their eyes. So, when you caught your cat staring at you, try to figure out what it is trying to imply. Look at their eyes and observe its appearance in line with its overall behavior. Also, consider what’s happening in their environment as well as your own activity at the time. This could give you a clue on what your cat is thinking.

As notoriously curious animals, cats often stare just to know what you are up to. These little creatures often move their eyes and head in order to track your activities. They are also incredibly sensitive in any changes in your movement. Therefore, they might be watching you learn what you do or just because you are acting differently.

Cat Stares to Send You a Message

Cats learn things from their experiences. This includes how they behave and how to use their behavior to send us a message.

Since pet owners feed them which is a very important thing, cats learn that staring with a pleading look could effectively get them treats. It might even try to persuade you to give more with a combination of meowing and staring.

In the same way, your cat might get you to feed him more, open a door, or play with him. To put it simply, staring is cats way to get what they want. Another thing is to send you a message that it seeks your attention. You may also hear him purr while staring at you.

In line with this, specific cat breeds such as Siamese try to catch your eyes to stare at theirs in order to stop you to give our attention to anything or anyone else. Isn’t it cute? Your cat might be actually jealous while watching you petting your dog or your other cat so it tries to command your attention.

When your cat stares at you, make sure to observe their eyes. Some cats stare with a dilated pupil which means they are getting ready for something bad to happen. On the other hand, they fully dilate it when they are expecting something beneficial for them. Like treats, your attention, or getting you to do what they want.

Fear could also be a reason behind a cat stare. Moreover, how to determine if your cat is scared or it just wants something good from you? If your cat is staring at you while having a fully dilated pupils, a tense face and body, twisted ears backward, possibly hissing and tail lashing, along with aggressive behavior, he is definitely scared.

These physical clues are not according to aggression. It is clearly a sign of fear. When a cat sees a human approaching which they determine a threat, their adrenaline will release which will trigger them either to freeze or fight as a response. To avoid prevent this dangerous moment to happen, let your cat know that you are friendly by slowly blinking while it is staring at you or just avoid it for the meantime.

Conclusion

Cat behavior is really interesting to learn. Now that you already know some of the reasons why your cat is staring at you, choosing the right response is now easier.

While the suggested reasons above are the most common meaning behind your cat stares, also take note that cat staring could also be a result of some chronic medical conditions of cats.

This includes kidney failure, heart disease, as well as untreated hyperthyroidism. Take time to find out the meaning of your cat’s stares and you’ll live with them happily.

The Real Reasons Your Cat Is Biting You

You might be surprised if your cat suddenly bites you on one sunny day. At that moment, you will definitely wonder why? Cats learn when to apply force on their paws and bites while playing which helps you to avoid getting bloody while petting them. To feed your curiosity about the reason why your cat is biting you, here’s what we found out.

The reason behind Cat Bites

Kittens and cats may bite for completely different reasons so it is vital to determine what’s behind those bites in order to correct the behavior. Usually, kitten bites due to developmental issues. On the other hand, adult cats possibly have a different reason.

In an early age, kittens learn good behavior with the help of interaction with their mother and other kittens. This is where you can observe how these little cats have unique personalities as well. Other kittens tend to be shy while others play actively with others. And here is where they also learn how to fend for themselves.

Often times, kittens are sent to their new homes even before they learn the most important lessons. This is why it is important that new cat owners, especially those who adopt kittens to train their pets. Besides, this little happiness might still be clueless that their claws or teeth can hurt so it’s important to explain it in the way they understand. Start training the very moment you get your cat or kitten.

A well-trained cat knows how to teach little ones so you can consider asking someone with an adult cat to visit you frequently. Now or the adult cats, we can think about some reasons why they bite.

To assert dominance might be the reason why your cat is biting you or it is their way to respond to a threat. If your cat attacks you without backing down, this could be the reason.

In addition to that, some cats communicate with their bite. It is also their way to demand attention rather than making a meow sound. You can confirm this when your cat attempts to lead you to participate in an activity after biting you. This activity may be playing with an object or petting your cat.

How to Stop Your Cat from Biting?

You might not be able to prevent your cat from biting ever again but there are some ways you can try. Most likely, you have to personalize the solution to your cat’s age and what’s the reason behind their biting.

The first thing you can try is to keep your responses consistent and ensure that everyone in your house, as well as your guests, comply in the same rule. Once your cat receives different messages, you will experience difficulty doing your training.

You must never allow your cat or kitten to play with your bare fingers or hands and even your toes. You have to teach them that your hands are not toys that they can play and bite anytime they want. Never offer your hands to your pets as a playmate if you don’t want them to develop a dangerous habit.

