Why is my cat rolling on the floor?

This is a very common attitude in cats and can have different meanings. It is therefore important that the owner knows how to decipher the meaning. This behavior can indeed mean various instinctive needs. This is what we will see here.

Period of heat

During her periods of heat, the cat tends to roll on the ground. But it is an attitude that males also adopt when a cat in heat is in her environment. This is simply the way these animals deposit pheromones on the ground. These are signals that they send to each other because the pheromones, thus propagated, allow each of them to know that the time to mate has indeed come. It is in the owner's best interest to keep his cat at home if he does not wish to raise a litter of kittens.

Need for attention or want to play

The cat will roll around on the floor under his owner's tender gaze in order for his charm to work. This is a form of body language. In this way, the animal is trying to let its owner know that it is bored or wants to be taken care of, or even that it is time to have some fun. Cats love to play with their foster family members, both young and old. So don't deny him this interactivity, which promotes exchanges and keeps the little feline's brain active.

In any case, the cat knows very well how to insist when he wants something. He would be very surprised if he was no longer the center of the world in the eyes of his master... In the absence of reaction from the latter, the animal is capable of placing himself in a strategic place in order to make sure that he can really be seen, and to resume his rolls on the ground until his master finally allows himself to be touched.

Relieving an itch

Just as a horse rubs its neck against a tree trunk to scratch itself, sometimes a cat will roll on the ground to relieve itching, especially on its back and especially between its shoulder blades, which it has a hard time reaching when it grooms itself despite its innate flexibility. When this behavior occurs frequently, it is necessary to check if the little feline is not infested with parasites (fleas). In case of doubt, you can administer a flea lotion and take the opportunity to brush his coat carefully. If the kitty has nothing against a good bath, you should not deprive him of it...

Eliminate his dead hair

Even if it does not do it knowingly, by rolling on its back, the cat eliminates a large quantity of dead hairs. This is a reassuring behavior because all this hair left on the ground will not be ingested when the cat licks itself.

Marking its presence

By rolling around on the floor, the cat may simply be indicating its presence to other cats by scenting the floor. This is part of a cat's ritual to mark its territory.

The cat is in a trance

A cat can be seen to be in a sort of trance when it sniffs catnip (Nepeta cararia), the euphoric herb more commonly known as catmint or catnip. It has a real attraction for kittens. They roll around on the ground in a state of extreme bliss.

Looking for freshness

It is common to see your cat rolling around on the kitchen floor, for example, because it is too hot. This is a way for him to cool down. During the summer, it is not uncommon for him to roll on the sand or pebbles of the driveway, or even on the terrace when these places are particularly shaded.

This is usually a normal behavior for cats. Of course, if it goes on for hours and days, it's best to talk to the vet. It is then important to note the duration and the seniority of this type of behavior as well as any other indication being able to put the practitioner on the way (undergone slimming, diarrhoeas, etc). At the slightest doubt, he will submit the cat to additional examinations (blood test, urine analysis, X-ray). But in a cat, rolling on the ground is not among the symptoms of a particular pathology.

What is parachute cat syndrome?

The parachute cat syndrome is the righting reflex. This innate ability of the cat is a real feat that amazes us. But how is this parachute cat syndrome made possible and does it work 100% if the animal falls?

Parachute cat syndrome: a story of the inner ear

It is known that a cat has the ability to land on its feet when it falls from a tree or a balcony... all things being equal, of course. This faculty is due to the vestibular organ of the animal thanks to which it can firstly determine its high and low position, that is to say its position in space, and secondly position itself facing the ground. As for the distance that separates it from the ground, the cat evaluates it thanks to its vibrissae.

This sensory organ, called the vestibular organ, is located in the inner ear and helps maintain balance. It is also through this organ that mammals perceive the sensation of movement.

Parachute cat syndrome: how does it work?

During a fall, first the head rotates, then the cat's body twists so that the front and the back take opposite orientations to achieve recovery. Next, the animal orients its legs horizontally. It first flexes its forelegs while it stretches its hind legs backward, then stretches its forelegs while it folds its hind legs.

These changes in limb position can be repeated as many times as necessary during a fall so that the front and back of the body continue to rotate in different proportions until the rotation cycle is complete (180°). The cat's paws work like a spring to absorb the impact on the ground. But the tail works like a pendulum and allows the cat to keep its balance, for example when it moves on a beam.

To fully understand the technique of the cat parachute syndrome, it would be enough to visualize each phase in slow motion. Let's not forget that a fall lasts only a few seconds and that it is difficult for the human eye to decompose the movements of the body and limbs of the little feline. Well, in the same way, in a fall of a too short duration (thus of very low height), the body of the cat does not have time to put itself in position at the time of the landing.

The cat does not always land on its feet

In full fall, the cat can reach a speed of 100 km/h. The contact with the ground could cause irreparable damage if the little feline did not have this righting reflex and other characteristics such as the ability to stretch its body to the maximum during the fall in order to slow down the speed.

However, this whole process can only take place correctly if the fall height is at least 150 cm. This means that below this height, the animal can be injured by falling, and even more so if it falls forwards or backwards: the time is too short for recovery to take place.

Finally, scientific studies conducted by American researchers have shown that at a height equivalent to five floors, the falling cat is in the best conditions for the whole process related to the righting reflex to take place in its entirety. Beyond such a height, the number of fatal falls in cats is clearly increasing, and those who escape are mainly injured in the rib cage. But beware, a cat can be killed by falling from a balcony regardless of the floor on which it is located. It should be noted, however, that lateral tipping is less likely to cause injury because it is easier to correct due to the cat parachute syndrome.

What is an isabelle cat? What are its particularities ?

The isabelle cat fascinates by its trio of colors which makes it truly unique. Captivated by its splendid dress, some people have tried to breed it. A vain attempt because this magnificent feline is all the more rare as it is the result of a genetic accident!

Is there a breed of isabelle cat ?

No. The isabella cat does not designate a race but a type of coat composed of three colors. Although this coat is more and more common, it is impossible to breed the isabelle cat because its combination of colors is a genetic anomaly. Therefore, an alley cat like a pedigree cat can be tricolored. It is also possible to find an isabelle cat in the middle of a litter wearing a classic coat. The combination of colors being the result of chance, it is not enough to observe the appearance of the mother to guess the patterns of the kittens. However, it is noticeable that this characteristic is more present in cats with short or medium hair.

Where does the name isabelle come from?

This beautiful feline borrowed its name from Queen Isabella of Castile. The story goes that the Spanish sovereign vowed not to change her shirt until the city of Granada fell into the hands of her soldiers. So as she moved through the military encampments, Isabel the Catholic kept her royal outfit, which got dirty as she took on the different colors of her adventurous journey, including red, black and white. The tricolored cats were then nicknamed Isabelle.

Isabelle cat and calico cat

To be considered an Isabelle cat, the coat must have three colors. When red, black and bank are combined in the form of spots, Isabelle becomes calico. Calico cats are often confused with "tortoiseshells" which have red and black fur. There are also cats known as "diluted calico" which have white, blue (dilution of black) and cream (dilution of red). The patterns and spots are specific to each animal, it is impossible to find two identical calico cats.

The genetics of isabella cats

Cats' genes are responsible for the types of coat patterns, whether they are tabby, solid or spotted. They are also responsible for the colors and their combination on the coat. The fascinating genetics of tricolored cats has been the subject of extensive scientific study since the 1940s. This research has determined that the genetic code for the orange or black coat is found only in the X chromosome. As a reminder, the distribution in cats is as follows: XX female and XY male.

Isabella cats are female cats

Approximately 99.9% of cats with a tricolor coat are females. As mentioned before, the black and orange colors are found in the X chromosome. The male has only one X, so he can be either black or orange. Females have two X's, so they can have genes for both black and orange. However, white is not sex-linked and is expressed independently of sex. For this reason, a female cat can have three colors because she has two X chromosomes and white that can also be expressed.

Very few "Isabelle" males

The tricolor phenomenon in males is extremely rare because it falls to a chromosomal anomaly: instead of having two sex chromosomes (XY), he has three (XXY). Since two X chromosomes are present, black and orange can be expressed, as in females. It becomes a tricolored cat. This singularity is called "Klinefelter syndrome". These cases of genetic trisomy are explained by errors that occur at the time of fertilization of the egg by the spermatozoon. In general, XXY male cats are sterile and have health problems that affect their life expectancy.

The isabelle cat: what character?

