It can be alarming to see your cat act jumpy all of a sudden, especially out of nowhere. Cats cannot tell us exactly how they feel, which is why cat owners should pay close attention to their cat’s body language. We can get an idea of how our cat is feeling by observing their behavior, and a jumpy cat likely feels fearful or anxious.

Sudden behavioral changes in cats should not be ignored, and it is important to get to the bottom of this behavior. This article will discuss the eight possible reasons behind your cat’s sudden jumpiness.

The 8 Reasons That Your Cat Is So Jumpy

1. Something Frightened Them

The most likely reason your cat could be acting jumpy is because something frightened them. This could have been from a loud sound, unusual smells, dogs barking, or children playing or shouting.

Cats have a better sense of hearing and smell than us, so they can pick up on disturbances around the home that you might have not heard. It is also possible that your cat could be startled by the neighbor’s dog barking or a new pet they might have gotten.

Another possibility is that your cat is frightened after getting trapped somewhere, either in the home or outdoors. Cats who roam outdoors could have encountered a predator or nearly been hit by a car, making them feel much more alert about their environment.

If your cat is feeling jumpy after being frightened, they will probably calm down within a few hours when they feel safer.

2. Anxiety or Stress 

If your cat is feeling anxious or stressed, they are not going to be in a relaxed state. This can make them appear jumpy to even the slightest sounds or movements that would otherwise not have bothered them. The source of your cat’s anxiety or stress can vary and is not always easy to pinpoint. It can often stem from changes in your cat’s environment such as moving house, building work or renovations or a new addition to the family.

Regardless, a stressed cat is going to startle more easily, and you might notice that they prefer to run or hide away when approached.

3. Past Trauma

Cats with an unknown past, like those adopted from shelters or rescue organizations, could have a history of abuse or other trauma that can make them jumpy at times. Certain situations could trigger the emotions your cat felt from the trauma and make them more wary of their surroundings. Stress or fear about past trauma can negatively impact your cat’s life and cause changes in their behavior.

If this is the case, then it is a good idea to speak with your cat’s veterinarian about managing your cat’s trauma and any behavioral changes caused by it.

4. Changes In Their Environment

Cats do not handle sudden changes in their environment well, which can make them feel anxious and therefore jumpy. Cats enjoy having a routine in their lives because it makes them feel comfortable and safe. It can be stressful when things in your cat’s environment change without giving them time to adjust.

Even if you feel the change in their environment is not significant for you, it might be a big deal for your cat. This includes any changes to their daily routine, new people staying over, a new pet, or moving houses. The new changes can make your cat feel uneasy, making them alert and potentially more anxious than normal.

5. Poor Socialization

Early socialization is important for cats to get them trusting of humans and other animal interactions. Cats who have been poorly socialized as kittens may have difficulty bonding with humans and adapting to new situations. They are usually more fearful of us and unfamiliar objects in their environment, which can make them jumpy.

The key socialization period for kittens is between 2 and 7 weeks of age and so will begin when they are still with their mother. Positive experiences, particularly during this period, will teach them that different people, pets and other things in the environment are not a threat. A lack of socialization or negative experiences may cause a cat to become more fearful and therefore more jumpy.

6. New Arrivals

Most cats are not very happy about sharing their space with new pets in the home. They have likely built a daily routine that brings them comfort, which a new pet can disrupt. Furthermore, the smells and sounds of a new pet can make your cat fearful because they have not yet adjusted to its presence.

Your cat is likely going to be more fearful of a larger pet like a dog or a loud parrot rather than small reptiles or fish. Cats can be fearful of dogs if they haven’t been exposed to them from a young age. You might notice that your cat will be jumpy and hide more than usual.

If you plan to welcome new pets into your home, be sure to give your cat time and space to adjust and socialize with them. Cats do not enjoy change, so a new pet in their home can make them feel anxious.

7. Illness or Injury

Cats feel vulnerable when they are ill or injured, which can make them jumpy. A cat who is not feeling well is probably going to be more withdrawn or agitated. If your cat is experiencing physical pain, a single touch or movement from you could worsen how they feel. This can make your cat act jumpier around you in an attempt to avoid being touched or picked up. A loss of vision or hearing can also make your cat jumpy.

Cats often try to hide their signs of illness to avoid appearing vulnerable, so behavioral changes should be taken seriously. If you suspect your cat is acting jumpy because of an injury or illness, they should be taken to a veterinarian.

8. Cognitive Decline

Older felines could develop aging problems like feline cognitive dysfunction (dementia). This condition most commonly affects cats over 10 years of age and can worsen over time (known as cognitive decline).

Cats with this condition might experience changes in their memory, awareness, and how they respond to stimuli. They may become irritable or confused, causing them to feel jumpy. Unfortunately, there is no current cure for feline dementia but environmental and dietary management can help. Their signs should be monitored and treated by a veterinarian.

Conclusion

Sudden behavioral changes in cats should not be overlooked, especially if you suspect your cat might be ill, injured, or experiencing age-related problems. While cats might feel jumpy from time to time depending on their emotions and past experiences, it should not happen frequently or for a prolonged period.

If your cat is acting abnormally and becoming fearful of you and their environment, you should consult with a veterinarian.

Featured Image Credit: Zossia, Shutterstock

The post Why Is My Cat So Jumpy All of a Sudden? 8 Vet Reviewed Reasons  by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

It is understandable to feel worried if your once food-loving feline has a reduced appetite lately but still acts normal. Although cats can be finicky about mealtimes and their food preferences, a poor appetite could indicate that something is wrong. There are various reasons why your cat could be eating less food than usual but still acting normal.

Not all cats clearly show their discomfort from illnesses or stress, which is why cat parents are encouraged to monitor any changes in their cats’ behaviors. Changes in your cat’s eating habits should not be overlooked, as there might be an underlying issue that needs addressing.

This article will discuss the seven likely issues behind your cat’s reduced appetite and otherwise normal behavior.