In addition to that, provide them interactive toys that they can kick, smack, or bite. Why not give them a stuffed animal? Most cats love them. Praising your cats when they give you soft paws is also a way to tell them that it’s the good thing to do. Otherwise, make a noise just like how any other cats do when telling another cat to stop. You can use this technique as a distraction that could stop the behavior.

If your cat won’t let go while biting you, avoid pulling it away. What you need to do is to push your arm and hand towards the direction of the bite to command your cat to release you. Your cat might think you are resisting if you pull your arm away so they bite even more. Imagine your clothes as your skin too and keep it away from them. Otherwise, they won’t know the difference between clawing your bare legs or jeans.

Once your cat couldn’t control its claws and teeth, place it to another room for five minutes alone. This could help it realize that it has gone beyond the boundary. You must also avoid punishing your cat physically because it will only make them more aggressive while protecting themselves.

A cat just like any other pets knows the feeling of hurt. Try saying you are hurt to your cat directly in words.

Conclusion

Cats show their love in a lot of different ways that could confuse humans. There are times that cats don’t want to be with people, sometimes they want you to always be with them. You can’t just guess what is on their mind so you have to learn their language.

Now that you have a grasp about the most common reasons why cats bite, you can now determine the right response to correct their behavior. If you train them accordingly you will no longer be surprised when your cat suddenly bites you on one sunny day.

 

Why Does My Cat Lick Me?

Oh! Most owners will definitely swoon seeing their cat’s adorable pink tongue sticking out— whether she drinks water or grooms herself delicately.

But when that tiny, cute tongue starts licking you, you might think otherwise.

Why You Don’t Want Your Cat Licking You

It’s no secret:

Excessive cat licking can start to hurt. But why?

A cat’s tongue has these special back-facing “barbs” called papillae. These tiny barbs are actually made of the very same material as your cat’s sharp claws. This is why cat’s tongue feels like rough sandpaper.

The barbs are actually crucial when your feline buddy grooms herself. It removes debris and dirt from your cat’s coat, making them clean and dirt-free.

And although most of us enjoy an occasional lick from our feline friend, it can start to hurt when she does it all the time and in only one area.

Reasons Why Your Cat Licks You

1. Signs of Affection and Bond

In the very same way that you show your love and affection to your feline buddy by petting and nuzzling with it, your cat may also try to return the affection by licking you. Kittens, in particular, will use licking to show affection the way humans might use a hug.

If your feline buddy loves to lick you, then it probably means that it’s asking for affection in return and is a way of strengthening her bond with you. And honestly, this is one of the best parts of having a cat around.

2. Anxiety

Some cats will lick and groom themselves in order to relieve anxiety. And in some cases, this may result in bald patches. And, of course, you’re not safe. Your cat may also lick you as a way of calming herself and reducing her anxiety.

If you notice bald spots or thinning hair on your cat, then consider talking to your vet since there might be an underlying medical cause or your feline buddy might be experiencing stress.

When your cat licks you in a body posture that appears nervous, tense or it goes on for long periods, then it may indicate an attempt to self-calming.

3. Marking Territory

Cats use pheromones in order to mark their territory. Although most people know that cats mark their property and territory by urinating on things, they can also mark in other ways as well.

Head rubs and licking are ways for cats to claim you as part of their territory or property— affectionately. When your cat rubs or likes you, it is a reaffirming that you are special to her and wants all other cats to know.

If you ever notice that other cats sometimes shy away from you, it is highly possible that they smell that you already belong to another cat.

4. Seeing You As Incapable

There are some bizarre ways of how cats behave towards their humans. For instance, some cats usually leave dead birds or mice on their owner’s doorsteps, sometimes in bed, in an attempt to share their treat. Some cats also present their owners with live animals in an attempt to teach their owner to hunt.

These examples show how cats see their owner as a part of their family but also seeing them as incompetent at being cats. Female felines, in particular, exhibit this sort of nurturing type or parenting behavior.

And when they start to lick you, it can mean that they’re attempting to teach you on how to groom yourself. This is a memory that your cat had when it was being licked by its own mother and is a true sign of affection.

In addition, cats are quite attentive to their owner’s mood, so you might get more licking when you are stressed or sick. Cats will attempt to calm you in the same way that you would pet her is she seemed nervous.

5. An Interesting Taste

Spilled something on your feet? Well, do not be surprised to find your cat siding next to you in order to get a taste. Sometimes, however, it does not take a spill for this to be true. Cats may also enjoy licking the salt which naturally builds up on your skin.

Stopping Excessive Licking

Although you might want the affectionate licking, that cute tongue can actually start to be annoying, especially if it’s for a long period of time. So, how do you make it stop without jeopardizing your bond and relationship?

