Vicksburg is a city full of history that clings to the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. Vicksburg has a lot to offer for the curious traveler including gambling, the site of one of America’s most important battles, and a beautiful stretch of waterfront. If you are planning on traveling with your cat, there are a few hotel options for you to choose from. From a historic inn that resides inside of an old mansion to a beautiful three-star hotel in nearby Jackson, there are plenty of places to stay where you and your feline friend will be welcomed.

Here are nine excellent pet friendly hotels that will accept you and your cat in Vicksburg, MS.

The 9 Pet Friendly Hotels in Vicksburg, MS

1. Candlewood Suites Vicksburg, an IHG Hotel

Address:	1296 S Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 3:00 PM; Check-out time 12:00 PM
Cost:	$75 pet fee per stay

2. Home2 Suites by Hilton Vicksburg

Address:	40 Maxwell Dr, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 3:00 PM; Check-out time 11:00 AM
Cost:	$75 pet fee (1–4 nights); $125 pet fee (5+ nights)

3. The Corners Mansion Inn

Address:	601 Klein St, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 2:00 PM; Check-out time 11:00 AM
Cost:	No pet fee

4. Quality Inn

Address:	3975 S Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 3:00 PM; Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Cost:	$15 pet fee per night; $50 refundable pet deposit at check in

5. La Quinta Inn & Suites Vicksburg

Address:	4160 S Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 2:00 PM; Check-out time 12:00 PM
Cost:	$25 pet fee per night; max $75 per stay

6. Best Western Vicksburg

Address:	2445 N Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 2:00 PM; Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Cost:	$20 pet fee per pet per night; max $100 per week

7. Motel 6 Vicksburg

Address:	4137 I20 Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 3:00 PM; Check-out time 11:00 AM
Cost:	No pet fee

8. Econo Lodge Vicksburg

Address:	3959 Clay St, Vicksburg, MS 39180
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 3:00 PM; Check-out time 11:00 AM
Cost:	$10 pet fee per night per pet

9. Hilton Garden Inn Jackson Downtown

Address:	235 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201
Star Rating:
Open Times:	Check-in time 4:00 PM; Check-out time 11:00 AM
Cost:	$75 pet fee per stay (1–4 nights); $125 pet fee per stay (5+ nights)

Conclusion

Vicksburg is a great place to visit if you love history or the Old South. Vicksburg has a variety of shops, local restaurants, and historic sites to explore. For those looking to travel with their cat, there are nine amazing pet-friendly hotel options in and around Vicksburg to choose from. Every one of these hotels is a great place to stay with a cat. All you have to do is pick the one that fits your trip the best.

• See also: Pet-Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas

Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

The post 9 Pet Friendly Hotels in Vicksburg, MS (2024 Update) by Grant Piper 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.

Rice cakes are a popular snack among vegan and health-conscious people. But are they a healthy snack for your cat? Rice cakes might seem harmless, but should you let your animals eat them? The answer is that rice cakes are almost completely harmless, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Like any human food, rice cakes can contain certain ingredients that you should be aware of. Furthermore, cats aren’t really designed to eat rice, so they don’t get much benefit from nibbling on a rice cake. So, rice cakes are not recommended for cat consumption. 

Here is everything you need to know about cats and rice cakes, including ingredients, nutritional facts, and things to be aware of.

Can Cats Eat Rice Cakes?

Yes. Cats can eat rice cakes. Rice cakes are not harmful to cats.  They contain no toxic or poisonous ingredients or materials that are likely to cause your cat to have a serious adverse reaction. Despite the benign nature of rice cakes, they provide no real benefit for felines. The most basic rice cakes contain just one ingredient: rice. Flavored rice cakes can also contain things like salt, sugar, or spices to make them a little more exciting, but the bulk of a rice cake is made from either plain brown or white rice that is dried and baked.

Rice Cake Ingredients

Rice cakes are a very simple food with few ingredients. Here are some of the ingredients found in rice cakes:

Basic rice cake ingredients:

Some varieties might also include:

Rice Cake Nutritional Facts

Should You Feed Your Cat Rice Cakes?

No. You should refrain from feeding your cat rice cakes. Rice cakes provide very little nutritional value for cats. Cats are obligate carnivores that have evolved to get the lion’s share of their nutrients from meat and only require a small amount of carbohydrate in their diet. Since rice cakes are made entirely from rice, they really do not provide cats with any necessary or needed nutrients. Rice cakes will only provide empty calories to your cat and no additional nutritional benefits.

Potential Hidden Risks of Rice Cakes

Rice cakes can hide some potential risks. Depending on the style, flavor, and brand of rice cake, there could be additional things lurking that are not good for your cat. Your cat should not eat large amounts of sugar (or other carbohydrates) or salt. These ingredients are present in some rice cake varieties. Rice cakes can also contain a bevy of spices and artificial flavors used to spruce up the flavor pallet that might not be great for your cat.

The only rice cake that is truly 100% safe is the rice cakes that are made up of pure rice or ones that are lightly salted. Any other variety of rice cake with high salt content, sugar, added spices, or other things could potentially give your cat an upset stomach.

No rice cakes should be dangerous to your cat’s overall health or seriously toxic, they are just unnecessary.

Always Check the Ingredients

When in doubt, always check the ingredients. If your cat (or any animal) eats something they should not, you should double check the ingredients list to make sure there is nothing toxic hiding inside the food. Processed foods designed for humans are rarely good for animals. That includes rice cakes.

You should stick to giving your cat treats and dry food specifically made for cats. Any food made for humans is not going to be formulated with feline nutrition in mind, and therefore, it will not have benefits or value for your cat.

If your cat starts showing signs of illness or distress after eating a rice cake, do not hesitate to call your veterinarian and schedule a check-up to make sure that everything is okay. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Plain and lightly salted rice cakes are almost completely harmless for cats. However, some rice cakes can contain excess sodium, sugar and spice mixes that are not good for your cat. If your cat eats a rice cake of any kind, they will most likely be fine. If you are concerned about a particular rice cake, check the ingredients, and contact your vet for advice. Cats don’t need to be eating rice cakes, so refrain from feeding your cats these types of food on purpose. Rice cakes are a human food, not a cat food.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

The post Can Cats Eat Rice Cakes? Vet-Approved Dangers & FAQ by Grant Piper 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.