Does the color of the coat influence the behavior of an animal? Studies show that the tricolor cat is irritable and that females have a highly developed maternal instinct. However, its unique coat does not make it a special feline. It looks like its fellow cats and forges its character according to its environment and its education. In some Asian countries, crossing paths with an Isabella cat is considered a good omen. In Japan, where it is named Maneki Neko, the rarity and the beauty of its dress make it a lucky animal that brings luck and fortune to its owner!

Top 5 cat breeds with green eyes

There is something fascinating about cats' eyes. Their ability to glow in the dark is probably a big part of it. Their pupils are also able to change shape according to their mood. This is a reflex linked to their hunting activities: the pupils dilate to capture a maximum of light and develop a better vision. As for the color of their eyes, they come in many shades. If you are a fan of green, here are 5 cat breeds that have eyes of this color.

1- The Korat

The Korat is a cat native to Thailand. It is said to be one of the lucky cats mentioned in the Tamra Meow collection of Thai poems. Its longevity of 30 years, that is to say nearly double the average longevity of the cats, probably contributes to this status.

He is characterized by a blue coat (as a reminder, the color "blue" for cats is gray) and eyes always green. It is only between 2 and 3 years that he acquires the definitive colors of his coat and his eyes. Like all kittens, at birth, he has blue eyes, evolving then towards the amber color, before becoming green "peridot", which corresponds to a green-olive tint.

During cat shows, the morphology is an important criterion of evaluation. There are 3 big types of morphology: brevilinear or cobby, medioligne and longiligne or oriental. The Korat is a cat said "semi-cobby": it is powerful and muscular, while preserving an elegant silhouette, never massive. And it is thanks to its powerful back legs that it is able to perch on the highest piece of furniture of the house.

2- The Egyptian Mau

The lovers of ancient Egypt will find their happiness with the Egyptian Mau: indeed, it would be one of the oldest domestic cats breed in the world. It would be 4000 years that this race would exist as it is. "Mau" means "cat" in Egyptian. Some people even see in the black traces drawn by its coat on the forehead a shape evoking the Egyptian scarab, or an M shape as in "Mau"...

His coat can be of four colors: bronze, silver, black smoke and black. Again, the fans of this cat consider that the bronze color is the most authentic because the warm brown color reminds them the color of the papyrus of ancient Egypt.

The eyes of the Egyptian Mau are "gooseberry" green, that is to say pale green.

It is a cat made for a stable and reliable master: with an extremely sensitive temperament, some individuals of this breed have starved themselves to death because of stress or important sorrow.

3- The Maine Coon

The Maine Coon's coat is semi-long, with an undercoat. In cat shows, all colors are allowed for this breed, except for chocolate and lilac. The eye color range is wide, from gold to green, and white cats can have blue or odd eyes (each eye has a different color from the other).

It is a rustic cat, very close to its master. Its easy-going temperament makes it a good companion for children: it prefers to run away to paw in case of an attack.

It is also a cat that loves water, being quite capable of wading in its water bowl.

4- The Bengal

The Bengal is a cross between a domestic cat and the Bengal leopard cat (Prionailurus Bengalensis). This breed required a lot of selection work to keep the appearance of the leopard cat. The color of its eyes is green, gold, blue or aquamarine, variable with the color of the coat.

It has also retained the hunting instincts of its wild parent, while being an easy-going cat, without aggression. That's why it is recommended to take him out in harness with a lanyard so that he is not tempted to go hunting at the neighbor's place. On the other hand, with its short hair, it requires very little maintenance.

5- Sphynx

The eyes of the Sphynx are lemon shaped and their color can be deep blue, aquamarine, gold or green.

This is one of the newest cat breeds. Some individuals are completely bare skinned, but others may be covered with down and hair on the nose, outside of the ears and the tips of the paws.

If the cat is fair-skinned, it will be necessary to coat the cat with a mineral sunscreen to allow it to be exposed to the sun without concern.

While cats do not shed, they do secrete brownish sebum due to their thicker skin than most cats, and this sebum can stain. Even if these stains are easily washable, it is preferable to maintain it regularly engant wet on all its body. Cla is preferable to a complete wash which accentuates the production of sebum.

The Abyssinian, an affectionate cat that needs space

A lot of affection and a lot of space are the two elements you must be able to offer to an Abyssinian if you wish to welcome this breed of cat in your home. Since it is also agile and lively, it will become your favorite pet if you are caring and active.

Characteristics of the Abyssinian

The elegance of the Abyssinian is sure to capture the interest of cat lovers. This decidedly majestic-looking breed is blessed with a unique coat. With short hair, the coat has an elastic texture to the touch and has beautiful bright and shiny reflections. Like that of a hare or a rabbit, this coat is ticked, which means that it reveals alternating dark and light stripes. Moreover, there are coats that are called "hare"; others are fawn, sorrel, blue, chocolate, lilac or red.

For its build, the Abyssinian is medium long and has a developed musculature. The animal has a graceful and slender body. It has a long neck on which sits a small round head if it is an American Abyssinian and triangular if it is an English Abyssinian. The ears are large, spread out and pointed.

History of the Abyssinian breed

The origins of the Abyssinian are still the subject of much debate. Some people say that the Abyssinian originated in South-East Asia and not in Egypt or even Abyssinia, to which it owes its name. Other legends say that it would come from Africa. In any case, it is known that it is one of the oldest cat breeds. The Abyssinian is indeed represented in the frescoes embellishing the Egyptian tombs. The first exhibition of the breed took place in 1871 in London. Eleven years later, it was officially recognized. It should be noted that the Abyssinian is especially popular in North America.

Living conditions and behavior of the Abyssinian

Always on the alert, the Abyssinian has a lively and very playful character. This great hunter will always look for a way to distract boredom, even if it means stalking anything that moves. Beside his dynamic temperament, he is also an affectionate cat, great lover of cuddles. He will systematically seek tenderness from his masters by meowing, sometimes insistent.

The Abyssinian can live in an apartment even if he prefers large spaces with a garden. Another point: you should not leave him alone for too long because he hates solitude. It can live with another pet, like a dog, with which it generally gets along well. Finally, like the Bengal, this breed is one of the few to love water.

Diet and main health problems of the Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is not immune to certain serious diseases, some of which are hereditary, such as cat amyloidosis. This pathology usually appears after 5 years and leads to a renal insufficiency sometimes fatal. In order for him to be in good health and live his 13 to 16 years (maximum life expectancy of the Abyssinian), he must be vaccinated against cat cold, leucosis, typhus and rabies.

His diet must be relatively consistent, given the dynamism of the animal.

Why does my cat pee everywhere?

It's no longer a secret. The cat is one of the cleanest animals. If it happens that he urinates outside of his litter box, it must seem very suspicious and may indicate a problem of various kinds: diseases, territorial marking, unsuitable litter box...

A possible health problem

It is important to make sure that this behavior is not the consequence of a health problem. Kidney stones, cystitis, kidney failure and diarrhea are all diseases that cause your pet to urinate so frequently that it no longer urinates in its litter box. Cystitis and kidney stones in particular cause severe pain during urination. The cat is unable to urinate completely while in the litter box. It ends up sending the rest to wherever it is. Felines with cystitis will also urinate everywhere as if to let their owners know they have a problem.

Unsuitable Litter

Your cat may not like the litter box for a number of reasons. First, the litter box may not be clean enough. It's important to clean it every day. Avoid using a lid to cover the litter box, as bad odors will collect inside. Another possibility is that the smell of the litter box is unpleasant. Scents are actually added by manufacturers to cover up unpleasant odors. Many cats are not too fond of these odors, which is why they refuse to relieve themselves in their litter box. The texture may also be unpleasant to them. If this is the case, you'll need to change the litter box. And above all, remember to place it in a suitable place. Don't put the box near where they eat and play.

A territorial marking gesture

Feline urine marking is the act of ejecting urine vertically 20 cm above the ground. In general, this type of behavior occurs in cats that are not yet neutered. If the feline continues to do this despite your warnings, have him spayed or neutered by a veterinarian. Is your pet already neutered? In this case, your pet may be a victim of stress that may cause him to pee anywhere. To prevent this kind of behavior, you can use soothing pheromones until the problem stops.

The cat is just not clean

Kittens learn hygiene from their mother. She teaches them when and where to relieve themselves. Cats that have not had the benefit of this maternal education may not be clean. It's important that you train your cat to use the litter box by making sure it's always clean. For example, spray bleach on the bottom of the box. Felines like the smell of this product. This will encourage them to relieve themselves there.