Consider using toys to redirect her attention. Or you can use your head to nuzzle and cuddle or even pet her so that she will just enjoy the petting and forget about the licking.

If that does not work, you can just walk away when it becomes excessive, causing your cat to associate licking you with you running from her.  

How To Give A Cat A Bath?

We all know this:

Cats are not big fans of getting wet. Some will even lift their noses at the very thought of walking over damp floors.

Now, giving them a bath? That would result in an angry feline and you getting lots of scratches.

Cats can groom themselves continuously throughout the day so they do not need to be bathed every week. However, there are times when they could really use a soak in the water and a few bubbles.

Why Might You Need To Bathe Your Cat?

Here are a few scenarios as to why you might find yourself bathing your cat:

1. Ringworm

Actually, this is a fungus, instead of a worm. And depending on the severity of your feline’s case and other factors, your veterinarian might prescribe medicated baths to reduce infestations.

2. Dirt on Coat

If you need to get something off their coat, a bath will be great. Examples of things that might get stuck in their coat include gasoline or motor oil, tree sap, potpourri, antifreeze,  and pyrethrin or permethrin flea killing products that may cause tremors if not removed.

Or if your cat’s coat is just exceptionally dirty and smelly, maybe they’ve run off somewhere or climb the chimney, then a good bath will keep them clean and smelling great.

3. Arthritic Cats or Obese Cats

These cats might be unable to groom themselves fully and properly. Thus, you might need occasional baths in order to keep their skin and coat healthy. Arthritic cats, in particular, might even appreciate a nice bath since the warm water and slow massage of lathering shampoo can actually feel good.

Materials Needed When Bathing Your Cat

Before dragging your feline to the bathroom, you need to make sure that all the necessary materials are ready. This should make bathing your feline easier and quicker with less stress.

  • Cat shampoo (It would be best if you get a shampoo specially formulated for cats. If you do not have a cat shampoo at the moment, use mild baby shampoo. Don’t use in human cleaning products since it might sting your feline’s eyes or even irritate his skin.)
  • Rubber gloves (to protect your hand from scratches)
  • Gentle spray nozzle or a large pitcher for rinsing
  • Large towel
  • Comb
  • Small cloth to clean the face
  • Cotton balls to clean the ears

Giving Your Cat A Bath

1. Preparing For Bath Time

A. Brushing The Coat

Before anything, you will have to do a thorough brush of your cat’s coat in order to remove debris or dust as well as loosening tangles, particularly if you got a long-haired feline.

Remember that a dry tangle is easier to comb out than a wet tangle and this should prevent your feline from getting annoyed during the bath. Brushing your feline’s coat can also remove matted fur that can trap soapy residue on the skin and cause flaky and itchy patches.

B. Cut The Nails

In addition to brushing the coat, it would be best to cut your feline’s nails before bath time. This should reduce the risk of getting deep scratches as well as preventing his long nails to get caught on your clothing or towel.

C. Preparing The Tub and Preventing Escapes

In order to avoid getting scratches or freak out your cat caused by the slippery surface, place a towel at the bottom to sink his claws in and keeps him steady.

Fill the sink with 2 – 3 inches of lukewarm water. Remember not to use water that is too hot since cats can overheat easily.

In addition, you do not want your cat running off in the middle of bath time. So, keep your cat from escaping by closing the door.

2. Placing Your Cat On Bath

Put on your rubber gloves. Speak gently to your feline in an assuring tone and place them gently in the sink or tub. Hold him by the scruff of his neck or ask some help with this. Ensure that you hold your feline with their back to you so you avoid getting scratched.

Stroke him as you wet his head and neck with water. Make sure to keep the water out of his eyes in order to avoid irritating him. Next, wet their legs, back, and hind end until they are wet enough.

3. Lather, Lather, Lather

Pour a generous amount of cat shampoo into your cat’s coat. Make sure that you clean his paws, legs, tails, belly, chest, neck and back. Lather well to remove all debris and dirt.

Most felines hate getting water splashed on their faces. So, to clean his face, use a damp washcloth and gently rub his head and face. Also, if your cat allows you, use cotton balls to clean the inside of his ears.

4. Rinsing

Next, you will have to remove all those soap. You may have to rinse several times in order to ensure that all lather and soap is removed from his coat. Leftover soap may irritate your cat’s skin, so you will need to rinse until you don’t see or feel any more suds.

5. Drying

Most felines love a good rub down with a towel after their bath. Using a large towel, dry your cat and try to absorb as much water as possible with the towel. If not, your cat will likely shake off any excess water from their coat and this could lead to puddles of water where they walk.

Consider using a hair dryer to dry your cat, but never use the hottest setting since it can burn your feline’s sensitive skin. Also, set it to low noise level so as not to freak out your cat.

