So, you found a stray kitten … but the next step isn’t simply taking him home with you. What do you feed a stray kitten? Where should you take stray kittens if you can’t care for them yourself? And how do you determine if the kitties are in fact strays in the first place?

Investigate — does the stray kitten have a mother?

Helping orphaned kittens will first require some detective work. One of the biggest mistakes people make when finding stray kittens is taking them away from their mother. Neonatal kittens are still nursing and need to be fed frequently, so they should be kept with their mother, if possible.

Here’s how to assess the situation:

1. Are the kittens sleeping comfortably? The mother is probably coming back.
2. When you recheck on them, are any of them missing? The mother is moving them.
3. If they’re often found sleeping, then the mother is caring for them.
4. To be absolutely sure, sprinkle some flour around where the kittens are located and look for paw prints upon your return. If the mother is in the picture, let them be. In approximately eight weeks, go back and TNR (trap/neuter/return) the whole family.

What to do if the stray kitten does not have a mother

If you have determined the stray kitten (or kittens!) does not have a mother, his greatest chance for survival begins with you. The first thing you’ll need to do is capture the stray kitten. For some kittens, this is as easy as reaching out and scooping them up. For others, you may need to contact a local animal society or shelter to obtain the humane traps often used in TNR. Simply place the trap out with some food inside, and wait nearby. The kitten should wander in and trigger the trap to close its door. Kittens do not get hurt in the process!

Next, get the stray kitten to a veterinarian for a checkup ASAP. If the vet’s office is closed, you’ll have to start his care right away. Even if you can’t foster a stray kitten long term, you’ll be a lifeline during this first phase of rescue.

If you cannot foster the stray kitten for any amount of time, find a no-kill animal shelter. The No Kill Network has a list of organizations by state, and Adopt-A-Pet lists cat rescues.

Containing and monitoring the formerly stray kitten is key to his health and well-being. A dog crate is perfect. To keep him toasty, place a covered heating pad in his crate and keep the room temperature at 75 degrees.  The heating pad should cover only half the crate so he can get away from it. Watch for panting — you don’t want him to get overheated either. A cold or limp kitten indicates a medical emergency.

Feeding schedule for kittens by weight and age

Determining the age of the stray kitten right away is imperative. His age will mandate what he’ll eat as well as how much and how often.

Using a postal scale, here’s a quick guide:

• Under 1 week old: kitten weighs less than 4 ounces. Feed formula: every two to three hours.
• 7 to 10 days old: kitten weighs 4 to 6 ounces. Feed formula: every two to three hours.
• 10 to 14 days old: kitten weighs 6 to 8 ounces. Feed formula: every three hours.
• 14 to 21 days old: kitten weighs 8 to 12 ounces. Feed formula: every four hours.
• 4 to 5 weeks old: kitten weighs 12 ounces to 1 pound. Feed mix of gruel/formula/kitten kibble: every four hours.
• 6 to 7 weeks old: kitten weighs 1 pound to 1 pound and 8 ounces. Feed mix of kitten kibble and wet food four times a day.
• 8 weeks old: kitten weighs one and a half to 2 pounds. Fully weaned.

Pro tips for proper kitten care

Kitties start weaning at a month old. Until then, he’ll need to be bottle-fed kitten formula. In a pinch, you can use goat milk but only for a short time.

Pet supply stores and many grocery stores will have all you’ll need:

• Kitten formula
• Bottles
• Rubber nipples
• Cleaning supplies

Only bottle-feed the kitten with his belly touching the table (never while on his back). Experts recommend letting the kitten eat the warmed-up formula until he’s full. It usually takes less than 15 minutes.

Kittens will need help eliminating urine and feces until they are approximately a month old. After each feeding, use a warm, damp washcloth to gently rub his anus until he goes. You can introduce a litter box filled with non-clumping litter at 3 weeks old. 

Find a home for the stray kitten

At 8 weeks old, the kitten is ready to be spayed or neutered and placed into a loving home. There are many ways to find the stray kitten a home — check out bestfriends.org for a guide of best practices. Unless, of course, he or she is already home. Kittens are, after all, irresistible!

Thumbnail: Photography ©ConstantinCornel | Thinkstock. 

Read Next:

• So a Stray Cat Has Adopted You — Now What?
• How to Adopt a Stray Cat: Do’s and Don’ts

The post Found a Stray Kitten? Here’s What to Do by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Grab them by the scruff of the neck!” While it’s an antiquated quip, there are still some folks who believe that scruffing a cat is a proper feline-handling skill. Why this myth is still believed as true is perplexing — there are much better and more humane ways to handle your cat. The experts agree that scruffing a cat is a terrible practice that shouldn’t be the “go-to” method for restraining any feline.

What is scruffing a cat?

Scruffing a cat is when you take the skin on the back of your cat’s neck (called the scruff) into your hand and hold it. The skin is looser in that area, and some people wrongfully use the scruff as a handle. Dr. Kelly C. Ballantyne, Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, explains why scruffing a cat is still in use: “Scruffing may cause some cats to become immobile, which may allow veterinarians (and owners) to get things done without struggling with the cat, such as nail trims or medication administration.”

