Tag: cats

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.

Can Cats See in the Dark?

Posted on February 14, 2025 - 4:43 pm by
A close-up of a gray cat with yellow eyes covered in shadow as it lies in the dark.

If you’re a cat parent, you’re probably used to things going bump in the night. A book knocked off the table, a ball rolling across the floor — normal nightly occurrences for a household with a kitty. All of these night moves may have you wondering how your cat can see in the dark. Do they have built-in night vision? Are they a superhero? We can’t be sure they’re not a superhero, but we can explain why cats can see better than humans at nighttime.

Do Cats Have Night Vision?

Cats do have built-in night vision to a degree. While they can’t see in complete darkness, they do have excellent night vision in very low-light environments, especially compared to humans. It’s likely that your house is never completely dark; streetlights, moonlight, the glow of the clock on appliances — all of these light sources help provide dim light for your indoor cat to see their way around your home.

Surprise! Cats Are Not Nocturnal

Your cat’s schedule of sleeping all day and playing rambunctiously through the night may have you thinking that they’re nocturnal. But domestic cats are actually crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk — their ancestors would have hunted prey at that time. However, your particular cat’s behavior may also depend on your lifestyle.

How Do Cat’s Eyes See in Dim Light?

There are a number of reasons why cat vision is better in low-light conditions compared to human vision. Cats have more rod photoreceptor cells in their retina than humans, which makes their retina more sensitive to low light and motion, and helps them perceive contrasts between light and shadow. On the flip side, human retinas have more cone photoreceptors, which are the light receptor cells that work best in bright light and are responsible for color perception.

If you’ve ever taken a photo of your cat with the flash on or spotted a cat in your headlights, you would have noticed that their eyes look like they’re glowing. This eerie glow is due to a layer of highly reflective cells located behind the retina called the tapetum lucidum. The tapetum lucidum works like a mirror to reflect light back to the retina, which gives rods and cones of the retina another chance to pick up the limited amount of light available at dawn, dusk and night. The glow you see in a cat’s eyes in the dark is a result of this reflective layer and how it interacts with incoming light (and not because they have superhero night vision).

Cats also have larger corneas and pupils than humans in relation to the size of their eyes, so more light can enter their eyes. That definitely works in your cat’s favor in dimly lit environments. A cat’s vertically slit pupils also respond better to how light enters the eyes than humans’ round pupils — they can expand wider at night and change the amount of light falling on the retina. More light entering the eyes helps them see better at night.

How Do Cats See Humans? How Do Cats See the World?

Cats have excellent depth perception, which is especially important for hunting, jumping and exploring their environment. Their binocular vision, where both eyes focus on the same object, enables them to judge distances accurately. They also have excellent peripheral vision. Cats possess approximately a 200-degree visual field, which is wider than a human’s 180-degree vision. This wider peripheral vision can help cats spot potential prey or threats more easily.

Cats have poorer visual acuity than the average human, which means their ability to see fine details is not as good. The typical explanation of this is that what humans can see at 100 to 200 feet, a cat needs to be 20 feet from them to see with the same clarity. But remember that cats don’t rely on their eyesight as much as we do. Smell and hearing come first, so a cat’s visual acuity isn’t as important.

What Do Cats See in the Dark?

Cats have fewer cones than humans, which means their color vision is different to humans — red, orange and brown look gray or muted to them. Even though cats mostly see in shades of blue, green and gray, this helps their vision in low-light conditions.

Cat Vision Excels in Low-Light Situations

Cats have very good night vision due to their eyes’ ability to let in more light than a human’s eyes can. People might be better at perceiving fine details and seeing more colors, but cats have us beat when it comes to seeing in low-light settings. However, both you and your cat would need night vision goggles if you were in total darkness!

Cat Faces: Decoding Cat Facial Expressions & Emotions

Posted on November 14, 2024 - 5:50 pm by
A hand reaching down to scratch the chin of a small cat.

Many people assume that cats’ faces aren’t the most expressive when it comes to communication, particularly compared to dogs. You can certainly tell when a kitty is mad or needy or content, but generally you might think they are fairly stoic in their facial expressions. Well, research shows us that this is not the case — cats can actually produce 276 different facial signals!

