It’s no secret that felines are seafood lovers. Crawfish might seem like an automatic safe food for your cat, so you’re considering giving them a sample. While a small taste of cooked, properly prepared crawfish won’t hurt your cat, it’s not an ideal snack for them.

Crawfish can pose several problems for our cats, and is best avoided to eliminate the risk of negative reactions. In this article, we will explore what exactly it is about crawfish that is undesirable for your cat and the consequences it could have on their body.

Cats Shouldn’t Eat Crawfish

Crawfish, also known as crayfish or crawdads, are small crustaceans similar to lobsters. Cats shouldn’t have crawfish much, or at all, in their diet. It doesn’t provide sufficient nutrients necessary to keep your cat healthy. Plus, the potential consequences usually outweigh the benefits.

Raw crawfish can carry lung flukes and bacteria that can make your cat extremely sick. Even cooked crawfish can carry risks of transmitting certain bacteria and the shells can pose a serious hazard to the digestive tract.

Even though crawfish will be aromatic and appealing to most cats, they should stay away from it. If they have already consumed a large amount of crawfish, or you notice any unusual signs after they ate a small amount, call your veterinarian for further guidance. They might have you monitor your cat for several hours or days, or request you come in.

Risks of Eating Crawfish

Crawfish might sound cat-friendly, but it has plenty of risk factors that should convince you otherwise. Here are some to consider before letting your cat sample your crawfish boil.

1. Food Poisoning

Raw or spoiled crawfish is the most risky for transmitting harmful bacteria, but consuming it hours after it’s been sitting out can also lead to problems.

Crawfish, like many meat selections, can carry the risk of foodborne bacteria, such as E. coli, listeria, salmonella and vibrio. This is very rare for processed crawfish, but it can occur. Your cat can get extremely sick from these infections.

2. Choking Hazards

Because many parts of the crawfish can be sharp, rough, and indigestible, it can easily lodge in your cat’s throat. If it blocks their airway, it can be life-threatening.

If a piece of crawfish is stuck, get them to the vet as quickly as possible.

3. Intestinal Blockages

Crawfish have very tough exteriors that serve as protective armor in the wild. When cooked, this layer still stays very firm and will not break down easily. If your cat swallows these pieces, they can cause an obstruction in the intestines.

Gastrointestinal obstruction is an emergency and requires immediate intervention and usually surgery.

4. Cats Consuming Dead Crawfish

If you live in an area where cats have access to wild crawfish, they can be washed up by creeks from time to time. If your cat gets ahold of a dead, raw crawfish, they run the risk of developing some serious problems.

As well as digestive upset and stomach pains, dead crawfish increase the risk of bacterial infection including botulism. Although cats are more resistant to the botulism toxin, when ingested it can cause paralysis.

Most cats recover from botulism with supportive care. An antitoxin is available but it is unfortunately not effective once the signs of paralysis have developed. In very severe cases the toxin can affect a cat’s ability to breath and can even be fatal.

5. Seafood Allergies in Cats

Cats can suffer from food allergies, usually to more common protein sources such as chicken and beef.  Seafood allergies, while rare, are possible. The signs of seafood allergies are similar to any other food allergy.

Speak to your vet if you are concerned your cat may be showing signs of a food allergy. They may discuss an elimination diet trial with you, in the meantime remove seafood from your cats menu.

Health Benefits of Crawfish for Cats

Now that you know all the potential risks of crawfish consumption for cats, are there any positives? Your cat can get nothing from crawfish meat that they cannot get from their standard diet. However, they might enjoy the taste and it has a few perks.

Crawfish contains a substantial amount of protein, omega fatty acids, B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus. So, if they have a small amount of crawfish meat, it will carry certain nutrients, but none that outweigh the potential for problems.

If you want to give your cat a cooked meat source to amp up the protein content in their diet, try boiled, unseasoned meat selections like chicken, turkey, and beef.

Do Cats Like Crawfish?

Because crawfish is a source of animal protein, your cats will probably be very attracted to it overall. If you’re eating crawfish, they might come around to see if they can sample a few bites.

If they are in nature, they are much less likely to bother a live crawfish, as it isn’t something they would normally scout out. They may curiously paw at a crawfish, but these animals can easily get away if they are near a water source.

Naturally, there will be occasional cats that don’t show much of an interest in it. But overall, it is an appetizing dish that will get most cats’ attention.

Throwing Away Crawfish Leftovers

If you just had a meal with crawfish, it is important to dispose of it properly. Your cat might be tempted to dive in the trash if you throw away crawfish shells.

If you plan to be away for the day, it’s best to take the trash out shortly after pitching the leftovers. If your cat gets ahold of the crawfish, they may very likely ingest pieces of the shell, causing choking and blockages, as we mentioned above.

Meat sitting out can also spoil quickly, leading to foodborne illness. These issues can easily be avoided by properly disposing of the contents. The best way to prevent your cat from getting into this is to remove it from the home or make it inaccessible overnight to avoid the situation altogether.

Conclusion

Due to the potential risks, crawfish is far from an ideal treat for your cat. However, if you choose to give your cat a small taste, make sure all exoskeleton pieces are fully removed and that the crawfish is completely cooked.

Your cat can get most of their nutrients from other food sources and crawfish, while an animal protein, is not a natural part of a feline’s diet. There are plenty of other alternatives that can provide health for your feline companion.

Featured Image Credit: Si Vo, Shutterstock

The post Can Cats Eat Crawfish? Vet-Reviewed Risk & Benefits by Lindsey Lawson appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

As your cat basks in the glow of the high noon sun, you may be wondering if felines ever do anything except eat, play, and sleep. The truth is, cats are so domesticated now that some are spoiled beyond employment for heavy-duty jobs such as pest control. My own cats have become so lazy that they don’t always bother to catch the occasional annoying fly, but simply follow it with their eyes (which, I also do apparently since the fly got away in the end).

Unlike my cats, not all felines are fortunate enough to live in loving homes where everything is provided for them. Some cats live on the streets with the minimum necessities for life. They’ve never known the love of a human and aren’t typically fit to be good pets since they’re partially wild. However, working cat programs can give these cats a second chance when they’re caught in trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs and find themselves unable to be released back into their former environment.

What Is a Working Cat?

A working cat is a feline who’s “employed” as a pest control alternative to harsh chemicals. It’s a symbiotic relationship for humans and felines, since humans are able to eradicate rats, and the cats generally enjoy a lifestyle that’s a step above what they’re used to. Working cats usually come from shelters as part of the TNR program. Under this plan, feral community cats are caught, neutered, treated with medicine and vaccines as needed, and then ideally released back into the wild.