Another possible reason folks continue to perpetuate this mistaken way of interacting with cats is because they think they’re mimicking what a mother cat does. “Cat owners may also be under the impression that scruffing is a natural way in which cats reprimand each other, but this isn’t true,” Dr. Ballantyne says. “While mother cats carry their kittens by the scruff, this is to move them from one spot to another when they are very young and isn’t a form of discipline.”

“Scruffing can be uncomfortable as well as frightening,” Dr. Ballantyne says. “And while scruffing may temporarily immobilize some cats, it’s not effective for all cats. If the cat is frightened during the experience, he may change strategies in order to get out of the situation, such as by swatting, scratching or biting.”

How to restrain a cat without scruffing

There are many ways to safely restrain a cat that don’t involve scruffing. Dr. Margaret Gruen, PhD, Duke University, says, “There has been a lot of work around low-stress and fear-free handling of cats. Allowing them the use of at least one limb and providing distractions (like delicious foods) can be helpful when having to restrain cats. Most cats do well with a ‘less-is-more type’ of handling. Scruffing and stretching a cat only serves to make them have negative associations with the experience and become progressively worse. Scruffing is often done as a shortcut, but in the long run, it has costs for both the cat’s welfare and the owner’s willingness to bring their cats to the vet.”

Dr. Ballantyne recommends using a handy, everyday tool, like a towel. “Some of the most common options include allowing the cat to hide his or her head under a towel or blanket or gently wrapping the cat’s body in a towel. It’s important that the towel provides steady, even pressure but not be so tight that it impairs the cat’s ability to breathe.”

While Dr. Ballantyne’s advice might sound technical, you’ve probably already seen this technique in action. The social media meme featuring a “burrito cat” is actually a cat who is being restrained and obviously pleased with the process. Dr. Katherine Houpt, VMD, PhD, Diplomate – American College of Veterinary Behaviorists James Law Professor of Behavior Medicine, emeritus, harkens it back to feeling safe a la Temple Grandin. Grandin observed that animals who were gently contained on all sides were comforted by the feeling. It’s like swaddling a baby, and there are products on the market today that do just that, like Thundershirts.

If you must restrain your cat — easy does it

Forcing a cat to do something he doesn’t want to do will most likely not end well. If you’ve got to restrain your cat, and you’re using the burrito method, stop doing it if his resistance escalates. Let him calm down, and try again after he’s settled. For routine procedures like medicating or nail trimming, waiting an hour or so can make the whole process go smoother. Whatever you do, scruffing a cat will make matters much worse!

Thumbnail: Photography ©Milkos | Thinkstock. 

Read more about caring for cats on Catster.com:

• How Long Do Cats Live? Facts About the Average Cat Lifespan
• Should You Bathe a Cat? What to Know About Cat Baths
• Mobile Vet Care — 4 Advantages and 1 Drawback

The post Scruffing a Cat: Risks & Safety Advice by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Watching cats is a window into an incredibly mysterious world. My household is always abuzz with my cats’ antics. It’s often loud with the smashing and crashing of rambunctious play — there goes a vase! I knew I should have moved the lamp. But during their quieter moments, things get really interesting. My two big toms walk around the house rubbing their faces on doorways, the corner of the couch, coffee table legs, and seemingly every item they can reach. They especially take delight in rubbing their faces against my patient senior dog. This cat face rubbing also extends to me. My hands when I’m writing, my face when we’re chilling and my feet when I’m in bed. So, let’s find out — why do cats rub their faces on you and what’s the difference between rubbing their faces on your face and the end table?

The 3 Main Reasons Cat Rub Their Faces On You

1. Cats rub their faces on you for scent marking.

When it comes to the question, “Why do cats rub their faces on you,” let’s get one thing straight — cats are not rubbing their faces on things because they are itchy. According to Dr. Stephanie Borns-Weil, DVM, in the Tufts University, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine blog, the cats are using the glands in their faces to leave scent markings. She explains that there are glands in their chins, ears, sides and necks. These glands are activated when cats rub their faces on objects. This behavior is called headbutting or bunting and it’s a form of cat communication.

Dr. Nicholas Dodman, BVMS, Professor Emeritus at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, echoes this sentiment in his article, The Art of Bunting. He states that cats are communicating to other cats when they leave a scent mark via rubbing that contains feline facial pheromones. Essentially, the cats are marking objects with a scent that lets other cats know they were here. In case anyone was wondering. It’s part of claiming their territory — and their territory extends to you! Or does it?

2. Cat face rubbing all started in the wild.

Cats in the wild needed to communicate to survive. In the book, Neurobiology of Chemical Communication by Mousumi Poddar-Sarkar and Ratan Lal Brahmachary, the authors state that the subject of chemical signaling, with pheromones being one aspect, is wide ranging in big cats. It’s believed the head bunting phenomenon evolved to help cats attract mates. When leaving a pheromone calling card, the cat is saying, “Smell my superior virility!” It’s also reported that big cats often have overlapping territories, so it could also be saying, “I’m a big boy, don’t mess with me.”

The scientific report, Comparative Analysis of the Domestic Cat Genome Reveals Genetic Signatures Underlying Feline Biology and Domestication, states there is strong evidence supporting the magnitude of cats’ reliance on pheromones for sociochemical communication. Which makes sense, since many big cats have territories that butt up to each other and sometimes overlap. What’s going on with each member of the terrain could mean the difference between life and death. Your cat rubbing his face on surfaces is rooted in some serious survival tactics!

