If your feline is missing the litter box, it can quickly become very annoying. You’ll have to clean around the litter box as well as clean out the litter box. It may even seem like your cat is missing the litter box on purpose!

There are tons of reasons your cat may be missing the litter box. Sometimes, you may be able to look at a list of reasons and figure it out. Other times, it may be much harder! It usually requires some trial and error to figure it out or it may require getting your veterinarian involved..

The 11 Reasons Why Your Cat is Missing the Litter Box

1. Litter Box Cleanliness

Cats are fastidious about their cleanliness. They may avoid a dirty litter box and go elsewhere, even if it is right outside the litter box. Even if the litter box has been scooped, it may still have a bad odor that your cat may not like. Be sure to scoop the box at least once a day, preferably more if you can, and completely dump and wash the box at least once a week.

2. Litter Box Placement

Cats may avoid using the litter box if they don’t like the placement. Most cats will appreciate doing their business in peace and quiet. They may not want to use the litter box if it’s right in the middle of your home’s high traffic area. Instead, placing it in a quiet, out of the way spot may be more preferable.

Some cats don’t like feeling trapped, so they may avoid using litter boxes with covers or high sides. They want to be able to see what’s going on around them, especially if you have other pets that may use this time to ambush them.

Cats often don’t like to eliminate near their food and water, either. Preferably, you should have the litter box and their food in completely different rooms. At the very least, put them on opposite sides of the room.

3. Litter Type and Texture

Some cats have preferences for specific litter types. They prefer a particular size, texture or even scent. Changing the litter suddenly may cause your cat to not use the litter box because they don’t like the new substrate.

Cats with very sensitive paws may be particularly sensitive to cat litter. They may not like litter with abrasive textures, for instance. However, any cat may decide that they don’t like a particular kind of litter for any reason.

4. Medical Issues

There are some medical reasons behind a cat not using their litter box. For some, it may be that pain and stiffness from arthritis or an injury prevents them from being able to climb into the box. For others, it could be that a urinary tract infection or case of diarrhea has made their need to go very urgent and they don’t have time to get to the box. Some cats may associate past negative experiences, such as a painful bowel movement or pain from a urinary stone, with using their litter box and choose to go elsewhere so that they won’t experience those feelings again.

Some older cats may also develop cognitive dysfunction as they age that can change their bathroom habits. They may either forget where the litter box is or be confused about how to use it.

See your vet if your cat’s litter box use suddenly changes or if you notice any other signs such as not eating, urinary frequently in small amounts, or crying when they try to go to the bathroom.

5. Stress and Anxiety

Cats don’t like change and can be very sensitive to anxiety. When anxious, they may not use the litter box as they once did, especially if they spend much of the time hiding. Any changes in the number of pets in the household, family members, or schedule can lead to litter box problems.

Your cat may also experience sudden anxiety due to a loud noise or similar cause. This may lead to the cat hiding and not using the litter box for a few hours, depending on how scared they become.

Often, sticking to a regular schedule and offering your cat a safe place can help decrease their stress and anxiety. However, cats that are particularly anxious or stressed about every little change may need to be evaluated by your vet. Your feline may need medication or behavioral training.

6. Inadequate Number of Boxes

Occasionally, you may need to increase the number of boxes in your home. If you have multiple cats or a particularly big house, then you may need to increase the number of boxes so that your cat is always within close range to one and so multiple cats don’t have to share. A great rule of thumb is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. So, if you have two cats, three litter boxes are ideal.

7. Litter Box Size and Style

If the litter box is too small, your feline may have a hard time fitting in to use it correctly. Bigger cats need bigger litter boxes. Hooded litter boxes can be helpful in some cases. However, they may also be confining for some cats. Some felines simply do not like hooded litter boxes, so you’ll need to use one with an open top.

Cats may also decide that they don’t like any oddly shaped litter box. For instance, they may dislike litter boxes that are designed to fit into the corner of rooms. Some cats may have a hard time fitting into these square boxes. We highly recommend that you consider whether or not you’ve changed litter boxes lately and consider switching back if you have.

8. Territorial Marking

Cats may use urine to mark their territory, which typically is not inside the box. If their territory feels threatened, they’re even more likely to do this. Bringing new cats into the home or other stressors can cause this issue.

Sadly, stopping territorial marking is very difficult. You can try to adjust the cause of the stress, but this isn’t always possible. You may need to retrain your cat to use the litter box or consider neutering your feline, if intact, to reduce the hormonal causes of territorial markings.

9. Litter Box Aversion

Sometimes, cats suddenly develop an aversion to the litter box. Often, this is caused by something scary that happened to your feline while they were using the litter box. For instance, if your cat is startled or experienced pain while they are using the litter box, then they may avoid going back in it.

Sometimes, these aversions go away on their own. Other times, making changes to the litter box and re-training your cat may be necessary.

10. Inadequate Training

Your cat needs some training and guidance to use the litter box properly. While cats often do like to use the litter box and do it without much prompting, some do require more training than others. You should show your cat where it is and then treat and praise your cat whenever they use the litter box. Similarly, you may need to add more litter boxes or use one with very low sides if your cat is used to just going on the ground.

Kittens are easier to train than older cats. However, any cat can figure out how to use the litter box, even if they are older. While kittens are often trained when they are younger, stray cats or those that spent much of their life outside may not be.

11. Kittens

Very little kittens may make many mistakes before they figure out the litter box completely. In some cases, kittens just don’t make it to the box on time. You’ll just have to wait while they develop and figure out exactly how to use the box. It’s a process, even though kittens are pretty good at self-directing their training.