However, sometimes there’s an outstanding reason why they can’t go back home. Maybe they lived in a dilapidated shed that’s now torn down, or whoever notified animal control hated the cats in the first place. If the cat is in poor health, they also may not be able to be released. Since they’re unfamiliar with humans, feral cats who can’t go home are in serious danger of being put on the euthanasia list since they can’t be adopted either.

Most community animal shelters or humane societies have implemented a working cat or feral cat program to save these animals that would otherwise slip through the cracks. These cats are often called “barn cats” or “warehouse” cats, denoting their typical places of employment. A working cat will catch mice just like they did in the wild, but on the grounds of a farm, church, or warehouse. Otherwise, that facility would have to implement alternate pest control measures that might not be as healthy for their crops or congregation, such as chemical pesticides.

How to Acquire a Working Cat

If you have a pest control problem at your business or if you own a facility such as a small farm that needs constant maintenance, you might consider contacting your local humane society to inquire about their feral cat program. Just know that the process is a little different than adopting a pet.

Feral cat adoptions are usually free. However, oftentimes you must take a minimum of two cats, and you aren’t necessarily allowed to choose which ones. Feral cats are scared of humans and wouldn’t tolerate people “shopping” in their shelter all day long, so the staff usually picks the cats to relieve them from the stress of constant visitors.

To adopt a feral cat, you’ll need to make sure you can always provide:

• Food
• Water
• Litter
• An enclosure or shelter that’s safe from rain or harsh weather

This list is your working cat’s “minimum wage.” Some cats may even develop a friendship with their employer, even if they’re not quite as friendly as devoted house cats.

What Is a Therapy Cat?

I welcome cat snuggles all day any day (even now while I’m writing this article), but they’re especially appreciated whenever I feel lonely or upset. Therapy cats use their purring skills to provide calming and healing benefits to the people they meet. They’re often taken to nursing homes to comfort residents who may be feeling lonely.

Unfortunately, the current Americans with Disabilities Act only grants the title of service animal to canines, which means there are many restrictions on where a therapy cat can go. For example, no laws currently permit felines to visit restaurants or grocery stores, or unconditionally allow cats in any public area. However, a trained and licensed therapy cat may be received into specific hospitals, schools, and other public places where they can work if their handlers obtain prior permission.

How to Train Your Cat as a Therapy Cat

Cats and their handlers must undergo several hours of supervised training and pass individual inspections to be qualified as a therapy team. If you’re interested, research organizations like Love on a Leash for more details and requirements.

How to Adopt an ESA

Since they’re not granted the full rights of a service animal, therapy cats basically function as emotional support animals (ESAs) for the community. Individuals may also acquire an emotional support cat to give them comfort day and night. There are no strict requirements for registering a cat as an ESA, and you can even register a pet you already have, but you’ll need a letter of recommendation from a licensed mental health professional to qualify for registration. Since there really aren’t any qualifications for the type of cat, you might try to visit your shelter and ask for a feline with a calm demeanor to serve as your ESA if you don’t currently have a kitty.

The benefits of registering your cat as an ESA include fewer housing restrictions. Per the Fair Housing Act, your landlord must accept an ESA under their roof without requiring a pet deposit—even if the house isn’t deemed “pet-friendly.” Only a few exceptions apply, such as if the landlord also lives in the house or if the complex is designated for senior living. Some airlines may also allow emotional support cats to fly in the cabin without an additional fee, although this practice has been on the decline over the last couple years.

Just For Fun: Cats Can Be Booksellers, Too

Cats can serve pivotal roles in pest control and therapeutic assistance, but they can also gather their community over a shared love for felines and fiction.

The thick black cat watched me from the deep, old-fashioned shop window at The Haunted Bookstore in Mobile, Alabama. He had been taking a nap, but when he noticed he had a customer, he crawled off his daybed and came over to greet me. Affectionate, he rubbed his body against my hand and waited for the pettings which were eagerly given.

After my friend and I crooned over him for a few moments, the human bookseller behind the counter told me that his name was Mr. Bingley. I immediately appreciated his prestigious name, which comes from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, and seemed fitting for the resident bookstore cat. I can attest that Mr. Bingley takes his job very seriously, bonding with the customers so they don’t want to leave the store. If you search the shop on Google Maps, you’ll see “cat” is actually the most mentioned word in the bookstore’s reviews, and some people have jokingly said he’s the most overworked employee. I hope he earns employee of the month.

Conclusion

They may try to fool us by napping for long stretches on the couch, but cats are capable of many different types of jobs, depending on the particular cat. Even your own cat may be registered as an emotional support animal if you obtain a letter of recommendation from a licensed mental health professional. Feral felines who are unfit for adoption may be drafted into a local working cat program, where they’re guaranteed to have at least food, water, litter, and shelter in return for catching pests.

Some cats, like the affectionate Mr. Bingley, may take on odd jobs such as booksellers, or groundskeepers like Mrs. Norris in the Harry Potter trilogy. While felines currently don’t have the same service animal protections available to canines, cats may serve as therapy animals in certain settings, as long as they’re trained, registered, and have particular permission from the hospital or school where they’ll be visiting.

Featured Image Credit: Jumpstory

The post Working Cats: Felines That Have Important Jobs & How to Have One by Catster Editorial Team 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 fascinating animals, not only because of their silly antics but also how close they are to their wild counterparts. Domestication has only influenced 13 genes in our pets. Selective breeding has had a greater impact, yielding the 73 breeds accepted by The International Cat Association (TICA). They come in a broad spectrum of colors, patterns, and sizes, from the relatively enormous Maine Coon to the regal Persian.

Among the apparent differences are the variations in the color of the animals’ noses, ears, and lips. Have you ever noticed that your cat has pure black lips and wondered why? Again, selective breeding is at work, with official standards for each one. However, cats with black lips can trace their origin back 130,000 years to a wild common ancestor with the African Wild Cat (Felis silvestris lybica). Therein lies the fascinating answer to this question. Come with me as I explain more!

What Is Melanism in Animals?

Melanism describes the condition of a high concentration of the pigment melanin that accounts for the dark coloration of scales, fur, and hair in the animal kingdom. It also applies to a cat’s lips. Melanism isn’t always an all-or-nothing thing. Think about the color variations you see in many species, such as coyotes, chinchillas, and cats. Scientists refer to this trait as polymorphism for melanism or multiple variations.

The benefit is clearly demonstrated by the evolution of the so-called peppered moth. Environmental pressures caused by the Industrial Revolution led to a novel adaptation in these insects that allowed them to survive. The reason was camouflage. The change in coloration made it more challenging for predators to find their prey. That also explains polymorphism for melanism in cats.

Melanism in Felines

Cats are obligate carnivores and must hunt for food to survive. Many felines stalk their prey and rely on stealth. Most are either active during dusk and dawn or crepuscular or come out at night and are nocturnal. Camouflage comes in handy for these lifestyles. It also explains the range of melanism, from the spotted leopard to the tabby coloration of the African Wild Cat.