There Are Over 200 Facial Expressions in Domestic Cats!

In a study that looked at facial signals in cats, researchers observed the behavior of 53 cats at the CatCaféLounge in Los Angeles. During the study, a special tool designed for cats called facial action coding systems (FACS) was used to analyze the facial expression of each cat during interactions with other cats.

They found that cats can produce 276 different facial signals when they interact socially with their cat counterparts. They also identified eight facial muscle movements that were produced differently in friendly or not-so-friendly interactions with other cats. They concluded that a cat’s facial signals correspond to different social functions, a tactic which is likely influenced by domestication. Those cat faces are not so stoic after all!

Cat Expressions Use More Than Faces

While cats may have over 200 different facial signals, these expressions are subtle, and you’re more likely to determine how cats feel by watching their whole body language — their ear position, body position and tail movements. For example, a happy cat will have their tail up with a little curve at the end and their ears will be relaxed, up and forward. Their whiskers are relaxed and you may even notice a slow blink if you watch their eyes closely. A grumpy cat will flatten their ears, show their teeth, puff up their hair on a stiff body and whip their tail back and forth. It’s definitely time to give them some space if you notice these signs. If cats feel anxious or stressed, they will have dilated pupils with their ears flattened and head lowered. Their body will cower and their tail will be low.

Behavior Can Help Decipher How Your Cat Is Feeling

Behavioral changes can be a good clue into how your cat feels. For example, if they’re feeling stressed or anxious, they may have accidents, refuse to eat and become more reclusive. Behavioral changes can also indicate that your cat is in pain.

Cats are skilled at hiding their pain; it’s a natural instinct that was essential for the survival of their wild ancestors who wanted to avoid appearing vulnerable to predators. Signs of pain in domestic cats are often vague — you might find your cat hiding from you or not wanting to interact with you as much as usual. They may groom less because stretching is uncomfortable, or they may groom more leading to bare patches of skin. They may lose their appetite, seem more finicky or have accidents because it’s too painful to use the litter box.

Do Cats Have Feelings or Emotions?

According to an article in Psychology Today, it is believed that cats show six basic emotions — anger, happiness, fear, surprise, disgust and sadness — the same emotions that dogs are believed to express. What is less certain is whether cats (or dogs) can show more complex emotions like jealousy, guilt, shame, disappointment, compassion and pride.

However, the article details a survey of over 1,000 dog and/or cat owners mostly from Belgium and the Netherlands who were asked to record cat emotions (or dog emotions). Most people reported observing the six basic emotions in cats and dogs. The more complex emotions were observed less often than the basic emotions, and more frequently in dogs than cats. Anger and disgust were more frequently attributed to cats than dogs, and joy and surprise were more commonly associated with young cats than older cats.

Can Cats Understand Human Emotions?

Research has shown that social cats like to be around people and that cats prefer to interact with humans rather than food or toys. You can tell how socially “smart” your cat is and if they can read your basic emotions by doing this simple test.

Sit in a room with your cat and bring in an object that might be unsettling to them, like a robot vacuum cleaner or fan that makes noise. After a while, move to the object and “pet” it, saying what a nice fan or vacuum cleaner it is in a calm, happy voice. If your cat is initially scared of the object but eventually calms and even approaches it, your cat can probably tune into your emotional cues and adjust its behavior accordingly.

Facial expression is just one way cats communicate how they are feeling to pet owners, each other and other animals. Cats use their whole body to communicate, so watching for those more obvious signs can help tell you what’s going on in that brain at any given time much more easily than your cat’s face.

What Human Foods Can Cats Eat?

Posted on March 14, 2024 - 1:50 pm by
A cat sitting on the floor next to an empty food bowl looking up.

Dogs are renowned beggars of human food — it’s part of the reason we have a whole series dedicated to “Can My Dog Eat That?” But dogs aren’t the only ones who will beg for a tidbit of human food. Cats can be equally good at sad eyes and pitiful cries saying, “Pwease, can I have a wittle bit of your food?”

There are many reasons why you should tell your cat “No!” to people food, but if you can’t resist those woeful whines, it’s good to know which human foods cats can safely eat.

Are Human Foods Safe for Cats?