6. Good Kitty!

Well, after all those struggles, your precious kitty deserves endless praise as well as her favorite treats. And with such a happy ending, your cat may think that bath time is not so bad and even (hopefully) volunteer to take a bath next time!

How To Give A Cat A Pill?

From antibiotics to deworming tablets, there are various pills that you must sometimes give to your cat. Unfortunately, most cats are notorious at spitting out their pills or refuse them altogether.

Since you cannot hand your cat her pills and a glass of water, saying “Take 2 and hiss at me in the morning,” you might wonder what is the best way to give your unwilling ferocious feline its important medicine without any bloodshed?

Here are some strategies that you can use for a successful pill taken without the stress and scratches.

1. Restraining Your Cat

Cats are notorious at scratching anything when forced to do what they don’t like. So, to avoid such pain, you might need to restrain your cat using a large sheet or towel. You can place a towel on the table where your cat will sit comfortable and prevent slipping.

If your cat is quite ferocious and known to scratch, then it is best to wrap her in a towel so that her paws are snugly wrapped inside. This is style is usually called the burrito wrap that keeps their claws and paws out of scratching range.

2. Opening Her Mouth

Now that your feline buddy has been restrained, you will now have to give her the pill. Use your non-dominant hand to hold your cat’s head. Make an upside-down U shape by positions your thumb and forefinger on your cat’s forehead. Your finger should rest on either side of her face along the cheekbones.

When you raise her head with her nose angled towards the ceiling, her jaw will slightly open. Gently press your fingertip and thumb into your cat’s mouth. Make sure that you keep your cat’s lips between the teeth and your fingers. Your cat will feel her lips press against her teeth so she will naturally open her mouth in order to avoid biting her own lip.

If you are giving liquid medicine with a syringe, a slight opening would be enough. However, if it is a pill, then you will have to open her mouth wider.

3. Giving The Pill

Using your dominant hand, hold the pill using your middle finger and thumb in a pincer-like grip. Opening her mouth widely by applying gentle downward pressure on her cheeks, drop the pill into her mouth.

Just make sure to drop the pill over the back of her tongue. Placing the pill far back, even if your cat tries to spit it out, the contractions of her tongue will actually push the pill back to the throat then swallowed.

In case you drop the pill and lands at the tip of her tongue, keep holding her mouth open and use your middle finger to push the tablet further back.

Release her mouth and make sure that the pill is swallowed.

4. When She Refuses To Swallow

If your cat is one of the most stubborn felines alive and refuse to swallow her pill, then consider this strategy:

Blow gently across her nostrils. This triggers a swallow reflex and will make her start gulping. Check and see if she does not spit the pill out.

5. Give Water

Once her pill is successfully swallowed, offer your feline buddy a drink or something to eat. This will make sure that the pill has gone all the way down her esophagus and into the stomach.

Other Ways To Give Pill To Your Cat

1. Consider a Pill Giver

If you are quite hesitant to put your fingers inside your cat’s mouth, then consider using a pill giver. This a plastic grabber which grips the pill.

  • Load the pill in the pill giver.
  • Open your cat’s mouth.
  • Gently insert the pill giver into your cat’s mouth deep into the back.
  • Quickly press the plunger in order to release the pill out of the grabber and it should fall down on her throat.

2. Hide Tablet in Her Food

There are some medications that are designed with fussy cats in mind and the pills are quite small making them easier to hide in food.

  • First, you will have to make sure that your cat is hungry by taking away her food for a few hours.
  • Give your cat a quarter of her regular meal with the pill hidden in it. When the plate is clean, give the remainder of his meal.

You can also try to use pill pockets. These are tasty treats which have cavities in them for you to place the pill inside. The tasty outer pocket disguises the taste of the pill and your cat will happily swallow it down.

Why Do Cats Love Circles?

Cats are one of the wittiest pet in the globe. Is there a way to behave a clever cat?

What about circles?

There’s a controversy between cats and a ring-shape. One day, a cat owner had noticed the pet seems addicted to circles. It makes the feline powerless as it calmly sits in the middle of the circle. Even if the shape isn’t perfectly round, it still affects the behavior of the pet.

If you start wondering about the trueness of the mentioned statement, you can do it at home. Form a round-shape on the floor using any accessible materials then observe your cat. Does it start to walk over the setup and rest on it?

If yes, we’ll discuss some speculative ideas why your cats suddenly stop whenever it lays down on a circle. Without further ado, let’s get it unleashed!