While a kitten having accidents can be annoying, it’s important to be patient and encourage them in their training.

Why Does My Cat Pee on the Floor but Use the Litter Box?

If your cat is peeing on the floor but still uses the litter box at other times, it can be frustrating and puzzling. That said, this behavior can be caused by many different underlying issues. The solution will depend largely on the reason for this strange behavior.

You should take a truthful look at your litter box’s cleanliness and location. Start by ruling out health issues and age-related problems by seeing your vet. Then, try to rule out some of the other issues we mentioned. Hopefully, you’ll narrow down the potential cause to one or two in this manner.

Conclusion

Your cat may miss the litterbox for a variety of different reasons. They may be stressed or anxious about something, not like the location or type of litter box or they may be picky about the litter or cleanliness. Other kitties may have age- or medical-related issues that make them miss the litter box.  Start by seeing your veterinarian to rule out some causes and then you may start experimenting with different locations, litters, or boxes until your cat is comfortable using the litter box again.

Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock

The post Why Is My Cat Missing the Litter Box? 11 Vet Reviewed Reasons & Advice by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Knoxville, TN is full of pet-friendly hotels. If you have a dog or a cat you’re traveling with, you have plenty of places to stay in Knoxville. There are even plenty of cat-friendly hotels, which are challenging to find in many other cities.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the top pet-friendly hotels in Knoxville, Tennessee. We’ll go over the average pet fee, as well as some special regulations you may need to be aware of.

The 10 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Knoxville, TN

1. La Quinta by Wyndham Knoxville Central Papermill

Address:	1317 Kirby Rd, Knoxville, TN 37909
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$25 per pet/per night

2. Drury Inn & Suites Knoxville West

Address:	209 Advantage Place, Knoxville, TN 37922
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$50 per night

3. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Knoxville at Cedar Bluff

Address:	9137 Cross Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37923
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$25 per pet/per stay

4. Holiday Inn Knoxville West Cedar Bluff Rd

Address:	9134 Executive Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37923-4508
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$50 per stay

5. Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites Knoxville West Cedar Bluff

Address:	9134 Executive Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37923-4508
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in, 11 AM check-out
Cost:	None

6. Americas Best Value Inn Knoxville East

Address:	1550 Cracker Barrel Ln, Knoxville, TN 37914
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in 11 AM check-out
Cost:	None

7. Graduate Knoxville

Address:	1706 W Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check-in 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$75 per pet/per night

8. Comfort Inn Powell Knoxville North

Address:	7585 Barnett Way, Knoxville, TN 37849
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check-in 11 AM check-out
Cost:	$25 per pet/per night

9. La Quinta by Wyndham Knoxville East

Address:	7210 Saddle Rack St, Knoxville, TN 37914
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check-in 12 PM check-out
Cost:	$20 per pet/per night

10. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Knoxville Cedar Bluff

Address:	205 Langley Pl, Knoxville, TN 37922
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check-in 12 PM check-out
Cost:	$75 per stay

Final Thoughts

There are tons of pet-friendly places in Knoxville. Your biggest problem with choosing one is deciding through the huge list of options! Some are relatively friendly to just about any animal, while others may accept only dogs. It’s harder to find cat-friendly hotels, but there are still quite a few options in Knoxville that fall into this category.

See also:

• Pet-Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Savannah, GA

Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

The post 10 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Knoxville, TN (2023 Update) by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Click to skip ahead:

• Common Naughty Behaviors
• Possible Reasons

Cats may engage in tons of behaviors that seem “naughty” to us without actually being naughty. Often, this may be the result of a cat’s unique personality, but it can also just be a normal cat behavior. For instance, many cats may do things because they are playful, like pouncing, scratching, or batting at objects. This may be interpreted as naughty, but the cat is really just trying to play.

Similarly, cats may do things out of boredom to try and entertain themselves. Often, this may result in naughty behaviors, like playing with things they shouldn’t.

Common Naughty Cat Behaviors

Cats are known for being fairly charming pets. However, there are quite a few behaviors that may be considered “naughty.” Often, these are the result of their natural instincts and communication. However, these are typically what we’re talking about when we say “naughty” behavior.

1. Scratching Furniture

One of the most notorious cat behaviors is scratching things that they shouldn’t. Cats have an innate need to sharpen their claws and mark their territory, so scratching is more of a need than just something they do.

When they dig their claws into your favorite couch or chair, they’re not trying to be destructive; they’re simply following their instincts.

2. Knocking Objects Off Surfaces

We’ve all seen the memes. Cats have this thing with knocking random objects off tables. While it may seem like your cat is doing this just to annoy you, it’s more likely that they’re just being curious and playful.

3. Biting or Scratching

Cats will use their teeth and claws while playing. Preferably, this should be something that your cat is taught not to do at a very young age. However, some cats just take longer to get the message! It’s important to differentiate between playing and aggression, though this can be easier said than done.

4. Urine Marking

Urine marking, particularly outside the litter box, can be one of the most frustrating behaviors for cat owners. However, this is often a territorial instinct. Cats use scent marking as a way to establish their territory and communicate with other cats. Stress, changes in the home, or the presence of other animals can trigger this behavior.

While males stereotypically do it most often, females can do it too.

5. Nighttime Zoomies

Every cat owner has been awakened by their cat running around at top speed. While this may seem like an attempt to wake you up, it’s important to realize that it’s not normal for cats to sleep all night.

Therefore, this behavior is often done just to burn off pent-up energy.