The 7 Reasons Your Cat Isn’t Eating But Acting Normal

1. Stress

Just like humans, cats can be sufferers of stress too. However, the reasoning behind our stress versus our cats is different. Rather than stressing about work or money worries, cats can become stressed from things like a new pet or baby in their home or other environmental disruptions. Cats do not handle stress well, so you will start seeing changes in their behavior.

A decreased appetite is a common sign your cat could be feeling stressed or generally feels unwell. Other signs that could indicate your cat is stressed are changes in their litterbox or sleeping habits.

2. Age

As cats begin to age into their senior years, you might notice their appetite starts decreasing. They may otherwise act normal, but you might notice subtle changes in their activity levels. It can be normal for a cat to eat a bit less the older they get because of reduced activity and a slower metabolism.

If your cat is eating less food because of their age, the changes will be more subtle than if it were from stress or certain illnesses. Older cats can also experience changes in their food preferences.

However, you should first rule out pain and medical conditions as reasons behind your cat’s poor eating habits. Older cats are more likely to be suffering from pain due to conditions such as arthritis or dental disease, and many have other long term diseases which may suppress their appetite. Senior cats that are refusing to eat any food for 24 hours should be taken to an emergency veterinarian for a health evaluation.

3. Health Problems

If your cat is feeling ill, they may start refusing food or eat less than usual. This could be from pain or nausea that is making it difficult for them to keep food down. Various health problems can cause changes to your cats’ eating habits, such as kidney disease and pancreatitis. Anything that causes nasal congestion and affects a cat’s sense of smell can also reduce their appetite. If you suspect that your cat’s appetite changes are caused by a health problem, they should be taken to a veterinarian.

Cats can hide their health problems well because they do not want to show that they are vulnerable. So, if they start refusing food or eating less than usual, it can be a sign that they are not feeling well and you should get them checked by your vet as soon as possible.

4. Sudden Dietary Changes

Cats can be picky about the food they eat and are not fond of dietary changes. If you have recently switched your cat to a new food or changed up their usual diet, your cat might not show much interest in eating it yet.

It can take a while for cats to adjust to the different flavors and textures of the new food, and they might not enjoy it as much as their old food. It is better to gradually introduce new foods into your cats and allow a transitioning period of 7 to 10 days. This will be much easier on your cat’s digestive system and give them time to adjust to new foods. This gradual transition period is especially important for felines with sensitive stomachs or picky eating habits.

Unfortunately, some cats struggle to adjust to new foods if they have a strong preference for their old diet. Your cat is probably not fond of the new flavors or prefers either the wet or dry food that they previously ate.

5. Certain Medications

If your cat is on medication, whether acute or chronic, a decreased appetite could be a side effect. Medications such as antibiotics can have side effects like nausea and an upset stomach that can make it difficult for your cat to eat normally. It is important to discuss with your cat’s veterinarian any changes in your cat’s behavior and appetite on their medication.

6. Dental Issues

Dental issues are common in cats and can impact how they eat. Gingivitis, stomatitis, mouth ulcers, periodontal disease, or tooth infections are some of the dental issues that can affect cats. It can be painful and difficult for cats to eat their food if they have dental issues.

Not all cats show obvious signs of dental disease until they are evaluated by a veterinarian, so a decreased appetite might be the first sign to look out for. If you suspect that your cat is not eating much food because of dental issues, you will need to get them checked out by a vet.

Otherwise, some cats won’t eat for a few hours after getting dental surgery or teeth cleaning. This could be from any swelling and discomfort in their mouth that is making it challenging for them to eat. Your cat’s veterinarian might recommend feeding them wet or soft foods until your cat recovers.

7. Gastrointestinal Problems

Like humans, cats can have gastrointestinal problems like nausea and stomach pain that can affect their appetite. They could have eaten food earlier that didn’t agree with their stomach, or perhaps they have acid reflux or irritable bowel disease. This can cause your cat to lose their appetite and not eat much until their gastrointestinal problems ease up.

Conclusion

If your cat is reluctant to eat their food but still acts normally, don’t hesitate to contact a veterinarian. Cats should never go more than a couple of days without eating any food because of the risk of hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a common cause of liver failure in cats. It is not a good sign for cats to start eating less food or refusing food entirely.

Even if your cat seems otherwise normal, the reduced appetite is a sign that they are not. It’s advisable to have them checked out by your vet as soon as possible

See also:

• Do Cats Enjoy Sex & Mating? Vet-Reviewed Feline Facts
• Is Patchouli Safe for Cats? Vet-Reviewed Health Facts

Featured Image Credit: 4 PM production, Shutterstock

The post My Cat Is Not Eating But Acting Normal, What’s Wrong? 7 Vet-Reviewed Issues by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

Cats are popular pets that are obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients found in animal protein to survive. They also happen to be exceptional hunters that skilfully catch and consume various live prey.

Most domestic cats will eat a commercial diet specifically formulated for cats. These foods, some of which may contain fish as a protein source, are safe, balanced, and pre-cooked so you do not need to worry about putting your cat at risk when you feed them. However, some cats may see your pet goldfish as food as it appeals to the cat’s hunting and carnivorous nature.

Goldfish are not something your cat should be eating. This article will explain why.

Are Goldfish Safe for Cats to Eat?

The simple answer is that most goldfish are not completely safe for cats to eat, nor are they a beneficial addition to a cat’s diet. Although cats can eat various types of fish, a goldfish is not a good choice.

Goldfish are one of the most popular aquarium fish in the world. Many homes probably keep both a cat and a goldfish as pets. When a goldfish is kept in a secure aquarium, they should be protected from ever encountering a cat. Cats and goldfish shouldn’t be allowed to interact, especially since one is a skillful hunter and the other is its potential prey. There’s no doubt that a cat will jump at the chance to catch and eat a goldfish, which is why you are urged to keep your goldfish secured in a tank with a lid.

Although your cat is unlikely to be harmed by accidentally eating a goldfish once or twice, this behavior should not be encouraged for several reasons which we will discuss below.