Top 10 records around the cat

Our little feline companions never cease to amaze us: some of them can even boast of records. What have these hairballs done to surprise us once again? You'll find out in this top 10 cat records!

1. The biggest cat in the world

While some feral cats have to hunt for food to survive day after day, others like Honey don't have this problem. Indeed, he is so well fed that this big feline weighs about 19kg. However, he is not the one who holds the world record, since this one is held by a certain Himmy, an Australian cat who in 1986 was registered in the Guiness Book of Records at 21.3kg at the age of 10 years and 4 months.

Even if these two hairballs seem happy, obesity remains a serious health problem, and even if no information is available on this subject, there is no doubt that these two big cats have experienced serious health problems at one time or another because of their weight. So be sure to feed your cat a reasonable amount to keep it healthy.

2. The world's largest cat

We're going to stick with a classic record here with the cat named Mymains Stewart Gilligan, better known as Stewie. This cat of the Main Coon breed, a breed already known to be very big, was registered in the Guinness Book by its owners in the United States, Robin Hendrickson and Erik Brandsness, with a size of 123cm long, that is to say 1 meter 23! Stewie unfortunately passed away in January 2013 after a happy life.

3. The smallest cat in the world

Unlike Stewie and his 123cm long, let's talk about Pixel, a Californian cat of the Munchkin breed. Contrary to the Main Coon known for their big size, the Munchkin are known to be very short on legs and very small.

Pixel is listed in the Guiness Book of Records as being 12.7cm long and 13cm at the withers, which makes him the smallest cat in the world thanks to his owner, a breeder of this breed by profession.

4. The best feline climber in the world

Cats are very good climbers, thanks to their claws that they can dig into all types of surfaces, it's a well known fact. But obviously, some are better than others in this field, since a cat whose name is unknown has managed to climb on the wall of a building, over a distance of 21 meters, which makes him the best climbing cat in the world.

5. The most hunted cat in the world

Since ancient Egypt, racer cats have been used to hunt mice and other pests in granaries. These cats are still used today, and are often more effective than mouse traps. This is the case of Tower, a rat cat used in a pest control company in the 20th century. And he managed to hunt a total of 28,899 mice during his already astonishingly long life of 24 years (born in 1963, died in 1987). Other cats may have done better, but only Tower has been followed for this particular record, making him the world's greatest hunter.

6. The oldest cat in the world

A healthy, neutered cat lives on average between 14 and 16 years. Some of them defy this law of nature and do not hesitate to double this life expectancy. Spike, an old cat who disappeared at the age of 31 (who probably ended his days outside without his body being found) and Whiskey, a female who died at 33, could well be in the record book. However, this is not the case. Jake Perry, was the owner in Texas of the two longest living cats in the world, as he was the owner of Allen, a cat who lived 36 years and set the first world record.

And this incredible story doesn't end there, since Allen is the grandfather of the current world champion, a cat named Creme Puff, who was born on August 3, 1967 and died on August 6, 2005, that is to say an amazing life span of 38 years and 3 days!

7. The most kittens given birth to

This record must be separated into two categories. First of all, the most kittens given birth to during his life. This record belongs to Dusty, a Texan cat born in 1935, and gave birth to an incredible 420 kittens during her lifetime, which makes her the most prolific cat in the world.

Another kind of record in this category. In the United Kingdom, in the Oxfordshire region, a Siamese cat, set the record for the highest number of kittens in a single litter, as she gave birth to 19 kittens. Unfortunately, 4 of them were stillborn, but it is still a world record.

8. The longest walk of a cat

This is a story that made a little bit of noise in 2010, so you may have heard about it. An English cat named Skippy decided to go exploring a little further than usual during his walk. And this is the last time he will see his masters for two and a half years!

After many fruitless searches, his retired owners thought he was dead, until Skippy was found asleep in a car two and a half years later. He was taken to a veterinarian who was able to find his owners thanks to his microchip. Not only was the cat safe and sound, but it was an incredible surprise to his owners when they realized that the cat had recognized them and was rubbing up against them while purring frantically. Fortunately, all's well that ends well, and it also earned Skippy a world record for the longest escapade.

9. Longest distance traveled by a cat

Cats sometimes show amazing feats to find their master. This is the case of Mimine, a French cat who disappeared the day before her owner moved, who thought she was saying goodbye to her that day because she was moving 800km away, from the Gironde to the Meuse. 13 months later, this lady had an incredible surprise because she found Mimine in front of her door, exhausted but having finally found her beloved mistress.

The record does not belong to Mimine but to Karim, a cat living in Russia to whom the same thing happened as to Mimine, except that his owners moved from Uzbekistan to Russia, a distance of 3200km. They found Karim two years later, which earned him a world record.

10. Franck and Louis

This first place goes to two cats...in one. In 1999, at a breeder's in Massachusetts, USA, a cat that would later be named Franckenlouie was born with Janus syndrome, which means that his face contained two: he had three eyes, two mouths and two noses.

This infirmity very often causes a very young death of the affected animal, his breeder first wanted to euthanize him, but a veterinary nurse took Franckenlouie under her wing, and this unusual cat was able to live happily in spite of his infirmity for 14 years, which is a widely beaten record for a cat affected by this disease. Congratulations to his mistress who took great pains to take care of this cat, as different as he is.

Why does the cat bother to bury its feces?

The cat is a very organized animal that divides its territory into different areas, each one reserved for a well-defined occupation such as hunting, resting and elimination. This last area is the place where the cat does its needs, which it instinctively buries for different reasons. But it also happens that the kitty doesn't bury his excrements. Let's take stock.

What about marking the territory?

One may wonder why the cat scratches the ground after relieving himself, since the rest of the time he urinates everywhere to mark his territory, and in these moments he does not bury anything at all. The animal differentiates perfectly between the urine it releases to relieve itself and the urine it sprays in small streams in different places for marking purposes. In the latter case, it indicates to its fellow creatures that they are on the border of a private property and that they are exposed to reprisals if they have the audacity to enter it. This intrusion is therefore at their own risk. Burying feces is precisely a mode of communication.

Cats bury their feces to protect themselves from predators

Kittens learn at an early age to bury their feces simply because their mother does it and so do their brothers and sisters. The cat teaches her kittens very early that after relieving themselves, each one must bury his excrement.

This is how she protects her litter from the possible assault of predators attracted by the smell. Moreover, even before the kittens are able to control their sphincters, i.e. when they are newborn, the cat ingests their excrements so that they are not spotted by the exterminators. This is an instinctive attitude of conservation of the species. Kittens will soon learn to bury their feces when they start to become autonomous.

But it should also be noted that cats hide their excrements by covering them with earth or sand so that their territory is not located by their fellow cats.

The case of the dominant cat: excrement not always buried

The cat does not systematically cover its feces and this has nothing to do with an oversight or negligence. It is again a way to communicate. It is in any case a way to show its superiority. This can be seen frequently in the domestic cat when his master gives in to all his whims. In this type of situation, the dominant one is not the one you think, the hierarchy being totally reversed. The cat will leave its droppings in plain sight in order to assert that the territory it shares with humans is its own.

Such behavior can take on disproportionate proportions, since the dominant cat can deliberately release itself on a piece of furniture, for example, to clearly deliver its message. For him, the goal is that the smell of his excrements deposited in height and not buried can spread in this environment that he considers as his property.

In this case, the master must take back the hand on his cat, but also his place so that his little companion understands that he lives with his master and not the opposite.

The cat doesn't bury its excrement: identify the problem without waiting

Of course, when the cat has been impeccable in terms of cleanliness until now, but suddenly does his business everywhere or continues to go to his litter box but does not bury his excrement as carefully for some time, this indicates a problem. This is the case, for example, if:

• The old litter box has been replaced by a box that is not suitable for the animal: some cats only like open boxes i.e. without a lid, others prefer closed litter boxes.
• The litter box has been moved. It is not far enough from the other territorial fields, or it is too far away from them: it must be returned to its original place, since the little feline always buried its excrements.
• The master has several cats but they must share a single litter box. In this regard, it is recommended to provide as many litter boxes as cats plus one. So, if you have three cats, you need four litter boxes that should be placed in different places.

If you notice a change in your cat's behavior in this area, it may be useful to consult a veterinary behaviorist. Follow-up may be necessary to get things back on track.

5 recipes for cat treats to make your own

Treats are important and contribute to your cat's development. They contribute to reinforce the emotional bonds with him in another way than the caresses. They also contribute to his hygiene by limiting the formation of tartar because the treats are crunchy and rub the surface of the teeth. If you want to cook these treats yourself, we suggest 5 very easy recipes.