The 6 Possible Reasons for Naughty Cat Behavior

There are many reasons behind these “naughty” behaviors. Understanding these reasons can help you figure out the why, which can help you solve the problem.

1. Playfulness and Energy

Cats are playful creatures by nature, and they have an abundance of energy to burn. When they engage in actions like pouncing on your feet or batting at objects, they’re often just trying to have fun.

Playfulness is a healthy and normal behavior in cats, but without appropriate outlets, it can sometimes lead to behaviors that we might find disruptive. Therefore, it’s important to give your cat the proper outlets so that they don’t have to be naughty just to run off some energy.

2. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

A bored cat will often look for ways to entertain themselves. Often, this leads to them getting into things they aren’t supposed to. If they don’t have enough to do, they may resort to knocking things off shelves or scratching the furniture.

It’s important to provide your feline with toys and plenty of mental stimulation to avoid this. Cats need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Some cats are smarter than others and may need more mental stimulation. Interactive toys are great in this regard, as they can help keep your cat entertained even when you aren’t home.

3. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Cats crave attention from their human companions. If they feel neglected or left alone, they may resort to behaviors they know will get your attention (which may be the very things you don’t want them to do). Even negative attention is attention, so cats may try to upset you just so you’ll pay attention to them.

Luckily, this is pretty straightforward to fix. You just need to introduce more playtime and attention into your schedule.

4. Territorial Instincts

Cats are territorial animals, and they often display behaviors like scratching and urine marking to establish and maintain their territory. While this can be frustrating for you, it is a very natural part of their behavior. Therefore, you’ll need to provide them with designated scratching posts (and teach them to use them), as well as a clean litter box.

5. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can trigger disruptive behavior in cats. Major life changes or even relatively small changes can all cause stress, which can make your cat act in unusual ways. For instance, your cat may try to mark their “territory” to help alleviate this stress, which probably isn’t what you want them to do.

Cats may respond to stress by grooming excessively, too. This can cause skin irritation and even infections in severe cases.

6. Underlying Medical Issues

Sometimes, what appears to be naughty behavior may be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Pain or discomfort can lead to changes in behavior, such as aggression or reluctance to use the litter box.

If your cat suddenly starts acting strange, you should visit your vet for a full checkup. While this isn’t always a sign of an illness, cats are very good at hiding their symptoms.

Conclusion

There are many behaviors our cats may do that we might consider “naughty.” However, these behaviors often have a cause that makes complete sense if you know what to look for. For instance, cats love to scratch. Therefore, you need to supply scratching posts and teach your cat to use them!

Playfulness is the cause of many “naughty” cat behaviors. Therefore, we recommend that you purchase plenty of cat toys and even interactive toys.

Featured Image Credit: Luis Echeverri Urrea, Shutterstock

The post Why Is My Cat So Naughty? Feline Misbehavior Explained by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

If you have a stray cat outside your home, you should first assess the cat’s condition. What you should do with a healthy cat is much different from a cat that needs medical attention. Provide food and water for the cat, at least for now, while you try to find other sources of help.

If you can set up a cardboard box or other sheltered area, do that, as well. If it is particularly hot or cold, this is even more important.

Assuming the cat lets you, you should check for identification. Often, friendly cats that are simply lost tend to like people. If the cat is in poor health or injured, or you are unable to provide ongoing care, contact your local animal control or an animal shelter. You can also consider a humane trap to capture the cat and transport it to your local animal shelter.

For a more in-depth guide on what to do, keep reading.

Top Tips on What To Do If a Stray Cat That Won’t Leave

1. Assess the Cat’s Condition

Once you notice a cat that’s starting to hang around your home, approach them cautiously and observe them. You want to determine if the cat is injured, distressed, or otherwise needs assistance. Limping, wounds, disheveled fur, labored breathing, and excessive sneezing are all signs of problems.

You should also pay attention to the cat’s body language. If the cat is frightened, it may be harder to care for them, as they may not approach you purposefully.

2. Provide Food and Water

You should provide the cat with some food and water, as strays will often not be able to fend for themselves. (On the other hand, feral cats prey on wildlife and are often pretty good at surviving.)

Place the food and water in a secluded area where the cat can access it without feeling exposed. Be patient, as the cat will likely be wary at first. However, the cat may approach you as it becomes more comfortable with you.

3. Create a Safe Space

Try to set up a makeshift shelter out of a cardboard box, plastic bin, or dedicated outdoor cat shelter. Line the inside with straw or hay (try avoiding blankets, as these can make the cat colder should they get wet).

Place this shelter in a quiet spot away from heavy foot traffic. It will provide the cat with some much-needed shelter while you follow the next steps.

4. Check for Identification

If you can get close enough, you should check for identification. If the cat is simply lost, you may be able to find their owner’s contact information. If you do find this information, contact the owner.

Sadly, it isn’t practical to check for a microchip at home. However, if you take the cat to the animal shelter, they will likely check for you.

5. Contact Animal Control or the Shelter

If the cat is distressed or injured and you are unable to provide care, contact your local animal control or a nearby animal shelter. They can send someone to assess the cat’s condition and take appropriate action. Usually, the cat will be placed in the shelter.

If you’re unable to keep the feline, you should take the cat to the shelter. However, if you’re unable to catch the cat, you can call the animal shelter to come and do that for you.

Alternatively, you can trap the cat yourself. Many fearful cats aren’t necessarily feral, but they can be hard to catch. You should use a humane trap to capture your feline safely. Avoid using traps that may harm the cat, of course. Once the cat is captured, you can transport it to your local animal shelter or rescue organization.

