Tag: cat health

Are Cats Nocturnal? Understanding Feline Sleep Habits

Posted on August 20, 2025 - 2:23 pm by
A close-up of a black and brown striped long-haired cat with half of its face lit by sunlight and the other half covered in shadow.

If your cat likes to start their day’s activities with a good play session at 4 a.m., it may have you thinking that cats are nocturnal. Most cats sleep a lot during the day, so that makes sense, right? Nope! While a house cat’s behavior gives the impression that they’re nocturnal, cats actually fit a different category.

Are Cats Crepuscular or Diurnal?

Cats are crepuscular, not nocturnal or diurnal. If “crepuscular” and “diurnal” aren’t familiar terms, you’re likely not alone. Of the three terms, “nocturnal” is probably the most well-known and defines animals who are most active at night and sleep during the day (e.g., raccoons, most bats, many owls and opossums). So what do the other terms mean?

Think of diurnal as the opposite of nocturnal. Diurnal animals sleep at night and are most active during the day. Diurnal animals include most birds, squirrels, dogs, many insects and, of course, us!

Crepuscular animals are in between nocturnal and diurnal animals; they are most active in the hours around dawn and dusk when light levels are low. If you’re wondering where this strange word originates from, crepuscular is derived from the Latin word crepusculum, which means twilight. Some examples of crepuscular animals include certain deer, fireflies, skunks, rabbits and domestic cats. However, these aren’t steadfast rules. Some animals adjust their activity patterns based on the weather, food availability, whether predators are around the area and, for house cats, what their humans are doing.

Why Are Cats Crepuscular and Awake at Dawn and Dusk?

Crepuscular animals are thought to have evolved to take advantage of the cooler temperatures, low-light conditions and prey availability at dusk and dawn. They can also strike a balance of hiding from predators while still being able to see the prey they’re hunting for (e.g., birds and rodents). Cats can see extremely well in these dim-light conditions. They can’t see in complete darkness, but they do have excellent vision in very low-light environments, especially compared to humans.

When Are Cats Most Active?

Pet cats (Felis silvestris catus) are crepuscular, despite their nighttime adventures that may disturb your sleep schedule and have you thinking otherwise. However, your cat’s crepuscular nature may depend on your lifestyle (and theirs), and not necessarily be as hardwired as their ancestors.

If you’re home a lot during the day, your cat may stay awake to interact with you. These extra daytime hours awake could make them more likely to sleep at night. On the other hand, if you’re away from home during the day, they’ll probably spend a lot of their time napping and have more awake time during the night for playtime. Those early mornings might be their genetics kicking in, though!

Why Doesn’t My Cat Sleep at Night?

If your cat is spending more time awake at night than they used to, mention this to your veterinarian. Some health conditions can disrupt a cat’s sleep schedule and keep them up at night, including hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypertension (high blood pressure), anxiety and pain. If a senior cat is experiencing cognitive dysfunction (like dementia in people), that can also create a disrupted sleep cycle. If you’re noticing changes in your cat’s sleep schedule as well as other behavioral changes like excessive grooming, increased or decreased appetite and changes in litter box habits, contact your veterinarian.

If a health condition isn’t the cause of your cat’s nighttime prowling, you could try increasing their activity and mental stimulation during the day, so they’re more tired at nighttime. Here’s another tip: before bedtime, spend some time playing with your cat and then feed them a small meal. This may help expend some of your cat’s energy, get their tummy full and let both of you get a better night’s sleep.

Do Cats Need Special Care in the Winter?

Posted on December 14, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
A cat walking outside through the snow.

Mittens, it’s cold outside. It’s time to discuss what kind of special care might be needed for cats this winter.

First, we need to look at what kind of life your cat leads to provide the best guidance. Are they an indoor-only cat? If so, there are a couple of changes you’ll need to make this coming season. Are they an indoor/outdoor cat? Leading a double life requires some extra precautions. Let’s dig through some tips before the snowplows have a chance to warm up their engines.

Indoor Cats Still See Changes in the Winter

All cats have a natural instinct to store energy and conserve fat reserves as soon as the weather becomes colder. You may notice Mittens sleeping or lazing about more in the winter as a result.

Cold weather may mean it’s cooler in your house during winter than the summer, and if that’s the case, you’ll notice your cat’s appetite increase. Studies suggest indoor and outdoor cats will eat up to 15 percent more in the winter due to the extra energy they need to keep warm. So, make sure you add some extra kibbles to your favorite feline’s food bowl. Consult with your local veterinarian if you have any questions about how much is too much.