1- A recipe for tuna and oatmeal cat treats

Oats are rich in protein, good fats and fiber. Fiber has a role in regulating cholesterol and glucose levels. This is why these treats are also suitable for overweight cats. If in doubt, ask your veterinarian for advice.

Easy to make and requiring little cooking time, don't make too much the first time: your cat may not like the oatmeal in this recipe if it's not used to it. If this is the case, reduce the amount of oatmeal.

Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons of small oatmeal (note that organic oatmeal is usually large)
• 80 g unsalted tuna in oil
• 1 egg

Preparation:

• Pour all the ingredients into a bowl and mix until you get a homogeneous, thick and sticky paste. You can use a blender if you want a fine texture.
• Form small, compact, not too thick balls by hand. You can also use silicone molds. If the dough crumbles too much, add a little sunflower oil.
• Bake for 12 minutes at 180°C maximum. It can be less, depending on the thickness of the treats and your oven.

2 - A recipe for cat treats with two flours

Ingredients:

• 250 ml whole wheat flour
• 60 ml soy flour
• 250 ml water
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 15 ml sunflower oil
• salt

Preparation:

• In a bowl, first mix the two flours, then the rest of the ingredients.
• Let the dough rest in a warm place for 30 minutes and preheat the oven to 200°C.
• Make up the cookies by placing small piles of dough on a baking sheet covered with baking paper and flattening them.
• Bake for about 20 minutes (watch).

3 - A recipe for sardine cat treats

Ingredients:

• 100 g canned sardine crush
• 30 ml skim milk powder
• 60 ml of wheat germ

Preparation:

• Mix all ingredients and make small patties (about 24 pieces) and place on a baking sheet covered with baking paper.
• Bake for about 20 minutes at 180°C (watch).

4 - A recipe for chicken liver cat treats

Ingredients:

• 100 g chicken liver
• 50 g corn flour
• 2 eggs
• 50 g milk powder
• 2 tablespoons of oil

Preparation:

• Mix all ingredients and blend, roll out the dough with a rolling pin on a non-stick baking sheet.
• Bake at 200 °C until the knife comes out clean.
• Let cool and cut into small pieces with a knife or cookie cutter.

5 - A recipe for salmon and cheddar cat treats (gluten free)

Ingredients:

• 190 g canned salmon
• 30 g grated cheddar cheese (or other low-fat cheese)
• 3 eggs
• 50 g rice flour
• 3 g gluten-free baking powder
• 30 cl of water

Preparation:

• Beat the eggs, add cheddar cheese, salmon, flour and yeast and mix well.
• Add the water gradually, while stirring, until you have a sticky dough.
• Roll out the dough thinly.
• Cut out the cookies with a knife or cookie cutter.
• Bake at 180°C for about 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Three tips for caring for your cat

A treat, whether industrial or cooked by you, is still a treat: giving it to your cat must remain exceptional and constitute a moment apart in his diet.

Do not give in to your cat's requests for extra food outside of its daily meals.

Do not give your cat table scraps as is. Pieces of meat or fish are fatty, dairy products are not easily digestible and sweets are too sweet: they may unbalance his diet, or even make him sick.

Why is my cat scratching the floor?

It is common to see your cat scratching the floor for purposes other than burying its feces. He can scratch the kitchen floor where his bowl is placed for example. What can be taken for a mania by some humans, is in fact an ancestral attitude. The cat scratches the floor because it has good reasons to do so. Let's discover the meaning of this behavior not as strange as it seems.

The cat scratches the ground to communicate

A cat that lives in the wild buries its food scraps and scratches the ground to cover them up. This is certainly not to stock up on food for later use, but simply to protect itself from potential predators, who may be attracted to its remains. It's a matter of survival.

But a domestic cat that lives in a house or an apartment and does not have to bury the uneaten food, scratches the ground too, around its bowl or its litter box. However, it is not at all to try to cover them. The cat is far from being stupid. It tries, by this means, to deposit pheromones in order to mark its territory to show a possible congener that this sector is already occupied.

In fact, the cat has pheromone-secreting glands between its pads. By scratching the ground, it can deposit its own chemical molecules which are an integral part of the communication between cats. If we observe his little feline, we can also realize that he regularly sniffs his living spaces. This allows him to verify that they are sufficiently impregnated with his scent. When this is no longer the case, he scratches the ground again to redeposit pheromones.

An attitude specific to all felines

Scratching the ground is an instinctive reflex found in other felines (lions, tigers, cheetahs...) living in the wild, but also in captivity (zoos...). However, the latter are not obliged to hide their excrements, nor even their food remains. Each one has its own territory and the very structure of a wildlife park protects the animals from their predators.

All felines, including the house cat, act instinctively. It is reassuring to see that they retain this survival spirit from generation to generation. So if a cat is abandoned or wanders off, it will know how to mark its territory and protect itself from other animals that might spot it.

My cat scratches the ground: he is caught red-handed

One may wonder if the cat scratches the carpet of the bedroom of his masters, when in this room, there is neither his bowl, nor his litter box. Such an attitude can be a warning sign since we know that the little feline scratches the floor to deposit pheromones and not to be spotted by potential predators. If he scratches the floor of the room, it means that he must have urinated there. In this case, it is necessary to start by making sure, to clean well, and if possible to close the door so that the cat does not penetrate any more in this room for a moment.

How to choose a collar for your cat ?

Owners of a small feline are fortunate to have a wide choice of cat collars. Let's see first of all what the interest is in equipping your little companion with such an accessory, and which model to choose in order to combine the useful with the pleasant.

Cat collar: is it really useful?

This type of accessory is not only intended to give style to his pet, even if we find today models of collars for cats ultra fashion. If you buy this type of product, it is first of all because it has a great utility.

The collar allows to equip the cat and to walk it in full safety. It is for example the case when one travels with his animal and that one must make a pose on a freeway area. Being able to keep your cat on a leash at these times is essential to allow him to stretch his legs, to get some fresh air and to relieve himself without risk. Let's not forget that in this type of situation, the cat can quickly find itself in a panic and if it is not held on a leash by its owner, it risks running away and getting run over.

Buying a collar is therefore essential for walking your cat on a leash in any type of environment. Some people prefer to use a harness, but this equipment is not always well supported by small felines if it is not perfectly adapted to the size and morphology of the animal.

Depending on the type of collar desired and its level of sophistication, the master can find what he wants for a budget between 5 and 50 €, or even more.

Cat collar : criteria of choice

The cat collar must be chosen according to the following criteria.

• Size: there are collars for small cats, large cats and kittens. Some models can be cut to fit your pet's neck better.
• Safety: it must be adjustable to fit the diameter of the neck and equipped with a clasp system absolutely safe. It breaks immediately in case of emergency (cat stuck by its collar for example). Note that to adjust it properly when equipping your pet, you must pass a finger between the collar and the neck of the cat.
• Its equipment. A collar for cat can be decorated :
• Of pearls, rhinestones and other embellishments with aesthetic purpose as for example the small bows for cats,
• A bell, a small accessory very useful to locate his cat at the ear,
• An identification plate or a medallion allowing, in case of misplacement, that the kitten is not considered as a stray cat if the accessory is engraved with the name of the owner and that it also indicates a telephone number,
• A reflective device to make the animal more visible at dusk,
• A GPS beacon, the technology that now equips some collars for cats, which allows the master to follow in real time the route taken by his little kitty and therefore to go get him if necessary, without losing time,
• A digital camera, a particularly interesting device thanks to which the route taken by the little feline is filmed as he sees it himself, with his cat eyes.
• The look: style, color, printing of all kinds of patterns, the collar for cat is an accessory of feline fashion that is on the rise. Some masters are delighted to be able to finally match the color of the collar to the color of their cat's eyes, or to choose a print that matches the personality of their little companion.
• The material: the creators of collars for cats do not lack imagination since we find this kind of accessory declined in many materials as for example:
• The nylon, light and resistant,
• Leather, robust and refined,
• Elasticated fabric, practical and reassuring,
• Synthetic materials such as suede, leatherette for fashion victims with vibrissae...

Note that a cat collar must be equipped with an anti-strangulation system. If it is not the case, we pass his way. It is by logic a great asset of the elastic collar, but those in leather, nylon and all the others must now be secured, either thanks to a safety clip, or because they are equipped with an elastic. In any case, this is a point to check before buying.