The takeaway message from the peppered moth case is that white makes you visible to your cohorts and prey. A cat with light-colored mucous membranes will similarly stand out when they open their mouth to yawn. It doesn’t take much to put a prey species on high alert. It’s worth noting that felines aren’t always successful hunters, with many only prevailing 60% of the time or less. Black lips can be advantageous.

We must also put melanism in context with feline communication. Felines rely heavily on smell for a good reason. Your kitty has 200 million olfactory receptors to your 5 million. That ability allows them to detect prey from over 650 feet away. However, remember the typical cat’s activity period. They are hunting during low-light conditions. And felines don’t see distance well compared to our vision.

Why Aren’t All Cats Black?

That means a dilemma exists of being an all-black feline. Visual communication is essential, especially between conspecifics and offspring. Many species have white or light-colored fur on the backs of their ears to make it easy to be seen when it’s important, such as bringing food to their kittens. It’s also a distinguishing feature of the African Wild Cat.

The placement of the light coloration is significant. It allows the animal to communicate visually with cohorts while preventing prey or other predators from detecting their presence. It also explains polymorphism in melanism with its varying degrees.

Interestingly, research has shown being an all-black feline is a limiting factor to evolutionary success because it interferes with necessary visual communication. That’s true for wild felines, but it’s a different story with domestic cats. The same study suggested a decrease in the normal appearance of our pets because the same environmental pressure doesn’t exist.

That’s why you’ll see entirely black cats, including their lips and ears. The chances are your pet follows your household’s activity pattern and is diurnal instead of crepuscular or nocturnal. However, there’s another wrinkle to our tale that we must discuss.

Abnormal Pigmentation

Some cats that have light-colored lips and mucous membranes may develop black spots on these areas, typically occurring under 1 year old. Veterinarians usually see it in orange male felines, referring to this condition as lentigo. This coloration is also similar to the African Wild Cat, supporting a genetic link to its development. The spots are not cancerous nor a cause for concern.

Final Thoughts

Black lips in cats are likely a holdover from the distant past when wild felines hunted the grasslands and steppes of their native land. They may have given them a competitive edge to improve their success and survival. After all, it’s not easy making a living, even if you are an apex predator. Evolution is nature’s selective breeding, with the ultimate goal of passing your genes onto the next generation.

Featured Image Credit: Kaan Yetkin Toprak, Shutterstock

The post Why Do Cats Have Black Lips? How This Trait Evolved by Crystal Uys 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’s time to break out the party hats! Your cat is turning a year older, so what better cause to celebrate? You may wonder how you can throw a party for your cat since human parties and cat parties don’t look 100% the same (depending on how you like to party, of course!).

Our advice is to determine what your cat likes before planning a party. But if you’re looking for inspiration so you can throw the greatest cat birthday party of all time, we have you covered. In this article, we’ll give you five tips to throw the best cat birthday party ever.

Before You Start

Before the day of your cat’s birthday party, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind. Namely, you should prioritize your cat’s comfort and learn to manage your expectations.

Consider Your Cat’s Comfort

When planning a party to celebrate your cat, think of what will truly cause your cat to feel loved and appreciated. While you may be tempted to invite several friends and family to honor your cat’s birthday, the heartwarming party may be anxiety-inducing.

From your cat’s perspective, their calm, peaceful home has suddenly been invaded by loud, large strangers! As the birthday kitty, all of the guests will be eager to smother your cat in affection, which may irritate your pet.

Although there is nothing wrong with celebrating your cat’s milestones with your loved ones, think about how you can appreciate your cat in a way that feels good to them rather than what feels good to you.

Manage Your Expectations

When throwing a birthday party for a human, certain expectations will be met, like singing Happy Birthday, blowing out candles, and opening presents. When throwing a birthday party for a cat, prepare to throw all of your expectations out the window.

In a perfect world, your cat would let you dress them in a birthday outfit and sit still for a thousand pictures, but the reality is that your cat will do as they please–and that likely means going against your wishes for a fun party.

Your cat will likely go into another room when party guests come over. To ensure the party is a good time for everyone, it is best to go with the flow and let your cat do whatever makes them comfortable.

Our 5 Tips for Throwing Your Cat a Party

Planning a cat’s birthday party doesn’t have to be a challenge. As long as you consider your cat’s comfort and manage your expectations, the party is sure to be a smashing success! For more ideas on how to throw your cat a birthday party, take a look at these five tips below.

1. Make Sure the Timing Is Right

If you want your cat to be somewhat involved with the party, timing is everything. Cats are crepuscular animals, which means that they are more active around dawn and dusk. Most partygoers aren’t eager to attend gatherings at dawn, so scheduling your cat’s party around dusk is a good idea.

This is especially important if you invite other feline guests to the party. If other cats are coming over for a birthday playdate, you’ll want them wide awake and ready to party!

2. Bring Out the Decorations

What’s a party without the decorations? To host the best kitty party ever, make sure you have plenty of fun decorations to brighten up the whole home. It’s advised that you use inexpensive decorations, just in case your feline guests get a little rowdy at the party and break things.

For the same reason, your decorations should not include sentimental items, and any valuables should be safely stored away. You should also ensure that your decorations are not a danger to your cat. Decorations that your cat could become tangled in or cut by should be avoided.

In addition to decorations, providing goody bags for your guests is a great way to celebrate. If your guests have cats themselves, add feline treats and toys to the goody bag so that all of the cats can celebrate.

3. Provide Feline-Appropriate Food

If you’re going to have human and feline guests, make sure you can feed both of them. The food you offer your human guests is up to your discretion, but your feline guests should be given commercial cat food or freshly cooked lean meat, such as chicken or turkey. Any meat should be boiled and served plain. You can also provide healthy feline treats.

Some foods that you should never offer your cat guests include those with alcohol, chocolate, onions, and garlic. They are highly toxic for felines. These are not the only foods that are toxic for cats, so make sure you do your research before offering a meal to your feline guests.

4. Play Lots of Fun Games!

A great way to keep the kitty party going is to play fun feline games. You can construct obstacle courses, provide puzzle feeders, and offer interactive toys. If your other feline guests and their owners are feeling up to it, you may even be able to attempt relay races with each owner and cat duo on their own team.

While games are tons of fun, it’s also essential to know your cat’s limits. If your cat or their fellow feline guests look tired, overwhelmed, or agitated, it’s probably a good idea to take a break from the games and give the cats some alone time so that everyone continues to enjoy the party.

5. Give Your Cat a Special Gift

There are few better times to give your pet a special gift than on their birthday. Knowing what your cat likes will be a great way to determine the perfect gift for them. For example, if your cat loves to eat, look for a healthy and tasty feline treat. You can also search for toys for playful cats or cozy beds for sleepy cats.