The sight of a black cat on a dark night can cause shivers to run up one’s spine. Black cats often appear in great numbers in all sorts of media, decorations, and celebrations during fall and especially in the month of October. But why do people find black cats to be creepy? What does it mean when a black cat crosses your path? You will get different answers to these questions depending on who you ask. At the end of the day, cats are just cats, and a black cat crossing your path means whatever you want it to mean, or nothing at all. However, your background, history, and perspective may change how you view a black cat.

Are Black Cats Bad Luck?

Many people associate black cats with misfortune or bad luck. This is a superstition that stretches back centuries. Many European Christians in the Medieval Period and the Renaissance believed that black cats were portents of the devil or the companions of witches. It was said if a black cat crossed your path, illness, misfortune, and even death could be in your future.

Black cats were also thought of as harbingers of plague. The plague was spread by infected fleas, which often fed on the blood of numerous rats. Since cats were usually in the vicinity of rats and fleas, they were erroneously connected to the deadly disease, which only enhanced their reputation as a symbol of bad luck.

The truth is that black cats are not bad luck. Cats cannot be bad luck. They are associated with bad luck and misfortune due to long held beliefs, stories, and superstitions, but black cats are no different from any other cats. In fact, black cats are even considered lucky in some cultures.

Black Cats Are Sometimes Considered Lucky

Despite most people associating black cats with bad luck, some people in history have considered black cats to be good luck. The Egyptians revered cats as divine symbols and messengers to the gods. Sailors throughout history have long had a great relationship with cats. Many captains refused to sail without a ship’s cat on board, and black cats were considered to be better than other cats.

In some countries, black cats are considered lucky. In places like Britain, Germany, Ireland, and Japan, people are happy to encounter a black cat because it means that they are in line for some good luck. Three of these countries – Britain, Ireland, and Japan – are island nations with strong connections to the sea and any culture with a strong connection to sailing usually has a strong affinity for cats.

Why Is It Considered Unlucky for Black Cats to Cross Your Path?

If the history and superstitions surrounding black cats are mixed, why do many people consider black cats crossing your path to be bad luck? In Western culture, media, and history, black cats are associated with more bad than good. Black cats still feature heavily in movies as companions of witches and villains. They also retain their strong negative connections to things like Satanism, bad luck, and Halloween.

Black cats are still seen as spooky and are looked at as omens. For these reasons, some people still consider it unlucky for a black cat to cross their path. Seeing a black cat at random out in the world makes people think of bad luck, illness, magic, and other negative things.

However, as we said, some people might see the same cat and consider themselves to be lucky or blessed. Like many superstitions, it is all about your perspective.

Change Your Perspective, Change Your Fortune

So, what does it mean when a black cat crosses your path? It means whatever you want it to mean. Your perspective, your cultural background, and inherent superstitions will determine whether or not you think a black cat is lucky, unlucky, or neither. If you choose to consider black cats to be lucky rather than unlucky, you can change your outlook in an instant.

If you grew up in a typical American cultural background, where black cats are the pets of witches and appear in scary movies, you are more likely to consider them to be unlucky. But you can change your perspective. There was a black cat named Unsinkable Sam, which survived multiple shipwrecks. Some people considered him unlucky for being on multiple ships that sank. Others considered him lucky and a good omen because he survived numerous shipwrecks. Your perspective changes your views on situations such as these.

When cats are crossing your path, they are just living their lives. They are likely going somewhere or running away from something. Cats are not targeting people individually to dole out luck, either good or bad. They just exist out in the world.

Conclusion

Black cats have been associated with both good luck and bad luck. Some people today love all cats, no matter what color they are. Despite black cats having a ream of associations attached to them, they aren’t different from any other type of cat. The meaning of a black cat crossing your path is going to depend on your cultural background and your personally engrained superstitions. Those factors are different for everyone.

There can be two people walking towards each other on the sidewalk, a cat can walk between them, and each person can have a completely different reaction. One person might consider themselves cursed, and the other could consider themselves blessed based on their own particular background.

Featured Image Credit: Sergio Foto, Shutterstock

The post What Does It Mean When a Black Cat Crosses Your Path? Myths Unveiled by Grant Piper 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 rambunctious feline or a cat with a strong prey drive, you have likely come across them playing with something strange or unsavory. Cats are incredible hunters, and they will hunt almost anything smaller than themselves. In many climates, that includes frogs. But can cats eat frogs? If you find your cat eating a frog, should you be concerned? In many cases, cats can eat frogs in the sense that most frogs shouldn’t cause them harm. Cats are natural predators of frogs but not all frogs are safe for cats to eat. Additionally, it’s important to know the difference between frogs and toads, because there are many more toads that are toxic to cats than there are frogs. Here is everything you need to know about cats eating frogs.

Yes, Cats Can Eat Frogs

If a frog is not toxic, there is very minimal risk of a froggy snack causing anything more serious than a mild tummy upset. Cats love hunting and eating small animals like frogs and lizards, and they can – and will – eat frogs. However, not all frogs are safe to eat. Not many frogs in the world are toxic or poisonous; the most well known is the Poison Dart Frog. Most toxic frogs live in tropical climates in the humid jungles that hug the equator. There are very few toxic or poisonous frogs found in North America.

Many domesticated cats will play with or hunt a frog, especially if it is hopping about in an enticing manner. However, most pet cats will stop once the hunt is over, preferring the taste of their human-provided food over a slimy amphibian.

Can Cats Eat Toads?

Many people see a toad and assume it’s a frog, so it’s important to know that there is a difference. You should be much more wary of your cat playing with or eating toads as there is a far greater number of toxic and poisonous toads in the United States and Canada than there are poisonous frogs. There are multiple toads that can cause severe illness, even death, if they are ingested or even licked by certain animals like cats and dogs. That means that there is a much higher likelihood of your cat becoming ill from eating a toad than there is from eating a frog.

Toad toxicity tends to be higher in dogs than in cats, however.¹ We make no judgements or assertions about the comparative intelligence of dog vs. cat, but cats tend to be more cautious about potentially toxic creatures, whereas dogs often find their way into the emergency vets after licking a toad.

Research Toxic Frogs (and Toads) in Your Region

If your cat spends any amount of time outside, it is a good idea to research toxic frogs (and toads) that might live in your area, along with any other potentially dangerous species. A quick internet search should yield some basic results. You can also consult with your local veterinarian or your local extension office to get information about the local frog and toad populations – emergency vet practices are a good place to get an idea of how many cases are seen in your area. Knowing what frogs and toads are commonly found in your area and the differences between them will let you know if they are safe for cats or dangerous for cats. If you live in an area devoid of dangerous amphibians, then you will not have to worry as much if you find your cat eating a frog or toad. If you live in an area with toxic frogs, you will need to keep an eye out; if you spot any around your house or in your neighborhood, you will need to be careful about letting your cat outside.