Finally, you can kill two birds with one stone by opting for a special cat flea collar with a ring to attach an identification tag and a snap hook for a leash. The cat can thus walk with or without its master while being protected against parasites. Now the flea collar is available in many models and in a wide range of colors.

What is Cat Sitting ? What are the missions of the Cat Sitter ?

Concept based on the same principle as Babysitting, Cat Sitting is very appreciated by many cat owners who have to leave their home for work or other reasons. Not being able to take care of their little companion themselves, they can count on a guardian who has a certificate of competence. What exactly is Cat Sitting and how do I become a Cat Sitter?

Cat Sitting : a way to take care of cats

Cat Sitting is a home care service for cats. This service is entrusted to a Cat Sitter. It is a solution more and more frequently adopted by the owners who do not wish, in their absence, to deposit their cat at a neighbor's, a friend's or in a pension for animals in order not to disturb their small companion.

Cat Sitting is really useful because it allows the cat to stay in its environment even if its master is not present. This is important for this territorial animal, particularly sensitive to changes in habits. Indeed, we know that the cat can be a victim of stress as soon as it is away from its territory. Being able to count on a passionate person to keep him company is really reassuring for a master who loves his animal and thinks about his well-being above all.

Cat Sitter : his main missions

The Cat Sitter is a person who is destined to keep cats temporarily at the home of their masters in their absence. He is entrusted with the following missions:

• To give food to the cat,
• Ensure that the animal always has fresh water,
• Clean the litter box,
• Play with the cat,
• Cuddle the cat,
• Brush the cat,
• Administering his treatment when applicable.

The role of the Cat Sitter is therefore to take care of the cat and to make sure that it does not suffer from loneliness when its masters are away.

Who can become a Cat Sitter ?

No diploma is required to become a Cat Sitter. However, in order to practice this activity of cat sitting, it is necessary to follow a specific training given by an accredited organization, approved by the Ministry of Agriculture. At the end of this training, which lasts at least 14 hours, a certificate of competence is given to the interested party.

This training is essential to work either on your own account or as an employee of a structure specialized in Pet Sitting, i.e. temporary pet sitting in private homes. Moreover, if the activity of Pet Sitter - and therefore of Cat Sitter, or even of Dog Sitter for dogs - is exercised on a commercial basis, it is governed by the Rural and Maritime Fishing Code. The service provider is obliged by law to have all the necessary knowledge to meet the needs of an animal (cat, dog...), both in terms of maintenance and needs:

• Biological,
• Physiological,
• Behavioral.

This is why a training is necessary. But to become a Cat Sitter, you must also love cats, be passionate about them, and it is just as fundamental to measure the extent of your responsibilities.

Cat Sitting : the rates

The Cat Sitter must know that it is rare to be able to work full time, and thus to live from his passion. Cat sitting in a private home is more of a complementary activity.

The price of an independent Cat Sitter varies from one region to another, from one keeper to another and of course from one service to another. It also includes the cost of the travels (to and from) between the Cat Sitter's home and the client's home. As for the rate applied by a Pet Sitting structure, it includes the services, the travel, the cost of an insurance but also the remuneration of the intermediary.

The price can be from 12 $ to 35 $ per visit, it is necessarily higher for a night sitting at the client's home than for a day sitting. It should be noted that some health insurance companies for cats reimburse Cat Sitting at least in part or in the form of a fixed price when the owner of the animal is hospitalized for example.

Cat Sitter : how to look for missions ?

If you have a certificate of competence, you can find Cat Sitting missions by using different means, such as

• To deposit an advertisement at the tradesmen of its district or its commune,
• Contacting veterinarians and veterinary clinics in your area,
• Create your own website or blog,
• Use online sites specialized in Cat Sitting or more broadly in Pet Sitting, which publish dedicated ads.

Once the provider has found his first clients - which is the most difficult - he can benefit from word of mouth. To do this, one must be an absolutely exemplary home cat sitter.

Why is my cat losing its hair? Is it cat's pelt?

While shedding is a normal part of a cat's life, you should become concerned when the shedding is prolonged and heavy. This may indicate parasitic diseases or other conditions.

Hair loss during shedding

The main component of a cat's coat is the hair, which consists of a shaft and a root hidden in the dermis. In principle, the hair falls out systematically when it dies and is then renewed. This hair loss is considered normal during the moulting period. The phenomenon usually occurs during the spring and fall. During these seasonal moults, the hair loss can be significant, especially if the cat is a long-haired breed. In addition, when the cat is pregnant or has just given birth to her kittens, she may also lose her hair. So there is no need to worry.

Hair loss caused by parasites

Parasitic diseases are another cause of severe hair loss in felines. One of the most serious parasites is ringworm, which develops by feeding on the hair's keratin. Some parts of the body become hairless, especially the thighs, the back and the head. The problem is that in addition to being transmissible to other animals, ringworm is also capable of infecting humans. Drastic measures are therefore necessary if your pet is affected.

In addition to ringworm, fleas are responsible for hair loss in cats. These tiny insects cause an allergy called DAPP (flea bite allergy dermatitis). As a result, the animal scratches frantically until it loses part of its hair on areas located on the back and the thigh.

Note that even if it is relatively rare in cats, demodecia or follicular mange can also cause hair loss. It is caused by demedex, a parasitic mite that affects mostly kittens from poorly sanitized farms.

Other causes of hair loss in cats

Another phenomenon that has been blamed for hair loss in cats is poor nutrition. A beautiful coat requires a high intake of vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids. When the nutritional elements are insufficient, hair will inevitably fall out. The same is true in the case of food allergies. Hair loss is accompanied by red patches and itching.

Just like humans, behavioral problems such as anxiety or stress eventually affect the feline, who starts licking himself frantically, to the point that the hair falls out and the skin becomes irritated. Hormonal diseases are also pointed out, as it is known that disorders in the secretion of hormones are at the origin of skin pathologies. The same goes for rare diseases that cause significant depilation on the animal. For this kind of situation, it is much better to perform skin tests and histological analysis to be sure.

Is the tortoiseshell cat still female?

If you are a big fan of cats, you have certainly already heard of the so-called tortoiseshell. But already, for the neophytes, you should know that it is not a cat breed, but rather a cat with a very particular color...

What is a tortoiseshell cat?

The expression tortoiseshell refers to a typical dress of some cats. It is a mixture of black and red with spots of different tones diluted or not of cinnamon or chocolate type. These spots can be large and very visible or appear in a very fine way, even blurred like small swirls or flecks. This color typicity can go even further when the coat is striped or tabby. The coat of cats with this type of coloring is called torbie, a contraction of tortie (tortoiseshell) and tabby. Tortie point cats have colorpoint patterns on their coats.

Beside the tortoiseshell color, there is also another almost similar color called calico, but which has, in addition to the red and dark spots, white markings. An important dilution of the color causes a change of the calico coat which becomes blue, lilac or cream.

Only females, rarely males

Complex genetic influences are responsible for this coat color. Like all mammals, cats have both X and Y sex chromosomes. A female cat has two X chromosomes while the male has one X and one Y chromosome. The red and black colors that make the tortoiseshell so special are found only in the X chromosomes.

This is why only females can have such a color, because they have the orange and black genes. The male on the other hand will not be able to have a similar dress, because he has only one X chromosome. However, there are exceptions when the male has a chromosomal anomaly and has three XXY chromosomes. This specificity is called Klinefelter syndrome. In general, tortoiseshell males cannot reproduce. This genetic accident would make them sterile.

A particular character

There are many preconceived ideas about the character of the tortoiseshell cat. It is said that it has a difficult temperament. The reason is simple. The felines that have this dress are females. However, it is known that they are more independent and more discreet than the males. They also appreciate having a single master and do not let themselves be approached by other humans.

Moreover, the color of the dress does not influence the character of an animal. Its temperament depends mainly on the environment in which it evolves and especially on the attention and care that the owners give it. It has been proven that cats are able to feel the ills that plague their owners. Thus, people who are stressed, anxious and irritated may see their pet become distant.

8 natural anti-fleas for your cat

Cats are regularly infested by fleas. Fortunately, there are natural solutions to eliminate these parasites and even to act preventively. Beware, however, natural does not mean safe. To use a natural anti-flea for his cat, it is therefore necessary to ensure beforehand that the animal is not at risk. This is why it is better to avoid essential oils unless the veterinarian has advised them. Let's make the point.