If you want to give your cat a little bit of everything, you can order a pet box. Even if you order a one-time box, you can get your cat an assortment of treats, toys, and supplies, depending on which subscription you choose.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating your cat’s birthday is a great way to express your love for your pet. While it can be tempting to throw the biggest birthday bash your neighborhood has ever seen, it’s often best to set up low-key, calming get-togethers with people your cat is already familiar with. This allows you to celebrate your cat in a pleasant way for everyone involved.

Featured Image Credit: AlonaPhoto, Shutterstock

The post How to Throw a Cat Birthday Party for Your Kitty: Fun Tips & Ideas by Crystal Uys 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’re a cat lover and video game enthusiast, you might wonder what games are available to bridge your love of both cats and gaming. We’ve compiled a list of the 17 best video games about cats for various platforms, including PCs, consoles, and, yes, even smartphone apps. Read on to learn more about these games to find your next obsession.

Our 17 Favorite Video Games About Cats

1. Stray

Stray is a third-person cat adventure game that takes place in a decaying cybercity. Not only does this clever game allow you to partake in classic cat activities like pushing things off of ledges, but underneath it all is a beautiful storyline.

2. Mushroom Cats

Mushroom Cats is a point-and-click game available on Steam. This sweet game is all about cats living on a magical toadstool. The name of the game is quite literally just putting hats on cats. While Mushroom Cats probably won’t win any awards, it’s a cozy, quick game for people looking to relax for a few minutes without any high-stakes gameplay.

3. Cat and Ghostly Road

Cat and Ghostly Road is an adventure game that follows a cat searching for his master’s soul, which a demon has stolen. This atmosphere, indie point-and-click game may sound high stakes, but it has a chill vibe and rather meditative soundtrack. The scenery is beautiful and doesn’t take itself too seriously, making for a relaxing experience.

4. Catlateral Damage

Catlateral Damage is a first-person destruction-focused cat simulator where you play as a domestic cat on a rampage. You aim to tip over as much stuff and destroy as many collectibles as possible. This is a fun game, but it’s even more fun if you have the option of playing in virtual reality for a truly immersive experience.

5. Cat Goes Fishing

Cat Goes Fishing is pretty much what you would expect from the title: a game focused on a cat that spends its day catching fish. This charming and cozy game focuses on progressing your cat’s skills as a “fisher cat” so they can unlock better rods and catch valuable fish.

6. Copycat

If you want to add a narrative-driven indie game to your ‘to be played’ list, make it Copycat. Though this game has not yet been released, it’s worth considering thanks to its fantastic storyline and beautiful scenery. This wholesome game is about rejection, belonging, and learning the true meaning of ‘home’.

7. Kitt.io

Kitt.io is a game for cat collectors. The point is to collect kittens from different maps, steal followers from other cats, and get your biggest following. This game is available for PC players, as well as those with Android smartphones.

8. A Street Cat’s Tale

A Street Cat’s Tale follows a baby kitten whose mother is taken away from it. It’s up to you, the player, to help the kitten survive so it can be reunited with its family. This pixelated-style game reminds us a lot of those popular in the 80s, so don’t expect as much here in terms of beautiful scenery or gameplay.

9. The Purring Quest

The Purring Quest allows players to take on the role of Kimchi, a cat whose adventures take him to meet a variety of famous cats. This hand-drawn game has a lovely orchestral soundtrack and beautiful graphics, making it highly engaging. Additionally, a percentage of the profits from the sale of the game go towards animal welfare organizations so that you can feel good about your contributions to a worthwhile cause.

10. Gato Roboto

Gato Roboto is a retro-style side scroller that pairs pixel art with armored mech, allowing players to go on a dangerous trek through an alien world as a robot cat. The game’s goal is to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.

11. Neko Atsume: Kitty Collector

Neko Atsume: Kitty Collector is a single-player mobile phone game that provides players with a customizable backyard area for stray cats to come and visit. Your feline visitors will leave fish in their wake, which you can spend on upgrades for your yard and toys for your backyard guests.

12. Night in The Woods

Night in the Woods is an adventure game with deeply touching themes about coming home one day to discover it’s changed forever. You’ll play as a college dropout cat named Mae Borowski as she comes to terms with how her former life and friends she left behind are no longer as she left them.

13. Cattails

Cattails is a role-playing game that allows players to play as a cat in the mysterious Wildwood colony. You’ll need to hunt prey, harvest herbs, and collect treasures while also defending your home from intruders. You can even fall in love with one of the non-playable cats and raise a family of kittens. This adorable and cozy RPG is for people looking for a laidback and relaxing cat-centric game.

14. Cat Quest

Cat Quest is an action, top-down perspective, role-playing game not unlike the game it is based upon: Dragon Quest. The setting takes place in Felingard, an open-world kingdom, where you’ll take control of your adventurous cat on a mission to rescue his sister.

15. Play With Gilbert – Remake

Play With Gilbert is a third-person sandbox game for young children that encourages role-playing and curiosity. This game’s simplified control scheme is perfect for introducing young gamers to video games as it allows them to navigate their cat around the world seamlessly.

16. MagiCat

MagiCat is a side-scrolling game inspired by retro games from the 16-bit era. It features a magical cat and dozens of levels with their own unique boss end battle. This visually attractive game has a good level of challenge and has tons of replay value and lore to keep you interested.

17. Rain World

Rain World is a survival platform game where players assume control of the main character, a “slugcat” who is a feline-like nomadic creature that is both prey and predator in a broken ecosystem. You need to brave the other predators to find food for survival before the rain starts falling, and you have to hunker down to hide.

Types of Cat Video Games

If you’ve been gaming for some time, you already know that there are countless types of video games. Let’s look at some of the most popular styles you’ll find in the cat-centric game sphere:

• Adventure games are where players assume the role of a protagonist in an interactive story (e.g., Stray)
• Role-playing games are where players assume the role of a character in a fictional setting and must act out roles within a narrative (e.g., Cattails)
• Action-adventure games are a hybrid genre combining action and adventure elements. They typically present situational problems for the player to explore and solve (e.g., Cat Quest)
• Sandbox games are typically associated with player choice and open environments. There is often a non-linear gameplay (e.g., Play With Gilbert)
• Survival games are set in hostile, intense, and often open-world environments. Players begin with minimal equipment and must collect resources like tools or weapons (e.g., Rain World)

Conclusion

Whether you’re a PC gamer, a console player, or prefer fiddling with apps on your phone, or if you’re an RPG’er or enjoy a good side scroller, there are cat-centric video games that will appeal to your gaming style.

Featured Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock

The post 17 Amazing Video Games About Cats (with Trailers) by Crystal Uys 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.