Nutritional Benefits of Eating Frog

It might be surprising to cat owners to learn that eating frogs actually has a number of nutritional benefits for cats. Being a natural source of food for cats in the wild, they can provide many key nutrients, as well as some benefits to digestion. Small animals like frogs, lizards, mice, birds, and rats make up a large part of a cat’s diet in the wild, and it is the skin, bones, cartilage, eyeballs and entrails that give a feline the balance of nutrients they need. This is why cats should not be fed a diet consisting solely of muscle meat – it is lacking in vital nutrients.

If your cat is an avid hunter, they will likely digest a frog without any issues. If they are not used to a diet of live prey, a frog might pose a bit of a challenge to their digestive system, and vomiting or diarrhea could occur.

Domestic Cat vs. Wild Cat Frog Consumption

Wild cats or stray cats eat frogs in much greater numbers than domestic cats. In fact, many domestic cats won’t eat frogs at all. Domesticated house cats will play with animals like frogs, toads, and lizards if they have the chance, but they will rarely eat them. That is because domesticated cats do not need to eat things like frogs to sustain themselves. They have full bellies and are given regular meals. Wild cats will eat frogs if they find one that is available to eat. Frogs are a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals for cats, especially wild cats.

That means if you find your cat playing with a frog, you shouldn’t worry too much. A pet cat will rarely cross the line and begin to eat the frog.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Frog

Don’t panic. The first thing to do is try to determine what kind of frog it was. If you believe that it was a harmless frog, the next thing to do is to keep an eye on your cat for signs of troubled digestion. Eating frogs can cause allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset in some cats, so keep an eye out for signs like labored breathing, itchiness, abdominal discomfort, or nausea.

If your cat is showing severe signs of a reaction, or gastrointestinal signs that are severe or are not resolving, contact your vet immediately.

If you believe that the frog was toxic or poisonous, or you are worried that it might be, you need to get your cat to see a veterinarian right away. If it is late in the evening, you might need to get in contact with an emergency clinic to assess and triage your cat. It is always better to err on the side of caution where a potential toxin is involved.

How to Prevent Your Cat from Eating Frogs

The best way to prevent a cat from eating unsavory things like frogs is to ensure that they have ample nutrition. Pet cats might hunt things like frogs if they are deficient in something like iron or protein that a higher rate of animal meat can give to them. You might also want to change their food to something that is packed with more protein and animal meat.

Unfortunately, domestic cats instinctively hunt prey, even if they don’t intend to eat what they catch. Millions of years of evolution have cemented that prey drive, which in most pet cats, has become a method of play rather than sustenance. Providing lots of activities at home and playing games with your pet can help to satisfy that instinct.

If you know your cat is at risk of hunting and eating a toxic species, the only surefire way to protect them is by keeping them indoors. There are lots of ways to provide your cat with all the benefits of an outdoor lifestyle from the safety of home, including cat trees and gyms, cat enclosures, cat window boxes, and wall or ceiling mounted walkways.

Conclusion

Cats can eat frogs. As long as the frog in question is not toxic or poisonous, there is nothing preventing a cat from chowing down on a delectable frog as a snack. Thankfully, there are not many poisonous frogs that are dangerous for cats outside of the tropical regions of the equator. There are, however, numerous poisonous toads that need to be considered. It is a good idea to know the difference between a frog and a toad for this reason to ensure that your cat does not accidentally ingest something dangerous and force an expensive trip to the veterinarian.

See also:

• Can Cats Eat Cream? 
• Can Cats Eat Mint Ice Cream?

Featured Image Credit: SteveCrowhurst, Pixabay

The post Can Cats Eat Frogs? Vet-Reviewed Safety Facts by Grant Piper 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.

Kittens are super cute, and many people go gaga for the tiny cats. Kittens can also be horrendous nuisances because they tend to cry. A lot. Kittens are sweet and adorable until they keep you up at night with their crying and meowing. Why do kittens cry? Is there any way to stop them from crying before they drive you mad? Kittens can cry for a number of different reasons, and all kittens cry from time to time. There are things you can do to try and meet your kitten’s needs so that they stop crying and give you some peace and quiet.

Here are eight reasons kittens cry and how to stop them from crying by meeting their needs.

The 8 Reasons Why Do Kittens Cry

1. The Kitten Is Hungry

One of the most common reasons that kittens cry is because they are hungry. Kittens need to eat as much as six to eight times per day. Kittens cry to alert their mom that they need food so that they can get fed. If you are feeding your own kitten and find that your kitten is crying a lot, you might need to try feeding them more. If your kitten stops crying and gets interested in food when you go to feed them, they might just be hungry.

2. The Kitten Is Cold

Kittens can easily get cold. Unlike adult cats, kittens cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively. This can lead to your kitten feeling cold, which can cause them to cry. If you suspect your kitten might be cold, you can try bundling them up in a blanket or raising the thermostat to a higher temperature. This problem can be more pronounced in the winter months. Anything less than 50˚F is considered too cold for most kittens.

3. The Kitten Is Lonely

Kittens can get lonely. Many kittens are used to being around their mothers and usually other kittens. A kitten does not like to be alone. When a kitten starts crying, they could be looking for attention or calling out to their mother. Spending time with the kitten, petting them, and sitting nearby could be enough to ease their loneliness and get them to stop crying.

4. The Kitten Is Confused

Being a baby can be confusing and frustrating. Kittens are born blind and deaf, and it takes time for their senses to come into focus. Very young kittens can get confused and that can lead to fear and anxiety. Your kitten can be lost or might not remember where they are or what they were trying to do. If you suspect that your kitten could be confused, try resetting them by bringing them to a familiar location and feeding them.

5. The Kitten Is Stressed

A kitten might cry if it is stressed out. A kitten can feel stressed or anxious from any combination of factors. A kitten might be anxious about being away from their mother. It could be cold or missing their litter mates. One of the best ways to reduce a kitten’s stress is to fill their immediate needs and spend time with them. Bundle your kitten up, pet them, and let them know that you are there for them. Meeting your kitten’s basic needs and providing a comfortable and safe environment will go a long way in reducing stress and potential crying.