4 natural flea repellents for cats or kittens

You can order a flea repellent for your cat from the big brands specialized in pet care. In this category, we find for example :

• The flea collar impregnated with Geraniol from the essence of certain plants,
• Flea powder, based on a mixture of plant extracts, which must be impregnated all over the cat's fur,
• Flea lotion in pipettes (for kittens or adult cats), with natural plant active ingredients (Geraniol, Margosa...), which must be applied between the cat's shoulder blades so that it cannot lick the product,
• The flea foam without rinsing, based on extracts of Lavender, Geraniol and Margosa, specially designed to treat cats that hate baths.

4 natural homemade flea repellents

It is possible to treat your cat against fleas without spending a lot of money. To do this, we use natural products that we have at home.

Diatomaceous earth

Very effective against all types of parasites, diatomaceous earth can be used to treat the cat but also its entire environment. It can be sprinkled on the cat's coat and then massaged into the hair to spread it evenly. It's best to avoid putting it on the kitty's nose and the owner must be careful not to inhale it.

Black soap

It can be sprayed directly on the flea-infested cat's coat after having been diluted with half a bottle of soap in 500 ml of warm water. It can also be used to treat the litter box and the basket of the animal.

Sodium bicarbonate

Food-grade sodium bicarbonate is safe to use on your cat's coat. Simply apply a tablespoon of powder directly to the cat's fur and massage it into the animal's coat and skin. It is necessary to wait a good thirty minutes before carrying out a careful brushing using a comb with fleas. This natural flea treatment can be done twice a month for adult cats.

Cider vinegar

Because of its acidity, vinegar is an excellent 100% natural flea treatment for cats. Thus, it is enough to mix 1 glass of apple vinegar with ½ glass of water and to spray the coat of the small feline. This treatment should be repeated every two to three days for about ten days in case of a major flea infestation.

In parallel with all these solutions, it is essential to also treat the entire environment of the cat, his basket, the sofa where he likes to lounge, the carpet, the rug ... In case of flea invasion, we can also treat more widely the house (but not the cat) with Cedar shavings, because fleas hate their smell.

Why is it that when I pet my cat it bites me?

Being bitten by your cat when you pet it can have several meanings. It is therefore necessary to identify the cause of this behavior in order to remedy it as soon as possible. A biting cat can represent a danger, especially if it attacks children, as children love to cuddle their little companion. Let's see how to decipher a cat bite when it systematically follows a caress.

Biting in kittens

First of all, it is necessary to distinguish between a bite that follows a caress in a kitten and a bite, under the same conditions, when the cat is an adult.

A kitten that is only a few weeks old will bite almost anything it finds, and its owner's hand is no exception to the rule. This very young animal does not yet know that it can hurt. It is generally his mother who educates him in this sense, and to do so, she does not hesitate to call him to order when, for example, her offspring bites his teats a little too hard. Self-control is one of the learning phases through which all kittens breastfed by their mother and sharing their games within their siblings. This control should be fully acquired by the age of 8 weeks.

But it can happen that a kitten weaned too early following the death of its mother for example, does not integrate all the fundamentals. His education must then be taken in charge by his master. When this does not happen, the kitten, once adult, will continue to adopt the same behavior, except that the biting may turn into severe biting because the animal has not learned to control itself. This is therefore considered a behavioral disorder.

It should be noted that in kittens a few weeks old, biting is both a game and a way to discover its environment. It must be taught very quickly that it must not confuse a toy with the caressing hand of its owner. The right solution is to use a small feather duster for example to play with and generally interact with him rather than letting him play with people's hands.

Cat biting when stroked: deciphering the message

Apart from this problem of education of the kitten, a cat can bite his master who is petting him for very specific reasons, because the bite is an integral part of his mode of communication. The animal may want to express :

• Annoyance: the cat is an animal that likes to be respected for its tranquility. He may not appreciate at all that we come to caress him while he is quietly installed in his basket or at the window watching the birds. He can also bite if you pet him too frequently. In general, you should wait until the cat comes to cuddle on its own and not force it.
• Pain: if the cat only when you stroke a specific area of the body such as the back, skull, belly, a flank, it is probably that this contact hurts him. In this case we consult the veterinarian so that he can look for what is wrong.
• Fear: this reaction of aggressiveness which appears during a caress can be the expression of a feeling of fear or an attitude of defense. This can be seen in cats that have been scolded or even abused. The bite occurs because the cat is rebelling: it no longer trusts the human. It will be necessary to be patient so that all returns in the order.

Some attitudes in the cat allow to anticipate an imminent bite as the ears back, the tail that begins to beat in all directions, the total absence of purring, shivering, if the cat begins to lick the hand that caresses it, if it suddenly withdraws from this gesture of cajolery or if it growls.

It is well understood that you should never tolerate biting from your kitten or adult cat, whether it attacks the hands, feet, calves or the tip of the nose of his master even if it seems to want to play ... The more you advance in time, the more the bite will become painful. It is exactly the same with scratching. The cat must learn never to take out its claws when the members of its foster family pet it, carry it or play with it. If this type of behavior cannot be controlled, it is absolutely necessary to consult a veterinary behaviorist.

Can a cat get dandruff?

The answer is yes! A cat can have dandruff. Is it serious? It depends on the circumstances. Here we explain the mechanism of dandruff in detail to help you know when to consult the vet.

Moulting promotes dandruff

Dandruff is a natural mechanism of the cat's skin: it is pieces of skin that die and fall off. It's perfectly normal for the skin to renew itself.

However, shedding can accentuate this phenomenon. When the undercoat dies, if it remains on the skin, it prevents the skin from breathing. Dandruff will then be more numerous.

Of course, not all cats are equal when it comes to shedding. The intensity of hair loss varies according to breed, age, texture and length of hair. On the other hand, an indoor cat experiences more regular shedding throughout the year with only a slight accentuation during the molting period. This is due to the fact that his environment is generally stable, which favors regular hair loss. An outdoor cat, on the other hand, goes through two distinct molting periods: spring and fall.

Brush your cat

To limit the formation of dandruff during moulting, it is therefore advisable to brush your cat every day.

The brush should be adapted to the length of the cat's hair. Some brushes are more effective at removing dead hair than others. Brushes that are too long or too thin should be avoided because they make brushing painful.

Brushing will also be better tolerated if it is done regularly enough to prevent tangles from forming.

Take care of your cat's diet

A quality diet will bring beauty and health to your cat's skin and coat. Foods enriched with essential fatty acids (omega 3 and omega 6) are preferred. Less rich in fats, containing good proteins, a "premium" food is better digested and therefore better assimilated by the body: the animal will eat better but also less. The higher price will thus be compensated.

Another advantage is that stools are reduced, as is their smell.

When dandruff is a bad sign?

Dandruff becomes excessive when it is the result of an illness: we no longer speak of dandruff but of seborrhea.

Here is an indicative list of diseases causing seborrhea: thyroid disorders, liver disorders, vitamin A deficiency, zinc deficiency, parasites such as scabies, ringworm, fleas, food allergies, skin infections, etc.

You must then consult the veterinarian to find the cause of the seborrhea. If no cause is found, it is called "idiopathic" seborrhea. In this case, the treatment will be limited to the application of a specific shampoo or a moisturizing lotion, or to give the animal essential fatty acid supplements.

Dandruff and Cheylitiella

Dandruff is a parasite of the mite family that lives and reproduces on the animal's skin, feeding on dead skin. They are mostly found on animals living in communities (pet shops, kennels, breeding farms...), on young and weakened individuals.

As their presence is accompanied by dandruff and they are microscopic, they can be confused with dandruff. But they also cause itching and their consequences are quite different.

Through contact with a contaminated animal or environment, these parasites can cause redness, pimples and itching in humans. All of these signs can even precede the appearance of dandruff in cats. However, since parasites cannot survive on humans, treatment will be directed solely at the cat and its environment. A veterinarian will tell you what to do.

Adopted cat whose age I don't know: can I buy insurance?

Many people take in a cat but don't know the age of the animal. This can be a problem when it comes to insuring the little feline with a pet health insurance company, as this is something the insurer needs to know in order to price the policy, and sometimes even to accept or reject the application if they apply an age limit. Let's see how to determine what age range a found or adopted cat belongs to and if it is really possible to insure it if this characteristic is unknown.

Knowing the age of your cat: consult the veterinarian

The best way to find out the approximate age of a cat you have found or adopted is to consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine the little feline, take measurements, weigh it, and compare the data obtained with a growth curve established according to the breed of the cat. He will obviously take into account the skin tone, the musculature of the little feline or the aspect of its coat as well as its texture because these are revealing elements.