10 Reasons Why Cats Love Circles

The details to be discussed are only possible explanations of why do cats love circles. Up to now, there are still no specific answers to the question. Well, cat’s behavior can be the best source of having these reasons. These include:

1. Cats want to feel warm

Cats are the kind of pets that prefer warmth rather than cold environment. Well, in fact, they conserve body heat while they’re sleeping. And we can notice the usual shape of every cat’s bed, it is a circle. Perhaps, the pet thinks if it enters the circle, it’ll keep him warm.

 

2. Cats feel more secure within circles

Cats become territorial at times. They’ll sit in a circle and treats it as a new home. There are cases where the owner calls its cat, which is in the circle, and the pet never gives attention. The cat only lives the circle whenever it wanted.

 

3. Cats are seeking attention

Just like the other pets like dogs, cats are also attention-seekers. Instead of cuddling with their owners, they’ll go in the corner, wherever there’s a circle, and then ask for attention. This must be the sweetest reason if ever.

 

4. Cats desire for privacy

Same as they wanted to feel more secure but this time the pet only wishes for me-time. It shows the dramatic attitude of a cat. Also, cats are known to be timid wherein they love to live in an enclosure.

 

5. Cats are only curious

Since cats can live without anyone, an independent kind of pet therein, maybe it’s only investigating what circles are for. Even we, humans, have this sort of curiosity when everything matters. Let the cat find out what’s going on by itself. Support your pet anyway.

 

6. Cats sense something weird around the house

Some arguments say that a circle shape has a connection to witchcraft. A circle has supernatural powers said by paranormal experts. Connecting it into a cat, you’ll see it reacting strange and weird. Don’t worry, your cat won’t be entered by bad spirits. It’s so much stronger than any spirits.

 

7. Cats see themselves as an authority

The cat feels like wearing a crown when it is within a circle. All attentions are towards him. Well, in fact, photos of cats staying in a circle are now becoming viral. Cats are doing a great job to be the most popular pet all over the net.

 

8. Cats are ready to submit

The circle will act as a trap, kind of advantage for the owner, to start teaching the cat how to obey simple tricks. This is the easiest way to help a cat to be a well-trained pet. As the cat enters the circle, it is a sign of being ready to learn something new. Grab that opportunity! You know what; it’s hard to catch a cat’s responsiveness.

 

9. Cats swap small spaces into a circle

Cats do love to fit on small spaces just to feel secure. A circle is a remedy to prevent any mess inside the house whenever the cat looks for a hiding place. Even in an open area, with the help of a circle, the cat will still feel safe and sound.

 

10. Cats are only attracted to circles

Perhaps, a circle is new to its sight and it catches its attention. This reason is simpler than being curious as a cat is never bothered of what the circle can do to him. It’s like the cat only enters a room with innocence in mind. He found circles beautiful and comforting and so goes in it with no curiosity added.

 

3 Ways in Making a Cat’s Circle

Building a cat’s circle is so easy. You can use the following materials at home to start making a circle for your cat:

  • A tape

Any color of tape would do. You can place it on the floor even in an imperfect circle shape.

 

  • A clothing

Those clothing that isn’t useful anymore can be shaped in a circle. This is more comfortable as it renders softness for the pet.

 

  • Draw a circle

This is the most practical way to make cat’s circle. Use chalk or charcoal and make sure it doesn’t contain any chemicals that may harm the pet.

CONCLUSION

There’s called Cat Circles Phenomenon that becomes a top issue on the internet today. It started on the Reddit website where a man posted photos of his cat that has a habit of sitting in a circle.

This confuses everyone who also owns a cat and does the same experiment. They see on their own eyes that cats do respond to action whenever they see a circle. And up until now, the reason why it happens remained a question for everyone.

A cat’s real relationship with circles is still confusing that even experts don’t have a scientifically-proven answer on why do cats love circles. The gathered information above has no scientific and expert basis.

However, many believe that the real reason links to the behavior of cats which is territorial and curious. Whatever the truth is, we saw a positive connection between the two.

 

Are Cats Cleaner Than Humans?

Humans already manage to invent and discover different things to improve and enhance hygiene. As far as we know, many humans are very conscious about their hygiene and they are willing to spend a lot just to maintain their cleanliness.

But can we consider ourselves to be much cleaner than cats? As humans, we might automatically believe that we are cleaner than our feline friends. Let us find out if it was really true that humans are clean than cats, or the other way around.

Human’s Hygiene

Humans invented various shampoos, deodorants, soaps, lotions, and others just to help themselves to maintain cleanliness. Cleanliness in humans and practicing good hygiene is not only a modern concern as it was already practiced in ancient times.

Nowadays, most of the human population has already practiced taking a bath almost daily to maintain good hygiene and to get rid of dirt, and odors that they get all throughout a busy day.