6. Post Flyers and Online Listings

If you believe that the cat may be a lost pet, consider creating flyers or posting online about the feline. Often, pet owners will be looking at lost-and-found pet groups on social media, as well as any community pages, for information about their feline. They may have even posted information about their cat, which you may be able to identify.

Social media is a great way to locate the owners of a lost cat, assuming the cat has an owner.

7. Consult Neighbors

You should also speak with your neighbors about whether they know the cat. Even if it isn’t their cat, they may have seen it around (confirming it is a long-time stray) or know the owner. Neighbors may also be able to provide information about rescues in your area, especially if they’ve been in a similar situation themselves.

8. Consider Long-Term Care

If the cat is feral, you may want to consider providing long-term care. For a feral cat, this means providing food, water, and a place for the cat to sleep. Trap-and-release programs are also very important to prevent the cat population from growing further.

There are many feral cat rescue groups that can provide guidance. Check and see if there are any near you. If the cat is domesticated, consider providing long-term care for the cat yourself if you have the ability.

Conclusion

If a stray cat has been hanging around your home, you should first be concerned with the cat’s needs. Ensure the cat doesn’t need medical attention and has access to food, water, and shelter. If a cat is friendly, there is a very good chance it is a lost pet. However, even lost pets can be skittish, so don’t assume a cat is feral just because it doesn’t come to you right away.

You can then contact your local animal shelter or animal control to pick up the cat—if you don’t want to keep it!

Featured Image Credit: dimitrisvetsikas1969, Pixabay

The post What to Do with a Stray Cat That Won’t Leave? Tips & Tricks by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Dogs have a very keen sense of smell. Therefore, it makes sense that they would be able to detect the scent of cats and other animals. Their smelling abilities are far superior to humans, so they should be able to distinguish between different animals with ease. Not only can they smell cats, but they should be able to identify one cat from the other!

They should also be able to pick up the scent of a cat on their bedding, in the litterbox, and other locations. Of course, different dogs have different smelling abilities. Some are bred specifically for their ability to pick up scents, and these dogs will likely have far better success recognizing the scent of a cat.

Click to skip ahead:

• How Far Away Can a Dog Smell a Cat
• Outside Scent
• House Scent
• Through the Walls Facts

How Far Away Can a Dog Smell a Cat?

While we do know that dogs can absolutely smell cats, it’s difficult to know how close the dog needs to be before they pick up on the scent. The breed of dog matters, as does the dog’s scent abilities and even the weather conditions. Some dogs will be able to pick up scents much further away than others.

In perfect conditions, well-tuned dogs can pick up scents from several miles away. For instance, bloodhounds are known for their exceptional tracking abilities and their ability to follow scents over very long distances. However, these dogs have been specially bred and trained for this sort of olfactory ability. Most dogs can only detect scents at much shorter distances.

The actual range a dog can smell a cat varies widely, as we discussed. In the real world, optimal conditions are rarely met. A dog may be able to detect the presence of a cat from a block or so away, especially if the wind is blowing towards the dog.

It’s essential to remember that a dog’s ability to smell something doesn’t necessarily mean they can locate the source accurately. Tracking and pinpointing the exact location of a scent requires specific training and skills, which some working and hunting dogs possess.

Can Dogs Smell Cats Outside?

Yes, dogs can smell scents outside—but of course, there are often many more scents outdoors, and the weather can make tracking more challenging. However, they can still detect scents in the environment, especially if there aren’t any walls or buildings in the way. If a cat is in the area or has been in the area, then your dog will likely be able to pick up their scent.

Dogs use their sense of smell to gather information about their surroundings, identify potential threats (or prey), and explore the environment. Therefore, dogs are typically very good at using their noses to find all sorts of prey animals (including cats).

Of course, dogs may respond differently to these scents. If cats live nearby and your dog is used to their scent, they may not do anything in particular to signal that there are cats nearby. Conversely, if your dog has a strong prey drive, they may be inclined to track the feline, which may be a problem.

Can Dogs Smell Cats in the House?

Dogs can typically easily smell cats inside the house, especially if there isn’t any wall between them and the feline. Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell, so this isn’t surprising. Dogs may become excited or curious when they smell a cat inside their home, especially if cats aren’t usually there.

Therefore, if you bring a cat home, there is a very good chance that your dog will notice—even if you don’t show them the cat. Your dog may become excited or irritated. Some see cats as playmates, while others see them as prey.

Dogs have such a highly developed sense of smell that there is little you can do to hide the cat once it is inside your home.

Can Dogs Smell Cats Through the Walls?

Probably not. Your dog’s sense of smell isn’t that good.

However, it’s important to remember that any home with a modern heating and cooling system will allow for airflow from one room to another. Therefore, even if your dog cannot smell the cat through the wall, they may be able to smell the scent of the cat circulating within the home. Plus, the scent will also slip underneath the door and any other open space in the walls.

Conclusion

Dogs have a very good sense of smell that allows them to smell cats (and practically any other animal). If your dog has never seen a cat, they may not know what the scent is. However, the scent will still be there, and it may cause your dog to become anxious or excited.

Dogs should also be able to tell between different cats based on scent. If you buy a new cat, your dog will probably notice that something is different rather quickly. Because of their strong sense of smell, dogs can smell cats from pretty far away. Therefore, even if a cat just walks through the other side of your yard, your dog may smell them and notice.

Different dogs have differing abilities in this way, though. Some of them may have a very strong sense of smell, while others may not.