6. The Kitten Could Be Sick

No one wants to imagine that their precious kitten could be sick, but it is a real possibility. Your kitten might be crying because of illness. This is more likely if you notice your kitten is still crying even after all their immediate primary needs have been met. You might also notice that your kitten’s cries seem weak or sound different than before. Look for signs of infection like eye discharge, a runny nose, sneezing, or lack of appetite. If you believe your kitten is sick, you should bring them to the vet right away for diagnosis and to get treatment started.

7. The Kitten Might Be in Pain

Another thing that could cause your kitten to cry is pain. A kitten can hurt themselves or become injured. Kittens can be clumsy, and they do not know their own boundaries and the boundaries of their environments. If your kitten is in pain, it can cause them to cry for long periods of time even when the rest of their needs seem to be met. Look for signs of pain, such as limping or licking a specific area over and over again. If you believe your kitten has been injured or is in a lot of pain, you should plan on bringing them to the veterinarian.

8. The Kitten Needs to Use the Bathroom

Like human babies, kittens need time to learn how to use the bathroom and become litterbox trained. Sometimes a kitten will cry when they need to go to the bathroom because it is an unfamiliar sensation. You can try to gently put your kitten into a litter box to see if they will relieve themselves and stop crying, but young kittens may need help to use the bathroom by gently stimulating their genital area. This is not a common issue, but it is one that does crop up from time to time and can cause undue crying or mewling.

Do All Kittens Cry?

Yes. All kittens cry. Some kittens cry more than others. Very young kittens cry more than older kittens. But all kittens do cry. Trying to identify and meet your kitten’s needs will reduce crying to a minimum, but if you are looking for a way to stop your kitten from crying completely, you are out of luck. Just like human babies, baby cats will cry when they are young. As they age, the crying will become less consistent and less prominent until it stops completely.

Unfortunately, some kittens will cry for no apparent reason, and nothing you do will be able to make them stop. This behavior should go away as your kitten ages, especially if you are doing your best to make sure they are warm and fed.

Conclusion

Kittens cry for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they are simply hungry or tired or cold. Other times they could be confused or scared. The best way to get a kitten to stop crying is to go to them and be close to them. Showing them that you are nearby and ready to help care for them will go a long way in reducing the amount of crying that a kitten does on a regular basis.

Featured Image Credit: Natakay, Pixabay

The post Why Do Kittens Cry? 8 Possible Reasons & How to Stop It by Grant Piper 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 might be a sweet idea to get two cats that you’re sure are going to fall in love and live happily ever after together. Unfortunately, that type of love and relationship just is not in a cat’s DNA. Cats are not monogamous animals. Cats can live together on friendly terms in the same house, but they will never think of one another as a lifelong partner that they are solely devoted to. If given the chance, most cats would run off with the first cat to walk through the door. That is because cats are designed to breed in a specific way that increases their chance of having babies. Here is what you need to know about cat monogamy and their mating practices.

Click to Skip Ahead:

• Cats Are Not Monogamous
• Cat Mating Practices
• What Animals Are Monogamous?

Cats Are Not Monogamous

Cats are not monogamous. In fact, many people would consider cats to be the opposite of monogamous. Cats can be downright promiscuous. During the mating season, male cats in the wild can try to breed multiple females per day, every day, for weeks on end. Similarly, females can make themselves available for mating by multiple partners in the same week. For cats, the goal is to get pregnant. It usually takes an average of four mating attempts before a cat will get pregnant, so both males and females are trying to mate as much as possible in order to increase the chances of getting pregnant.

Cat Mating Practices

Cats are considered to be seasonally polyestrous, which means that they can go into heat multiple times during the mating season. Mating season for cats lasts from January all the way through October. Cats that live in warm climates or live indoors year-round (and are intact) can cycle throughout the year. When a female cat goes into heat, she will do her best to attract a suitable male for mating. The female will attract males from miles around if she is outside, and once she mates, she will start looking for a new partner until she gets pregnant or until the heat cycle ends.

Cats remain in heat for roughly 7 days, but some cats can remain in heat for up to 21 days. Pregnancy lasts 9 weeks in cats.

Tomcats, or male cats, spend their days doing three things. They mark and protect their territory, they hunt and find food, and they look for mates. A tomcat is always looking for a new mate and is always looking to claim the female cats in his territory. In an area crowded with stray or wild cats, tomcats can mate with numerous females in a short amount of time. They have no concept of monogamy.

This type of frisky behavior is fueled by the fact that cats are induced ovulators. Induced ovulators only release eggs during or directly after the act of mating, and they will not release on their own. That means that cats need to mate a lot in order to induce ovulation. That is different from spontaneous ovulators which drop eggs at periodic or scheduled times without any stimulation from another animal.

What Animals Are Monogamous?

If cats are not monogamous, which animals are? In nature, monogamy is rare. An estimated 3% to 6% of animal species remain monogamous during their lives. But there are still some animals out there that can inspire hope and romantic feelings.

Many birds are actually monogamous. Once they mate as young fledglings, they will usually stay together for the rest of their lives. That means the male and female birds will build nests together, live together and raise their chicks and hatchlings together. For example, Emperor Penguins are monogamous and will remain as a couple to safely shepherd their babies to adulthood in the harsh Antarctic climate.

Other monogamous animals include the red-backed salamander, most otters, the Eurasian beaver, and the prairie vole. Each one of these species will mate with one animal at the beginning of their life and attempt to stay with them for the duration of their lifespans. Humans have the ability to be monogamous as well, but not all humans are.

Conclusion

Cats are not monogamous. Cats are actually the opposite of monogamous. They are frisky and will seek mates consistently. They do not care about the number of partners they have as long as kittens are being produced and born. That might shatter your illusions about cats and romance, but these behaviors are seared into the feline DNA, and it has been very effective for them throughout the years.

• Read Also: Will Sibling Cats Mate? Ethical Issues & Prevention

Featured Image Credit: ANURAK PONGPATIMET, Shutterstock

The post Are Cats Monogamous? Mating Practices Explained by Grant Piper 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.

Super Bowl parties are the highlights of some people’s winter seasons. It can be a blast to get a bunch of friends together for food, drinks, and football. However, some people do not consider the effects that a large Super Bowl party can have on their cat. Cats generally do not like change, bustle or loud noises, or strangers. Throwing a Super Bowl party can cause your cat a lot of anxiety and stress. But there are things that you can do to ensure that your cat stays calm, happy, and safe during the big game.

Here are eight Super Bowl party safety tips for your cat to help everyone enjoy the game in the best way possible.