Humans do not only take a bath to keep good hygiene, but humans also practice washing their hands, face, and other parts of their bodies using specialized soaps and solutions.

Cat’s Hygiene

Many cats might not be able to appreciate their owner who wanted to give them a bath because they are actually not a fan of water. Despite the fact that cats do not want to get their bodies wet in water, they don’t actually need to be accompanied by their owner to clean themselves.

Cats actually spend most of their time cleaning themselves without any help from anybody. Believe it or not, our feline pets consume around half their day just in grooming their body and cleaning themselves. And that was much more time being spent compared to humans in terms of cleaning themselves.

Yes, we usually take a bath, wash our hands before and after meals, wash our hands after going to the comfort room, and many other but it will only come up with a small total of time compared to the time cats are spending just to groom themselves.

How cats maintain their personal hygiene?

You would have definitely realized that felines are fastidious about their own cleanliness, presently you will almost certainly figure out how they groom and clean themselves.

You likely notice that felines regularly utilize their tongue in cleaning portions of their bodies that they can achieve, that is their powerful method for cleaning their bodies because their tongue has tiny barbs that have several helpful purposes to them.

Cat’s Nature

In the event that you have ever seen and watched, felines clean their selves in an ordinary manner. Cats actually clean themselves with a certain pattern. For example, cats will lick their paws to apply saliva on it before they rub their nose into circular motion.

That likewise applies when they clean their ears, face, and the remainder of their bodies. They utilize their paws and tongue in cleaning each area of their body. However, would you say you are mindful that they really acquire and become familiar with these practices directly after their introduction to the world?

Indeed, they discovered that from their mom that cleans them by licking them. While many experts believe that mother cats usually teach their kitten to clean their bodies by themselves before she let them live on their own.

Are Cats Really Clean?

Well, you already know that cats are very busy cleaning themselves most of the time. But even though our feline friends have meticulous grooming for themselves they are still not as clean as you think. Cats still walk around, and even in and out of your household so you might also consider the places that they are going.

They might not smell bad and look dirty most of the time, but there was still a fact that they are roaming through their litter box and even on a dirty ground. That is why letting them step within your dining table and counters might not be a good idea.

Cats even hunt and eat pest inside your house. Imagine your cat just ate a tiny mouse earlier and then you let them lick your feet, that’s some kind of gross right? after all, they are just animals that are acting through their instincts.

At some point, cats can be considered clean and at the same time not as clean as humans. Cats might be considerably cleaner than dogs and other animals, but not actually compared to humans.

Conclusion

It was a unanimous decision that humans are cleaner than cats in general, but there might be still a few cases that some cats are cleaner than some humans. We also know that cats are still good pets to consider if we wanted a clean companion in our household.

It is very good to know that an animal like the cat has some awareness of cleanliness and personal hygiene that they practice since the time of birth. For humans, we already practicing a very excellent practice of cleaning ourselves for ages and it continues to improve even more.

Catios: How To Make A Patio Your Cat Will Love

Your feline buddy might love lounging around inside your home, however, a small part of her will always be drawn to the great outdoors.

Any problem with that?

Well, dangers lurk on the outside world.

Kitties running away from home might not find their way home, risk of getting attacked by other animals, getting run over on the road or kitty-napped.

They might also hunt wildlife, from squirrels to birds, or get diseases and parasites from wild animals.

With these reasons, you might want to barricade your kitty inside for all her life.

Well, not anymore!

Enter: Catios!

This is the hottest new home building trends which cater to domesticated cats need of the outside world and their very concerned owners.

What is a Catio?

In its simplest term, a catio it is an enclosed patio space that is built in with shelving, litter boxes modules, cat trees, and more. A patio for your cat.

Custom options are almost infinite— you can add catios to your windows which allow your feline buddy to roam outside and watch those birds from a distance or create a more comprehensive catio complete with walkways and maybe a private oasis with climbing trees and plants.

Before Getting Started

Although most cats would love to spend time outside inside a catio, there is some feline that would love lounging inside instead and for which a catio would cause undue stress.

So, before you build a catio, you need to think if an outdoor cat enclosure is a good fit for your feline.

In general, cats who enjoy catios are the ones that are highly playful and curious. How do you know if your cat is playful or curious?

Well, if she gets into your purse all the time, hiding in your grocery bags, or comes up carrying one of your shoes, then that cat would love a catio of her own.

Catio Construction

Once you are sure that your cat will love a catio, you want to make sure that you invest in a quality outdoor cat enclosure.

Sturdiness is crucial. You want something that should keep your feline in but will also keep those wild predators out. It is recommended to avoid netting since it is easy to rip through.