Featured Image Credit: StockSnap, Pixabay

The post Can Dogs Smell Cats? Canine Senses Explained by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

As humans, we really don’t consider rolling on the bathroom floor something that we want to do. Therefore, when our cats decide to roll around in the litter box, it can strike us as pretty confusing. However, there are several reasons why this behavior actually makes sense for cats.

Read on below to find out more!

The 4 Reasons Why Cats Roll Around in the Litter Box

Luckily, most of these reasons are nothing to worry about. Sudden strange behavior paired with other symptoms does indicate that you should visit the vet.

Why Is My Cat Playing in the Litter Box?

A cat playing in their litter box isn’t exactly uncommon behavior. There are many reasons why your cat may like to play in the litter box, and there probably isn’t much that you can do to convince them otherwise. Some felines like the texture and enclosed space of the litter box. Some cats are drawn to the texture of the litter. The granules in the litter may feel interesting or enjoyable under their paws, much like a sandy beach or soft dirt might be enticing for a human to play in.

They may see the box as somewhere to “hide,” similarly to any other box. While you may imagine that cats wouldn’t want to play near their bathroom, they don’t really think of their litter box in the same way we think of the toilet. In fact, the litter box may be somewhere cats feel safe, which may be why they decide to play there.

Some cats may find rolling or digging in the litter to be a soothing or stress-relieving activity. This can be especially true for cats that are anxious or experiencing changes in their environment. You may notice that your cat spends extra time in the litter box whenever something stressful happens, like a change in their routine. In this case, your cat is probably using the litter box as a safe place where they can be alone and destress.

They may also see the substrate as something for them to “hunt.” Cat litter moves around and rolls pretty easily, and cats may see this as an invitation to play. This is especially true for younger cats, who tend to be especially prone to playing with random things.

Cats can also get bored and seek out new places to play, which may include the litter box. You can try to provide your cat with new toys and enrichment activities in this case.

How Do I Stop My Cat from Playing in the Litter Box?

While your cat may not mind playing in the litter box, this may not be something you want them to do. Even if you don’t stop your cat from playing in the litter box, we highly recommend keeping the litter box clean. You don’t want your cat getting dirty from one of these litter boxes, after all.

If you don’t want your cat playing in a litter box, here are some options that you can try:

Conclusion

Most of the time, you don’t need to prevent your cat from rolling around in the litter box. Many cats simply like to lay around their litter box and may even enjoy playing in it. Some cats simply feel safest in their litter box, which can lead to them rolling and playing in it.

Still, some cat owners may decide that they don’t want their feline rolling in the litter box. In this case, there are several things you can try. For instance, you may switch the type of litter or box you’re using. Cats may only like one specific texture, for instance, and may not want to roll around if that texture changes.

Luckily, this behavior is rarely a sign of something serious. However, when in doubt, you should speak to your vet. There are some cases where strange behaviors like this may be due to an underlying health problem.

Featured Image Credit: Natalia Kokhanova, Shutterstock

The post Why Do Cats Roll Around in the Litter Box? 4 Reasons & FAQ by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Bengal cats and Egyptian Mau cats are fairly similar. They’re both pretty exotic, which makes them highly sought after, and they are also much rarer than other breeds, which makes them expensive.

That said, they do have many differences. Their appearance may be exotic, but it isn’t similar. Bengal cats are typically larger than Egyptian Maus but this does differ a lot from cat to cat. Bengals are also more social and interactive, while Egyptian Maus tend to be more reserved around strangers.

We’ll explore the differences between each breed below, helping you choose the best option for you.

Click to skip ahead:

• Visual Differences
• Bengal Overview
• Egyptian Mau Overview

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Bengal Overview

Coat

One of the most striking features of the Bengal cat is its coat which gives it an exotic look. They feature bold and distinct spots, though the exact color can vary a bit. This exotic coat is due to the Bengal cat’s relation to the Asian leopard cat, which has a similar coat pattern.

This coat is probably what leads most people to become interested in this feline.

Temperament

While both the Bengal and Egyptian Mau are intelligent and active, the Bengal’s energy levels can often be described as extremely high. Bengals are notorious for their boundless curiosity and love for play. They often enjoy interactive games, puzzles, and toys that stimulate their minds and bodies.

This high energy level can make Bengals a bit more demanding in terms of playtime and engagement. We only recommend this feline for those who want a very interactive cat and have plenty of time to play with them. They can be a bit much for some families.

Social Interaction

These felines are extremely social and form strong bonds with their family. They’re known for their highly affectionate nature and high social needs. Once again, these cats are best for those with plenty of time on their hands, as that means they can effectively meet this social need.

Many owners adopt more than one cat to help keep them company. However, there is no guarantee that the two cats will get along. Therefore, we highly recommend that you only adopt a Bengal if you have extra time on your hands.

Family-Friendliness

These cats can be a great option for families, but their exuberant energy can lead to problems with very young children. They need to be closely supervised, as they may try to play with things they really shouldn’t.

Training

Bengals are very trainable, thanks to their intelligence and curiosity. They can learn many tricks and how to walk on a leash. Enrichment activities are required to keep them entertained, though. Again, these cats generally need more interaction and time than others.

That said, they are still independent like most cats. They aren’t particularly obedient, though they can be trained to some extent.

Egyptian Mau Overview

Coat

Egyptian Maus also have a very recognizable coat. They feature natural “scarab” markings on their sides, as well as a distinctive “M” shape on their forehead. They’re only available in a few select colors, though, like silver, bronze, and smoke.

Their coat pattern arguably isn’t as striking as the Bengal, though.