Not all human foods are safe for your cat to nibble on. Even a small morsel of people food can cause an upset stomach — or worse if the food is toxic to cats (more on that later). However, the good news is that there are plenty of human foods that can be a healthy snack to feed your kitty (in moderation). As always, check with your veterinarian before feeding new cat foods or human foods.

What Can Cats Eat from the Fridge?

There are many healthy foods in your fridge that cats can eat: for example, eggs (plain and cooked) and most fruits and vegetables. If you cut up cantaloupe or watermelon, most cats will love to snack on those (in tiny cat-sized pieces). While people love the sweet flavor of these melons, that’s not why cats are happy to munch on them. Cats don’t have receptors on their tongue for sweet tastes, so they can’t taste sweet flavors like we can. It’s a different flavor they’re enjoying.

While we’re talking about fridge food, a word of warning about milk and other dairy products. Many cats tend to be lactose intolerant. This means that they don’t produce lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose. If your cat is lactose intolerant, the lactose can ferment in their gut, leading to digestive upset like bloating, gas, vomiting or severe diarrhea. So if you don’t want a mess, it’s best to avoid feeding your cat dairy products.

Can Cats Eat Vegetables and Fruit?

Cats can safely eat most fruits and vegetables as a healthy snack. As long as you cut them into tiny, bite-sized pieces, cats can eat raw vegetables like carrots, green beans and broccoli. However, cooking vegetables is better since the hard chunks of vegetables can still be a choking hazard. A spoonful of canned pumpkin (without spices) is also a healthy treat for cats. There are some vegetables and fruits that are toxic to cats (see below) so make sure you check whether the particular food you are feeding is safe.

Watch Out for Toxic Foods

Not all foods are safe for cats. Human foods with strong seasonings can be irritating to cats and potentially dangerous. Other foods which are on the no-no list include garlic, onion, chives, leeks and chocolate (especially dark chocolate) — these are all toxic to cats.

Can Cats Eat Raw Meat?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients that are only found in meat. While your cat does need animal proteins in their diet to get essential amino acids, feeding raw meats or raw fish can put your cat and your family at risk of illness. Raw meats (and raw eggs) could be contaminated with viruses, bacteria or parasites that can make your cat sick (especially if they are immunocompromised) or spread to people who touch contaminated surfaces (e.g., food bowls) or clean up the kitty litter. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend feeding raw pet food or treats to cats (or dogs).

If you want to feed your cat cooked meat, lean meats like chicken or turkey, and cooked fish like salmon or tuna are good choices. But make sure the meat and fish have the bones removed because cooked bones can splinter and if swallowed, could damage your cat’s gastrointestinal tract.

Also, watch your cat for allergies when feeding them meat or fish (any animal protein). A food allergy in cats is usually caused by a protein in their diet. Symptoms include scratching at their face, neck and ears, overgrooming, bald patches or gastrointestinal signs. A limited ingredient diet can help cats with a food allergy.

What Human Food Can Cats Eat Every Day?

Commercial cat foods provide a complete and balanced diet that has all of the nutrients needed for cats to stay healthy cats and in an optimal weight range. As much as they protest, cats don’t need that morsel of meat from your plate. If you must give your cat a human food treat (or any treat), make sure it’s a healthy, low-calorie treat that is no more than 10 percent of your cat’s daily calorie intake.

Healthy human foods cats can eat include certain cooked vegetables (e.g., steamed broccoli, carrots, peas, pureed pumpkin), certain fruits (e.g., banana, seedless watermelon, blueberries, strawberries), cooked eggs (don’t feed your cat raw eggs) and whole grains. Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, but make sure you check with your vet before adding fish oil or fish oil supplements to your cat’s diet.

Make Your Cat Work for Their Treat

A good idea is to put human foods cats can eat in a food puzzle. That way you’re not just handing over the tasty treat — your cat is getting some additional benefits since putting the food in a puzzle helps your cat’s environmental enrichment.