Choosing The Location

The ideal location for catios is near an exterior for or window with easy access for your feline to enter directly into the catio. Consider building your catio on a level and flat foundation in order to ensure safety. Uneven ground can be leveled or you can even build your catio on a deck or patio.

In addition, cats love the sun, so the location needs to offer both sun and shade for your feline. Cats also need stimulation, so it is best that your catio location has great views of your garden. Family activities and wildlife in order to provide endless enrichment for your feline buddy.

Catio Features and Accessories

Although there are a broad variety of catios available, there are some essential features that you should watch out for.

The first one is your cat’s ability to come and go as she wants. If your catio is attached to your home, you need to give your cat the means to freely move. Your feline should not be locked outside catio and you always need to be sure that she’s okay. Remember that catios are not a replacement for supervising your cat.

Next, you will have to install a cat door. An uninitiated feline might need to practice getting the hand of going through cat doors so you will need to entice them through an open flap with treats and toys in order to get used to going in and out.

A good catio also needs some shade, particularly if they get the full ray of the sun for several hours. You also need to provide some spots where your cat can hide if they wish to take a nap in a more private and secure place. Hiding spots can be anything from a built-in cube that is made of the same material as your catio to a cat condo.

Catios also need to have vertical surfaces for your feline. It is better than you have small, vertical catio with several shelves than a large, flat catio. This is because of the fact that cats love to go high and that is where they feel safe and secure.

And if you are not able to have an enclosure with multiple shelves, then you can get cat trees of varying heights as well as hanging shelves which do not require any sort of building knowledge.

If your feline is going to spend extended time out on her catio, then it makes sense that you add some of the indoor comfort items as well. It needs to have water, food, and her litter box— all her living necessities.

And if you do not want to go in and out, watching your feline lounge around, then consider getting automatic cat feeder and cat water fountains, so you do not have to worry about feeding time.

Are Cats Cleaner Than Dogs?

Cats and dogs might be the most common household pets that you can find, although recently there are more pet owners who prefer cats because they believe that cats are cleaner than dogs.

Well, you can actually say that cats are way cleaner because they are very aware of their own hygiene and only need very little help and assistance from their owners in cleaning themselves given the fact that cats prefer staying indoors.

So, if you are thinking of cats as your pets, you would also love to know some other cleanliness and hygienic facts about them.

How Do Cats Maintain Their Own Cleanliness?

You already know that cats are meticulous about their own hygiene, now you will be able to learn how they groom and clean themselves.

You probably notice that cats often use their tongue to in wiping parts of their bodies that they can reach, that is their effective way of cleaning their bodies because the tongue of cats has tiny barbs that serve a bunch of purposes such as the following:

  • It helps in removing loose and dead furs in their body.
  • It helps in removing the odor of their meal from their fur and even whiskers.
  • It helps getting rid of parasites.
  • It helps in increasing their body circulation
  • It helps in regulating their temperature.

Why Are Cats Considered Cleaner Than Dogs?

As far as we can observe there are a lot of differences between cats and dogs, especially when it comes to hygiene and cleanliness.

In order to convince you that cats are way cleaner compared to dogs, here are a few considerable things about cat’s grooming and hygiene.

1. Cats prefer and are contented staying inside the house

If you have already experienced being a dog-owner, you probably know that dogs are not meant to spend a day at home without getting their paws outdoors. Dogs are required to spend plenty of time outside your house in order for them to live a healthy lifestyle.

Well, it is not a big deal of cats if you don’t have a lot of time to walk them outside because cats typically prefer to live indoors perching beside a window or slouching within a couch.

Knowing that cats are not totally required to go outdoors, there is also a very small chance that a cat will get themselves dirty.

Staying indoors also keep your pet away from any parasite that they can get from interacting with other animals.

 

2. Cats are hunters

Our feline friends are also predators just like their relatives and cousins in the animal kingdom, cats usually hunt pest that is lurking inside your house like a tiny mouse, cockroaches, and other smaller animals.

If you want to get rid of some pest problems inside your household, petting a cat can be a great choice that you should consider.

And before we forget, that can be considered that cats are cleaner knowing that they hunt pest that dogs didn’t do.

 

3. Cats Groom Themselves

We all know that dogs love to go over stuff that has an unusual odor or smell like garbage, poop, and dead animals. Well, that’s kind of a “yuck” stuff for them and that makes pet owners to spend time bathing them and in worst cases, dog owners are also required to bring them to a dog groomer.

But that was a completely different thing when it comes to our feline friends, cats are natural self-grooming individuals that spent a lot of time cleaning and grooming their bodies.

You don’t also need to worry about them running into the paddle of muds outside as they are contented pouncing over small pests like the mouse.