Temperament

Egyptian Maus are known for their loyalty. They are active and playful but not quite as active as the Bengals. They still enjoy playing, though, so we recommend them to owners who are looking for a more active feline.

They don’t require quite as much interaction, so they’re a good option for those with less time on their hands.

Social Interaction

These felines are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. They’re very loyal and affectionate, requiring a decent amount of attention from their owners each day. However, they are a bit more aloof with strangers, and they may show more favoritism.

That said, they can still work well in a family setting. They’re rather playful, making them a good choice for children. They’re also extremely adaptable, allowing them to work well in many different family situations.

Training

Like the Bengal, the Egyptian Mau is intelligent and can be trained to respond to commands. While they might not have the same level of exuberant energy as Bengals, they still benefit from mental stimulation and playtime. You should plan on providing plenty of toys to keep them entertained.

Again, it is important to realize that these are still cats. They aren’t as obedient as a dog. However, they can still be trained in some basic commands, though you can’t expect them to listen to you all the time.

Are Bengal Cats Part Egyptian Mau?

Yes, Bengal cats were bred by mixing a spotted Egyptian Mau with an Asian leopard cat, which is a wild feline. This produced a domestic cat with a vibrant, unique coat. Furthermore, they have many of the characteristics of the Egyptian Mau, including their intelligence and sociability.

In the end, these cats aren’t hugely different, which can make choosing between them difficult. One big difference is their availability and cost, though—Bengal cats tend to be rarer, as they are newer and thus more expensive.

Why Are Egyptian Maus and Bengals So Expensive?

These felines vary a bit in price, but they are both still thousands of dollars. For the most part, this is due to their rarity. Neither cat is particularly common in the United States, which makes them expensive. There aren’t many breeders that specialize in them, but their demand is high. Therefore, the demand is simply higher than the supply, leading to increased prices.

All of that said, cat owners interested in either of these breeds often consider the higher price worth it for a chance to own one of these exotic felines.

Which Breed is Right for You?

Both of these cats are rare, so it is often a matter of which one is available near you. Often, you won’t have a breeder that produces both breeds within driving distance, though you could still travel to pick up your kitten.

Bengal cats are better for those who want a more interactive breed. They require a bit more work, including extra attention and playtime. They’re very social and need plenty of attention from their owners. However, this also means that they’re friendly with strangers.

On the other hand, while Egyptian Maus are also affectionate and interactive, they usually don’t have quite as much energy as a Bengal cat. These felines form strong bonds with their owners, but they may have a harder time interacting with strangers.

See also:

• Egyptian Mau Cat vs Maine Coon Cat: Key Differences (With Pictures)
• Toyger Vs. Bengal: Main Differences (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit:

The post Bengal vs. Egyptian Mau: Main Differences (with Pictures) by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Finding the perfect name for your small cat can be hard. You’ll want to find the perfect name that fits them, perhaps based on their personality or their small size.

However, we’re here to help! We’ve compiled a list of possible names for your new furry friend and have made sure to include different themes and kinds of names so you can find the perfect name for your new tiny feline. Let’s dive in!

Click below to jump ahead:

• How to Name Your Tiny Cat
• Tiny Names for Your Tiny Cat
• Sweet Names for Your Female Tiny Cat
• Rowdy Names for Your Male Tiny Cat
• Tiny Cat Names Based on Fictional Characters
• Unconventional Names for a Tiny Cat

How to Name Your Tiny Cat

You may want a very common name for your cat, like “Luna” or “Max,” or you may want a cool, unique name. There are many different options to name your cat, so be sure to think about what kind of name you’d like your new cat to have.

Do you want to name your cat after some great characters? Do you want a name that fits their personality perfectly? The possibilities are endless. You could start by picking a specific letter you’d like your cat’s name to start with. Perhaps something common like an A or C, or maybe even an uncommon Z or Y name.

The name you choose will be your cat’s name for the rest of its life, so make sure it’s a suitable one. Tiny cats can be very speedy and rowdy cats, or they can be cute and cuddly. Your cat could look like a tiny puffball, or maybe they look scruffy. The name you choose could depend on many, many different factors.

Tiny Names for Your Tiny Cat

Of course, the easiest thing to do would be to name your tiny cat after something cute and small. We chose of the cutest and sweetest little names for your tiny cat.

• Abby
• Archie
• Bean
• Bella
• Benny
• Biscuit
• Bitsy
• Boo
• Button
• Callie
• Charlie
• Chip
• Chloe
• Coco
• Daisy
• Dinky
• Dot
• Dusty
• Emmy
• Finn
• Flicker
• Fluffy
• Frankie
• Fuzzy
• Ginger
• Gus
• Izzy
• Jack
• Jelly
• Jodie
• Kiki
• Leo
• Lily
• Loki
• Luna
• Macy
• Mia
• Milo
• Mimi
• Muffin
• Munchkin
• Nacho
• Nala
• Nibbles
• Noodle
• Nugget
• Olive
• Oliver
• Oreo
• Parker
• Paws
• Peanut
• Penny
• Pickle
• Pippin
• Pixie
• Pogo
• Poppy
• Puddle
• Puffy
• Rocky
• Ruby
• Rusty
• Sadie
• Simba
• Skittles
• Smudge
• Snicker
• Speck
• Sprinkle
• Sprout
• Squeak
• Squirt
• Teddy
• Tinker
• Tiny
• Titch
• Toby
• Toot
• Twinkle
• Whiskers
• Willow
• Winky
• Ziggy
• Zippy

Sweet Names for Your Female Tiny Cat

If you have a sweet female tiny cat, these names are ideal. This list compiles some of the best, most popular, and unique names for your tiny cat.