Christian Nordqvist explains in an article from Medical News Today that pheromones act as behavior-altering agents. And it’s not just sexual (although the tigers in love with Calvin Klein’s Obsession for Men may disagree). The behaviors they can trigger include: bonding, alarm, “the food’s this way,” stay away and sexual arousal. That’s a lot of lifesaving information if you’re a cat navigating Neolithic landscapes.

3. Cats rub their faces to show their affection.

While your cats are busy rubbing their faces on the inanimate objects of your home with the purpose of declaring it their property, are they really counting you as part of the inventory? There are plenty of elusive ways that cats show their affection. To the untrained eye, a lot of cat behaviors seem quirky. However, a lot of their actions are their way of displaying how much they love you. Cats actually rub their faces on you as a way of showing their love. It’s a confusing love message, but it is a message indeed.

Pam Johnson-Bennett, cat behaviorist and author, states in her blog, Cat Behavior Associates, that bunting behavior is exclusive with bonding, socializing and comforting. When your cat rubs his face on you, he’s scenting you with affection. Cats will also headbutt each other. She further explains that cat headbutting or bunting is also used to seek attention. If your cat hits you with his head and then turns it down and to the side, he could be asking for a scratch about the ears, neck and face. And there’s a good reason for that — when massaging and scratching around that area you are helping to release endorphins.

The fact is, the more your cat rubs his face on you, the more he’s telling you that he loves you. Every cat face rub translates to less of “Be Mine,” and more of “You’re Mine!”

Top photograph: Photography ©CasarsaGuru | E+ / Getty Images.

Read Next: Why Do Cats Knead? Explaining Cat Kneading, a Quirky Cat Behavior

The post Why Do Cats Rub Their Faces on You? 3 Main Reasons by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Some cats are as light as 5 pounds, while others tip the scale at closer to 20! Cats come in almost as many sizes and shapes as they do colors. From the svelte Sphynx and Siamese to the seemingly supersized Maine Coon and Ragdoll — all little kittens, with proper nutrition, will grow into their big personalities soon enough. But have you ever wondered — when do cats stop growing? Let’s find out!

When Do Cats Stop Growing?

Many new cat parents ask the burning question: “When do cats stop growing?” Kittens grow rapidly until 6 months old. Between 6 months to 12 months is when kittens stop growing in size.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that cats over a year old will stop growing altogether. A cat who is mostly sedentary and on a poor diet, or has access to too much food throughout the day, can continue to pack on fat. While an obese cat may look cute all roly-poly, obesity is in fact a very unhealthy condition for any feline.

How Big Will My Cat Get?

Another question associated with, “When do cats stop growing?” is, “How big will my cat get?” The average domestic feline is about 10 pounds, give or take a few pounds. The males of the largest cat breed, the Maine Coon, can weigh in at around 20 pounds. Cats are not like dogs in many aspects, and there isn’t a correlation between your cat’s paw size and his height and weight. Bigger paws don’t really mean a bigger cat. How big your cat will get is determined by genetics. There are 19 pairs of chromosomes that control everything from hair length, coat color, and, yes, size!

While your kitten’s parents are the best indicator of how big your cat will get, sex can also be a factor. Males are usually bigger than females, and the duration of their growth spurts can last longer.

Full-sized and Miniature-sized Outliers

Of course, there are exceptions to everything, including exceptions to the answers to “When do cats stop growing?” According to the Maine Coon Fancy, this breed of cat takes up to 5 years to reach full size. And their full size is noteworthy: a Maine Coon cat named Stewie held the Guinness Book of World Record’s record for the longest cat at 48.5 inches stretched out. Sadly, Stewie passed away in 2013, but his mark on the world remains.

On the other side of the spectrum, cats with dwarfism can be abnormally small. Dwarf cats are the Lilliputians of the feline world (there are two different causes: genetic mutation and pituitary gland malfunction). A Munchkin cat named Liliput holds the Guinness Book of World Record’s record for the shortest cat. Kittens with dwarfism will develop more slowly than healthy cats.

When Do Kittens Stop Growing?

Another common question with, “When do cats stop growing?” is, “When do kittens stop growing?” Kittens come into this world with one goal: to grow! And quickly! Newborn kittens require round-the-clock feeding, and their spikes in weight gain reflect all that nutritious sustenance.

Kittens typically grow eight times their size in just about 8 weeks:

• Under 1 week old: kitten weighs less than 4 ounces.
• 7 to 10 days old: kitten weighs 4 to 6 ounces.
• 10 to 14 days old: kitten weighs 6 to 8 ounces.
• 14 to 21 days old: kitten weighs 8 to 12 ounces.
• 4 to 5 weeks old: kitten weighs 12 ounces to 1 pound.
• 6 to 7 weeks old: kitten weighs 1 pound to 1 pound and 8 ounces.
• 8 weeks old: kitten weighs 1 and a half to 2 pounds.
• 12 weeks old: kitten weighs 3 pounds to 5 and a half pounds.
• 16 weeks old: kitten weighs approximately 5 and a half pounds to 7 and a half pounds.
• 6 months to 1 year old: approximately 8 pounds to 15 pounds.