Having a cool fort for your cat can bring a fun look to your living room while providing your cat with an excellent hiding spot to help them feel safe and comfortable. Unfortunately, commercially produced cat houses and forts can be prohibitively expensive for many people. The good news is that there are lots of great options for building a DIY cat fort in the comfort of your own home!

Regardless of your DIY skill level and available tools, there’s something on this list that you’ll be able to make at home for your kitty.

The 13 DIY Cat Fort Plans

1. Cardboard Cat Castle

This Cardboard Cat Castle guide makes it easy for just about anyone to build a customized fort or castle for their cat. The plans call for minimal materials and tools, and, depending on the fort size you decide on, you can build this simple fort in under an hour. While any type of glue will work for this project, it’s ideal to use sturdy glue, like hot glue or craft glue, to ensure the fort is stable and safe for your cat.

2. Amazing Pet House

The most difficult part of building this Amazing Pet House is going to be handling the hot glue. This simple design will allow you to build a multi-level fort for your cat in the space of an hour or two. You may need to have something heavy on hand, like plate weights or a stack of books. This will allow you to put weight on the top level of the fort, ensuring the glue creates a tight seal between the cardboard layers.

3. DIY Box Fort

This DIY Box Fort plan will walk you through building a large fort for your cat. This fort isn’t the prettiest thing in the world, so it might not be an ideal centerpiece for your living room, but the options for customizing this fort are endless, allowing you to design it to meet the size and aesthetic needs of your home. Although this is extremely easy to make, ensure children have assistance when handling box cutters or scissors.

4. Cat Castle

Although this Cat Castle plan is made from the same simple materials and tools as the previous plans, this one is definitely more complex to make. Lots of precise measurements need to be made, and it’s important that you piece things together properly to ensure they’ll be safe for your cat and able to bear their weight. You can experiment and customize this fort to meet your cat’s needs, though!

5. Epic DIY Castle

This plan will help you make an Epic DIY Castle for your cat. This plan is fully customizable and includes options for adding lots of decorative items to your build, allowing you to build and customize the ideal fort for your cat. It does require quite a few materials, but if you’re a crafter, then you likely already have these items at home. When selecting decorative items, like garland and pom-poms, make sure you select objects that will be safe for your cat or will be well-secured so that they can’t eat or get tangled in them.

6. Roger’s Castle

If you have a cat that would love a fort they can climb up high in, then the plan for Roger’s Castle from PetSmart will be a great option. This fort is easy to make, but it will take some time to ensure the levels are safe and secure for your cat. Like all of the previous plans, you’ll need to have plenty of cardboard boxes on hand to create this fort.

7. Blinged Out Cat Fort

We’ll be the first to admit that not all cardboard cat forts turn out very pretty, but this Blinged Out Cat Fort guide will help you create something attractive and unique for your cat. The plan calls for a laser printer and thin wood sheets to create wooden “bling” for the fort. However, you can print off templates that you like with a normal printer and use them to trace designs onto cardboard, then cut them out with a box cutter. When it comes to this DIY project, use the materials that are available to you.

8. Cardboard Cat Fort

This Cardboard Cat Fort design plan will definitely take some patience to put together, but the end result will be well worth the time. Although time-consuming, this isn’t an overly difficult project, but you will need to carefully measure the cardboard before cutting it to ensure the fort turns out the correct shape. While you can use cardboard boxes for this project, it’s best to select thick, corrugated cardboard to ensure the fort is sturdy.

9. Cardboard Geodesic Dome

This Cardboard Geodesic Dome plan will leave your cat with the coolest fort on the block, but it’ll definitely take you some time to put it together. Carefully measuring the pieces before cutting them and ensuring the pieces are placed together properly will give you success in making this dome. This is a relatively difficult project because of the level of complexity the measurements require, so this one may need to be avoided for kids.

10. Wood Look Cardboard Fort

This Wood Look Cardboard Fort provides the perfect cat fort that looks wooden without the difficulty of cutting wood. This DIY project does require some art skills to create the final look shown in the video, but you can also go rogue and make this fort look however you’d like for it to look. If you’re a crafter, then you likely have all of the materials and tools at home already, but if you don’t, they’re all easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

11. Ralph’s Fort

For someone with woodworking skills and leftover wood sheets at home, this project for Ralph’s Fort is a great DIY opportunity. Although the body of the fort is made from cardboard, it requires a wooden frame to be built for the internal support. Ideally, you should mount this build to a wall to ensure it doesn’t topple over when your cat uses it, but you may be able to find a more renter-friendly way to install it without putting anchors into your wall.

12. Bamboo Castle

Are you hoping for a highly attractive DIY fort for your cat? This Bamboo Castle build is highly aesthetically pleasing, as well as sturdy and fully customizable. Although the original build in the post is a castle, you can make this project look as fort-like as you’d like. This project does require some careful cuts, so be patient and check your measurements before cutting. Be prepared to allow plenty of time for the glue to cure before allowing your cat to climb on this fort.

13. Scratching Post Castle

For cats that love to scratch on a scratching pole, this Kitty Castle with Scratchpole plan is ideal. You can purchase a commercial scratching post for this project, or you can DIY at home with jute and PVC pipe. Measure your cuts carefully to create this project, but you can customize the size and shape to any type of fort you can dream up. Because of the sturdy build, the sky’s the limit with this project.

Conclusion

When it comes to DIY forts for your cat, you can be as creative as you’d like, as long as you create something safe and sturdy for your cat to shelter in. Every cat is different, and every DIYer’s skill level is different, so start with a project you’re comfortable with. You can always build a new fort for your cat later when you’re more comfortable with your DIY skills!

Featured Image Credit: TheCats, Shutterstock

The post 13 DIY Cat Fort Plans You Can Make Today (With Pictures) by Brooke Billingsley 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’s no secret that our cats gravitate towards warmth. Most cats love to nap in a cozy, snuggly spot, whether it’s on your laptop lid, heater vent, or sunny windowsill. But what about heat lamps? We know they’re great for reptiles and other ectotherms that rely on outside heat sources to keep them warm, but can they benefit cats?

The short answer is yes, heat lamps can be safe for cats. However, there are always risks, and any inappropriate setup can pose potential harm to your feline. In this article, we will discuss heat lamp safety so you can create the proper setup if you choose to use one.

Heat Lamps Are Safe for Cats

If you’re wondering whether heat lamps are safe for cats, there’s probably a specific reason.

Whether you have an outdoor cat that you’d like to keep warm, or your cat just gave birth to a litter of kittens, putting a heat lamp up for an extra heat source can be an excellent decision.

However, although it is generally safe, it does come with several risks, and there are certain precautions you need to take to ensure your cat’s safety when using a heat lamp. Here are a few suggestions on how to choose the appropriate heat lamp and provide the correct setup.