Speaking of warmth, cats prefer to stay nice and toasty. If Mittens had opposable thumbs, they’d set the thermostat to around 70 degrees to stay cozy all winter long. However, since they’re not paying the utility bills, 70 degrees may not always be achievable. Your cat will do okay in rooms hovering between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but be sure to provide them with plenty of blankets or other sources of heat. Your cat needs to maintain a body temp of more than 90 degrees in order to ward off hypothermia. Added tip: Have a fireplace? Make sure it’s covered by a glass screen. Mittens will want to sit as close as possible to the fire and you don’t want them to get burned.

Indoor cats will grow a winter coat if they are exposed to enough sunlight, because winter coats are a response to the amount of daylight we have during winter months and not necessarily the temperature. For longer-haired felines, reach for their brush more frequently to help them prevent any potential tangles or matting. No matter how many times a cat grooms themselves, longer fur can still get tangled.

Indoor/Outdoor Cats Need Double Care During Winter

Some cats just yearn to get outside, no matter the season. If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, many of the same recommendations are applicable: You’ll need to increase their kibbles during winter, and you’ll need to provide them with sources of heat to maintain that internal body temperature of 90 degrees.

But also remember that no cat should be left outside without a shelter once temperatures begin falling below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. You can make your own weather-proof cat shelter or you can purchase one from the store. Most pet stores, feed stores and big-box stores sell houses with your cat in mind.

You’ll also want to insulate the pet house with straw — not hay. Straw repels moisture and keeps your cat warm. Keep adding straw throughout the winter months, as your cat will likely begin to compress the straw over time.

It’s important to note that cats have a tendency to find warmth in unexpected spots in addition to the shelters or blankets you provide. Before starting your car in the morning, give your hood a few loud thumps and look to see if a cat is on the move. Your cat or even stray cats could be curled up near your engine in an attempt to stay warm.

Be sure to switch to heated food and water bowls during the winter to prevent water or wet food from freezing. Rubber bowls can be a less expensive alternative, as they won’t crack like plastic containers when water freezes in them, but food and water can still harden. This brings us to our next point — you’ll want to provide food and water daily and make sure that nothing is frozen if you’re not using a heated bowl. Remember: Cats will eat more the colder it gets. All that extra food is going to help sustain their internal temperature.

Lastly, even exclusively outdoor cats still need flea, tick and heartworm prevention medicine or collars. As crazy as it sounds, many parasites are active during the winter months, no matter how cold it may get. Year-round parasite preventives not only help safeguard your pet from disease, but they can help protect your family’s health as well.

Prep Your Winter Cats for Winter Storms

If there’s a winter storm on its way, help care for your outdoor kitties or neighborhood strays by avoiding salt or other snow/ice melt products that aren’t approved for pets. Non-approved snow removal methods can irritate food pads, and they can also be lethal to all animals when licked off paws or ingested from melting puddles. Antifreeze is another deadly chemical to keep out of your cat’s reach during winter.

Next, try to clear a path in and out of the cat’s outdoor shelter, add extra straw to the outdoor house and consider building a feed station to shield your cat’s food and water from wind and snow.

Finally, don’t forget to get all your necessities — including extra food for you and Mittens — prior to the storm rolling in. You’ll want to make sure all humans and pets are hunkered down before the bad weather arrives.

While we wish that every cat could stay safe and snug inside during the winter months, some cats love the winter weather and insist on being outside. But whether your cat experiences winter only from the warm side of the window, or they prefer walking on the wild side all year long, you can keep them safe and comfortable with just a few winter weather updates to their care.

RELATED POST: Cat Breeds Made for Winter Weather

What Is Feline Herpesvirus in Cats?

Posted on November 9, 2023 - 2:30 pm by
A veterinarian using a stethoscope on a white cat lying on a table during an examination.

The vet just came in to deliver news that your favorite feline has FHV — feline herpesvirus. Initially, panic might set in as your thoughts are, “How? What does this mean for Mittens? What can I do to give my fur-baby the best life possible?” It can be a lot to take in. But know that Mittens can lead a long, healthy life with proper care. More than 50 percent of cats have FHV, with many of them showing few to no signs throughout their lifetimes.

What Is Feline Herpesvirus?

Feline herpesvirus is a common, uncurable virus that causes upper respiratory infections in cats. It’s contracted from other infected cats when your cat has come into contact with an infected feline’s saliva, nose or eye discharge. The virus can live on bedding and grooming tools for 1–2 days, so be sure to talk to your local pet groomer about your cat’s health prior to your visit and ensure that bedding is thoroughly cleaned if giving it to another cat owner. FHV is not transmittable to humans or dogs.