The Bottom Line

While kittens will stop growing at about 1 year old, it’s important to remember that most kittens will look like an adult at 6 months old. For folks considering adoption, maybe a kitten isn’t the best fit for their home (see some benefits of adopting an older cat here). That adorable little fluff ball will only boast a juvenile appearance for a very short time. He’ll look like an adult cat before he hits his first birthday.

Of course, feeding your cat a healthy diet, always providing a freshwater source, and enriching his environment with plenty of exercise, places to climb, and hidey holes to explore will ensure he not only grows big and strong but is the happiest and healthiest he could be!

Thumbnail: Photography © jakubzak | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Read more about kittens on Catster.com:

• Kitten Teething: 5 Tips to Stop Kitten Biting
• When Do Kittens’ Eyes Change Color?
• How to Make a Kitten Poop

The post When Do Cats Stop Growing & Reach Their Full Size? Facts & FAQ by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Of the many flora and fauna that sport the color of money, few are as intriguing as our feline friends. There’s something so mystifying about cats with green eyes! Let’s find out more about these beautiful creatures with the verdant-hued peepers.

In the beginning …

All cats begin life with their eyes sealed shut. They live in a world of darkness for the first week to ten days of life. The transition from somewhat to fully opened takes about two weeks. When kittens first open their eyes, they are blue. Usually, at about 6 weeks old, cats’ eye color begins to change. By 6 months old, their eyes should be their true color. They may stay a variant of blue, turn a coppery tone, any shade of yellow, and of course, land on the spectrum of green.

What determines cat eye color?

The color of a cat’s eyes has to do with a few factors within the iris. Basically it’s all cellular: melanin and melanocyte activity. The color is determined by two variables: hue and intensity. The more melanin, the more intense the color. Melanocytes, also found in the iris, control the color (the more there is, the darker the eyes will be).

One interesting facet regarding the variety of colors that cat’s eyes possess comes from the most unlikely of sources: humans. That’s right; somewhere in the domestication process of kitties sprang a rainbow-like range of eye colors. According to Juan J. Negro, M. Carmen Blázquez and Ismael Galván, in their abstract, Intraspecific eye color variability in birds and mammals: a recent evolutionary event exclusive to humans and domestic animals, most wild animals have a very limited eye color available within a species.  And, of course, domestication brings along selective breeding and, with it, a broader range of cat coloration – including coats and eyes.

Green, green were her eyes

In people, only about 2% of the population are believed to have green eyes. This is due to the fact that there is less melanin mixing with pigment-producing pheomelanin.

Some of the most famous cats on the internet boast a green eye. Odd-eyed cats, aka cats with two different eye colors, often sport a green eye and a blue eye, like Venus, the two-faced cat. Alos also has bi-colored eyes, which is scientifically known as Heterochromia Iridis. This is not to be confused with Sectoral Heterochromia, which is when the iris has different colors within the same iris.

The internet also has some darlings with two green eyes:

• Lil Bub (pale hunter green)
• Cole (of Cole and Marmalade)
• Hamilton the Hipster Cat
• Monty the Cat

And an honorable mention for popularity and stunning green eyes is Morris the Cat – the celebrity hawker of 9 Lives cat food, who over the years has been a series of rescued orange tabbies!

Green-eyed cat breeds

While many mixed-breed house cats have green eyes, they are the either the conformation standard for some standout felines or one of a few accepted standards.

• Abyssinian (a few colors, including a range of greens)
• Egyptian Mau (gooseberry)
• Havana Brown (emerald)
• Norwegian Forest Cat (anywhere from a mossy tint to deep pine)
• Russian Blue (vivid green)
• Sphynx (a variety of colors, including pale green to hunter green)
• Turkish Angora (a few colors, including a variety of sea foam greens to emerald)

Make mine a rescue

Of all the types of cats with green eyes, among the most cherished are rescue cats! As evidenced by the number of rescue kitties who are in the hallowed celebrity circle, there are many gorgeous kitties with green eyes ready to go home at your local shelter.

“Our black cats with especially green eyes usually go home pretty quickly,” shares Gabby Stroup, shelter manager at North Fork Animal Welfare League. “A lot of times the black cats’ bodies and coats look really similar, so the shelter staff identify them by their eye color. Even when they have green eyes, no two cats have the same colored eyes.”

Amy is the perfect example. Her eyes are not just green, but one is more chartreuse and the other is more teal-mint!

Whether you’re looking for a purebred or a rescue, a cat with green eyes will melt your heart and make every day a bit brighter – just like their eyes do!

The post Green Eyed Cats: Everything You Want to Know by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

You’re enjoying an afternoon reading on your sofa as your cat soaks up some rays on a sunny spot on the rug. When suddenly, there’s a cacophony from his direction usually accompanied by convulsions. The whole scenario can seem violent and dangerous initially but most of the time it’s fairly benign. It’s also a familiar noise that still brings cat parents running toward the sound like the very first time they heard it – your cat getting ready to vomit. That noise you hear is gagging – so yes, cats have a gag reflex. Let’s find out what creates cat gagging and what can you do about it.

Cat gagging

Cats are so well-adapted for survival that even their gag reflex is finely tuned. The gag reflex as per Merriam Webster: (noun) reflex contraction of the muscles of the throat caused especially by stimulation (as by touch) of the pharynx. The ability to quickly reject something they just ingested – especially something harmful that has entered their system– is all part of their evolutionary advantage. Occasionally, it’s normal for a healthy cat to gag. Usually it’s followed by vomiting but not always.