 

Hygienic Nature

If you have ever noticed and observed, cats clean their selves in a very conventional way. Cats actually clean themselves with a certain pattern. For example, cats will lick their paws to apply saliva on it before they rub their nose into circular motion.

That also applies when they clean their ears, face, and the rest of their bodies. They use their paws and tongue in cleaning every section of their body. But are you aware that they actually inherit and learn these practices right after their birth? Yes, they learned that from their mother that cleans them by licking them.

Conclusion

If you are going to ask several pet owners who own cats and dogs, you will probably be going to hear a different opinion. But I am sure that most of those opinions will state that cats are cleaner because of their hygienic nature of self-grooming.

That was one huge factor that made cats a popular pet. Considering that we are now living in a very busy and fast pacing world, you might lose a lot of time to focus on the hygiene of your pet that is why it is better to choose a pet that has self-consciousness.

But that doesn’t mean that we should not give them attention, in the end, it is not important if they are dog or cat as long as we show them the love that they deserve.

How to Stop a Cat from Shedding?

Is your feline friend shedding too much? Is it accurate to say that you are discovering fur on your garments, furniture, and always floating noticeably all around?

While it isn’t as exasperating as feline litter being everywhere, this issue still requires an activity plan. Well, you will be able to find out how to stop your cat from shedding.

You will also be able to find out what was an excessive and normal shedding for your pet cats.

What causes cats to shed their fur?

Cat’s fur coat has a basic pattern when it already started to grow. Cat’s coat or fur usually becomes thinner during hot days or let us say in the summer, while their fur turns out to become thicker during colder days or in the winter.

This component gives felines a chance to adjust to the climate outside – for wild and open-air felines and it seems like they should grow their fur in order for them to survive. 

Be that as it may, regardless of good judgment rationale, shedding isn’t reliant on temperature. You won’t prevent your feline from shedding by turning the warmth down. Shedding is started by the measure of sunlight accessible.

At the point when the measure of light diminishes in harvest time, the need to develop thicker hide is motioned by the feline’s body. The inverse occurs in spring when the measure of light increments. Be that as it may, changes in the coat are not the equivalent in indoor felines who are presented to a lot of fake light.

While most felines shed when their jackets change in spring and, somewhat, in harvest time, a few felines, particularly solely indoor felines, can shed consistently.

How To Know That Your Cat Is Shedding Normally?

It is pretty normal for our feline friends to shed their fur. And it was still very normal for cats to shed over and over again. But you might want to know if your cat is shedding normally right?

Well, the best possible way to do that is by checking out the fur coat’s quality of your pet cat. A healthy and normal shedding is certain when the quality of your cat’s fur coat is smooth, clean, and glossy.

It is also very important to look if there are some bald patches or mats as it was an unhealthy sign for their shedding.

How To Stop Your Cat From Shedding?

Here are a few things that you can do to help your cat to stop shedding.

  • If you notice that your cat is shedding or losing its fur too much, you should quickly visit a veterinarian quickly as soon as possible. That is the best thing to do even if you are aware that cats usually shed their fur a lot especially in spring and summer. I think that’s way better than to do nothing before it is too late for you to do anything. So, if you already notice some bald patches in your cat’s fur and skin, you should be alarmed as it was unrelated to your cat’s fur shedding. It might already be because of dermatitis, allergies, and at worst are parasites. That is why you should always consider visiting a veterinarian whenever you came across this situation.
  • You should also try to brush the fur of your pet cat more often because it was proven to be an effective approach in helping your cat reduce its shedding. Brushing will help out the fur to be collected before they fall out and spread all through your house and even in the air. It was a very good choice to avoid fur waste beneath your furniture and to prevent your cat or anybody in your household from ingesting your cat’s fur. You can brush your cat for like a couple of times per week depending on how long their fur is. Cats with longer and thicker fur might require more frequent brushing. Do not hesitate to brush your cat whenever they are shedding because it will really help in reducing and stopping the shedding.
  • You can also try to check out your cat’s diet whether your cat is shedding too much or normally. A cat’s diet must be made of wet meals because it was very essential in hydrating your cat compared to a dry meal. You will also be able to know that your cat has some deficiencies in amino acids when its fur coat has a very poor quality. The fur coat’s quality depends on the amino acid intake of your pet, that is why you should already be alarmed when your cat shows a poor quality of fur coat.

Conclusion

It might be uneasy to stop your cat from shedding, but you can actually control it by consulting veterinarians, brushing them regularly, and even fixing out their diet.

But you should also consider that shedding for cats is like sleeping and eating for humans. It only means that it was very natural and normal for cats to shed their fur coat too frequently.

All you need to do is to help them out reduce their shedding and to observe their fur coat’s quality and skin condition as they might already have some health problems.