There is also the ethical standpoint with feeding live goldfish to cats since goldfish are capable of feeling pain and suffering. In some cases, cats may leave the goldfish injured and refuse to eat them, leading to a prolonged death.

Why Your Cat Should Not Be Eating Goldfish

There are four main reasons why your cat should not be eating goldfish, regardless of whether they are dead or alive.

1. Goldfish May Contain Dangerous Parasites and Bacteria.

Even the healthiest and most well-maintained goldfish could be harboring dangerous parasites and bacteria. You won’t necessarily be able to tell if a goldfish has parasites or bacterial pathogens just by looking at the fish.

When your cat ingests the infected goldfish, they are exposed to those parasites and bacteria. This puts your cat’s health at risk, and they can get sick as a result.

2. Goldfish Are Contaminated with Toxic Water Treatments and Medications.

Goldfish do not live in an environment with just tap water. There are various water treatments used to make their aquarium water safe, most of which contain chemicals that can be dangerous for cats to ingest. Although most of the water treatments are diluted in the aquarium’s water, you still don’t want to expose your cat to those chemicals. The tank water is not safe for your cat to drink, and must be covered with a lid .

Remember the heavy fish tank itself can be dangerous to cats, make sure cords and filters are not accessible so your cat can’t play with them and pull the tank down.

3. Cats Should Not Eat Too Much Raw Fish.

Even though cats love the smell and taste of raw fish, they should not eat it and should only have cooked fish. As well as the pathogens that it may contain like salmonella and E coli, another concern is the enzyme thiaminase which is found in raw fish including goldfish.

Thiaminase breaks down thiamine which is an essential B vitamin involved in many metabolic processes. If a cat is consuming large amounts of raw fish often, this may lead to a thiamine deficiency. Early signs include lethargy and inappetence, but if untreated this progresses to serious neurological signs such as an abnormal gait, incoordination and can even be fatal.

4. The Bones and Size of Some Goldfish are a Choking Hazard.

Cats might be natural hunters that have evolved to eat live prey, but that doesn’t mean they cannot choke on their food. Most goldfish are not very large, so some cats might attempt to swallow the fish whole. The cartilage and bones of goldfish are small and hard which can easily get lodged in your cat’s throat. Both situations are a choking hazard for cats and have the potential to cause intestinal blockages or damage. These hazards can easily be prevented by not allowing them to eat bony fish.

In Conclusion

Since it’s likely that your cat is already eating a balanced and complete diet, there is no reason to include goldfish in it—on purpose or not. You risk exposing your cat to potentially harmful pathogens, parasites, and chemical-based treatments that could make your cat ill. There are much safer alternatives like cooked salmon or sardines that still offer your cat vital nutrients without the risks. Make sure to keep your goldfish tank secured with a lid, and keep it in another room altogether if possible, to keep both your fish and feline safe.

Featured Image Credit: kabita Darlami, Unsplash

The post Can Cats Eat Goldfish? Vet-Reviewed Risks & Precautions by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

When you welcome a new cat into your life, it can be tricky to find a name that fits them. Cat owners are faced with hundreds of different names to choose from that could be a could fit for their feline companion. So, narrowing down your choices to names that start with a particular letter can be a good start.

This article will help make naming your cat a much easier process by providing you with many different cat names that start with the letter “E”.

Click to skip ahead:

• Tips for Naming Your Cat
• Cute Cat Names
• Funny Cat Names
• Cool Cat Names
• Female Cat Names
• Male Cat Names
• Unique Cat Names with Meanings

Tips for Naming Your Cat

Choosing the right name for your cat can take time. Most cat owners want a name that describes certain traits about their cats, such as their coloration, personality, or behaviors. You do not have to find a name for your new cat right away. Instead, you can observe them for a couple of days and try a few different names out. Whichever name seems to suit your cat the best, that is usually the name that you might want to stick with.

You can even compile a list of several different names that you like and ask your friends and family which is the best fit for your cat. This can help you narrow down your options till you find the perfect name.

Cute Cat Names Starting with E

Cats are well-known for being exceptionally cute with their fluffy fur and bright eyes. They make loving yet playful companion animals that are all adorable in so many ways.

Funny Cat Names Starting with E

Cats are entertaining and often quirky, so perhaps a funny name to match their personality may be a good choice.

Cool Cat Names Starting with E

Cats can certainly be “cool” too (as any cat owner will attest to), and they need an awesome name to match their coolness.

Female Cat Names Starting with E

Female cats are beautiful, independent, and regal. Choosing a feminine name with an “E” to suit your female cat can be challenging, but there are some options.

Male Cat Names Starting with E

Male cats are often described as social, playful, and sometimes a little silly. The following names are fairly masculine and could be the perfect fit for your male cat.

Unique Cat Names Starting with E with Meanings

All cats are unique. Why not choose a name that is not only unique but has meaning to it as well? Here are some unique cat names starting with an “E”, along with their meanings.

Final Thoughts

Many different names begin with “E” and might be suitable for your feline companion, from cute and cool ones to gender-specific and even unique ones. It can take time to find the right name for your cat, so don’t rush the process. You can even take a few days to determine your new cat’s personality traits before you choose their final name.

See also:

• 100+ Brown Cat Names: Ideas for Bronzed & Nutty Cats
• 100+ Pokémon Inspired Cat Names: Ideas for Unique & Adorable Cats

Featured Image Credit: JumpStory

The post 150 Cat Names That Start with E for Your Furry Friend by Sarah Psaradelis 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 scratching the window can be irritating, especially if it happens constantly during the day or at night when you are trying to sleep. Cats may scratch at windows for a variety of reasons, from wanting to reach prey outside such as a bird they saw, wanting to go outside to use the bathroom, explore, or perhaps your cat has seen its reflection in the window and thinks it is another cat.

Although a cat’s claws won’t leave any damage to the glass windows, it can be frustrating to hear the sounds of their nails scratching against the glass and not understanding why they are doing it.

Let’s take a look at the explanations behind your cat scratching at the window.