Common Signs of FHV

FHV symptoms can lead to upper respiratory infections or cat flu. While the infection can be acute, the virus goes into a latent stage in the nervous system and is only triggered when a cat becomes stressed. A cat with FHV can have mild to severe symptoms, including:

  • Eye discharge
  • Pink eye
  • Sneezing
  • Nasal inflammation
  • Runny nose
  • Drooling
  • Pain or irritation in the throat
  • Exhaustion
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Coughing

Rare Symptoms of FHV

In rare instances, FHV can cause keratitis and FHV-associated dermatitis. Keratitis is essentially a chronic infection and inflammation of your cat’s cornea. Symptoms involve increased tearing, squinting or rubbing of the eye. Your local veterinarian can help determine if you’re dealing with an upper respiratory infection that has led to eye discharge or if you’re looking at keratitis. Keratitis requires additional medication to get your pet on a healthy track.

FHV-associated dermatitis is also rare. In addition to the common symptoms of FHV, cats with FHV-associated dermatitis develop lymph node enlargement or ulcers in the eyes, mouth, face, trunk, footpads or knees. Cats with FHV-associated dermatitis can usually expect a good prognosis as well. With the help of your veterinarian, cats can recover from FHV-associated dermatitis within three weeks or less. Keep in mind some cats may remain carriers or be prone to relapses. Veterinarians recommend being mindful of these symptoms and reaching out when signs first appear for the quickest recovery times.

Testing for FHV

Your local veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to see if your cat has FHV. The test is done by swabbing the mouth or nose or taking a swab of your cat’s eye discharge if present. Blood tests are not needed — they are not an accurate way to check for the disease. If you live in a multiple-cat household and one feline tests positive, it is best to get all cats evaluated for the disease.

Life After a Positive Diagnosis

After your cat has been diagnosed, your veterinarian will discuss antiviral or antibiotics options to clear up any infections. If your cat has a severe infection, your veterinarian may recommend hospitalizing your cat so they can receive nutritional support or intravenous fluid therapy they need in addition to antibiotics or antiviral medication.

Once your vet has established a plan to tackle the current infection, they will also discuss long-term care options for Mittens, which might include a change in diet or addition of feline probiotics.

Lastly, lowering your cat’s stress can play a huge factor in their overall health. Did you get new furniture? Change Mittens’ daily routine? Are you preparing for a move? Stressors such as household changes, illness, boarding or travel can reactivate the dormant stage of feline herpesvirus causing them to develop the symptoms listed above.

Talk to your veterinarian about anxiety-reducing supplements or medicines if your cat is persistently stressed and you have made all the positive household changes you can. Those daily options are rather inexpensive as well.

How to Protect Your Cat from FHV

All cats, no matter their age or breed, can contract FHV. Kittens and cats who have a weak immune system are at a higher risk of developing more severe symptoms if infected. The best way to protect your cat from feline herpesvirus is to get the FHV vaccine. Cats eight weeks and older are eligible for the vaccine. It is administered in two to three injections.

Veterinarians then administer a FHV booster every one to three years. These shots do not prevent FHV from being transmitted to your cat if they come in contact with the illness, but they will reduce your cat’s chances of becoming severely sick due to the virus.

Prior to introducing your cat to other felines, it is best to make sure the other cat/kitten has been tested for FHV. If your cat has not been tested, consider the same common courtesy and get Mittens tested before bringing them around other felines.

Along the same lines, prior to boarding, visiting the groomer or establishing care at a new veterinarian’s office, it is best to let them know Mittens has FHV. This will allow the employees to keep your pet, as well as all other cats who visit their establishment, healthy. Remember: FHV is highly contagious among cats.

So, while feline herpesvirus might have been a scary diagnosis to hear during your recent vet visit, you now know ways to keep your furry companion healthy long-term. It’s all about the right care during virus flares, a daily immune system booster and lowering the stress in Mittens’ life.

RELATED POST: Can your pet catch the flu from you?

What Happens at Your Cat’s Checkup?

Posted on February 16, 2023 - 6:05 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Wellness exams for your cat are necessary appointments to make — just like an annual physical is needed for our own preventative care. But what can you expect during your cat’s checkup? Your cat may have some questions about what to expect during a checkup exam, too.

Typically, this vet visit won’t last more than 30 minutes, yet within that small window of time your veterinarian will be checking your furry companion from whiskers to tail.

How Many Checkups?

Kittens need to visit the vet every month until they receive their last round of shots at four months old. Then the kitten(s) can begin their yearly visits. Cats older than one year of age should visit the vet at least once a year for their wellness exam and senior cats are recommended to visit the vet every six months.

If your furry feline has underlying health conditions, your local veterinarian will develop a plan specifically for Mittens and the health condition they are tackling.