The 8 Super Bowl Party Safety Tips for Your Cat

1. Provide a Safe Space

One of the best ways to keep your cat calm during a party, especially a large and loud party like a Super Bowl party, is to provide them with a safe space. If you give your cat an area away from the main house where strangers cannot go and disturb them, they will be much more at ease. Set up an area, such as a spare bedroom, basement, or primary bedroom, where your cat can hang out and stay away from the party. Many cats will choose to simply disappear into their safe space and will remove themselves from the equation on their own.

2. Keep Your Cat Away from the Food

Super Bowl parties often come with a lot of food. From barbeque to burgers to sweets and snacks, people love to eat during a party. You should make sure that your cat stays well away from the food. Some cats will come out to check out the food, and you do not want your cat to eat stuff that they shouldn’t. The last thing you want is to call a stop to the party because your cat got sick from eating something.

3. Lay Some Ground Rules

It is a good idea to lay some ground rules for your guests as they arrive or even send them out beforehand. You can politely ask your guests not to interact with your cat if your cat is shy. You can tell them not to feed your cat. Tell them not to go into any rooms with closed doors. Ask them to watch the front door as they enter and exit so as not to let any animals out by mistake. If you lay ground rules and let your guests know about your cat and how your cat typically interacts with strangers or in a party situation, they will be more aware of the situation and hopefully be more mindful and careful.

4. Consider Boarding Them or Hiring a Sitter

One way to ensure a smooth party experience is to board your cat or hire a trusted pet sitter. This will get your cat out of the house and out of your hair for the evening. This can be a good option for someone whose cat is highly anxious around strangers or has a bad habit of trying to escape when the door opens repeatedly. It can cost a bit of extra money (or a favor) to get your cat out of the house for the evening, but it could also be worth it to reduce your stress and your cat’s stress.

5. Ensure Your Cat Is Wearing Identification

If you are going to have people coming and going from your house, you should make sure that your cat is wearing identification tags. Many people do not keep collars on their cats if they are indoor cats, but you do not want your cat to slip out the door during the big game and disappear without wearing some sort of identification. If your cat gets out, you want someone to be able to call you if they find your cat wandering around the neighborhood. You can also get your cat microchipped, so if they are picked up by animal control or the shelter, they can scan the chip and let you know right away.

6. Try to Keep Things Calm

It can be difficult to keep a lid on a party, especially one as charged as a Super Bowl party, but you should try to keep the volume down. Try and prevent people from getting too rowdy or too loud if it is going to scare or upset your cat. That is something you can try to enforce in the ground rules before you invite people over. Ask them to try and keep the noise and energy down just a tad in order to help your cat feel calmer and more at home. Do not be afraid to ask people to quiet down a bit if you notice their behavior is affecting your kitty.

7. Mind the Booze

Super Bowl parties and alcohol often go hand in hand. There is nothing wrong with letting loose and drinking a bit with friends. However, you do need to be careful if you are going to let the booze flow. Keep your cat away from any open alcohol, as it is bad for them. You do not want your cat accidentally lapping up liquor. You should also be careful to keep your cat away from people who might be intoxicated. Intoxicated people tend to be clumsier and less aware of their surroundings than sober people. You do not want a guest accidentally stepping on or tripping over your cat. That can lead to an injury and an unpleasant situation. You might want to consider keeping your cat locked away if there is going to be a lot of drinking going on.

8. Clean Up Afterwards

Lastly, be sure to clean up the party after everyone is gone. It can be tempting to wait to clean up the next day but leaving food, drinks, and trash out can be potentially dangerous for your cat. Your cat is going to emerge to explore the scene once people have left, and if there are snacks, bags, balloons, or drinks lying around, your cat might get into something they shouldn’t. Be sure to clean up anything that might entice your cat right away to keep them safe and healthy.

Conclusion

If you follow these tips, you should be able to throw a large Super Bowl party without disturbing your cat too much. It is important to give your cat a safe space to hide during the party. Some people will find it beneficial to remove their cat from the house entirely during the party. Laying ground rules and being mindful of the cat during the party can also help. This way, you, your guests, and your cat can all enjoy the day without getting too stressed about it.

Featured Image Credit: Arina P Habich, Shutterstock

The post 8 Super Bowl Party Safety Tips for Your Cat You Need To Follow by Grant Piper appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Watching a beloved family pet get old can be hard. As cats age, they will grow weaker and skinnier. Their behavior might change. They might not be the same cat that you used to know when they were younger. In these situations, it is natural to start contemplating the future. Should you euthanize your cat? When do you need to start considering end of life care? Who ultimately makes that decision? These aren’t fun things to ponder, but they are necessary and natural to think about in the presence of a sick or aging pet.

This guide will help outline the things to consider before making a decision on euthanasia, how the conversation usually starts, and who makes the final decision about your cat. In these emotional situations, knowledge is power, and it is good to be armed with this information before the moment arrives.

The Euthanasia Conversation

The euthanasia conversation is one of the hardest things any pet owner has to go through. Unfortunately, it is often inevitable at some point in your cat’s life. A veterinarian will often broach the subject of euthanasia by having a quality-of-life conversation with you about your pet. Euthanasia is often suggested for pets that have a deteriorating quality of life or ballooning care requirements.

Your veterinarian will talk about your cat’s daily life. Are they having more bad days than good days? Are they in frequent pain or discomfort? Are they behaving normally during the day? Are they eating and drinking? The answers to these types of questions will help guide you toward a decision on euthanasia. My wife is a veterinarian, and she has to have the quality-of-life conversation frequently. It is always given in the interest of the pet and the owner. Owners typically do want to see their pets suffer.

Euthanasia is often considered in the following circumstances:

If your veterinarian finds these things in your cat, they are likely going to bring up euthanasia. But who gets to make the final decision about your cat? What if you are not ready to say goodbye?

The Owner Always Makes the Decision

Even if a veterinarian believes that euthanasia is the best course of action, they do not get to make the final decision. The decision of whether to euthanize your cat will always be the pet owner’s to make. Sometimes animals can live much longer than people realize if they are given the proper care. No one can force you to euthanize your cat if you are not ready.

I once had a beloved dog that had a splenic mass that was very concerning. We were given two options. Do an expensive surgery that was risky due to my dog’s age or euthanize the dog. I elected to go ahead with the surgery. My dog recovered just fine, and the mass was benign. He lived another 3 years after that. There were risks and financial contributions involved with the surgery, but we opted to do that instead of euthanizing.

In another similar situation, my roommate had a cat that was very old, over 20, and it eventually needed a feeding tube put in. The vet recommended that the cat be euthanized, but my roommate could not bear to let the cat go at that moment. The cat died at home shortly after, but the extra few days with her cat gave my roommate time to process and grieve the situation, which is what she needed at that moment.