Click below to jump ahead:

• Why Cats Scratch at Windows
• How To Stop Cats From Scratching Windows

The 5 Reasons Why Cats Scratch at Windows

1. A Desire To Hunt

If your cat has seen birds or other wildlife through the window, then they want to be let outside to hunt and chase it. It is part of your cat’s instinct to hunt, and some cats will even sit by the window transfixed by the birds outside. If a particular bird catches their interest, they will want to run and chase it, but the window is stopping them.

You may then notice your cat frantically scratching on the glass and meowing to try and get outside. This is usually the most common reason, especially if your cat was first staring outside the window watching the wildlife.

2. They Want To Go Outside Or Be Let Inside

If your cat is used to going outside or being let inside through an open window, they will start to scratch at it if it is closed and they do not know how to get through the window. This behavior can happen if the window is not open wide enough for your cat to feel comfortable climbing through it, and they are trying to indicate that you should help them get outside or let them inside.

Most cats do not understand how windows work, and they feel like it is blocking their path. This can make your cat scratch and claw at the window in confusion because they do not know why they cannot go through the glass.

3. They Can See Their Reflection

Cats can see their reflections in the window, and this confuses them for another cat that is invading their territory on the opposite side. Your cat will begin to scratch and rub against the window in an attempt to reach the other cat and mark their territory by using their scent.

Cats should soon get bored of this when they realize that their reflection isn’t a threat, so this behavior is typically short-lived. Your cat will have a defensive posture when they notice their reflection and try to get on the other side of the window to check if it truly is a cat. You may notice that they will start sniffing the window, and if it is open then will try investigating the other side.

Soon your cat will become indifferent to seeing their reflection, generally because they realize there isn’t another cat threatening its territory.

4. Scent-Marking

Cats have scent glands on their paws, and they will sometimes scratch at windows to rub their scent on them, known as scent-marking. Your cat is likely going to rub other body parts that have scent glands too, such as their flanks, cheeks, and tails on the glass if they are scratching at the window for this reason. Scent marking is also part of marking their territory, in this case, the window, as their own.

5. Stress and Anxiety Relief

Cats can feel stress and anxiety, and things in their environment can cause them to feel negative emotions. Your cat might feel bored and unhappy, which causes them to scratch at the window as a way to entertain themselves and feel better. Your cat will benefit from having toys and a scratching post to help keep them from scratching at the windows when they feel stressed and anxious.

Instead, your cat will learn to scratch and play with their actual toys. Even though a cat’s nail is not sharp enough to damage glass, it can leave a fine scratch mark and cause an irritating sound.

How To Stop Cats From Scratching Windows

If you are annoyed by your cat’s window-scratching behavior, there are a few methods you can try to stop this behavior. You will first want to remove the scratches from the window by using a glass polisher or a buffing pad to wipe the glass clean. You will then need to redirect your cat’s window scratching behavior by keeping them occupied with toys, scratching posts, and cat trees to climb.

One of our preferred scratchers, the Hepper Hi-Lo Modern Cat Scratcher, is a surefire way to keep your kitty out of trouble (or at least away from scratching the things they should not!). It's not only stylish, but it's functional as well. It's made of sturdy cardboard with a durable plywood and metal frame and can be set up in three different ways – high, low, or lower. The different positions encourage maximum engagement, exercise and stretching, and of course, intense scratching (they can throw their whole body into it). 

With the Hepper Hi-Lo, your cat gets to have a blast scratching like a maniac, and you don't have to worry about them causing so much chaos or scratching your stuff. There are even replacement cardboard pieces available, so you really can let your cat go to town on this, and know that it will be long lasting. Click here to learn more about this awesome scratcher.

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

If your cat is scratching at the window because they are used to exiting or entering because of an open window, then make sure that you leave it open to a space that your cat is comfortable jumping through. Make sure that if you leave the window open, it is at a safe height from the ground so that your cat is not endangering themselves by jumping down a long distance.

You can also try placing something to block your cat’s view and path from a specific window if it is becoming a constant problem.

Conclusion

Most cats will lounge on the window in a sunny spot, so scratching behaviors can be more common in cats that spend more time by the window. It can take a while to train your cat to stop scratching at the window, which is why it is important to address the reason behind their behavior before you can help find a solution.

Featured Image Credit: DenisAgati, Pixabay

The post Why Is My Cat Scratching At The Window? 5 Reasons & How To Stop Them by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

Cats are naturally curious about various smells, but the smell of the topical pain relief products for muscle pain known as Icy Hot and Bengay seems to be a favorite with cats. If you have ever applied these ointments, you may find that your cat seems to take an interest in the smell.

This can lead to your cat licking, sniffing, and rubbing against the area where the cream was applied. Not only is this behavior strange, but it is also very dangerous for your cat because of certain ingredients that should not be ingested by your cat.

So, you might be wondering why cats go crazy over a topical pain relief ointment like Bengay or Icy Hot and the reason behind your cat’s strange reaction to both the smell and taste. This article will give you all the answers you need, along with why cats should not come into contact with these (and similar) ointments.

Click below to jump ahead:

• Why Cats Like Icy Hot and Bengay Ointments
• Can Cats Lick Icy Hot or Bengay Ointments?
• The Dangers of Topical Pain Relief Products for Cats

The 2 Likely Reasons Why Cats Like Icy Hot and Bengay Ointments

1.  Similar Scent To Catnip

Topical pain relief ointments such as Bengay and Icy Hot contain ingredients such as menthol and wintergreen, both of which belong to the same family as catmint, which has a similar scent to catnip which cats love. This smell is strong enough to pique your cat’s interest and make them interested in licking and sniffing the ointment. Wintergreen and menthol provide a cooling feeling when applied to your skin, but it produces an attractive smell for your cat.

Thanks to a cat’s strong sense of smell, it is not difficult for them to smell menthol and wintergreen and come rushing to you. If it has been applied to a part of your body, your cat will spend more time near you because they enjoy the smell of menthol and wintergreen.