• Baby
• Blossom
• Bubbles
• Bunny
• Buttercup
• Cherry
• Cookie
• Cuddles
• Cupcake
• Cutie Pie
• Daisy Mae
• Dolly
• Ellie
• Fifi
• Gigi
• Hazel
• Honey
• Kitty
• Ladybug
• Lola
• Lulu
• Maisie
• Maisy
• Millie
• Missy
• Misty
• Molly
• Peach
• Pebbles
• Pippa
• Poppy
• Princess
• Rosie
• Rosie Posie
• Snickers
• Snowflake
• Sparkle
• Sugar
• Sweet Pea
• Sweetie
• Tilly
• Zoey

Rowdy Names for Your Male Tiny Cat

Do you have a rowdy, fun-loving male cat? Does your male just love to play fight and run around? Then these names are for you. We’ve compiled these different male names for you to pick out your favorites for your tiny cat.

• Ace
• Axle
• Bandit
• Blade
• Blaze
• Blitz
• Bolt
• Brawler
• Bruiser
• Bullet
• Chaos
• Crash
• Crusher
• Dagger
• Dash
• Diablo
• Diesel
• Fang
• Flash
• Gator
• Gunner
• Hulk
• Hunter
• Jagger
• Jax
• Jett
• Jinx
• Joker
• Knuckles
• Maverick
• Max
• Nitro
• Puck
• Rambo
• Rascal
• Reaper
• Rebel
• Riot
• Ripper
• Riptide
• Rocco
• Rocket
• Rowdy
• Ruckus
• Saber
• Scrapper
• Slash
• Spike
• Tank
• Thor
• Thunder
• Trigger
• Turbo
• Tyson
• Viper
• Zeke
• Zephyr
• Zorro

Tiny Cat Names Based on Fictional Characters

Does your tiny cat remind you of your favorite fictional character? Maybe it’s a character from your favorite book series or movie, or maybe just a character you think your tiny cat would relate to. Either way, we have names here just for you.

• Abu
• Aladdin
• Aragorn
• Ariel
• Arwen
• Belle
• Bilbo
• Buzz
• Dobby
• Donald
• Dory
• Elsa
• Finnick
• Frodo
• Gandalf
• Ginny
• Goofy
• Harry
• Hermione
• Jasmine
• Jessie
• Katniss
• Lumière
• Mickey
• Mike
• Minnie
• Mulan
• Nemo
• Neville
• Olaf
• Peeta
• Peter
• Primrose
• Pumbaa
• Rex
• Ron
• Rue
• Sebastian
• Slinky
• Stitch
• Sulley
• Timon
• Tinkerbell
• Wendy
• Woody

Unconventional Names for a Tiny Cat

Do you want a name that no one else has chosen for their tiny cat? Then this list is perfect for you. These unconventional names are rare in the cat world, and one of them may just be the right name for your new tiny cat.

• Binky
• Blink
• Bounce
• Bumble
• Chai
• Chirp
• Cinders
• Delcatty
• Dimples
• Dizzy
• Doodle
• Doodlebug
• Echo
• Eevee
• Espeon
• Espurr
• Fidget
• Fizz
• Flapjack
• Flareon
• Flibbertigibbet
• Flutter
• Furret
• Fuzzball
• Fuzzbucket
• Gizmo
• Glaceon
• Glameow
• Glimmer
• Hiccup
• Jangle
• Jitterbug
• Jolteon
• Jumble
• Leafeon
• Liepard
• Litten
• Luxio
• Luxray
• Meowstic
• Meowth
• Mew
• Mischief
• Moxie
• Nimbus
• Persian
• Pipsqueak
• Pixel
• Pounce
• Purrloin
• Purugly
• Pyroar
• Quibble
• Quirk
• Sentret
• Shinx
• Sizzle
• Skitty
• Snickerdoodle
• Snippet
• Sprig
• Spritz
• Sprocket
• Squee
• Squiggle
• Swizzle
• Sylveon
• Trinket
• Twitch
• Umbreon
• Vaporeon
• Whim
• Whimsy
• Whisker
• Whiskerdo
• Whistle
• Wiggle
• Wisp
• Wobble
• Wobblekins
• Wriggle
• Zest
• Zigzag
• Zing
• Zuzu

Conclusion

Choosing a name for your tiny cat can be an exciting and enjoyable process. Whether you prefer cute, rowdy, fictional, unconventional, or even Pokemon-inspired names, there is a vast array of options to consider. The name you choose can reflect your cat’s personality and appearance or simply resonate with your own personal preferences.

Remember, the most important thing is to select a name that you and your tiny feline companion connect with. So, take your time, explore various possibilities, and ultimately choose a name that will bring joy and delight to both you and your tiny cat for years to come. Happy naming!

See also:

• 100+ Sassy Cat Names: Ideas for Bold & Feisty Cats
• 100+ Movie-Inspired Cat Names – Disney, Famous, & Colored Cat Names

Featured Image Credit: Anasttrofimova20, Shutterstock

The post 300+ Small Cat Names: Options For Your Tiny Cat by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

A cat’s name is not simply a label; it’s something that will follow your cat throughout their lifetime. A cat’s name is an essential part of them, showing off their personality, looks, or just their owner’s interests.

Whether or not you’ve owned a cat before, it can be a challenging, yet fun and creative adventure. Whether you lean towards elegance, charm, or just humor, it can be an exciting time.