In both of these situations, euthanasia was recommended and decided against, with varying outcomes. Veterinarians will not recommend euthanasia unless they think it is in the best interest of the pet or the owner, so they do not recommend it lightly. Still, you always get the final say regarding a euthanasia decision.

The 4 Important Factors to Consider

1. Quality of Life

One of the most important things to consider before euthanizing your cat is its quality of life. As much as we love our pets, it is selfish to keep them in a state of pain or illness because we are too scared to say goodbye. This is especially true because animals do not know that they are sick. They don’t know their prognosis. They don’t understand why they are hurting. Sometimes the most loving thing to do is to help ease your cat’s pain by euthanizing them before they can suffer any longer. If you think that your cat is suffering or languishing, it could be time to consider euthanasia.

2. Daily Care Requirements

Another thing to consider is daily care requirements. Modern veterinary medicine has progressed rapidly in the previous decade. Vets can confidently keep animals alive for far longer than they used to, but sometimes that comes at the cost of routine care. Some animals will need numerous treatments to keep them alive. This can mean additional trips to the vet, daily medicine, special foods, and attention. Not everyone is equipped to deal with this kind of care, and that is okay.

Cats are particularly finicky because they are difficult to administer medication to, and they are very hard to get to go to the vet. This can make caring for them over long periods of time very difficult. Depending on the long-term prognosis, admitting that you cannot keep up with the necessary daily care is okay. We are only human, after all.

3. Financial Costs

One of the more pragmatic and dismaying things to consider is financial costs. Some procedures and medications can be extremely expensive. Not everyone can afford to drop thousands of dollars on a sick cat, especially if it is old and has lived a good life. There is nothing wrong with that. You can’t be expected to put your family in a precarious financial situation to try to eke out some extra time with your beloved feline. Like the quality-of-life discussion, it can be selfish to harm your long-term financial future in exchange for a few more good days with your cat.

4. Long Term Outlook

Lastly, you need to weigh the long term outlook for your cat. When I decided to opt for surgery instead of euthanasia for my aging dog, it was because the outlook was good if he survived the procedure. A successful surgery potentially meant multiple extra years of life. Not all prognoses are that good. Some outlooks are more dire. It is okay to weigh the long-term outcomes with the short-term choices. A surgery that only gets you an extra couple of months with your cat might not be as valuable as one that can net you multiple extra years with your cat.

Make the Decision You Feel Most Comfortable With

In the end, you need to make a decision that you feel comfortable with. If you do not feel comfortable making a decision on the spot about the fate of your cat, you can take time to ponder it. Do not feel pressured or shamed into making a decision you don’t want to make. In many cases, euthanasia is the best option, but not in every case. If you don’t think you can feel comfortable with the decision a week down the road, you shouldn’t make it in the moment. It never feels good to say goodbye to your cat, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t the right decision for your animal at the time. Remember, you always have the final say over euthanasia decisions.

The same is true in reverse. If you believe that it is time for your cat to go and your vet wants to try more treatment options, you can still opt for euthanasia. You spend the most time with your cat, and you know them the best. You know when your animal is not thriving. That is why vets defer to the owner’s decision in these important matters.

Conclusion

Euthanizing a cat is never an easy decision, but it is yours to make. When the time comes, you will likely have a conversation with your veterinarian about your cat’s quality-of-life and daily routine. In some cases, it might be best to euthanize your cat to end its suffering. That is often one of the hardest moments of a person’s life, but it is one that most pet owners will, unfortunately, be faced with at one point or another. It is important to know the circumstances and your rights before making a final decision.

Featured Image Credit: one photo, Shutterstock

The post When to Euthanize a Cat? Vet Reviewed Factors & FAQ by Grant Piper 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.

There are times in life when you might need to travel with your cat. Whether you are flying on vacation or trying to bring your cat to the vet, you might need to catch a ride via Lyft with your cat in tow. But does Lyft allow cats? How can you ride Lyft with your cat?

Lyft does not deny riders with cats, but they also do not guarantee that you can get a ride if you have your cat with you. The final decision for letting you ride with your cat will be up to your driver.

Here is everything you need to know about riding Lyft with a cat, including steps to take to get a ride, the policies in place regarding animals, and tips to follow to increase your chances of getting a ride.

Lyft’s Animal Policy

1. Service Animals

Lyft allows all service animals in all situations. This is required by Lyft’s internal policies and by law¹. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires servicers to accommodate service animals. Lyft’s official policy for drivers when it comes to service animals is Always Say Yes. That means that if you have a legitimate service animal, Lyft has to accommodate you. However, cats are not service animals.

The ADA does not recognize cats as legitimate service animals. There is a difference between a working service animal and an emotional support animal. Cats can be emotional support animals, but emotional support animals are not legally protected in the same way that service animals are.

2. Non-Service Animals

Lyft will still take non-service animals, but there is no overarching policy regarding cats. Lyft tells their drivers, “We encourage you to take all animals,” but they recognize that each driver has the power to deny rides to anyone with an animal. That means that cats can ride on Lyft, but it will be dependent on whether or not your specific driver allows you to board with your cat.

The Lyft Non-Service Animal Policy reads as follows¹:

Passengers may sometimes ask to bring their pets along for their ride. Unless the passenger has a service animal, it’s up to the driver to allow the passenger’s pet into their car.

Passengers should call their driver after requesting a ride to ask if they can bring their pet along. If your driver doesn’t feel comfortable with having a pet in their car, you should cancel the ride and request a new one.

If you’re charged a cancellation fee, contact us, and we’ll take care of it.

Drivers aren’t allowed to bring their pets along while they’re driving. Some passengers may be allergic or feel uncomfortable with unfamiliar animals.

How to Ride Lyft With Your Cat

This policy means that you are not guaranteed to get a ride with your cat on Lyft. However, there are some steps to take to try to get to where you are going with your cat. Here is how you can ride Lyft with your cat. Results are not guaranteed.

Most drivers should be accommodating to pets as Lyft encourages their contractors to be flexible. Some drivers might require that your cat be in a carrier or restrained in some fashion. The exact requirements will be up to your specific driver. This can make riding with a cat frustrating because you are not guaranteed to find a driver that will accommodate your cat. This means it could be difficult to get where you are going in a specific time frame.

Tips for Riding Lyft with Your Cat

While rides are not guaranteed, it is possible to find drivers willing to take both you and your cat and get you where you are going. In order to get the best chance of success, you should follow these tips when hailing a Lyft with your cat.