2. They Like The Taste and Smell Of Menthol

Cats are attracted to the smell of menthol, which smells minty and is usually made from peppermint essential oils. This is because it smells like catmint, and it likely has a similar taste which is why cats will try to lick ointments containing menthol.

However, menthol is dangerous to cats because it contains peppermint oil which is toxic to cats. Cats are not particularly fond of peppermint oil, but they seem to like the burning and minty smell of menthol found in many topical pain relief ointments.

Can Cats Lick Icy Hot or Bengay Ointments?

These ointments are not safe for cats to consume or inhale, because they contain harmful and even dangerous ingredients. Even though cats may take an interest in the smell and will do anything to lick the products, they should not come into contact with topical pain-relieving ointments like Bengay and Icy Hot. Aside from containing toxic or poisonous ingredients, these ointments also have a strong smell that can burn your cat’s nose and eyes, and even cause issues to your cat’s tongue, throat, and mouth if they ingest it.

The Dangers of Topical Pain Relief Products for Cats

Most topical pain relief ointments contain dangerous salicylates such as flurbiprofen which is the generic version of aspirin. Cats are very sensitive to aspirin, and pain medication and can poison cats according to the FDA which sent out an alert after reports of deaths in cats who consumed this ingredient in topical ointments like Bengay or Icy Hot.

Flurbiprofen can cause NSAID toxicity in cats, and reports showed that cats were showing symptoms after their owners used a topical pain relief ointment and the cats were exposed to them. Peppermint oil is also toxic to cats when ingested because their liver cannot break down the phenols. Menthol is created from peppermint oil, and it is what gives these products a cooling and minty scent. If you are using a topical pain relief product, make sure to keep it away from your cat.

It is also important to keep the area where the product was applied to your skin covered and away from your cat. Avoid getting the ointments on bedding and furniture where your cat could lick it because the smell will quickly attract your cat to it, and they may ingest it.

Conclusion

Cats are attracted to Icy Hot and Bengay topical pain relief ointments because it contains menthol and wintergreen which smell similar to catmint—an attractive smell to cats. They will try to lick and sniff at the product because it likely seems tasty to them, however, the ingredients in these products are dangerous to cats and should be kept out of their reach.

Featured Image Credit: Beatriz Vera, Shutterstock

The post Why Does My Cat Like Icy Hot and Bengay? 2 Reasons & Safety Facts by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

Cats are quite popular in Japan, you will find cats depicted in Japanese pop culture, from the “Maneki Neko,” the beckoning cat, to Japanese folklore that symbolizes cats as good fortune.

Cats represent many things in Japanese culture and are believed to be elegant and mysterious creatures that started when cats were brought over from China to protect Buddhist scriptures from vermin. The origins and folklore that have caused cats to become a major part of Japanese culture are fascinating and theirs no doubt that the Japanese love cats. These inspiring animals have been depicted in various Japanese novels, art, literature, and folklore.

Click below to jump ahead:

• History Of Cats In Japan
• What Do Cats Symbolize In Japanese Culture?
• Symbolic Cats In Japanese Folklore
• Representations of Cats In Japanese Art
• Cats In Japanese Literature

History Of Cats In Japan

Cats are believed to have originally come into China during the 6^th century by Buddhist Monks to protect sacred Buddhist scrolls from damage caused by vermin like mice and rats when the religion was introduced into the country.

Cats were then kept as pets by the Emperor, which made them become more than just protection for scrolls, but also a prized possession. The Emperor’s cat was black, and this was depicted in a diary.

The first recorded name of a cat in Japan was Moyobu no Otodo which was an aristocratic name given by Emperor Ichijo. The cat had a white tag and red collar in ancient records and was seen playing with strings.

This made them first seem like exotic animals that were rare and precious before they were plentiful in Japan. Soon after cats were introduced into the streets, they populated and become more common. Cats have since been the inspiration for many legends and folklore surrounding Japanese culture and have inspired the creation of many Japanese statues and cartoons.

Cats were kept throughout Japan to protect silk farms, and rice in food storages, and even made popular pets. Many cats are also kept for spiritual meanings, as cats are symbols of fortune and luck in Japan.

What Do Cats Symbolize In Japanese Culture?

Cats are a symbol of good fortune in Japan, especially the Japanese bobtail breed. Black cats were especially adored in Japan because they were believed to bring unmarried women a desirable suitor. Other symbolisms of cats in Japanese culture include wealth, prosperity, and luck in the Maneki Neko.

Symbolizing is very meaningful in Japan. Cats are also seen as having protective powers. Many cats are special in Japanese culture because of all the art, folklore, legends, and literature about cats that makes them not only cute and cuddly companions, but also have spiritual meaning in Japanese culture.

The 4 Symbolic Cats In Japanese Folklore

Most cats are portrayed with supernatural powers as entities in Japanese folklore. These cats are symbolic and often have a back story as to why they are portrayed in that way.

1. Maneki Neko

The beckoning cat, better known as the Maneki Neko in Japanese, is one of the most popular feline statues with a symbolic meaning. The Maneki Neko is believed to bring fortune and luck, and there are three folklore stories as to how this cat figurine may have originated from.

It is usually made from ceramic or plastic and can be seen in front of shops and houses in Japan, usually by the entrance. The original figurine was a calico Japanese bobtail cat with a raised left paw that beckons visitors. It is used as a form of welcoming, while also being considered good luck to the owner.

The most widely believed origin story of the Maneki Neko is that a feudal lord was underneath a tree when he saw a cat waving at him with its paw. He curiously approached the cat, when suddenly a lightning bolt hit the tree right where he had been standing moments before.

This figurine has since been placed throughout Japan and is especially popular among small business owners. The Maneki Neko’s classic back-and-forth mechanical paw is also believed to signal when visitors are arriving since it looks like the cat is washing its face.

2. Bakeneko

This is a story about a shape-shifting cat that started normal and later developed supernatural abilities. This change happened as the cat aged and was unusually large. Cats were generally preferred to have short tails in ancient Japan, much like the Japanese bobtail and the tails were typically cut short to achieve this look.