The Problem with Human Foods

Too many cat treats of any kind can create a pudgy kitty and can complicate managing cat obesity. When you give your cat human food, you’re adding calories to their diet, sometimes in larger quantities than you probably realize. For example, a one-ounce cube of cheddar cheese seems like a small treat, but it is about 110 calories. Just that one cube of cheese can meet half the calories (energy needs) of a 10-pound indoor cat (about 200 calories/day) — but they’re not getting half (of most) of the nutrients they need from that ounce of cheese.

Table scraps can also cause tummy troubles. If your cat isn’t used to calorie-rich food, it can upset their digestive system. Additionally, anytime cats eat something that isn’t part of their usual diet, the normal bacteria in their intestine can change, which may lead to gas or diarrhea. Your cat will probably blame it on the dog, though.

Regularly feeding human foods to your cat can create a finicky feline who holds out for a delicious treat from your plate instead of eating their cat food. It can also make begging a regular occurrence or cause counter surfing or table top hopping. You don’t need a cat jumping up onto the table and into your soup!

Low-Calorie and Nontoxic Human Foods Can Be Healthy Treats

If you want to give your cat an occasional treat, a spoon of canned cat food, a cat treat or a dental treat are the best options. However, safe, low-calorie human foods like a small piece of cooked lean meat or some steamed and finely chopped green beans are also good treat options if you really must share your food with your feline friend.

Answering Your Cat’s Life Questions

Posted on January 11, 2024 - 10:20 pm by
A cat with its head tilted looking curious.

National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day is coming up soon. Are you prepared for your cat asking questions that you may not have the answers for? Did you even know that cat questions were a thing? Well, now you do. Luckily, we’re prepared to help you celebrate National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day by peering into the mind of your cat and determining what they’d ask you, if they could. Read on!

Cat Question 1: I’m All Grown Up. Why Do Adult Cats Have to Go to the Veterinary Clinic?

Because regular veterinary visits are important.

Most cats aren’t excited to visit the veterinary clinic, and judging by the statistics, many cat owners don’t love it, either. In the Pet Demographics Sourcebook released in 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association revealed that less than half of all cats visited their veterinarian annually. There are quite a few reasons for this, but they mostly just reinforce the need for your cat to regularly visit the kitty doc. Cats are notoriously hard to read when it comes to health and pain, so often conditions that they are “hiding” can be exacerbated by the time they are discovered.

What can you expect during your cat’s checkup? You will likely be asked some vet questions for cats while you’re at the veterinary clinic, including about common cat behaviors that your cat may be exhibiting. Regular checkups are opportunities to make sure your cat is healthy and happy. Going to the veterinarian also allows you to ask any questions about cats that you may have. Like why do cats sleep so much or do adult cats need vaccinations or why is my cat going outside the litter box? And why do most cats hate water? There are so many questions owners can have about cats, too!

Because, my feline friend, you’re looking a little pudgy.

Another reason why cats should visit the veterinary clinic regularly is that there is a better than average chance that they are overweight. According to PetMD, 63 percent of the cats in developed countries are obese. So while your cat might seem pleasantly plump, they also might be at a higher risk of diabetes, arthritis and heart disease than their slimmer counterparts. Your veterinarian can tell you if your cat needs to shed some pounds and suggest the best ways to go about it if so.

Cat Question 2: Why Can’t I Eat Your Plants?

Because they could make you sick.

We know that they typically eat meat, but domestic cats loooove houseplants, don’t they? It’s understandable; plants are a natural source of fiber that many animals recognize instinctually. Another reason cats might bite a Bromeliaceae is that plants jiggle, and cats do love moving things — when they’re not spending the day sleeping.

While there are some houseplants that are considered nontoxic to cats, many have some level of toxicity if ingested. For those that can be deadly, like lilies and sago palms, we don’t recommend keeping them in the house at all. It is crucial to check for toxicity concerns before introducing a new plant into your home. These include lilies, daffodils, hyacinths, tomatoes, azaleas and holiday plants like mistletoe and poinsettias.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, so check toxicity before ever leaving a plant unsupervised. Cats often can’t help themselves, and the dangers range from increased trips to the litter box to a trip to the ER. There are some plants, like catnip and spinach, that are perfectly fine for cats to eat. But why take the risk?

Cat Question 3: Other Cats Sleep Outdoors — Why Can’t I Roam the Neighborhood Like Them?

Because a cat’s average lifespan is usually shorter when they live outdoors.