Gagging isn’t coughing (which has to do with the lungs) or sneezing (aka feline sternutation which has to do with the nasal passages) – although the sounds can seem similar across species. So, what is it exactly? Technically, they’re physical responses to different cranial nerve stimuli. A cat will gag when something touches his larynx. It is often followed by swallowing and neck extension, and a widening of his mouth. The entire episode is to eject something – either real or perceived (something tickled his throat!).

Gagging could be a pointer to danger

While gagging and vomiting are somewhat common occurrences, if it happens too frequently, it’s a cause for alarm. Richard Goldstein, DVM, and a professor at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, warns on the university’s website that lots of cats vomit from time to time, but he doesn’t believe that cat parents should let it go more than once per week without a trip to the vet.

Many times, hairballs are the culprit for cat gagging. Hairballs form as cats groom themselves — the tried- -and-true tongue bath. By licking themselves, cats are removing dander and debris, and often, a lot of hair. Most of the hair they’ve ingested gets passed through the digestive system unnoticed. But there are times when the hair gets stuck in the stomach. This attracts more hair to it and a hairball forms. Remember cats are good at ejecting anything harmful – and gagging begins. The hairball is usually vomited out, an unsavory clump of mostly hair, bile and mucus.

Sometimes gagging can occur due to other potentially dangerous objects:

• String
• Fishing line
• Tinsel
• Anything toxic
• Bones
• Anything foreign

What to do in an emergency

“The most important thing to do when you see your cat gagging repeatedly is to check his airway,” says Dr. Will Spanbock of Good Ground Animal Hospital in Hampton Bays, New York. “Gently draw his tongue forward and check with a light to see anything foreign. If see something that looks long, like a string, do not pull it out – get your cat to the vet immediately!”

Whether or not you are able to identify anything, if your cat has been excessively gagging, a trip to the vet is required as soon as possible.

If your cat does a lot of gagging (followed by puking up those pesky hairballs), there are a few preventives and remedies available. Brushing and bathing your cat regularly is a good start. A healthy diet, plenty of fresh water and supplements are helpful. And, your cat will like this one – so is catnip!

The South Boston Animal Hospital recommends the following:

• Feed your cat oils and butters
• Give your cat hairball gel
• Give your cat anti-hairball treats (available at pet supply stores)

Since cats can’t talk to you and tell you what’s wrong, your cat gagging can be an indicator of something amiss with his health. Too frequently can be an issue – get him checked out if it persists.

About the author:

Denise LeBeau is a writer, editor and photographer with almost 20 years of experience of creating content for animal-related issues, endeavors and events. She worked at Best Friends Animal Society for 12 years where she had two columns in the Best Friends Magazine, and held multiple content creation roles including web managing editor and outreach campaign editor. Denise has been an ongoing contributor to Catster since 2014, writing for the magazine and website. The self-professed poet laureate of the pet set is currently the manager of development for an animal welfare agency, where she works with a team to create content across media platforms. She lives in Hampton Bays with her two rescue Siamese mixes – Flipper and Slayer, and her LBD (little brown dog), Zephyrella.

Learn more common health issues like gagging on www.catster.com:

• Common Cat Health Problems: What You Need to Know
• Is Your Cat Coughing? Here’s What’s Going On
• Why Do Cats Get Hairballs and Are They Normal?

The post Do Cats Have a Gag Reflex? Facts, FAQ, & What the Science Tells Us by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Although relatively rare, a cat stroke is one of the most serious medical issues facing felines today. A stroke is when the blood flow to the brain is obstructed. Interruption of blood to the brain quickly results in damaged tissue. Since the brain is the command center for all of a cat’s bodily functions, any damage is dangerous. Being able to recognize the symptoms, get a diagnosis and start treatments for a cat who is having or may have had a stroke is critical for his health. Of course, preventing a cat stroke is worth a pound of cure!

Symptoms of a cat stroke

Because your cat’s quality of life hangs in the balance, identifying the possibility of a cat stroke is crucial. The American Veterinary Medical Association lists 13 medical emergencies that require immediate veterinary care.

Of them, four could be signs of a cat stroke:

1. Seizures and/or staggering
2. Obvious signs of pain or extreme anxiety
3. Unconsciousness
4. Refusal to drink for 24 hours or more

Additional cat stroke symptoms include:

1. Ambulatory issues/walking in circle patterns
2. Head tilt
3. Overall weakness
4. Change in eye movements/uneven pupils
5. Vomiting
6. Not eating

If you see any of these signs in your cat, get him to your veterinarian right away! While the symptoms are not necessarily a 100 percent indication that your cat has had a stroke, they all require an immediate medical exam.

Types & causes of a cat stroke

A stroke is caused by an obstruction of blood flow that comes in three variations:

1. A thrombotic stroke is when a blood clot forms in an artery to the brain
2. An embolic stroke is when a blood clot forms elsewhere and gets stuck in the bloodstream supplying blood to the brain
3. Hemorrhagic stroke is when a blood vessel in the brain leaks

Abnormalities to blood flow (i.e. the creation of blood clots or a ruptured blood vessel) are generally considered indications of an underlying issue. The reason your cat can seem fine one minute and in a dire emergency the next is because while the underlying issue causing the blood clot may have been brewing unbeknownst to you, the obstruction itself can manifest quickly.