Conclusion

Lyft does allow cats to ride, but it is left up to the driver’s discretion in all situations. Cats are not legally protected service animals, so they are not guaranteed to be accepted by any individual driver. However, most drivers will likely accommodate your request as long as you are prepared and polite when making your request. It could take a few cancellations to find a driver that is willing to take your cat, but eventually, you should get where you are going. It is important to know the nuances of these rules, so you are not surprised or left in a bad spot when trying to ride Lyft with your cat.

Featured Image Credit: Lightspruch, Shutterstock

The post Does Lyft Allow Cats? Pet Policy & Travel Tips by Grant Piper 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.

Sometimes cats need extra vitamins, just like people do. However, muddling through the vast array of different supplements and health claims online can be a chore. How can you tell that you are getting a safe and effective product? That is why we put together this comprehensive list of the best vitamin supplements for cats. Each one of these products is effective, safe, and contains measurable amounts of vitamins that your cat needs. Not all health supplements for cats contain vitamins, which can be disappointing for people looking to boost their cat’s diet with specific vitamin supplements.

Here are 10 of the best vitamins for cats, including reviews and top picks for each category. This list ensures that you will get a product that actually contains vitamins and natural supplements that will target exactly what you need.

A Quick View of Our Favorites in 2023

	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora	Tackles multiple parts of your cat’s health Includes large amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin E Easy to feed food topper	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		Pet Naturals L-Lysine Cat Chews	Potent immune supplement Amino acids, vitamin A, and vitamin B complex all present in large amounts Easy to feed chews	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		Fera Pet Organics Probiotics	Potent probiotic Easy to feed powder A large amount of helpful Vitamin E	CHECK PRICE
		The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood	National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) certified Concentrated food topper is easy to feed Resealable package for freshness	CHECK PRICE
		VetriScience Nu Cat Senior Soft Chews	Specifically formulated for senior cats Tons of vitamins and minerals in one simple chew Tons of varied health benefits	CHECK PRICE

The 10 Best Vitamins for Cats

1. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Digestive Supplement for Cats – Best Overall

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder for Cats is one of the best overall vitamins for cats on the market. This product aims to improve a number of different aspects of your cat’s health. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder Digestive Supplement for Cats tackles immune health, digestive health, and fur health. It contains ample amounts of antioxidants, probiotics, and vitamins. It has even been shown to help cats suffering from diarrhea. The two main types of vitamins found in this product are vitamin C (derived from L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate) and vitamin E. This is a great all-around product that is easy to feed by pouring a package onto your cat’s food once per day. You get a month’s worth of supplements per box.

The biggest downside is the price. This is one of the more expensive vitamin supplements per month and can really add to your cat’s food budget. Not everyone will be willing or able to afford to put their cat on this regularly.

2. Pet Naturals L-Lysine Cat Chews – Best Value

Pet Naturals L-Lysine Cat Chews is a supplement aimed at cats with immune deficiencies or cats that are aging and are more prone to getting sick. These chews contain L-Lysine, which is an essential amino acid that helps keep your cat’s body running at its best. It also contains oat flour and rye flour. Oat flour contains good amounts of vitamin A, while rye flour contains a B vitamin complex. The result is a chew that gives your cat a ton of great benefits in one simple treat. The treats are even shaped like little fish. Pet Naturals L-Lysine Cat Chews are excellent for cats of all sizes and all ages. Many cat owners who have cats suffering from feline herpes (very common) use this supplement as an immune booster!

These treats were recently reformulated. They used to be molasses flavored, but now they are chicken liver flavored. The chicken liver smell is strong and unpleasant for some people to handle. And, this is not a multivitamin, so it may not be suitable if you’re trying to maintain your cat’s overall health. However, we still think these are the best vitamins for cats for the money, especially if you want to help keep your cat’s immune system in great shape.

3. Fera Pet Organics Probiotics for Cats – Premium Choice

One reason that people give their cats vitamins is to help boost their gut health and digestive system. Many cats have digestive issues, including vomiting and loose stools. Fera Pet Organics Probiotics with Organic Prebiotics for Cats helps bolster cats’ gut health with a slew of natural ingredients, including billions of CFUs of microorganisms. The most potent vitamin in Fera Pet Organics Probiotics with Organic Prebiotics for Cats is vitamin E. This supplement includes 10 IU of vitamin E. You just need to use one small scoop of this powder per day to help improve your cat’s digestive health with potent vitamins and probiotics.

The only problem with this product is that it is formulated for both dogs and cats. Anything that is made for both cats and dogs (two very different species) may not be as effective as a product made for one or the other.

4. The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood

If you have trouble getting your cat to eat treats or solid supplements, you should try a food topper. This food topper is a simple powder that you add to your cat’s food so that they can get a blast of vitamins and nutrients with their meal. The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood requires just 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per day for maximum benefit. The package contains nearly three months of supply. The ingredients are all non-GMO, natural, and potent. The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood contains ample amounts of B vitamins and B vitamin complexes. You can add all of these benefits to your cat’s diet with just a little bit each day.  Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood promotes skin, coat, digestive and immune health.

Some people think that flax seed, one of the primary ingredients of this supplement, is not suitable for cats, but that is not the case. Flax seed is perfectly safe for cats. The Missing Link Ultimate Feline Superfood is National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) certified.

5. VetriScience Nu Cat Senior Soft Chews Multivitamin for Cats

VetriScience Nu Cat Senior Soft Chews Multivitamin for Cats is a multivitamin specifically aimed at aging cats. Some cats can live for an incredibly long time and giving them a vitamin to promote their health as they age will help keep them around longer. These chews do that by providing a laundry list of supplemental nutrients, including ample amounts of vitamins. VetriScience Nu Cat Senior Soft Chews Multivitamin for Cats include vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E and vitamin B12. These vitamins go along with a host of minerals, omega-3s, and amino acids to promote immune, heart, liver, eye, and brain health in elderly cats. This pack includes 30 chews, which should last a whole month.

The biggest downside to these chews is that they sometimes crumble into small pieces in the package, and they can also be smelly. Overall, these are relatively minor gripes, but they should be noted.

6. Pet Honesty Cat Multivitamin Chews

If you just want to give your cat a simple multivitamin that covers all of your nutritional bases, you want to look into Pet Honesty Cat Multivitamin Chews. These chews are filled with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and more to support immune, heart, joint, skin, and gut health. This is an effective all-in-one multivitamin that is great for cats in general. These chews include vitamin A, along with vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12. They also include vitamin D and vitamin E. All of these vitamins are safely formulated and are National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) certified. They are also made in the United States to help ensure consistent quality. They are also surprisingly affordable.