It might seem like your domestic cat is looking longingly out the window. Maybe they want to be out there, chasing the squirrels, using the fence as a scratching post and staying up all night caterwauling with multiple cats in the neighborhood (even though they aren’t nocturnal animals). The adventures of free-range cats must seem so romantic to collared and manicured indoor cats called Fluff Ball III and their indoor cat friends. But there’s a reason why the term “domesticated cat” exists.

While we encourage supervised trips to the great outdoors or access to a nice, safe backyard or catio for your cat, free roaming isn’t a good idea for a few reasons, most of which are health-related. Disease, parasites and pregnancy are rampant in the stray and feral cat communities, despite many people’s best efforts. If you don’t want your kitty bringing home things like FIV, distemper, fleas, ticks or even other cats, it’s best to keep them inside your house. If you have an unspayed female, keeping her home will also avoid the arrival of an unplanned litter of kittens.

Additionally, it’s rough out there! If you’ve ever seen an actual cat fight, you understand why so many stray and feral cats have nicked-up ears or worse. An outdoor cat’s body is a picture of rough times! An unsupervised dog, busy streets and even cruel people are regular dangers for your average adult cat on the street. We’re not saying that your domesticated cats couldn’t handle themselves, but we’d rather not find out!

No, despite your cat’s seeming desire to be wild and free, we recommend that you focus your energy on making sure their indoor world is full of comfort and enrichment both physically and mentally. That way, you’re always there when your cats “knead” you, and your feline friends are always there when you need them!

More Cat Questions and Answers

There are plenty of other questions from your cat that might need answering at some point. Who’s to truly know the mind of a curious cat? If you feel you need assistance on the upcoming National Answer Your Cat’s Question Day, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. They might have some cat-related questions for you themselves, because their goal is to make sure your cat is happy and healthy.

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

Why We’re Thankful for Our Pets

Posted on November 20, 2023 - 2:26 pm by
A dog lying with its head in its owner’s lap on the floor next to a Christmas tree.

What are you most grateful for this Thanksgiving season? If your pet(s) made the list, you’re not alone! Let’s dive into all the reasons we’re thankful for pets this season and beyond.

We’re Thankful That Pets Bring the Funny

Laughter relaxes our body, boosts our immune system and lowers our blood pressure, epinephrine and glucose levels. We never know what our pets will do next or when they’ll provide us with a good laugh. Just off the top of our thankful, chuckling heads, we’re thinking about:

  • Unexpected zoomies
  • Those times they think they’re ninjas, trying to sneak people food in plain sight
  • Talking to their favorite toy and carrying it around like a baby
  • The endless chasing of their elusive tails

It’s an endless parade of laughs and giggles trying to figure out what goes on in those cat and dog brains. And we love every minute of the comedy fest.

But they offer health benefits beyond the healing power of comedy. Research shows that simply being around our pets decreases levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone), which leads to reduced feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression and/or symptoms of PTSD. Petting an animal for at least 10 minutes at a time can provide us with comfort and pause. That brings us back to the present moment. Simply thinking about our favorite fluff can immediately boost our mood. Did you just think about your pet as you read that? Did you feel that glimmer of joy? We bet you did.

We’re Thankful for the Unconditional Love Pets Provide

Pets provide us with unconditional love, no matter how we look, who we voted for or how many Instagram followers we have. Returning home from a long day at work, our pets are the first to greet us with wet, slobbery kisses or headbutts. When we’ve had a bad day, our pets sense it and snuggle up to help provide us with comfort. They love us for who we are and the care we show them. Pets also show us how deeply we can love another being, too! They’re part of our family, after all.

We’re Thankful For All the Jobs Our Pets Do

Our pets wear many little hats throughout the day, being there for us in ways that they might not even be aware of. With a pet, you don’t have to wonder if the mail has been delivered or if your houseguests have arrived. They’ll be the first to alert you to someone or something in the area. Guard pet on duty!

You’ll also never be without a furry bathroom attendant. They may not have opposable thumbs to fetch you another roll of toilet paper, but by golly they’ll make sure you’re not without company.