This preference led to the unintentional breeding of cats with naturally short tails, and once they have gotten their supernatural powers, the bakenko grow into a human adult. They will walk on their hind legs and even speak, along with the ability to summon fireballs that were found that the ends of their tails.

When a bakeneko transforms into a woman, they are known as “Neko-Musume” which translates to the daughter of a cat. This is also the popular depiction of the cat girl from anime.

3. Kasha

One of the most terrifying bakeneko is the Kasha, This was a fiery cat that stole sinners’ corpses from graveyards and is believed to bring them to hell. Sometimes they will keep the bodies to eat, while sometimes using them as puppets. This gruesome bakeneko was called Kasha because it was the original meaning of a burning chariot in the original Buddhist texts.

4. Nekomata

The Nekomata (forked cat) was often confused with the bakeneko, but the main difference is their double tails. Even though not all bakeneko are considered malicious to humans, the Nekomata are. When the Nekomata gains supernatural powers and begins to walk on its hind legs and talk like humans, some run away to hide from towns deep in the mountains.

Here they become human-eating monsters and some tails say that they learned necromancy. The Nekomata sometimes haunt their owners with visits from the dead and even summon fireballs just like the bakeneko. However, the bakeneko doesn’t use its power to intentionally harm humans, the Nekomata does.

The 4 Representations of Cats In Japanese Art

Cats have long been depicted in Japanese art and even found in one of the world’s first novels as a main character in the 11^th century. From watercolors to ukiyo-e prints, cats have been featured in many Japanese artworks.

Let’s look at some of the Japanese artwork that features cats:

1. Beauties After a Bath – Kitagawa Utamaro

A picture of two young women in gowns who just got out of the hot springs baths and have a short-tailed kitten playing with the bottom of the orange gown. It was created over 200 years ago and shows the artist’s love for felines and female forms.

2. Tiresome – Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The artwork was taken by the series Thirty-two Customs and Manners of Women which shows a famous painting of the love between a woman and her cat. Yoshitoshi was considered one of the greatest ukiyo-e greatest artists.

3. Tama the Cat – Hiroaki Takahashi

This print was created in 1926 by a Tokyo artist who produced cat portraits of a more modern ukiyo-e style. The artist’s use of shading and blending colors to create a striking white cat with a red neckpiece makes for a perfectly balanced cat picture.

4. Cat and Plum Blossoms – Hishida Shunso

Hishida Shunso produced delicate and realistic paintings using the nihonga and morotai styles. This painting shows a cat waking up or fighting the urge to sleep, with soft peachy colors and the ink diffusion painting method makes the painting look realistic.

Cats In Japanese Literature

In Japanese culture, cats are also the main character in many cartoons and novels written by Natsume Soseki. The book I Am a Cat which was written from the perspective of house cats is critical of its owners.

Years later, Hiro Arikawa took inspiration from the novel and wrote The Traveling Cat Chronicles, which is a satirical story about the adventures of a cat that travels with its owners through Japan. Even if cats are not the main characters in Japanese novels, they will be featured often.

Conclusion

Cats are greatly intertwined with Japanese culture and can be found throughout cities in Japan. Cats primarily represent luck and good fortune in Japanese culture, but they are also the lead roles in novels and shows, along with being depicted in artwork for decades by famous Japanese artists.

Cats are considered both cute and cuddly pets along with a character in famous artwork, literature, and folklore that makes them a favorite and symbolic animal in Japan.

Featured Image Credit: Pabkov, Shutterstock

The post What Place Do Cats Have In Japanese Culture? History, Art, Folkore & More by Sarah Psaradelis 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 pet holding our hands is a sign of love and affection, and it is usually associated with dogs. Cats can be equally as interested in communicating with us on a physical level, sometimes placing their paw in our hands or grabbing our hands between their paws.

This usually means that your cat feels secure with you, and they feel safe enough to show that they feel comfortable being close to someone that they love. On some days your cat might refuse to have their paw held by you, whereas on other days they may initiate it themselves.

This can depend on your cat’s mood as how they are feeling plays a major role in how they act throughout the day and towards you. A cat that is feeling playful, seeking attention, showing you that you’re a place of security for them, or simply wanting to be petted may place their paw in your hand as a way to “hold” it.

The 4 Reasons Why Your Cat Holds Your Hand

1. To Get Your Attention

There’s no doubt that cats love attention, especially from humans. By placing their paw in your hand or grabbing your hand with their paws, your cat could be looking for attention. This attention that your cats looking for can be a simple acknowledgment from you, to wanting to be rubbed or picked up. Some cats will even do this when they are feeling hungry and know that this behavior might be enough encouragement to feed them.

2. Security and Safety

A cat that feels safe with you will not hesitate to show how much they love and care for you. You might be a form of comfort and security to your cat, so they will enjoy having you hold their paw without pulling it away, or they will simply place their paw in your hand willingly. Your cat could even be trying to protect you without being able to verbally express this. Instead, your cat may try to be near you and get your attention because they feel protected over you.

Some cats may also do this when they sense that you were acting differently throughout the day, perhaps as their way of asking what is wrong or seeking comfort to know if you are okay.

3. They Want To Be Petted

Most cats enjoy being petted, even if they get irritated with you after a few minutes. If you were petting your cat and suddenly stop, they will try to paw at you to get you to pet them some more. Some cats enjoy petting and your presence, so they will try to hold your hand to encourage you to keep petting them.

Other cats might do this when you are sitting down, and they take it as an invitation to try and get you to pet them. It is also common for cats to lick and paw at your hand if they feel that they do not want you to stop petting them because it feels nice for them.

4. Playfulness

To some cats, our hands look like toys. This is because cats can turn almost anything into a toy or fun activity, which includes pawing at your hand or trying to swat at it. This is just your cat being curious and playful, and they could be showing you that they feel like playing with something.