How to Find the Perfect Name Starting with W for Your Cat

There are many different ways to decide a name for your cat. It’s a fun and creative process, but it can be very difficult to find the absolute perfect name for your cat. Whether you want pop-culture names, adjectives, puns, or a name based on your cat’s personality or looks, we can help you figure out which name suits your cat best.

When you first get a cat, you’ll want to start the naming process immediately. However, first, you should take some time to observe your cat’s behavior. Is your cat particularly spunky? Does your cat have certain special markings? All of these can change your idea of the perfect cat name.

Your cat’s appearance can be a great tool in finding the best cat name for your new cat. Does your cat have particularly long whiskers? Try “Whiskers” then! Is your cat a light brown color with a pattern? Perhaps “Waffles!” There are so many ways to use your cat’s appearance to find the best name possible.

Does your cat act a particular way? Perhaps personality is the way to go when it comes to naming your cat. Maybe your cat is extremely curious and elegant. Either way, a cat’s personality is a great way to go when it comes to naming your new furry friend.

Lots of naming articles will all share one thing in common—to avoid using common names. However, common names are common for a reason, after all. Names such as “Wally” or “Walter” are fairly common names, but that doesn’t make them any less unique to your cat. Classic names are classic because they truly have that spark. If it fits your cat, feel free to use a common name.

Witty Male W Names for Your Cat

These witty names could be the perfect fit for your male cat. This is a mix of classic and unique names, meaning that any of them could be the perfect name. From Wizard to Wilbur, they are all wonderful names that could be a great option for your cat.

Wonderful Female W Names for Your Cat

These female cat names starting with W are very varied, meaning that they can be the perfect fit for your cat. These names have no particular theme, but they are a collection of plenty of female cat names.

Willfully Unique W Names for Your Cat

These names are very unique, you won’t find these kinds of names in many places throughout the internet. If you’re looking for a cat name most likely no one you know will have, then this list is the perfect fit for you. We’ve compiled a list of the most unique and uncommon W names we could find.

Wildly Funny W Names for Your Cat

If you’re looking for a silly, funny name for your cat, we’ve compiled the most hilarious names. These are a collection of many different names that all sound funny or have silly meanings. These funny names will be perfect for you if you’re looking for a less serious name for your cat.

Wonderous W Names for Your Cat

These fantasy-like, wondrous cat names are fantastical and whimsical, which is perfect for fantasy lovers. If you’re looking for a name that sounds like it’s from a fantasy book or game, then this list is perfect for you.

Conclusion

Finding a name for your cat can be a challenging yet fun and creative process. Your cat’s name will follow them throughout their life, so it’s important to be something you like. Don’t let the opinions of others sway you, pick something that you truly enjoy and would love to hear throughout the halls of your house every day.

We truly hope that this list has aided you in this wonderful and wild ride in finding your cat a name.

See also:

• 100 Candy Inspired Names For Cats: Our Favorites & More
• 170+ Disney-Inspired Cat Names: Ideas for Your Animated & Magical Cat

Featured Image Credit: Piqsels

The post 150+ Cat Names That Start with W – Wonderful & Wondrous Options by Kristin Hitchcock 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.

Duchess, Berlioz’s mother, is a white Turkish Angora cat. Therefore, it can be safely assumed that Berlioz is also a Turkish Angora, at least partially. We are never told explicitly what breed of cat he is, though. Therefore, there is some room for speculation.

What Type of Cat are the Aristocats?

The Aristocat family is assumed to be a Turkish Angora. However, this isn’t ever stated for sure. They do share many similarities with several cat breeds, and, likely, the creators did not use any one cat breed when animating the felines.

Furthermore, we don’t know the kittens’ biological father. Therefore, it’s likely that they are all half-Turkish Angora.

What is a Turkish Angora?

The Turkish Angora is a breed of domestic cat known for its beautiful long, silky coat and striking appearance. It is believed to have originated in Turkey, specifically in the Ankara region (formerly known as Angora), where it got its name.

Turkish Angoras are medium-sized cats with graceful and elegant builds. They have triangular-shaped heads with high cheekbones and large, almond-shaped eyes that can be blue, green, or amber. Their ears are pointed and set high on the head, enhancing their alert and attentive expression.

One of the most distinctive features of this breed is its coat, which we see in Duchess in the film. It is typically long and silky, with a fine texture. The coat comes in various colors and patterns, including white, black, blue, red, cream, and tortoiseshell. Some Turkish Angoras have different eye colors, with one eye being blue and the other being amber or green—a trait known as “odd-eyed.”

They are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are intelligent and social cats that enjoy interacting with their human companions. They can adapt well to different environments and are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Due to their elegant appearance and charming personality, Turkish Angoras have become popular pets worldwide. Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, so regular brushing is necessary to keep it in good condition. They are generally healthy cats with an average lifespan of around 15 years, given proper care and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Sadly, we don’t know 100% what type of breed the popular cartoon cat Berlioz is. However, his mother Duchess is a Turkish Angora, and his father was likely, as well. Therefore, it’s probable that he is a Turkish Angora, or at least partially one.

This cat breed fits, as well. They have many of the traits associated with this breed, including the wide range of colors found in the family.

See Also:

• What Kind of Cat Breed Is Marie from The Aristocats?
• What Kind of Cat Breed is Toulouse from The Aristocats?

Featured Image Credit: Ekaterina Kramarenko, Shutterstock

The post What Kind of Cat Breed is Berlioz from the Aristocats? Disney Felines Explained by Kristin Hitchcock 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.