Gathering Info for the Veterinarian

Once you’re in the exam room, the veterinarian technician or assistant will ask key questions about your feline’s gender, diet, appetite, litter box activity, and whether there have been any potential concerns or changes in behavior. They’ll place your answers in Mitten’s file for the veterinarian and for future visits.

Next, it’s time to get your feline’s weight, body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate. Your cat’s temperature will be taken with a rectal thermometer, so if your pet is really anxious this step may be skipped for now. They may loop back to it later after Mittens has calmed down or attempt a different method.

The Doctor Will See You Now

After all pertinent information has been collected, the veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s chart and then examine the cat’s overall appearance.

Your veterinarian will review the following:

  • Body condition: Is Mittens at an ideal weight for their breed and age? Does your feline have any hair loss or inflammation? How does their coat look overall?
  • Heart and lungs: When the vet listens to your cat’s heart and lungs, how do they sound?
  • Abdominal palpation: Does your cat have any tenderness in the abdomen? Are there any abdominal masses?
  • Alertness: Does your cat appear responsive and aware of their surroundings? Your veterinarian will look at your feline’s eyes and body language to measure.
  • Walk: Is Mittens walking with a limp? Are they steady on their paws? Does their body seem stiff at all?
  • Mouth: How are those pearly whites looking? Is periodontal disease present?
  • Ears: Is there any wax buildup? What about ear mites or yeast infections? And do they seem to be hearing everything going on currently?
  • Nose: How is their nasal cavity looking? Can they breathe well?
  • Eyes: Coming back to their eyes, is there any sign of infection or irritation? Do they seem to follow movement well with both eyes?

Using this info, the veterinarian can make a well-rounded assessment on your cat’s overall health. They’ll discuss any concerns, if tests are a necessary next step in evaluating your pet’s health, vaccination suggestions/reminders and if any dietary changes are needed.

This is the perfect time for you to ask any questions you have as well. Your veterinarian is there to help provide answers and clarifications along the way.

The Cost of Good Health

A point of anxiety for pet owners can be the financial costs associated with a vet visit. It’s understandable, as the costs for most goods and services continue to rise.

However, your veterinarian’s team wants the best for Mittens, just as you do, so they’re more than happy to walk you through the financial aspect. The team can provide you with a breakdown of how much the exam is with potential tests or vaccinations BEFORE agreeing to all the recommendations from today’s visit.

When discussing the costs, they can also help you understand what needs to be done that day versus waiting (if possible) until the next visit.

Additionally, wellness exams can deter later costs. For example, detecting plaque buildup on your cat’s teeth today can assist you in better managing the situation and prevent costs associated with periodontal disease, oral cancer or other health concerns that could develop from not caring for the issue present day.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get Mittens that wellness exam booked. A checkup today can equal a happier, healthier cat tomorrow.

RELATED POST: Take the Stress Out of Vet Visits for Your Cat

Should I Be Worried About My Vomiting Pet?

Posted on January 13, 2022 - 3:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Stomach issues are the top reason cats are brought to the veterinarian, according to a Healthy Paws analysis of more than 870,000 pet insurance claims from June 1, 2020, to June 1, 2021. For dogs, stomach issues came in third, behind skin problems and pain.

While we know a vomiting pet generally prefers to expel stomach contents on expensive carpets or on your bed in the middle of the night, we don’t always realize what’s causing the problem. So how do you know when it’s something serious?

Causes of vomiting

A broad range of things can cause your pet to vomit, from something as simple as an abrupt change in food or motion sickness from a car ride to more serious causes, such as toxin ingestion, infections like parvovirus or a gastrointestinal foreign body.

Check your house or yard for anything your pet might have accidentally gotten into: medications, mushrooms, the garbage can, super glue and any toys or objects that may have been partially or completely swallowed. Sometimes you may find clues in the vomit, such as potentially toxic house plants that may have been ingested. If you think your pet has eaten something it shouldn’t, call your veterinarian or contact the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.

Mild vomiting

If your pet vomits once or twice and stops, you can remove their food and limit their water for 6 to 8 hours to give the digestive tract a chance to calm down. If they continue to vomit or if they become lethargic, contact your veterinarian.

Although not necessarily recommended, dogs can go for a day or two without eating. However, food shouldn’t be withheld from cats for more than about 12 hours. Cats can develop a condition called hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, and it can be difficult to entice them to eat again. But a few hours without food is typically not a problem.

During this time, you don’t want your pet to become dehydrated. The easiest way to check their hydration is to run your finger over their gums (do not attempt this if your pet is not fond of having their mouth handled). In a hydrated pet, there should be enough saliva so that your finger slides easily. Dehydrated pets will have dry, sticky gums. You can also try to gently pull up the skin at the nape of your pet’s neck. In a hydrated pet, the skin should snap back into place quickly. If your pet is dehydrated, the tent of skin will take longer to return to its original shape.