Here are some main causes of blood clots/blood vessel ruptures:

1. Thyroid issues
2. Kidney issues
3. Diabetes
4. Traumatic injuries
5. Heart conditions
6. High blood pressure
7. Brain lesions

High blood pressure is a common culprit because it causes cumulative damage to the arteries. Left untreated, over time it can weaken them and also create an environment where blood clots are more easily formed.

Seek immediate treatment for a cat stroke

When it comes to a cat stroke, immediate oxygen therapy can be required. The cat may have to spend time in the Intensive Care Unit while his vital signs are monitored. Making an accurate diagnosis usually involves an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT scan. Very often, medications are required. The types of medicine used in treating strokes are dependent on the issue that caused the stroke to begin with, in addition to oft-prescribed anti-inflammatory medication.

Ongoing in-home treatments often include keeping the cat hydrated with subcutaneous fluids and careful observation.

Primary prevention of a cat stroke

The best method to keep your cat safe from blood clots, heart issues and ultimately, avoiding a stroke is prevention. Keeping your cat in tiptop shape mitigates the chances of stroke-creating medical conditions to arise.

Your cat’s overall health and overall wellbeing can be maintained using a multi-pronged strategy:

1. Yearly medical exams
2. Immediate trip to the vet at the first detection of behavioral/physical abnormality
3. Proper diet
4. Physical activity
5. Limiting environmental stressors

While many cats will recover to a solid quality of life in about two weeks following a minor stroke, a cat stroke should be avoided as much as possible. The chances of developing secondary epilepsy after a stroke are greatly increased and no pet parent wants to hear that news!

Keep your paw on the pulse of your kitty’s overall health through regular veterinary check-ups, seeking medical attention in case of any abnormalities involving his physical/behavioral condition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your kitty goes a long way toward greatly decreasing the chances that he will develop any untimely life-threatening issues, especially a stroke.

Read more about cat health and care on Catster.com:

• Diabetes in Cats — Who’s at Risk, Symptoms & How to Treat It
• When Do Kittens Open Their Eyes?
• Snake Bites on Cats: What to Know and What to Do

Thumbnail: Photography ©tverkhovinets | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

The post Cat Strokes: Prevention, Signs and Treatment by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

One of the best ways to keep tabs on your tabby’s health is when cleaning the litter box. Taking a second to see if what you’re scooping looks “normal” can mitigate medical issues. A fairly common occurrence during the lifetime of even the healthiest cat is some form of diarrhea. If found, it’s natural to assume your cat has an upset tummy. But, not so fast! The cause of the loose stool could be colitis. “Colitis, that sounds serious,” is what most people think. Not so fast again! Colitis in cats happens for a variety of reasons, some more serious, some less so. Let’s get to the bottom of the messy substance coming out of your cat’s bottom by exploring what’s in store for cats with colitis.

First, what is colitis?

Before we pinpoint colitis in cats, let’s define colitis. You know those vague pharmaceutical commercials where the person is smiling and walking in one scene and then dashing off to the nearest public toilet in the next? Or, they can’t go to their son’s graduation because of something that has to do with the bathroom? Most often, these commercials are hawking colitis medications.

Colitis is the term for inflammation of the colon. The colon is the last part of the digestive tract, and is also known as the large intestine. This is where a lot of the latest-health-buzz “good” bacteria reside. It’s also where an array of disturbances can cause inflammation. Your cat can’t verbally tell you he has colitis, but he’ll show you. While your cat may not be missing important milestones, he is suffering and you can fix it!

Colitis in cats: a sticky situation

A healthy cat poop is somewhat hard and brown, like a Tootsie Roll. But, if your cat’s poop looks abnormal — further inspect. You kitty’s poop could have blood in it, it could be changing with age, or it could be diarrhea due to a spectrum of variables.

The calling card of colitis in cats is a loose or mostly wet stool containing mucus and sometimes blood. Other physical symptoms of colitis in cats include flatulence and a sudden need to poop.

Cats can unexpectedly manifest acute colitis — which is a short-term condition. They can also be prone to getting chronic colitis that lasts for months. Of course, any unusual symptoms that last more than a day should be checked by your veterinarian. The good news about colitis in cats is that it often clears up on its own, can be easily be treated with medication or managed successfully — but you need to know what’s causing it first.

Common causes of colitis in cats

Because it’s a term that’s really describing the symptom, it’s important to get to the root cause of colitis in cats.

Here’s what’s most likely causing colitis in cats: 

1. Stress and anxiety
2. Parasites
3. An allergic reaction or intolerance to food or medication (like antibiotics)
4. An underlying illness (such as pancreatitis, feline leukemia aka FeLV, feline immunodeficiency virus aka FIV or feline infectious peritonitis aka FIP)
5. Change in diet

What’s an example of a situation that causes colitis in cats?

Community cat (aka feral) caregiver, Grace Miglionico, has seen her fair share of stress-related colitis in cats. “When we trap the cats during Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) projects, the stress of being confined the night before surgery causes many of them to develop colitis,” says Grace. “We try to alleviate their anxiety by keeping their cages separated and covered. We also play classical music in their room, we really want to make the environment as calm and soothing as possible.”