The state of health of the animal is reviewed because it may have had an impact on its development. It should also be noted that the cat's health evolves over time. Thus, the veterinarian can get a fairly accurate idea of its level of aging.

At the same time, the professional observes the behavior of the little feline because it varies depending on whether the cat is young or old. Finally, the cat's teeth are a very significant element of its age.

Determining your cat's age: examining its teeth

Teething is the first element to observe to evaluate the age of your kitten or adult cat because it changes throughout the animal's life.

It is therefore important to remember that in cats before the age of 12 months, the dentition evolves as follows:

• Between 15 days and 1 month, the incisors appear,
• At the age of 4 to 5 weeks, the kitten has its canines,
• Between 4 and 6 weeks, premolars appear,
• The molars appear only in kittens older than 4 months,
• Between 6 months and 1 year, depending on the breed, the young cat has all its adult teeth.

The teeth of young cats are white and sharp, without any wear mark. They have no tartar and the gums are pink.

In cats over 2 years of age, the appearance of the teeth begins to change both in terms of their coloring and in terms of wear.

• They gradually turn yellow and the 5 year old cat begins to have yellow teeth,
• Between the ages of 5 and 10, the yellowing is more pronounced and affects most teeth,
• From the age of 10, the cat's teeth are very yellow and none of them can escape. Tartar has built up to the point of forming plaque, especially if the animal has never had scaling, and its gums may be very pale.

As the cat ages, the wear and tear on the teeth intensifies. This starts to become noticeable after 5 years of age. Some teeth are less sharp than they used to be, they may be blunt or even broken, and others begin to loosen. In cats that are 9, 10 years old and older, the loosening is even more important, the wear of the teeth is also important and some of them may even have fallen out.

In cats that have not had a balanced or sufficient diet, or that have been very sick, the aging of the teeth may be earlier. The examination of the cat's dentition gives good indications, but cannot allow to evaluate the age of the animal with precision.

Is it possible to insure a cat whose age is unknown?

The mutual health insurance companies for animals impose an age limit beyond which they do not grant any more subscription. Depending on the company, this age is between 5 and 8 years. It is also important to know that they only insure cats from the age of 2 months. But some insurers offer contracts without age limit. This allows you to insure your cat even if it is old.

However, there is a problem at the time of the subscription when one does not know the age of the cat that one has just found or adopted. Indeed, before choosing a formula, the owner must provide some details to the insurer about the animal such as its breed, its sex, its name and therefore its age, this last criterion generally having an impact on the pricing.

However, there is no need to declare that the cat to be insured is still young if it is obvious that it is not, because the company may ask for proof. It is therefore strongly recommended, before insuring your cat with a mutual health insurance company, to have a certificate drawn up by the vet. The owner must take advantage of this visit to have his cat identified if it is not yet identified. In possession of this report of expertise he will be able to finalize the subscription.

Diatomaceous earth, natural anti-flea for your cat : explanation

It is quite possible to use diatomaceous earth to treat your cat against fleas. But it is necessary to use food grade diatomaceous earth because it is safe for the animal. Let's see how to use this 100% natural anti-flea product and what precautions to take.

Diatomaceous earth: what is it?

A natural product, diatomaceous earth is extracted from diatomite quarries. It is a sedimentary siliceous rock, friable, highly porous and very light. It is formed from the sharp sediments of fossilized unicellular algae: diatoms. Once extracted, diatomaceous earth does not undergo any chemical transformation. It has been used for ages to eradicate many insects and parasites, including fleas.

Diatomaceous earth can be found under different names, namely Kieselguhr, Diatomite, silicon dioxide or celite.

Diatomaceous earth to eliminate fleas from cats without danger

Its mode of action is simple: the sharp edges of the microscopic diatoms kill the parasites. You must choose a food grade diatomaceous earth in powder form to use on a pet. It is safe to use and is one of the most effective natural flea repellents against a parasite invasion.

Here is how to proceed for an external application:

• Put diatomaceous earth powder on the dry fur of the cat because once wet, it loses its effectiveness,
• Knead the cat's hair well by hand so that the diatomaceous earth powder penetrates the fur,
• Avoid depositing the powder on the muzzle and in the eyes of the animal,
• Leave it on for 48 to 72 hours,
• Brush the cat's coat after this time, preferably using a flea comb,
• Repeat the operation three days later for about three weeks.

It is very important to treat your cat with diatomaceous earth during this period of several weeks because it will eliminate the parasites from the eggs that will have hatched over time. It is indeed necessary to take into consideration that fleas lay eggs in the cat's coat which implies to eradicate them during their life cycle.

At the same time, it is imperative to spread diatomaceous earth in all the nooks and crannies of the house and in the outbuildings where the cat likes to go regularly. The cat's basket should also go through it. If the powder is also applied outdoors, the process should be repeated as soon as the diatomaceous earth becomes wet, for example, from rain.

Even if it takes a little longer to get rid of parasites with this natural flea repellent, it is better than using chemicals that are toxic for humans, pets and the environment. After a few sprinkles, flea problems usually disappear. The ideal is to always have at hand diatomaceous earth of food quality, not calcined, because it is perfectly adapted to cats, dogs and other pets. It is necessary to count approximately 10 € the pot of 400 G, between 18 and 23 € for a bucket of 1 kg, or between 12 and 17 € the 250 G in powder.

Cat spaying: everything you need to know

Is your cat a fighter, a runaway and, on top of that, does he keep urinating all over the house? It may be time to consider neutering your cat to avoid all these inconveniences. But before you do, find out all the details of this irreparable procedure.

Why have a castration?

Castration consists of the removal of the sex glands, in this case the testicles, through a simple and quick surgical procedure. Many owners choose to perform this operation because from their sixth month, cats start to change their behavior radically. At first, they urinate in every corner of the house, causing particularly unpleasant odors. The kitty also starts to behave destructively, scratching furniture and objects in the house.

Worst of all, they may also run away. During the mating season, your cat may disappear for several days without a trace, looking for a female to mate with. The problem is that once outside, he will fight with other cats, causing him to come back with wounds that will sometimes lead to abscesses. These wounds coupled with the frequentation of several females is at the origin of FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus). This immunodeficiency, which is the equivalent of AIDS in cats, favors the development of all kinds of diseases.

When to neuter the cat and how is the operation performed?

As you can see, to avoid all forms of territorial marking behavior, castration is THE solution. It is performed at puberty, that is, from the sixth month of age. At this age, the cat's reproductive system is sufficiently developed. This will prevent the procedure from having an impact on his growth. Changes in your four-legged friend's habits are enough to tell you if it's time to consider neutering. This territorial marking is the most obvious sign.

The operation itself does not take long and is less complicated than spaying a female. It is performed on an empty stomach to avoid possible vomiting during the operation. The veterinarian proceeds to an anesthesia whose effects last 48 hours at most. This analgesic injection will reduce the pain. Also, you don't have to worry if your kitty seems "elsewhere" after the operation. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are then prescribed. If your cat refuses to eat or bleeds in the days following the operation, visit your veterinarian.

No more preconceived notions about neutering

Contrary to many misconceptions, spaying is not a mutilation or any other act of barbarism. On the contrary, neutering a cat is good for his well-being. It stops its fighting behavior, which is known to be a source of important injuries that can be potentially fatal.

At the same time, runaways are avoided. They can become dangerous for the animal which risks to disappear or to have accidents. Since the kitty will no longer be worked on by its hormones, it will enjoy a more balanced life. And to prevent your cat from gaining weight (another very persistent misconception), all you have to do is provide him with an adapted diet, based on special kibbles.

Depression in cats: symptoms and solutions

Depression is a very harmful disease that, unfortunately, does not only affect humans. Indeed, this mood disorder can, among other things, affect cats.

Although we may think that our cat is going through a bad period with a little "slack" and that it will pass, it is not so. Depression in cats is just as serious as in humans, or even more so, since in more than half of the cases it leads to the death of the cat, which no longer has a taste for life and therefore stops fighting to live.

Since there are almost no drug treatments for depression, it is very important to recognize the symptoms of depression in our feline friends, so that we can remedy it in time, because the more advanced the stage of depression, the more difficult it is to restore your cat's will to live.