You can allow your pet to lick ice cubes, so they ingest a small amount of water at a time. Lapping up large amounts of water quickly may cause your pet to vomit. If you’re concerned, contact your veterinarian.

If your pet hasn’t vomited for 6 to 8 hours, you can begin to offer small amounts of water. As a rule of thumb, you can provide 1 teaspoon of water per pound of body weight every 2 to 3 hours.

Once your pet drinks water without vomiting, you can feed them small, frequent meals, using a bland diet such as boiled hamburger or chicken and rice or food made for sensitive stomachs. If your pet refuses to eat or begins to vomit again, call your veterinarian.

Severe vomiting

Some pets will continue to vomit, even when there’s nothing left in their stomachs, and they just wretch up bile. Prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to take your dog or cat to the veterinarian. Even if your pet vomits on a regular basis, such as once or twice a week, it’s worth investigating to see if there’s an underlying disease process causing it.

Depending on your pet’s history, signs and physical exam, the veterinarian may order blood work, X-rays and/or other diagnostic tests. Treatment will vary, depending on the cause, but may include surgery in the case of a gastrointestinal obstruction, fluids to correct dehydration, medications to reduce vomiting or other treatments. Hopefully, your pet (and your expensive carpet) will be back to normal in no time.

RELATED POST: Cancer Signs: What to Watch for in Pets

The Primordial Pouch: Why Do Cats Have a Belly Pouch?

Posted on September 9, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A white cat with a belly pouch walking through the grass.

Many cats have a pendulous pouch that swings back and forth from the abdominal area when the cat walks across the room. But what is it exactly? Is it the saggy remnants of a previous pregnancy in female cats? The droopy remains of a fat paunch in previously overweight cats? The feline equivalent of a muffin top? And is it normal for a cat’s abdomen to have a pouch? We’ll answer those questions and more.

What Is a Cat’s Primordial Pouch?

In cats, this excess collection of fat, loose skin and fur is called a primordial pouch. The pouch typically runs the length of the cat’s belly and is usually more noticeable near the rear legs. Most of the primordial pouch is not attached to the abdominal wall, which allows it to flip-flop and stretch during movement.

These primordial pouches are normal and don’t just appear in an overweight cat, so rest assured, your kitty does not need a tummy tuck (in fact, veterinarians generally refuse to do this kind of cosmetic surgery). Spay and neuter surgeries generally aren’t behind the development of these primordial pouches, either.

Why Do Cats Have a Primordial Pouch?

The feline primordial pouch is a mystery. While experts agree that primordial pouches are normal, no one is sure, exactly, what purpose they serve. The most common theory is that a cat’s primordial pouch provides protection — extra padding to protect the cat’s body and internal organs from sharp teeth and claws during skirmishes with prey or other cats.

Others speculate that the excess skin of a primordial pouch provides flexibility, making it easier for cats to stretch and run when they need to put an escape plan into action. It’s possible the primordial pouch also provides a food storage purpose, allowing the stomach to expand when cats eat an especially large meal, or a place to store fat for future sustenance (although this makes more sense for cats in the wild who aren’t served a bowl of delicious food every day like house cats are).

Do All Cats Have a Primordial Pouch?

While the primordial pouch may be unnoticeable in some cats, it can be pronounced in others, including older cats and certain cat breeds, such as the Bengal, the Egyptian mau or the pixiebob. Primordial pouches can even be spotted in big cats like lions, tigers and other large wild cats!

When Do Cats Develop a Primordial Pouch?

Every kitten is born with a primordial pouch, but you won’t begin to see it until they start developing into adults at around 6 to 12 months of age. But as we mentioned, depending on their genetics, in some cats the primordial pouch may still be hard to see as an adult.

Why Is My Cat’s Primordial Pouch So Big?

If your cat has a large primordial pouch, it may be due to their breed or other genetic factors. The pouch size is not typically related to their weight or health status — skinny cats can have large primordial pouches and overweight cats can have small primordial pouches. If you have a senior cat, you may notice their primordial pouch has gotten bigger as they’ve aged. When skin ages, it loses its elasticity, which can make the pouch look saggier.

Excess Skin or an Overweight Cat?

All that loose skin in your cat’s belly flap can make it difficult to evaluate if your cat is getting pudgy. In general, when viewing your cat’s shape from above, a normal, healthy cat should have a perceptible waist. You should also be able to feel your cat’s ribs without a lot of effort. If you’re having trouble feeling your cat’s ribs or seeing their waist, they’re probably overweight. If you need more help determining if obesity might be the cause of your kitty’s belly pouch, your veterinarian can help.