This would be a good idea to give them a toy to distract them from trying to paw and play with your hand, which can be quite sore if they bring their teeth and claws out if they get too excited.

Why Do Cats Hold Our Hands When We Are Sad?

While cats do not have the same abilities to express their emotions on the same level as humans, many cat owners believe that their cat’s extended paw is there to help them feel better in times when they are stressed or sad. When we are feeling down, we may be less energetic than usual.

This means we might spend more time sitting or lying down, which allows your cat to interact with us because they struggle to do it when we are busy. It is also possible that your cat could be sensing your unhappiness by changes in your facial expressions and behavior, and they may try to paw at your hands. This helps many cat owners feel slightly better knowing that their cats care about them when they feel down, and cats do this with love and affection.

Conclusion

If your cat decides to hold your hand with their paw, or they allow you to hold their paw in your hand, it is a sign that they trust you. A cat will show how they are feeling in various ways since they cannot verbally communicate with us in a way we understand and trying to get your attention or show you comfort by pawing at you is one of those ways. Although each reason behind a cat’s hand-holding is different, they are almost always positive.

Featured Image Credit: cottonbro, Pexels

The post Why Does My Cat Hold My Hand? 4 Common Reasons by Sarah Psaradelis 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 seen your cat go crazy for catnip and act as if they are “high” and you want to know if your cat’s reaction is normal, or perhaps you want to make sure this plant is safe before giving it to your cat—it is.

Catnip is completely safe for cats to smell and consume and the Pet Poison Helpline deems it as not toxic to cats. However, it can be bad for cats if they eat too much catnip, which is why it is important to monitor how much catnip your cat has access to.

Most cats simply love the smell of catnip and will purr and rub themselves on the leaves to expose the natural substance that gives them a euphoric feeling.

Is Catnip Harmful to Cats?

Catnip is not bad for cats, and it is not toxic or poisonous, making it safe for many cats. The only way for catnip to be harmful to a cat is if they have an allergy to the plant or if they ingest too much at once. Catnips’ fibers are not easily digested, which in excess can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Catnip is considered harmless to cats. It is not an actual drug that causes negative side effects, as it contains a natural chemical called nepetalactone. Microscopic glands located on the underside of the leaf produce this substance, along with many of the plant’s oils and volatile chemicals. When these are touched or broken, the plant releases this natural chemical and gives cats a pleasurable feeling.

It can only become harmful or bad to cats who consume too much, as they will likely suffer from diarrhea and vomiting according to the ASPCA.

The good news is that cats can recover from this, and the only risk of catnip “overdosing” is if a cat becomes constipated or dehydrated. It is more of a dietary indiscretion reaction, rather than true poisoning, as catnip does not contain toxic elements.

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is an herb from the mint plant family, and it contains a natural chemical called nepetalactone that is released from the plant, and it only seems to affect members of the feline family, such as cats.

This plant gives cats almost a euphoric feeling once it has been ingested or inhaled, which might sound scary to some cat parents because we assume it is bad for our cats. However, this natural chemical and plant are not harmful to cats, and the only bad side effects are from ingesting too much of this plant or from rare allergy cases.

When the chemical nepetalactone is inhaled, it passes through the cat’s vomeronasal organ at the root of their mouth. This organ is an accessory of the olfactory system found in several species of animals that normally detects hormones. Nepetalactone binds to the receptors in the cat’s vomeronasal or Jacobson organ. This works with the sensory neurons in the cat’s brain and mimics feline sex hormones. Your cat will likely experience a euphoric effect and act high. This feeling only lasts for a few minutes, and not all cats will experience a high from catnip, around only 60% will.

It is also important to know that cats under 6 months of age might not be affected by catnip when its inhaled, but they could suffer from the negative side effects if they eat too much which is why you should not give your cat more and more catnip if you see they are ingesting it.

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Can Cats Eat Catnip?

Catnip can be both inhaled and ingested to affect cats. The only issue with a cat consuming catnip is too much can upset their stomach and cause unwanted side effects that can be uncomfortable for cats.

Some cat owners will use catnip oil to encourage sick or fussy cats to eat their food, while other owners will allow their cats to eat catnip as a form of entertainment for the cat. If you give your cat catnip, it is important to use moderation to avoid any issues.

Catnip is generally safe for cats to eat as it has no toxic properties that would harm your cat. However, cats are more likely to experience negative side effects by eating this herb in excess. The fibers in the plant are not easily digested, which can cause your cat’s stomach to hurt if they eat catnip in large quantities, resulting in diarrhea and vomiting.

Negative Reactions to Catnip In Cats

If your cat has eaten too much catnip, it will experience a negative reaction. This mimics what a cat would act like if they have been poisoned such as vomit, diarrhea, or constipation, which is why some people will refer to it as a form of poisoning. However, it is unlikely that the cat was poisoned by the catnip, and they probably just ate too much.

If your cat has eaten too much catnip, it will suffer from a tummy upset that will present itself as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. Other cats might feel dizzy and appear very disorientated and as if they are afraid or feeling ill. Aside from feeling disoriented, catnip can also increase your cat’s activity levels, making them more prone to scratching and biting as a form of rough playtime. They may scratch and bite at you if you try to play with them or go for your furniture.

Final Thoughts

Catnip is generally harmless to cats, but you should monitor how much catnip they eat because large quantities can make them feel sick. Keep in mind that catnip is more potent when it is inhaled rather than when it is ingested, so it might be a better idea to place a small number of dried catnip leaves into your cats’ toys and encourage them to sniff it rather than eating it, but both can be safe methods if you are careful about how much catnip you give to your cat.

Featured Image Credit: Georgia Evans, Shutterstock

The post Is Catnip Bad For Cats? What You Need to Know! by Sarah Psaradelis 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.

It can be frustrating to have a cat that sprays, whether it is your cat that is spraying around the house or yard, or if a stray cat is wandering onto your property and leaving the pungent smell behind. It is quite common for new cats to spray if they are not yet familiar with using a litterbox, however, some cats will spray because they are stressed or want to mark their territory. It is most effective to identify the problem before you address it and apply certain methods to stop a cat from spraying.