Depression in cats: recognizing the symptoms

A cat's depressive state is rather difficult to detect, as the symptoms can be the same as those of a more "benign" illness. However, the same physical and behavioral problems are often found in cats with depression:

• almost constant inactivity: the main change in the behavior of a cat with depression is that it experiences extreme inactivity. Indeed, the cat becomes totally apathetic, nothing stimulates or motivates it anymore. While this may sound like a simple laziness, it is actually one of the main signs of depression.
• Insomnia: Although a depressed cat may do little or no physical activity, it will not spend all its time sleeping. On the contrary, he may suffer from insomnia, which doesn't help his mood disorder.
• Loss of appetite: Even if your cat used to be a piggy eater, it's entirely possible that he'll stop eating partially or even completely if he's suffering from depression, which is obviously extremely serious and requires immediate veterinary attention (whether it's from depression or not).
• pooping anywhere: A depressed cat can be completely unrestrained. Even if he was previously totally clean, in a depressed state, he can be led to let himself go anywhere. It's important to know that for a cat, relieving itself in a litter box is not just a symbol of a toilet. Scratching in the litter box, and therefore burying its needs, is a natural survival reflex, which consists of camouflaging its tracks and its smell to protect itself from potential predators. A cat suffering from depression may no longer have a survival reflex, and thus will no longer feel the need to go to the litter box.
• A greasy coat and bad odors: a cat is normally a very clean animal, but in a depressed state, it may totally lose the reflex to wash itself. His hair will become greasy, which will be accentuated by his psychological state, and he will consequently give off a strong odor, even if you try to wash him. This lack of hygiene can lead to skin irritations like eczema.
• Behavioral problems: It is not uncommon for a cat with depression to develop behavioral problems. In most cases, the cat will become aggressive towards everyone, even its owners.

If you notice even one of these symptoms, it is extremely important to see your veterinarian as soon as possible so that he or she can make a diagnosis. It may be something else entirely, and if it is, so much the better, but with feline depression, prevention is better than cure.

Causes of cat depression

If your cat has one or more of the above symptoms, and the veterinarian has finally diagnosed depression, it is important to determine the cause, so that you can react in the best possible way, and especially to learn a lesson for the future if ever the origin of this depression comes from its environment.

Determining the cause of a cat's depression is not always easy, because the origins can be diverse. However, here is a list of the main causes of depression in cats:

• a weaning too young: a kitten taken away too early from its mother can find itself lost in a world it has not yet had time to apprehend. He will feel constantly in a weak position, which can push him to depression. We will never say it enough, a kitten is weaned at the age of three months and not before!
• a feeling of abandonment: a cat that has been abandoned by masters to whom it was attached can fall into a deep depression, even if it is later adopted by a loving family. This feeling can also be felt when his owners are not present enough for him. The cat will end up closing in on itself, and fall into depression.
• a sudden change in the environment: it is well known that cats are animals that are very attached to their habits and routine, but sometimes too much. A cat that undergoes a sudden move can become depressed, as it will lose all its bearings and feel vulnerable.
• Loss of a loved one: A cat can be very attached to another living being. This can be its owner, of course, but it can also be another animal with whom it shared its daily life for a long time: a fellow cat or an animal of another breed. The death of a loved one can therefore strongly affect a cat, and cause it to become depressed.
• Boredom: this problem particularly affects cats living in apartments, and is often related to the feeling of abandonment from a master too little present. It is necessary to realize that as humans, we can go out as much as we want, and have something to occupy us at home (movies, books, etc.) but cats do not have this freedom. So we must make sure that we are present for our feline companions, and if you are away a lot, try to arrange your apartment so that it is fun for your cat.

Solutions to bring a cat out of its depressed state

A cat with depression is not automatically condemned, but unfortunately, it will be very difficult to get him out of it. The first thing to do is to identify the cause of the depression and act on it.

In most cases, you, as the owner, will have to give him back his zest for life. Whether it's after an abandonment, a death or a sudden move, it's up to you to stimulate your cat. Unlimited cuddling and playing (even if it doesn't respond right away).

If your cat has fallen into a depression because it was too bored, review the layout of your apartment, build paths and perches so that it can live in a real play area.

You will have to do everything to make your cat feel like living again, and this should be your priority, even if it means taking a vacation. Don't forget that this disease is fatal, and that only you can cure it.

If, despite all this, your cat's condition does not improve, the best thing to do is to call a behaviorist, a specialist in cat behavior disorders.

Antidepressants also exist, but as for humans, these medications will only help, but will not cure your cat's moodiness. It will be up to you to do the work.

Preventing depression in cats

As mentioned above, with depression, prevention is better than cure. And fortunately, it's quite possible.

First of all, on a daily basis, don't forget that your cat needs attention, caresses and cuddles, but it will also need to be stimulated. So don't hesitate to make him play daily, throw him a ball, wave a string in front of his nose, it doesn't matter as long as he feels loved, surrounded and alive.

In case of a more serious event (death, abandonment, etc.), don't wait until his psychological state is at its worst to act. Be there for him, cuddle him and show him that he is not alone, that he is loved.

Why is my cat always hungry?

If your cat has just emptied its bowl and is still asking for food, you need to know the reason. Generally, this animal is able to regulate its feeding. If your cat is always hungry, something is wrong. Here are some possible solutions.

The cat's diet is not of good quality

Whether it's a kitten in the weaning phase, a nursing cat or an adult cat, or even an older cat, the animal must receive a diet capable of meeting its needs. It must therefore be of very good quality. However, low quality foods are rich in fat and do not meet the animal's nutritional needs. Moreover, they are too quickly metabolized. The animal always wants to eat because it is also important to know that these poor quality foods are not satiating.

If the cat is still hungry, you can try alternating the types of food by giving him kibble (dry food) and wet food. Don't hesitate to ask your veterinarian for advice on your cat's needs and on which brands to choose.

Digestive parasites in cats

When intestinal worms colonize a cat's intestine, it can have a long-term impact on its health. A hard, swollen belly can be a sign, as can a sudden excessive appetite. A visit to the veterinarian is necessary to make a diagnosis.

Don't wait until the cat has worms before taking action. It is better to opt for prevention. That's why it's usually recommended to deworm your cat two to four times a year to prevent it from getting intestinal worms.

Hyperthyroidism in cats

This condition is characterized by an overproduction of hormones by the thyroid gland. This causes an increase in basal metabolic rate. One of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism is polyphagia. This is characterized by excessive eating behavior and the absence of the feeling of fullness. The cat eats a lot because it is always hungry.

Feline diabetes

As with hyperthyroidism, feline diabetes can result in either a loss of appetite or sometimes an increase in appetite. In the latter case, the animal eats much more than before and yet loses weight. He is tired, his coat is dull, he drinks a lot and he urinates more. These are signs that should alert the owner. They justify a consultation.

Stress in the small feline

Cats are very sensitive to stress. The slightest change in its habits - such as a change in feeding times - can cause it to eat more because it's afraid of running out. This is quite common in small felines that are fed twice daily. The pet is more reassured if it knows that a bowl of kibble is available. In case of food anxiety, you can feed him 4 to 6 times a day, but not much at a time so as not to exceed the daily ration he needs.

Be careful, for some kittens the need to eat can even become compulsive. These cats then eat too much and then vomit. To avoid this type of behavior, you must start by identifying the origin of the stress or anxiety in your cat. It can be a change of environment (moving), the arrival of a new child in the home, the presence of friends who come to spend a few days of vacation at the house or simply a new cohabitation with another pet (congeneric or not)... So many unique situations that disturb the cat.

Finally, it is also necessary to make sure that the cat is not sick, because it is not rare that a physical suffering can cause stress. Of course, it is necessary to consult the veterinarian without delay if one has the slightest doubt.

Boredom in cats

In cats, inactivity can lead to depression. This is exactly the same as in humans. And the more bored they are, the more depressed they become. So they try to compensate by eating more. This is an attitude that can be observed in cats locked up in a house or an apartment throughout the day in the absence of their masters.

Let's not forget that cats need stimulation on a daily basis. Playing can help keep them from getting bored, but their favorite activity is hunting. This is only possible if the little feline has access to the outdoors. A cat flap can be installed so that he can go out and in as he pleases. Sedentary life is the enemy of cats and exposes them to the risk of becoming overweight. As soon as he can, his owner should take more time each day to play with his little companion and encourage him to go out in the garden.

Finally, if the cat is constantly begging for food and this is not due to any of the above problems, it may simply be to get the owner's attention. The best thing to do in this case is to simply ignore it. As long as he has eaten and his food is of good quality, there is no reason to give him more than he needs. This behavior can improve in a few months. If not, you can turn to a veterinary behaviorist.