Treating colitis in cats

Since colitis in cats is created by a wide range of causes, getting to the veterinarian quickly is important. Bringing a fresh stool sample can help speed up the diagnosis (it could be roundworms!). The diagnostic tests for colitis in cats could get expensive — there are low-cost veterinary clinics and other animal medical resources available.

Bring a list of anything new or different that your cat may have experienced since the symptoms began. Treatment will be determined by what exactly is causing the issue. While it could be something mild, it might be life-threatening, so it’s imperative to take any cat displaying symptoms of colitis to get a thorough medical examination right away.

About the author

Denise LeBeau is a writer, editor and photographer with almost 20 years of experience of creating content for animal-related issues, endeavors and events. She worked at Best Friends Animal Society for 12 years where she had two columns in the Best Friends Magazine, and held multiple content creation roles including web managing editor and outreach campaign editor. Denise has been an ongoing contributor to Catster since 2014, writing for the magazine and website. The self-professed poet laureate of the pet set is currently the manager of development for an animal welfare agency, where she works with a team to create content across media platforms. She lives in Hampton Bays with her two rescue Siamese mixes – Flipper and Slayer, and her LBD (little brown dog), Zephyrella.

Thumbnail: Photography ©ZoranMilisavljevic83 | Getty Images.

Read more about cat health and care on Catster.com:

• Get the Facts About Mastitis in Cats
• 7 Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds for Cat Allergy Sufferers
• How to Deal With a Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box

The post Colitis in Cats — Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Mastitis is the term used for inflammation of the mammary glands. Painful, but usually not life threatening, mastitis in cats is normally easy to treat. The most prevalent cases of mastitis in cats occur as bacterial infections in nursing mother cats. As with any infection, early detection and treatment of mastitis in cats is key in keeping your kitty happy and healthy. So, what are some of the symptoms and what is the best way to treat mastitis in cats? Let’s find out!

Signs of mastitis in cats

“Mastitis in cats has a variety of symptoms,” says Dr. Justin Molnar, DVM, Medical Advisor at Last Chance Animal Rescue and Medical Director at Shinnecock Animal Hospital. “Since it’s seen mostly in mother cats, it’s important to check your nursing cat’s whole body at least once a day — especially her teat and belly area.” 

Here’s what Dr. Molnar advises to look for with mastitis in cats:

1. Swollen nipples
2. Discolored nipples
3. Discharge (blood, pus, abnormal milk color or consistency)
4. Open wounds around the nipples or mammaries
5. Always check every kitten in her litter to ensure they’re gaining weight properly – underweight kittens are another pointer to possible mastitis

A few additional items to think about:

1. Is your cat reacting when you touch the mammary gland area?
2. Is your cat’s overall health declining?
3. Because mastitis’ frequent root cause is infection, if left untreated, it can enter the bloodstream and become a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.

It’s imperative to get your cat to the veterinarian right away if your kitty is displaying any of these signs!

Frequent Causes of mastitis in cats

Pregnant cats require additional specialized care. Monitoring a pregnant cat’s overall condition minimizes the risk of medical complications. Being mindful of the pregnant or nursing cat’s health and environment goes a long way in both preventing and addressing mastitis in cats.

Primary causes of mastitis in cats:

1. Trauma to the mammary glands
2. Unsanitary living conditions
3. An extended period of milk accumulation

Diagnosis of mastitis in cats

If your cat is displaying any of the above signs, or if her kittens are not gaining the right amount of weight in correlation to their age, a trip to the vet will reveal exactly what’s causing the issues. Usually a physical exam is all that is required to detect mastitis in cats. Sometimes, additional tests are necessary — blood and/or milk samples may need further analysis to determine the exact cause of the symptoms.

How to treat mastitis in cats

Once diagnosed, the treatment for mastitis in cats is normally easy to administer at home. A cycle of antibiotics is used for mastitis caused by infection. If the cat is nursing, you may have to hand-milk her every six hours to ensure the milk is being properly expressed.

A cool, clean compress should be adhered to the infected areas for two to four hours with no compress in between for two to four hours (cabbage leaves can also be used). Following the medical advice from your vet precisely should result in a full recovery in under a month.

Prevention of mastitis in cats

As with any illness, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! “Change your cat’s bedding frequently and disinfect the surfaces where she spends time,” says Dr. Molnar. “Observe the mother when she’s nursing her kittens. Make sure the kittens are nursing from all her teats, and physically rotate the kitties if necessary.”

As always, pay attention to your cat’s health, behavior and demeanor. Any changes could warrant a medical exam from your veterinarian. Physically run your hand all over her body and pay attention to her reactions — cats can’t verbally tell you if something is wrong — be mindful of doing an overall exam daily for nursing mothers.

To best avoid mastitis in cats, get your cat spayed. Spaying your cat greatly reduces the chances of mastitis and cancer. As always, your cat’s health and well-being rests in your hands. Mastitis in cats is very easy to avoid (spay her!), fairly easy to detect if it’s developed, and requires following your vet’s instructions to ensure she’s on her way to a full recovery.