So if your feline friend has a primordial pouch, don’t fret — it’s perfectly normal. We may not know why your cat’s primordial pouch exists, but it’s there for a reason and doesn’t need to be removed.

Would You Believe Cats Get Acne, Too?

Posted on July 22, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Oh, the embarrassment of those unsightly blemishes. While often the source of teenage angst in humans, acne doesn’t have the same social repercussions for cats. In fact, feline acne has nothing to do with a cat’s teenage years or hormonal roller coasters going on inside the body. So what’s the deal with acne in cats?

Feline acne is a skin condition that affects the chin and lips, including the lower lip, the corners where the lips meet, and less commonly, the upper lip. Hair follicles in these areas become plugged with oil and dead skin, leading to redness, irritation, blackheads or worse. Cats can experience this condition episodically or it can be a persistent problem.

Signs of feline acne

Early signs of feline acne include skin inflammation, blackheads, spotty hair loss, crusts and dark flecks of debris. Secondary bacterial or fungal infections can lead to worsening of signs, and plugged hair follicles can become filled with pus and rupture.  The affected area can become swollen, itchy and painful, and hair loss may become more widespread. In chronic cases, skin scarring can occur.

What causes it?

Of course, we can’t blame these feline skin lesions on too many greasy French fries. But experts still aren’t clear what, exactly, causes the condition. Some blame poor grooming habits, stress or abnormal skin oil production. Others point to viral infections or a compromised immune system, which can lead to microscopic Demodex mites infiltrating the hair follicles. Other theories include underlying allergies to plastic food bowls, food or environmental irritants.

How to help your cat at home

Start by replacing any plastic food or water bowls with ceramic or stainless-steel bowls.

If your cat will tolerate it, gently soak the problem area with a washcloth dipped in warm water two or three times a day to help soften and remove crusts and open plugged hair follicles. Do not use any over-the-counter ointments or treatments intended for people.

When to see your veterinarian

If you don’t see any improvement, visit with your veterinarian. The doctor may suggest some diagnostic procedures. A skin scraping may be recommended to check for Demodex mites. They may also suggest a bacterial culture or fungal culture for ringworm. Sometimes, cats can develop a lesion on the lower jaw from tooth root abscesses, so a dental X-ray may be in order. Rarely, a skin biopsy may be recommended.

Treating feline acne

Gently shaving the area can make it easier to clean and enable topical medications, such as shampoos, ointments or wipes, to be applied directly to the skin. The doctor may recommend a topical treatment that helps flush the hair follicles or a medicated treatment to fight bacteria or fungal infections. In severe cases, he or she may prescribe oral medications or an injection to treat infections or help soothe inflammation.

Keeping your cat’s chin and the skin around the lips clean may help prevent outbreaks, but for many cats, the condition can flare periodically. If that happens, your veterinarian can provide guidance to help keep your cat comfortable.

RELATED POST: 12 Tips for Raising a Healthy, Happy Kitten

Can Cats Eat Catnip?

Posted on April 29, 2021 - 2:30 pm by
A black and tan striped cat lying on the floor staring at a ball of catnip.

If you’re wondering if your cat can have catnip, the answer is a resounding yes! Catnip is safe for cats and is a great way to add some entertainment to your cat’s (and your) life. But it’s a roll of the dice whether your cat will respond to catnip. Some cats don’t experience any effects, some cats drool and chill out, while other cats take off in a burst of energy and ricochet around the room!

Is Catnip Bad for Cats?

The good news is that catnip is nontoxic and safe for cats. In fact, it’s often used as a form of enrichment for indoor cats to help prevent boredom and stress and keep your cat happy. As well as fresh catnip, you can purchase dried catnip and catnip spray, as well as catnip balls, bubbles and chew sticks. You can also buy your kitty catnip-infused toys or toys that can be refilled with dried catnip.

About the Catnip Plant

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb in the same mint family as peppermint and spearmint. It is native to Europe, Asia and Africa, and was thought to have been brought to North America by settlers. Catnip is now considered a pesky weed, but it also remains a favorite in the herb gardens of cat owners who like to grow fresh catnip.

The catnip plant contains several essential oils and other compounds that are stored in tiny bulbs that cover the leaves, stems and seedpods of the plant. The oils are released when a cat (or other animal) brushes up against the plant. The release of one compound in particular, nepetalactone, is why some cats react to catnip.

How Does Catnip Work?

The mood-altering effect of catnip is associated with a cat’s sense of smell. Nepetalactone, the active ingredient in catnip, rapidly changes from a liquid to a gas and binds to receptors in a cat’s nose. So the effect of nepetalactone on a cat’s brain is from the system responsible for a cat’s sense of smell — not from eating catnip.