If you’re cold in bed, there’s always a fluffy foot (or arm, chest, back and neck) warmer ready to snuggle in and raise the temperatures. Sometimes whether you want it or not!

Lastly, they are great at listening to our problems and comforting us in our times of need; they maybe don’t understand, but they also don’t interrupt when we spill our hearts. They don’t know it, but many pets wear the furry hat of an in-home therapist. We are grateful for each and every hat they wear.

We’re Thankful Our Pets Get Us into Shape

To quote Sir Isaac Newton, a body in motion stays in motion. The more active we are with our pets, the better it is for their health and our health. Between walking the dog or dragging a ribbon around the house for the cat to chase, we’re getting those steps in! Need ideas for staying active with the upcoming cooler weather? We’ve got a blog for that.

Adventures Await Us When Pets Are Around

Our pets are always up for an adventure, and we can learn from their examples! Cooking in the kitchen, a furry tail is close behind you. Ready to rake a pile of leaves? You know Rover’s nose is pressed up against the back door eager to help. There’s not much your animal won’t accompany you with around the house. Pets who love adventuring outside of the neighborhood also make great companions for running errands or sightseeing. Oh, the adventures that await us!

We’re Thankful to Pets for Helping Develop Our Younger Generations

Pets help teach our younger family members how to be responsible. Whether they’re helping refill the water bowl or they’re being diligent about playtime with Rover, our young ’uns learn to understand consistency and obligations through the power of pets. Caring for an animal gives a child a sense of feeling valued and grows their self-esteem. Pets can also teach children the importance of patience, trust, compassion and respect. These are just some of the many benefits of raising kids with pets.

Did we miss any reasons YOU might be grateful for your pet(s)? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), and let us know why YOU’RE grateful for your animal companion. Your pet photos and stories are something we’re also grateful for.

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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.

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Prepare Your Cat for Moving

Posted on October 12, 2023 - 2:00 pm by
A gray cat standing in an empty moving box.

Moving is a stressful time for everyone, but imagine how stressful it is for your cat who has no idea what is going on. What are all these boxes? Why am I in a new house? Where do I poop?!?! Don’t let Mittens get all their fur in a fluff. We’ll walk you through how to make moving easier on your cat.

Before the Move

In the days or weeks leading up to moving with a cat, there are a few things you should do to prepare kitty for the journey and ease their stress and anxiety.

Carriage of Comfort

No matter how far you’re moving, your favorite feline will need to be safely transported, which usually means that they’ll ride in their carrier. So it’s best to start getting Mittens comfortable with being in the cat carrier prior to the move. Place the open carrier in a central area in the weeks leading up to the move. Add treats and toys to the carrier to encourage your cat to get into it and get reacquainted with the enclosure. If your cat dislikes their carriage, they might need more lead time to get comfortable with their new temporary enclosure. If you suspect that your cat will be nervous about their carrier, you’ll want to start this process earlier. If they’ve ridden in it before with little or no issue, you can likely wait until closer to moving day.

Have Fun with Boxes and Piles of Items

You’ve probably noticed your cat’s love of cardboard boxes. Now that you’re moving, you’re going to have a fortress of boxes for your furry prince or princess. Use all that extra cardboard to take their mind off the big move.

As you’re putting together boxes, let them explore at their leisure. Consider giving them a box or two to play in while you’re packing. Adding treats, toys or catnip to a box can also help them get over any uncertain feelings they may be exhibiting. It may just be unfamiliar smells that deter them at first.

Keep Your Routine When Moving with a Cat

We know getting ready for the big move can be a busy time. However, amid the chaos, it’s important to maintain your cat’s routine. Moving can be stressful on pets due to rapid changes in their environment and schedule. Keeping a routine with meals, play time and kitty cuddles can help Mittens ease into the upcoming changes. Following your normal routine can also provide you with a constant among all the adjustments, too. It’s a comfort for both pet parent and feline alike.