Tips to Maintain Your Cat Safe

1. Make the Lamp Inaccessible

When you put the lamp up, you’ll want to make it in a place your cat can’t reach. It can be very dangerous and pose many health risks for your cat to be directly near the heat lamp.

Many heat lamps come with clamps and other attachment pieces so that you can appropriately mount it in a suitable spot. Ensure the heat lamp is secure and immovable to prevent fire hazards and safety risks.

That means—keep fur, tails, noses, claws, and teeth away at all times!

2. Select Appropriate Wattage

Wattage is very important. You’ll want to get the appropriate amount for your particular setup. This factor will be determined based on where you’re setting the heat lamp up and how much heat you are looking to provide.

If you are indoors, you’ll need a lot less wattage than if you were to set up an outdoor space in the cold.

3. Make Sure It Is Covered

Most heating lamps come with covers, but some of them do not. If the one that you have does not come with a cover, you will need to compensate for that. Safety is extremely important with heating lamps because not only can it cause burns, but you also risk setting your house on fire!

4. Always Turn It Off to Rest

Heat lamps produce a lot of heat and consume a lot of electricity. For this reason, monitoring how much the heat lamp is being used is crucial. Remember to unplug it as necessary and ensure it has time to cool off.

5.  Monitor the Area

Never leave the heat lamp on for long periods unattended. It can cause some pretty serious hazards to the home. Always check to ensure nothing obstructs the output and monitor the heat. Having a temperature gauge nearby can be helpful to make sure it maintains temperature, too. Ensure the heat is away from paper, cardboard, bedding or curtains.

Benefits of Heat Lamps for Cats

Heat lamps for cats can be very beneficial in the right circumstances. Here are a few to mention.

Helps in Drafty Homes

Some homes are draftier than others. If you have a particularly drafty home, it can get quite chilly in the colder months. If your cat loves to sit next to these drafty areas but really dislikes being cold, having a heat lamp nearby can provide an extra layer of warmth, preventing them from catching a chill.

Warms Up Window Spots in Winter Weather

It’s no secret that our cats love window seats. However, sitting next to a window can get quite chilly in the winter months. A heat lamp above them while they still enjoy the views can create a much warmer and more inviting atmosphere.

Protects Outdoor Cats from the Elements

If your cat is strictly outdoors, they can get extremely cold in winter. If you live in an area that drops below freezing, making your cat a warm nesting spot where they can regulate their body temperature is crucial. Sometimes, a box of straw just won’t cut it.

In What Circumstances Can You Use Heat Lamps for Cats?

You can use heating lamps for cats in several circumstances. If your cats need a little extra warmth to keep them cozy, that’s your call to make.

However, there are some special circumstances where cats might benefit a little extra from having a heat lamp around them.

Birthing Areas

If your cat just gave birth to a litter of kittens, it is a good idea to provide an extra layer of warmth for when the mother cat is away. This will keep the kittens warm and cozy, helping them maintain body temperature (which is a particular challenge for them in the very early days).

However, maintaining the proper temperature is vital, as you won’t want the kittens to overheat. Use your judgment and do your research to ensure they get the appropriate amount of heat per your setup. Always have a thermometer at the level of the kittens to ensure you are providing them with the right amount of heat. An accessible area away from the heat lamp is important so that the kittens and mother cat can move away from the heat source if they want to.

Outside Living

If your cat lives outdoors, putting a heat lamp out for wintertime is a fantastic way to ensure they don’t get too cold. It can get downright chilly some nights, and providing shelter doesn’t always cut it. Your kitty wants to be warm, too!

Elderly Cats

Elderly cats could really use some extra warmth. They might not be able to maintain their body temperature as well as they age, so having a heat lamp around provides a way to ensure that they stay as warm as they need to.

Your cat needs to be able to escape the heat lamp if it gets too warm, so don’t put the lamp in an area where your cat might not be able to escape if they need to.

Downfalls of Heat Lamps for Cats

Heat lamps can be an excellent addition to your cat’s living space if they need extra warmth. However, if you install it incorrectly or put it in an area that is accessible, it could lead to several issues. Let’s discuss them.

Burns

Cats can get burned incredibly easily if your heat lamp is down quite low. Even though they have an adequate layer of fur covering their body, if the lamp comes into contact with their body it can burn the hair and skin. Heat lamps get incredibly hot, and burns can be tricky to treat.

If your cat gets burned, they need to see a vet immediately.  They will likely need a course of antibiotics, pain relief and other treatments prescribed by your vet. Burns are painful, and it can take several days for the extent of a burn injury to appear, so prompt veterinary attention is a must.

Electric Shock

If your cat chews on a wire or gets too close to the lamp, it could result in electric shock. Electric shocks can be hazardous and even deadly for your cat.

It is crucial to have the heat lamp a safe enough distance away from your cat to prevent them from coming in contact with it at all. This includes hiding cords so your cat is not tempted to play with or chew on these tempting strings.

Overheating

If your cat is in a confined space with a heating lamp, they can’t just get out whenever they please. So, if temperatures are just too high, it can cause potential overheating—which can be very dangerous for any cat.

Shattering

Heat lamp bulbs are not shatterproof. If something happens to the lamp, say it gets knocked into or bumped, it can hit the floor and break into very tiny shards. If your cat is nearby, it can cause injury.

Higher Electric Bills

Heat lamps use a good amount of electricity. If you run the heat lamp regularly, your electric bills might increase slightly.

Alternatives to Heat Lamps for Cats

There are alternative options to heat lamps available, depending on your particular reason for needing one.

Heating Pad

You can use a heating pad under supervision, placing it neatly under a blanket or cat bed so that your furry friend can stay cozy. This option will only work in some scenarios, however. If you have an outdoor cat, a heating pad isn’t as suitable an option, as it is harder to regulate and ensure it stays away from moisture and other outdoor elements.

Hot Water Bottles

If you need a way to keep baby kittens warm, you can continually heat up water bottles and stick them under blankets, too. Just make sure the kittens don’t contact the hot bottles directly.

Ceramic Heat Emitters

Instead of using a heat lamp, you can use a ceramic heat emitter. Rather than using false light alongside heat, these lamps heat without emitting any light. This often will help your cat maintain their daytime nighttime cycles without disruption.  However, they often don’t have guards to stop your pet coming into direct contact with the heat source so you have to be absolutely sure that your cat cannot touch the lamp.

Conclusion

Heat lamps can be a helpful option for cats under the right circumstances. They require a very secure setup to avoid any potential hazards that come along with them. If you have an outdoor cat, having a heat lamp around can really benefit them by providing a source of warmth during the colder months of the year, but don’t be surprised if the neighborhood cats want a piece of the action!

Keep in mind that there are always alternative options that might work better for some situations. Feel free to explore different products for your particular scenario and set-up.