Can Cats Overdose on Catnip?

No, cats can’t overdose on catnip, but they can get an upset tummy if they eat too much. There’s also no need to worry about your cat getting addicted to catnip. However, if cats are exposed to catnip too frequently, they can become accustomed to the effects. So it’s best to limit your cat’s access to catnip.

The Catnip Effect Isn’t Guaranteed

Only about 50 to 80 percent of cats are sensitive to nepetalactone, so not all cats will experience the catnip “buzz.” For some cats, catnip causes them to be very active and playful whereas other cats become calm and mellow. Most cats who are sensitive to nepetalactone will respond by displaying some of these behaviors:

  • Sniffing, licking and biting
  • Shaking their heads
  • Rubbing their heads, chins or cheeks against it
  • Rolling over
  • Drooling
  • Vocalizing
  • Kicking the catnip with their back paws

The euphoria that catnip brings cats doesn’t last long, typically 5–15 minutes. After that, they’ll be temporarily “immune” to the intoxicating effects of the ’nip for about two hours.

If your cat doesn’t respond to catnip, there are other plants you can try like silvervine and Tatarian honeysuckle. These plants are also nontoxic and non-addictive for cats and can also be used as a form of enrichment.

Can Kittens Have Catnip?

Kittens can experience catnip safely, but if they’re less than 3 to 6 months old, they typically won’t respond to it and may actually turn their nose up at it. Whether or not an older kitten will react to catnip depends on their parents — the reaction to catnip is hereditary. The catnip effect is caused by multiple genes, and without those genes, your cat will think catnip is just another boring plant.

How Much Catnip Is Too Much Catnip?

Eating too much catnip can cause an upset stomach. If your cat has overindulged, you may notice vomiting and diarrhea that will resolve over time. Contact your veterinarian if you’re worried about the vomiting and diarrhea, especially if you think your cat might be dehydrated. Limiting your cat’s access to catnip will help prevent future tummy problems.

Does Catnip Affect Other Animals?

Some big cats also react to catnip. Lions, jaguars, leopards and snow leopards appear to be sensitive to catnip, but tigers, not so much. Dogs can react mildly to catnip but it only has a sedative effect on them, which is why it’s sometimes used to reduce anxiety. Dogs won’t experience the burst of energy like some cats.

Catnip Benefits Go Beyond Feeling Gooood

Catnip is mostly used as enrichment for cats, but cats may have another reason for being attracted to it. Nepetalactone is an effective mosquito repellent, so it’s possible that cats rub their heads in catnip to fend off annoying and possibly harmful mosquitoes. Whatever the reason, some cats definitely go crazy for catnip!

Enrichment Tips to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy

Posted on February 11, 2021 - 7:48 pm by
Taste of the Wild

Life may seem a lot easier for indoor cats than their outdoor counterparts. Indoor cats don’t have to lift a paw to receive tasty, nutritious meals. They can snuggle in a warm bed in the middle of a blizzard. And they never have to worry about dodging cars or ferocious animals.

But the truth is, indoor cats need to express a lot of the natural instincts and behaviors like hiding, hunting, scratching and scent marking that outdoor cats accomplish organically. When deprived of these outlets, indoor cats can become stressed, potentially leading to illness and unwanted behaviors.

As part of National Cat Health Month, we’re sharing indoor cat enrichment tips to help you make sure your indoor kitty is as happy and comfortable as possible.

Make your cat feel more at home

Understanding your cat’s needs can help you make small changes that will have a big impact on his or her well-being. Here are a few examples:

A private sanctuary — As the actress Greta Garbo famously quipped, “I want to be alone.” Cats seek private time, too. Cats cope with noisy workmen, overzealous children and other household pets by escaping to a place where they can hide and feel safe. Ideally, provide each cat with a quiet room where it can sleep without feeling vulnerable. If possible, include a bed or box for hiding, food and water bowls, toys and other resources your cat may need.

A bird’s eye view — Many cats prefer to survey their kingdom from above. Cat trees and perches that attach to the wall or windowsill offer the opportunity to climb and observe the world from a safe place. Even better, position the cat tree near a window where your feline can keep an eye on the bird feeder outside.

The right litter boxes — Cats can be particular about their litter box preferences. As a rule of thumb, there should be one litter box per cat in the household, plus one more. Boxes should be about one and a half times the length of the cat (excluding the tail). Cats generally prefer uncovered boxes with unscented, scoopable litter. Boxes should be placed in private but easily accessible locations. You should clean litter at least once a day, and wash the box with mild dish soap once a week.