One of the only consistent complaints surrounding the cat formulation was that sometimes the treats seemed dried out. When dried out, the chews get hard and tough to chew, which can hinder your cat’s ability to eat them.

7. PetHonesty Dual Texture Hairball Support Chews Supplement for Cats

Some cats struggle with hairballs. Some cats cough up hairballs a lot, and other cats let hairballs build up until they are extremely large and disruptive. One way to help your cat deal with hairballs is to give them a vitamin supplement that facilitates the passing of these gross objects. PetHonesty Dual Texture Hairball Support Chews Supplement for Cats uses natural fruit byproducts to give your cat a boost of vitamin C and vitamin A with the goal of causing hairballs to pass easier and break down faster. The main ingredients of these vitamin supplements are Citrus Pulp, Apple Pomace, Psyllium Husk, Zinc Methionine, Omega-3s. The fruit provides your cat with plenty of vitamins, and the psyllium gives a boost of fiber.

Feedback from regular users reports that these vitamin supplements actually work in reducing the number and severity of hairballs in cats. However, some cats refuse to eat them. That is to be expected as cats are generally pickier than dogs, but it is still disappointing when it happens.

8. Vets Preferred Cat Urinary Tract Chews

Urinary health is incredibly important for cats. One of the biggest health dangers for cats is urinary blockage. Cats are very prone to getting urinary stones, which can be painful and even deadly. Vets Preferred Cat Urinary Tract Chews combats these risks by providing vitamins and minerals that help to promote urinary health in cats. Vets Preferred Cat Urinary Tract Chews combine licorice root and cranberries to provide a big punch of beneficial vitamin C (along with vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin E). These chews are simple, natural, and relatively affordable.

The biggest complaint that people had about these vitamin chews was the fact that some cats had no desire to eat them. Not all cats are going to like the licorice flavor, and if your cat turns its nose up at these chews, there isn’t much you can do about it. These chews are great for any cat, but especially cats that have had urinary issues in the past.

9. Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Pumpkin Canned  Cat Food Supplement

Sometimes, the simplest way to get additional vitamins into your cat is the best way. Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Cat Food Supplement is made from pure organic pumpkin. Pumpkin is loaded with helpful vitamins and fiber, which is great for your cat. Organic pumpkin is full of vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Pumpkins especially have a lot of vitamin A. This way, you don’t have to worry about scooping powder or feeding treats. All you have to do is give your cat a can of Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Dog & Cat Food Supplement in addition to their regular food and be done with it.

The biggest downside of Nummy Tum-Tum Pure Organic Pumpkin Canned Dog & Cat Food Supplement is simply the cost. It can get pricey to add this to your cat’s regular diet, even though it is easy and effective to do so.

10. Purina Cat Chow Naturals Original with Added Vitamins

If you do not want to deal with vitamin supplements for your cat, you can simply buy dry cat food that is fortified with extra vitamins. This way, all you have to do is feed your cat like you normally do. No worrying about portions or forgetting to give your cat their supplement. Purina Cat Chow Naturals Original with Added Vitamins is high quality cat food that has been boosted with 25 different vitamins and minerals baked right into the kibble. Purina Cat Chow Naturals Original with Added Vitamins contains ample amounts of both vitamin A and vitamin E, along with phosphorus and calcium. This way, your cat gets everything they need without having to pay for extra supplements, which saves time and money. You can buy these bags in four different sizes.

This food might not appeal to owners who are already loyal to a specific brand of cat food. Switching cat foods can be a chore, and not everyone is going to want to switch to a whole new food.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Vitamins For Your Cat

Do Cats Need Vitamins?

Not all cats need vitamin supplements. If you feed your cat a well-formulated diet and your cat does not have any underlying health issues, they should get most of the vitamins that they need. However, some cats have deficiencies that can manifest in things like fur loss and weight loss. In these cases, you might want to consider a vitamin supplement. If you are curious, you should ask your veterinarian. They will be able to point you toward a vitamin supplement that is right for your cat.

Not all cats need vitamins. But extra vitamins and minerals won’t hurt your cat if you want to try to give them a little boost. The decision of whether to give your cat vitamins is up to you and should be made by you with input from your veterinarian.

Vitamins vs. Supplements

Many supplements have vitamins in them, but not all of them do. If you are specifically looking to give your cat vitamins, you need to make sure that the supplements you are considering actually contain vitamins. Vitamins are given almost entirely via supplements, but not all supplements have vitamins in them. Some supplements only contain amino acids, probiotics, or fiber and do not contain measurable amounts of vitamins. Always look at the ingredient list and always check the nutritional facts before buying and feeding your cat supplements of any kind.

Getting Cats to Take Vitamins

Getting your cat to eat a supplement can be a challenge. Some cats do not like the smell or taste of supplements. You might need to try different types of supplements to help get your cat the vitamins they need. Many vitamin supplements come in chews that you feed like treats. Others are powders that you give as a food additive, which helps them blend in with their normal meal. Other vitamins are baked into regular dry food or wet food that you feed normally. Finding the type of vitamin supplement that your cat will eat regularly can be tricky, but once you find one that your cat likes, you should have no problem feeding them.

Consider Your Budget

Some vitamin supplements can be expensive. Be sure to consider your budget and also consider how often you will need to feed your cat the vitamins. If you plan on feeding your cat extra vitamins every day, you will need to consider how often you will need to rebuy or refill your supplies. Some prices look good up front, but if you need to buy the product weekly or monthly, it can add up quickly. Don’t get blindsided by recurring costs or by small quantities when buying and make a budget upfront before investing in something long term.

Conclusion

This list contains of the best vitamin products for cats. For the best overall, we like the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder Digestive Supplement for Cats. For the best value, we like the Pet Naturals L-Lysine Cat Chews.

No matter which one you choose, each product on this list has been vetted to ensure that they actually contain measurable amounts of vitamins. So many supplements do not actually contain any vitamins. If you are looking to give your cat extra vitamins specifically, this list has exactly what you need. Whether you want food toppers, treats, or wet food, there are options here that your cat is sure to love. Now, you just have to find the one that is best for you and your cat.

Featured Image Credit: NilsJacob, Shutterstock

The post 10 Best Vitamins for Cats (2023) – Reviews & Top Picks by Grant Piper 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.