Find a Safe Spot for Moving Day

In the days leading up to the move, scout out a room that Mittens can stay in while you’re loading everything onto the moving truck. Take as much out of that room as possible ahead of time, so it can be the last room to be cleared out. The week of the big move, place your cat’s food, water, toys, litter box and carrier in that room to help get them situated. On the day of, make sure Mittens is OK on all their necessities and close the door to keep them from bolting out of the house while the furniture and boxes get moved. If you or someone in your moving party can sit in that room while everything is being hauled out, that’s great! However, if it’s not possible we recommend checking on your lil’ buddy once an hour to assure them everything is OK with all the racket they may be hearing. Plus, this gives you a great excuse to catch your breath and take a ten-minute break in between hauls.

During the Move

You’ve made it to moving day! As you’re getting your cat ready in their safe space, we recommend feeding them a smaller meal than normal. Stress can induce all kinds of bodily reactions in your cat — including stomach concerns. A lighter breakfast can reduce the chances of your cat experiencing an upset stomach or getting sick during the travels.

Don’t Play “Where’s My Cat?”

Next, let your moving crew know which room Mittens is in so they avoid opening the door and letting them out. You’ll want to load your cat in their carrier right before you’re ready to hit the road. Keep a cool, calm and collected composure as you load them in their carrier and gather all their belongings. If they pick up you’ve got moving stress, they’ll begin to feel uneasy, too.

Moving Time for Kitty

When placing Mittens in your vehicle, secure the carrier with a seat belt or other means to make sure they don’t slip and slide around. Place their favorite toy(s) in the carrier for comfort. Some cats prefer to look out and others do not, so don’t be alarmed if they stay toward the back of the carrier or face the wrong way. Keep a light blanket or cloth handy for the drive because you may want to drape it over the carrier to ease their fears. You may also want to pack some earplugs for your travels since Mittens could meow loudly throughout the drive. Talk to them in a calm tone throughout the trip to reassure them all will be alright.

For long-distance moves, identify pet-friendly hotels ahead of time and incorporate water and bathroom breaks for Mittens along the route. Make sure your pet has a leash or collar on when stopping for potty breaks.

Once you arrive at the new location, be sure to first unload your cat, their box, food, water and other items of comfort. Place them all in a room that you don’t mind unloading last, and let your moving crew know not to open the door so Mittens doesn’t bolt out. You’ll want to check on Mittens a bit more frequently throughout the unloading process since they’re in completely new territory. If someone Mittens is familiar with could sit in the room while everyone else is unloading, that would be ideal.

After the Move

Whew! You did it! You and your feline are all moved into your new place. Once everything is situated the way you want it, place your cat’s food, water and litter box in their permanent designations. Show your cat which rooms everything has been moved to, and allow them to explore at their own pace.

Let Them Explore Their New Home

It’s going to take some time for your cat to get familiar with their new space. Try to keep your routine so they have at least some familiar aspects of life before the move. They may cry, hide or seem a little skittish as they adjust. These are normal cat reactions. You can be there for them in these times of need with extra petting, calm reassuring words and patience.

If you notice your pet is still not adjusting well after a couple of weeks, make an appointment with a local veterinarian. They can provide possible solutions to make the transition easier. Sometimes stress can lead to lack of appetite, gastrointestinal system issues, urinary tract concerns or behaving in a way that owners have not seen before.

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

Surprise Things You Can Do to Make Your Cat Happy

Posted on September 14, 2023 - 1:35 pm by
A black, white and brown cat sitting in a white room surrounded by confetti and balloons.

Happy Cat Month, pet owners! Yes, you read that right. September marks the annual Happy Cat Month created by CATalyst Council. This celebratory month was established to spread education about the health, happiness and importance of companion cats. So, keeping this in mind, what ways can you surprise your cat and bring them some extra joy this September?

Quality Time Makes Happy Cats

Cats may seem like independent, quiet creatures, but they appreciate socializing with their humans just as much as dogs do. They’re usually a little less vocal than a doggo about needing attention, but they need it all the same. So, our first surprise for Mittens is to add extra spurts of playtime and cuddles throughout your daily routine. Life can get busy, but cat time can be the purrfect excuse to take a much-needed break. Quality time often improves Mittens’ mental health, which lessens anxiety and destructive behavior. An extra ten to twenty minutes here and there adds up. And according to Pet MD, at least one hour of play a day can increase your cat’s life span. Studies have also shown that cuddling your cat can lower your blood pressure and help fight off loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. Just make sure Mittens is in the mood for kitty cuddles before going all ham on them.