Featured Image Credit: mama_mia, Shutterstock

The post Are Heat Lamps Safe for Cats? Vet-Approved Safety Facts, Tips & Alternatives by Ashley Bates appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

As obligate carnivores, it’s no wonder that cats absolutely love any product that comes from an animal, including dairy! Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean they can have these products, but they certainly will be attracted to them.

You might have heard that your cat can have lean meats and other carefully prepared animal products outside of their natural diet. But what about quail eggs? Quail eggs are very tiny, speckled eggs that carry a wealth of nutrients. Like chicken eggs, quail eggs can serve a very nutritionally beneficial purpose for cats. Cats can have quail eggs scrambled or boiled, but we always recommend the eggs are cooked.

Granted, you will want to give your cat quail eggs in moderation. We’re going to explore more on the subject below.

Consult Your Vet

Even though quail eggs are safe for your cat to consume, you should always consult your vet before switching or adding anything to their diet. If your cat is immunocompromised in any way,  or has a particular health concern, your vet might advise against feeding them quail eggs, or they could advise you on how to provide the eggs safely.

Keep in mind that the information in this article is not a replacement for professional veterinary guidance, and you should work alongside your vet for any of your cat’s daily nutritional needs.

Health Benefits of Quail Eggs for Cats

Quail eggs certainly carry health benefits for cats. Not to mention, they are perfectly portioned for a nice little serving to add as a topper to dry kibble or wet cat food. Cats should be fed high-quality cat food which will provide them with all the nutrition they need. However, quail eggs can make an excellent occasional treat.

1. Contains Lots of Protein

One of the most apparent benefits of cats eating quail eggs is the abundance of protein. Since cats are carnivores, they love all the animal protein they can get. It is an essential building block in their systems, helping the body create strong muscles, tendons, and other soft tissue as well as aid tissue repair.

One quail egg contains more than 1 gram of protein ¹. This is an excellent little enhancement to your cat’s daily meals.

2. Provides a Little Extra Calcium

Generally, cats get enough calcium in their daily diet. However, they can also get a boost from eating quail eggs. The shells are especially abundant in calcium, and some cats will enjoy crunching on these as well; others will ignore them entirely. You can include the shell when cooking the eggs, but many cats will pick it out.

3. Contains Choline

Quail eggs also contain a decent amount of choline. Choline is thought to be important in cognitive and nervous system function as well as liver function. It’s used in the detoxification pathways in the liver and is a precursor to chemicals that are needed for the nervous system to function.

Precautions to Take When Feeding Quail Eggs to Cats

Even though raw and cooked quail eggs are extremely good for your cat, feeding raw eggs is not recommended due to the risk of Salmonella.  Because eggs come from birds, they carry the risk of being contaminated with Salmonella that can make your cat quite ill.

Signs of Food Poisoning in Cats

Cats can contract certain foodborne illnesses from raw eggs, most commonly Salmonella. It can cause a whirlwind of gastrointestinal problems from very mild signs to severe signs.

If your cat shows any of these signs, contact your vet for advice, evaluation, and treatment.

High Fat Content

One quail egg has just under a gram of fat in it. Cats can easily become overweight which can lead to a plethora of other associated diseases, so it is important that we keep this healthy snack to little and occasionally.

Where Can You Find Quail Eggs?

Quail eggs will be a little harder to come by than chicken eggs, as you often don’t find them at the local grocery store. So, where exactly do you get quail eggs?

You can find quail eggs in abundance online. You can shop on sites like Amazon, Etsy, and even places like Walmart. You might have a little difficulty finding them in-store, but they seem to be readily available online. Remember that this requires shipping, so safe handling is a must.

You can always source quail eggs locally as well. Some farmers and enthusiasts keep quails and sell their eggs for a small profit. You could always check for suggestions about farm markets in your area.

Ways to Serve Quail Eggs

A good general rule of thumb when feeding quail eggs to cats is one quail egg once or twice a week. You can practically serve quail eggs to your cat any way you see fit. Here are the most common ways your cat can enjoy these tiny, protein-packed goodies.

Boiled

Boiling eggs is a pretty easy task, eliminating the chances of foodborne illnesses. Boiling quail eggs takes significantly less time than boiling a chicken egg. On average, it takes between 90 seconds to 2 minutes of boiling, depending on the consistency you want.

Cooked

You can crack the quail eggs and cook them in a skillet. If you choose this method, do not use any dairy products like butter or milk. You might find this a little messy if you don’t use a nonstick pan, as eggs are known to stick without using some cooking lubricant.

Conclusion

Cats can eat quail eggs in moderation. Like chicken eggs, quail eggs can provide numerous benefits to your cat, but it’s important to consult with your vet before adding anything new to your cat’s diet. If you do feed quail eggs to your cat, it’s best to feed them boiled or cooked, as feeding raw eggs can allow harmful bacteria to enter your cat’s digestive system.  Quail eggs are high in fat as well as protein, so moderation is necessary to prevent your cat becoming overweight. They should only be given as treats alongside a good-quality cat food diet.

Featured Image Credit: photo nuke, Shutterstock

The post Can Cats Eat Quail Eggs? Vet-Approved Nutritional Benefits & Facts by Ashley Bates 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 tend to be pickier than dogs regarding food, and they don’t tend to beg for table scraps so frequently.  However, if we have something interesting like fried chicken, they might come sniffing, which might make you wonder if it’s safe to let them have a piece. The short answer is yes, cats can eat a small amount of fried chicken as an occasional treat, but keep reading as we list the potential risks and provide healthy alternatives.

Cat Diet

Cats are obligate carnivores which means they cannot obtain all the nutrients they need from plant matter and therefore they must eat animal-derived proteins.  Animal-derived proteins are vital for building, maintaining and repairing body tissues, supporting the immune system, and ensuring healthy skin and coat. Cats also require specific nutrients like taurine, an amino acid abundant in animal tissues that influences heart muscle function, vision, and reproductive health. Unlike humans, cats cannot synthesize sufficient taurine from other products, making it crucial to include taurine-rich foods in their diet.

Risks of Feeding Fried Chicken to Cats

1. High Fat Content

Fried chicken is often coated in batter and deep fried, which results in a high-fat content. Consuming too much fat can lead to obesity and related health problems, such as diabetes and joint issues.

2. Salt and Seasonings

Fried chicken often contains various spices and salt. Some spices, such as garlic, chives, and onion are toxic to cats, whereas other spices such as cayenne pepper which is often added to fried chicken can cause mouth and eye irritation.  Ingesting too much salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning (salt toxicity) but a cat of 4kg would need approx 8.8g (just under half a tablespoon) of salt to be at risk of salt toxicosis, so a small piece of fried chicken is very unlikely to lead to this. Signs of salt toxicosis incluses vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures ¹.