Physical and mental stimulation — Although cats often like routine, monotony can cause stress and lead to illness and behaviors such as overgrooming. Take time each day to get your cat moving, whether it’s a game of fetch or a laser pointer chase. Some cats can even be trained to walk on a leash. Food puzzles can help stimulate your cat’s mind and make them work for each meal. Toys should be rotated on a regular basis to keep things fresh.

Something to scratch — Cats like to scratch to shed dried nail husks and sharpen their nails. But even declawed cats need to stretch and mark the area with pheromones from the scent glands in their paws. Providing vertical or horizontal scratching posts can provide cats with a suitable place to flex their paws.

An opportunity to hunt — Cats rarely tire of the thrill of the chase. Help your cat express their predatory instincts with toys that mimic the hunting experience. Wands with feathers and bells, toys that squeak or race across the floor all give your cat a chance to stalk and pounce. Finish the game with treat rewards to satisfy the experience of eating prey.

Personal space — In multiple-cat households, competition for resources such as the litter box, food or toys can cause anxiety. Make sure to distribute these items around the house so cats have an opportunity to enjoy them without another cat (or dog) pushing them out of the way.

By minimizing stress and helping your cat express its natural behaviors, you can strengthen the bond between you and your indoor feline companion.

World Rabies Day: 10 Things You Need to Know

Posted on September 24, 2020 - 3:00 pm by
Taste of the Wild

For dogs and cats, infection with the rabies virus is inevitably fatal. But the good news is, it’s entirely preventable with regular rabies vaccinations. Protecting your pet’s health is an important way to safeguard your family, since infected animals can spread the virus to people, too. As part of World Rabies Day on September 28, we’re offering 10 things you should know to help keep all your loved ones safe.

  1. The rabies virus is transmitted by exposure to the saliva of an infected animal. This usually occurs through a bite, although, less commonly, saliva can enter a scratch or open wound. Most pets that fall victim to rabies are unvaccinated and are infected by wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks or foxes. That’s why you shouldn’t allow your pet to chase or fight wildlife.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 60 to 70 dogs and more than 250 cats in the U.S. die of rabies each year. Thanks to pet vaccinations, human deaths in the U.S. are relatively low, averaging about two people per year. The same can’t be said for rabies infections worldwide: Approximately 59,000 human deaths occur each year, in many cases from the bite of a rabid dog.

  2. Rabies occurs in 49 states, with Hawaii being the exception. The disease is especially prevalent on the East Coast from Maine to Florida and along the Mexican border.
  3. There’s no cure for rabies in pets. Once animals show signs of disease, they typically die in less than 10 days. And there’s no way to diagnose the disease in a live animal — it can only be done by examining brain tissue after an animal passes away.
  4. Animals can only transmit the virus after they show signs of disease. In the early stages, infected dogs and cats may appear nervous, aggressive or more friendly than normal. In time, they can become overly sensitive to light and sound. They may have seizures and lash out at others. Finally, they may drool excessively and experience a paralysis that first affects the head and neck before moving down the body, eventually paralyzing the muscles of the chest so they’re no longer able to breathe.
  5. Most states have laws that require rabies vaccinations for pets. Check with your veterinarian and know the state and local ordinances to make sure your pet’s rabies vaccination always stays current.
  6. Unvaccinated pets that bite a human or another pet usually require a 10-day quarantine. Infected animals can’t transmit the virus until they’re showing signs, and they usually die within 10 days after that. If the animal survives the 10 days, it means it wasn’t shedding the virus at the time of the bite.
  7. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal or another pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Ask the owner of the other pet for proof of rabies vaccination. If they don’t have it or it was a wild animal, contact animal control to determine appropriate action. If your pet’s rabies vaccination is current, your veterinarian may recommend a booster vaccine.

    If your pet’s rabies vaccine has expired, the state may require a 6-month quarantine in an approved animal care center. Because the incubation period, or the time between the bite and the start of signs, is typically less than six months, this allows time to observe the pet and make sure it doesn’t show signs of infection before it is exposed to other pets and humans.

  8. Contact your veterinarian if your pet bites another pet or a person. You will need to provide proof of a rabies vaccination. As rabies laws vary regionally, your veterinarian can advise you as to what steps need to be taken in your state.
  9. Teach children to be gentle and respectful when handling pets. This helps reduce the risk of animal bites. Children should also ask the owner permission before petting other dogs or cats, for the same reason.
  10. If you or someone you are with is bitten by a potentially rabid animal, wash the wound with soap and water and call a physician or emergency room immediately. The doctor will treat the wound and decide if post-exposure prophylaxis, or an injection of plasma followed by a series of rabies vaccinations is needed.

By keeping your pet’s rabies vaccination current, limiting your pet’s exposure to wildlife and teaching children how to handle pets appropriately, you can minimize the risk of rabies infection for everyone in your household.