Thumbnail: Photography ©ollikainen | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

About the author

Denise LeBeau is a writer, editor and photographer with almost 20 years of experience of creating content for animal-related issues, endeavors and events. She worked at Best Friends Animal Society for 12 years where she had two columns in the Best Friends Magazine, and held multiple content creation roles including web managing editor and outreach campaign editor. Denise has been an ongoing contributor to Catster since 2014, writing for the magazine and website. The self-professed poet laureate of the pet set is currently the manager of development for an animal welfare agency, where she works with a team to create content across media platforms. She lives in Hampton Bays with her two rescue Siamese mixes – Flipper and Slayer, and her LBD (little brown dog), Zephyrella.

Read more about cat health and care on Catster.com:

• 7 Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds for Cat Allergy Sufferers
• How to Deal With a Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box
• Is a Wet Cat Nose Normal — Or a Cause for Concern?

The post Mastitis in Cats: Get the Facts About It by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Paying attention to your cat’s daily routine is important. Normal eating, drinking and elimination means it’s “business as usual.” But your cat peeing blood is another story. If your cat has blood in her urine it’s time to make an appointment with the veterinarian. The causes for a cat peeing blood run the gamut. A cat peeing blood could be something mild and passing or it might be caused by something life-threatening. Let’s find out what blood in cat pee looks like, its major causes, and what you can do to prevent, cure or manage the condition causing this alarming symptom!

First, what’s normal when it comes to cat pee?

The average, healthy, indoor cat will urinate twice a day. His urine will range in color from pale yellow to a deep golden color. It’s somewhat smelly. If he is intact it may be more pungent, but if he’s neutered, it should be an acidic scent that is not overwhelming. Scooping the box in the morning and in the evening is an effective way to monitor his health.

What’s not normal when it comes to cat pee?

Causes for concern in your cat’s health often crop up in the litter box first. Again, knowing what’s a baseline “normal” for your cat is crucial to early detection of medical issues.

Here are some of the first indicators that something is askew with your cat’s health:

• Peeing too frequently (or infrequently)
• An unusual odor
• Peeing outside the box (if this is a new behavior — some cats just have bad aim!)
• Oddly colored pee: pinkish to a dark red hue are particularly disconcerting

Keep in mind that a cat peeing blood may not appear to be peeing blood. The blood can be faint. So, if you suspect that something is up with your cat’s pee, use a white paper towel to press out the color.

Why is your cat peeing blood?

The causes of a cat peeing blood (or a faint trace of blood in pee) can be attributed to a variety of conditions. For example, his medication could be the culprit or it could be cancer.

Here are the most common causes for a cat peeing blood —

1. Crystalluria – aka urinary crystals

This happens when the naturally occurring process of shedding waste (aka urine) malfunctions. Cats usually effectively rid their bodies of microscopic crystals through urination without issue. However, for some cats, the crystals clump together and form a blockage in the urethra.

2. Urinary tract ailments

This ranges from cystitis (bladder inflammation) to infections. The urgent need for emergency medical care for your cat stems from when the kitty goes from normal urine-passing functions to any type of blockage. For a cat peeing blood due to a blockage, the difference between life and death can be a matter of hours (not days). While the condition is life-threatening, the solution can be as easy as giving him amoxicillin.

3. Bladder cancer

Usually it’s transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) and the proper diagnosis best produced with an ultrasound. Successful treatments include surgery and cystoscopy.

4. Poison

Preventing your cat from ingesting anything toxic to his system is the best line of defense.

5. Internal injuries

These happen quickly and with few traceable external signals. Physical trauma of any kind can be deadly if not treated immediately. If a cat has fallen from a high (or not so seemingly high) place, or if a cat has been accidentally kicked or handled in a rough manner, the results can be serious.

6. A Cat in Heat

A female cat can go into estrus as early as 4 months old! Symptoms include loud meowing and, yes, a bloody discharge in the litter box.

Other reasons for a cat peeing blood

Other underlying causes for a cat peeing blood include chronic kidney disease, forms of diabetes, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and hyperthyroidism. If the reason for blood in urine is elusive, go for the full battery of medical tests.

Healthy kitty tips

Keeping your kitty cat in tip-top shape is the best medical insurance money can buy! And it needn’t be costly. Conditions like diabetes are preventable. Early detection is key: Paying attention to the litter box — both for blood in cat pee and blood in cat poop — usually nips major issues in the bud.

Minimizing the conditions that cause urinary crystals and other urinary tract problems, including providing your kitty with plenty of fresh, clean water and adding premium wet, canned cat food for an optimum cat diet. Along with lots of exercise and play and whatever type of affectionate behavior (bonding) he prefers.

What to do about a cat peeing blood — in conclusion

If you notice a cat peeing blood, seek medical attention right away. Monitoring your cat’s litter box is the best way to know if anything dangerous is compromising his health. Remember: Your cat’s health is a lifelong pursuit that he relies on you to maintain. A little bit of gumption goes a long way toward his longevity!

Thumbnail: Photography © w-ings | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Read more about cat health and care on Catster.com:

• Cat Health — 10 Pieces of Advice for Every Stage of Life
• Can Cats Eat Cheese? Get the Facts About Cats and Cheese
• Feline Herpes: It Sounds Scary, But It’s Manageable

The post Why Is My Cat Peeing Blood? Here’s What Could Be at Play by Denise LeBeau appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.