3. Bones and Choking Hazards

Chicken bones become brittle and can splinter easily, especially once cooked. Cat’s are pretty good at picking around bones but there is still the risk that your cat could choke or damage their mouth or gastrointestinal tract with a splinter of bone. This risk is particularly high for small bones, like those in fried chicken.

4. Gastrointestinal Upset

Cats can have sensitive digestive systems, and introducing fatty foods like fried chicken abruptly can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Should I Feed Fried Chicken to My Cat?

You shouldn’t go out of your way to give fried chicken to your cat, but if you are having some for dinner and they are looking for a taste, you can let them have a piece (one without any skin or bones).

Safe Alternatives to Fried Chicken

Lean Proteins

Choose lean proteins like plain, cooked chicken or turkey when you want to share a treat with your cat. Remove any skin and bones before offering it to your pet and ensure the meat has not been seasoned or cooked with garlic or onions.

Commercial Cat Treats

Commercial cat treats tend to be the best options for pet owners because so many brands are available. These treats are safer than sharing human foods because they contain ingredients that are unlikely to disagree with your cat.  You can get low-fat treats if your cat is battling with obesity, and different flavors for particular palates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Feed My Cat for a Balanced Diet?

A balanced diet should consist of high-quality commercial food that meets the cat’s nutritional needs. Look for options that list real meat like chicken or turkey as the first ingredient, and avoid those that use artificial colors and preservatives.

Can I Feed My Cat Homemade Meals Instead of Commercial Cat Food?

While homemade meals can be balanced, ensuring that they provide all the necessary nutrients is challenging and requires the help of a veterinary nutritionist. Commercial food is usually the better option in the long term to ensure your cat receives the nutrients it needs in the correct quantities. If you’re considering homemade meals, consult a veterinarian for help creating a nutritionally complete and balanced plan.

Is Wet or Dry Cat Food Better for My Cat’s Diet?

Both wet and dry cat food can be appropriate. Wet food has a higher moisture content, which can aid in hydration, especially for cats that don’t like to drink water, while dry food options support dental health and are easier to store. Usually a mix of both is recommended.

How Can I Help My Overweight Cat Lose Weight?

Consult your vet for a weight loss plan tailored to your cat’s needs. This may involve portion control, gradual dietary changes, avoidance of human foods, and increased activity through play. Limiting a cat’s food intake too much, too fast can lead to significant health problems, so getting help from your veterinary practice is recommended.

Summary

While a small piece of fried chicken with the skin and bones removed should not cause any immediate problems for your cat, eating too much can lead to stomach issues, weight gain, and other health problems due to the high fat content. Fried chicken can also contain ingredients like onion powder and garlic that are harmful to cats. Furthermore, the bones are brittle and might present a choking or obstruction hazard. Plain boiled chicken and turkey meats are better options, as are commercial cat treats.

Featured Image Credit: Fierman Much, Shutterstock

The post Can Cats Eat Fried Chicken? Vet-Reviewed Risks & FAQ by Ed Malaker 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 see your cat nibbling on common dandelions (Taraxacum officinale), it can be easy to want to rush them straight to the vet. But the truth is that dandelions are healthy for your cat in moderation. They offer numerous health benefits as long as you don’t give them too many and as long as there isn’t anything else on the dandelions like pesticides or herbicides.

But what should you do if your cat eats a plant they shouldn’t or if they start exhibiting other negative signs? We’ll answer those questions and more for you here!

Health Benefits of Dandelions for Cats

Dandelions have various nutrients that are beneficial for your cat, including vitamins A, B, K and E. There are also plenty of minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. Importantly, dandelions contain high amounts of fiber to help with a healthy digestive system as well as antioxidants that may have anti-cancer properties.  However, the key to this is moderation.  The roots of dandelions are thought to have some diuretic properties that will cause your cat to urinate more frequently, so we don’t want to give them too much.

Don’t let them eat a ton, but a few leaves here and there shouldn’t create a problem. There is an important exception to this rule; keep in mind that if the dandelions have pesticides or herbicides on them, they potentially become extremely toxic for cats!  Therefore, avoid any dandelions on kerb sides or in yards where you know the lawn has been sprayed.

Toxic Plants for Cats

While clean dandelions (without pesticides or herbicides) are safe for cats to eat in moderation, that’s not the case for all common plants. We’ve highlighted four toxic plants your cat should never eat. This list is far from all-encompassing, so always research any plant you’re bringing into your home or any plant you see your cat eating to see if it’s toxic for your cat.

1. Daffodils (Narcissus spp)

Daffodils are beautiful yellow plants. They look great on your property, but they can also look delicious to a cat. Unfortunately, they’re extremely toxic for cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems and convulsions.  The bulbs are the most toxic part but don’t let cats eat any part of the plant, and take them to the vet immediately if they chow down on them!

2. Lilies (Lilium spp.)

Lilies usually refer to a large genus of flowering plants, containing between 80-100 species.  They are beautiful plants that come in a variety of different colors and can be found in floral arrangements or in flower beds.  Unfortunately, many species within this genus are extremely toxic and life-threatening to cats. They cause acute kidney failure and death within 72 hours of ingestion so must be kept well away for our feline friends.  If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a lily plant, including pollen, you must take it to the vet as an emergency.

3. Spanish Thyme (Coleus ampoinicus)

Spanish thyme might sound edible because it has thyme in the name, but it’s absolutely not. It’s a common houseplant, but if you have a cat at home, you shouldn’t bring it home because of how toxic it is.  Signs of toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and lack of appetite.

4. Tulip (Tulipa spp.)

Tulips are another beautiful plant that you must never let your cat chew on.  They are also part of the Liliaceae family (along with many lilies). If your cat is eating or nibbling on a tulip, reach out to your vet or Animal Poison Control right away so you can take the necessary actions.

What to Do if Your Cat Eats a Toxic Plant

If your cat eats a toxic plan, the first thing you need to do is contact your veterinarian.  Many common plants have been eaten before and your vet will likely know if your cat needs to be seen urgently or not.  If for some reason you can’t get hold of your vet, you can call the Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435. Tell them exactly what your cat ate and how much of it, and they’ll walk you through everything you need to know and what you should do.

Final Thoughts

While you likely don’t need to rush your cat straight to the vet if they’ve eaten a dandelion, if they develop a habit of eating plants, you need to be extremely careful of what plant you bring into your home or garden.

If you’re unsure about what you should do, reach out to your vet or the Animal Poison Control and they can give you the necessary guidance to make a good decision for your cat!

Featured Image Credit: Elena Elisseeva, Shutterstock

The post Can Cats Eat Dandelions? Vet-Approved Nutritional Benefits & FAQ by Adam Mann 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.