There are different tips and tricks you can use to get a cat to stop spraying which we will discuss in this article.

Why Do Cats Spray?

Spraying or urine marking is not the same as regular urination when it comes to cats. Spraying is a behavior where cats spray a small and concentrated amount of urine on a surface to leave their scent behind. The high concentration of urine mixed in with your cat’s scent is what makes the sprayed urine smell so pungent.

Some reason why cats spray is to leave their scent behind, especially if they suspect that an unfamiliar scent from another cat has entered their territory. This encourages your cat to spray so that it can mark its territory to ward off the strange cat.

Cats will also spray if they are stressed, especially in multi-cat households where they can become overwhelmed with all the different scents from other cats, even if they are familiar with them. This leads cats to spray on your furniture, along walls, or even outside because they try to overpower the scent of other cats with their own.

Spraying can also be a way for cats to tell other cats to “back off” as a form of communication. If a cat is highly stressed, it will begin to pick up the habit of spraying whether it is from another cat that is asserting dominance over the cat, or a strange cat.

Spraying should not be confused with cats who urinate outside of the litterbox, as this usually indicates that your cat is unhappy with the litter box conditions or if they are suffering from a medical problem that makes urination painful or difficult.

The 8 Tips To Stop Your Cat from Spraying

If you notice that your cat is spraying, then you can try following these simple steps to try and break this habit. If your cat has only sprayed once but not again, then there was likely something that bothered them at the moment that caused them to spray. However, if you find that your cat is continuously spraying, then they may have formed a habit that you need to help them break.

1. Identify The Cause

The first and most important step to getting a cat to stop spraying is to identify the reason that is causing your cat to spray. This can range from stressors in the environment such as an unfamiliar scent from another cat or from a cat in the household that is claiming territory where other cats are living. Other stressors can include changes in the litter box, new litter, an unclean litter box, or a litter box that is shared with a lot of cats and becomes soiled quickly.

Your cat may also be reacting to a foreign cat such as a stray or neighboring cat that is urinating in their territory, so your cat will start to spray around the house to reclaim its turf.

2. Help Prevent The Stressor

Once you have identified the possible stressor in your cat’s life that is causing them to spray, then you should help prevent this stressor from occurring. However, if there is a conflict between two familiarized cats in the household, this can be quite tricky.

If you are dealing with a neighborhood cat that is wandering onto your property, it is best to try and reach out to the owners so that they can take methods to stop the cat from wandering onto your property. If you are dealing with a stray cat that is bothering your cat, you can take the stray to a local veterinarian or rescue organization that can help you deal with the cat.

3. Clean Soiled Areas

If you suspect that a stray cat is urine-marking on your property and causing your cat distress, it is important to cleanse the areas to help eliminate the smell that is bothering your cat. If your cat has sprayed against a wall or along your furniture, then you should thoroughly wash this area and make it inaccessible to your cat so that they do not go back to the urine mark on it again.

Using cleaning solutions such as bicarbonate soda or white vinegar in water can help remove the urine-smelling odor. Avoid using fragranced soaps that do not have the right enzymes to break-down cat urine odors, as this will not remove the scent or the urine you are smelling.

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4. Limit The Amount Of Change and Stress In Your Cats Life

It is important to keep your cat as stress-free as possible. Since most cats will spray when they feel threatened or stressed, ensuring that they are content in their environment will help prevent your cat from spraying again. Make sure that your cat is comfortable with the litterbox that they are using and that they are not being stressed out by other cats.

Changes in the household can also confuse your cat and lead them to spray to mark their territory, so make sure that if you move the house around or move to a new location you are keeping all the items your cat has left its scent on so that they have a familiar scent with them, such as their bedding, toys, blankets, and other essential items.

5. Keep The Litter Box Clean

Cats who are stressed from not being able to use their litter box might start to spray around the house. This can either be influenced by a dirty litter box or one that many cats share so all the scents are frustrating your cats and causing them to spray. It is a good idea to keep the litter box as clean as possible and to ensure in multi-cat households that each cat has a litterbox, they can comfortably use without being bothered by other cats.

6. Spay or Neuter Your Cat

Both male and female cats will spray to show other cats that they are ready to mate. This is a sexual behavior with cat communication; however, it seems to be more frequent in male cats rather than females. This can be solved by taking your cat to a veterinarian for a spay or neuter which will also help prevent your cat from becoming pregnant or making other cats pregnant. This is important with so many cats up for adoption that need homes.

7. Use Repellent Methods

If there is a particular spot that your cat sprays against, either outdoors or indoors, then you can use a repellent to help deter them from that area. There are plenty of safe and harmless repellents on the market such as sprays and liquid concentrations that can be used indoors and outdoors, or you can purchase repelling devices that can be used outdoors to keep strays and wandering cats from coming onto your property. Cat repellents not only work for your cat, but they will also help deter other unwanted cats from entering your home or yard and bothering your cat.

8. Consult With A Veterinarian

Lastly, if your cat is continuing to spray even after you have tried the above methods, you should take them to a veterinarian for a health check-up. This is important because your cat might be spraying because of a health issue or anxiety that your veterinarian will be able to diagnose and help you treat. Some vets will also be able to give you advice on how to stop your cat from spraying based on your cat’s home or medical situation, which can vary.

Conclusion

It can be overwhelming to deal with a cat who sprays, but once you identify the reason behind their spraying and take the right measures to help stop your cat from spraying, you should soon have success in stopping or limiting the amount of spraying your cat does. There is not a method that works for all, so it can take a bit of trial and error before you start to see results in stopping your cat from spraying.

See also:

• Why Is My Female Cat Spraying All of a Sudden? 5 Possible Reasons
• Why Do Cats Spray? 5 Possible Reasons & Solutions

Featured Image Credit: anlomaja, Shutterstock

The post How To Stop a Cat From Spraying: 8 Vet-Approved Tips by Sarah Psaradelis 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.