Throw a Party for Your Cat

Happy cats sometimes call for a cat-themed parties for your toe-beaned friend. If your pet is a more social individual, consider inviting some family and friends over for snacks and showering the cat of the hour with all kinds of attention. Whip up a cat-friendly treat or visit a local pet store for the perfect cupcake-like cat treat to go along with the human foods. Top off the party with photo booth props and an area where attendees can snap some pics with Mittens.

If your pet is not a social butterfly, that’s OK! Pick a day where you and/or your household hosts a tiny party for Mittens. You can still surprise them with some yummy homemade treats and photo opportunities around the house. We’re pawsitive that as long as your pet is partying it up with you, they’ll be a happy camper.

Outdoors Is a Natural Cat Happy Place

Cats who spend time outside are stimulated by all the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Try leash training your cat to take them on short strolls through the backyard. They’ll have new areas to sniff, grass to eat and wildlife to watch. Reach for the flea and tick medicine before taking Mittens outside, though, so you don’t bring any parasites back into your house. One way to make your feline unhappy is dealing with literal blood suckers.

Another way to get your cat outdoors and enjoying the fresh air is with the help of a pet tent or a catio. Pet tents can be found at local pet stores or online. This portable option can be set up anywhere outside (or inside). It can be stocked with a water bowl, toys and other comfort items, too, to help Mittens enjoy their time lying in a collapsible shelter outdoors. We recommend setting up the tent indoors first, to help your cat get acquainted with the new item prior to its outdoor use.

An upgrade from a pet tent is a catio. This option is less portable but could offer your pet more space to climb and crawl around in. Catios can be ordered online or created from various materials picked up at the local hardware store and thrift shops. It provides your cat with a stable, stationary enclosure anywhere in the yard. They’re often weatherproofed and can be fitted with multiple shelves, cat hammocks and cat huts. We’re sure Mittens is happy just envisioning this possibility!

Planting Catnip and Cat Grass

Continuing with the nature theme, bring a little outdoors inside for Mittens. Consider planting pots of catnip and cat grass near your cat’s favorite window. Both plants are feline favorites!

Cat grass may look like grass from your backyard, but rest assured it’s not! It’s typically grown from rye, barley, oat, wheat or alfalfa seeds. Cat grass provides your favorite feline with antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins and additional nutrients that promote overall gut and immune health. It also aids in removing hairballs and enhances mental stimulation. Cat grass can be found online or at a local pet store.

Catnip plants are a member of the mint family. You can add catnip to a homemade recipe or give it to them raw as a treat. This plant can help reduce anxiety and enhance positive associations to objects, events or locations. Because of its holistic calming effect, some veterinarians recommend catnip when anxious pets must travel. When cats come into contact with the catnip plant, they’ll likely roll around, show increased affection or may play-bite. Do not be alarmed — they’re just showing you how happy they are with their new catnip.

Dental Toys Make a Healthy and Happy Cat

Who doesn’t love a new toy? And when a new cat toy can double as a way to better your cat’s health, it’s a win-win! Add cat dental toys to the lineup of surprises to upgrade your cat’s hygiene habits. From catnip sticks to wiggle worm (plastic) chew toys, there’s a wide array of options at your local pet store or online.

Now, it’s important to note that cat dental toys do not replace a vet visit and teeth cleaning, but they do freshen your pet’s teeth as they play and chew. Cat dental toys can also keep your pet mentally stimulated as they gnaw on something throughout the day. We think Mittens will be delighted to maintain their mouth health and get a new toy to play with.

Ensure Optimal Health for a Happy Cat

Now a surprise Mittens might not be expecting is an annual vet checkup. But it’s worth adding to your September to-do list. By taking your favorite feline in for an annual checkup, you can catch any potential issues early (cats are notorious for hiding pain or discomfort), and this will save money in the long run. Surprise, Mittens! You get to live a healthier, fuller life.

No matter which surprises you choose to bestow upon your furry friend, we’re sure they are going to love the thought and time you put into celebrating this annual holiday. We hope this September enhances the care your cat needs, strengthens the human-feline bond you’ve already established and leads to a lifetime of furry happiness for you both.

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