Cat Care Articles Archives

Catnip Can Make Cats Happy – How Much is Safe for Your Cat?

Dr. Debra Eldredge is an award-winning veterinarian & author of the best-selling “Cat Owner’s Veterinary Handbook”. Catnip is a well-recognized treat for many cats. It can even make some cats a little crazy. But what exactly is catnip and how much catnip is safe for your cat? Can cats have too much catnip? Catnip is … Read more

Does My Cat Know I Love Her?

Nicky Thomas, Janet Cutler, PhD, Cat Behaviorist

We joke about our cats ruling our home, life, and schedule, but there is a reason such stereotypes come about. Cats are territorial, finicky creatures of habit, and we love them so much that we are willing to give them what they want. (Within reason, of course, although what could be considered good reason might … Read more

My Cat Purrs All The Time: Is It Normal, And Is My Cat Okay?

Elizabeth Lasley, Janet Cutler, PhD, Cat Behaviorist

Cats make the strangest noises! Chirps, meows, purrs, and more. While we aren’t sure of the cause for every cat’s noise, we have some theories. About cat purring Purring is one of the most common noises a cat owner will encounter. A purr is a low, continuous murmuring sound expressive of contentment or pleasure. This … Read more

Why Does My Cat Love Belly Rubs? A Cat Expert Explains

Elizabeth Lasley

While dogs are known to enjoy belly rubs, cats are literally a different breed. Cats flip onto their back, exposing their bellies. We think it’s an invitation when it’s showing their trust. Feline’s most vital organs are in the belly, and exposing it to you is a sign of trust. Though some do, most cats … Read more

When Do Kittens Calm Down?

Julia Wilson

When do kittens calm down?

Most kittens calm down between 6 – 12 months, by which point the kitten is approximately 15 in human years. The most active age period for kittens is between 4 weeks to 26 weeks. During this time, the kitten is growing rapidly both physically, developmentally and emotionally at which time he or she is learning through exploration and experimentation. Their coordination is still developing, as a result, there are often accidents, such as a broken glass or pot plant knocked over.

Why Do Animal Shelters Charge an Adoption Fee?

Julia Wilson

How much does it cost to adopt a cat from a shelter?

The adoption fee can range from $100 to $250. Factors that influence the price are the age and the health of the cat. Kittens are the most expensive, followed by adult cats, seniors and cats with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes) or disabilities generally cost the least.

Why does it cost so much to adopt from a shelter?

Most of us know that animal shelters are at or over capacity, so why do they charge for us to adopt an animal?

Animal shelters are not for profit charities with huge expenses which include pet food, cat litter, disinfection, veterinary fees, medicine, parasite control, electricity, maintenance, staff wages, accounting fees, insurance, property rent or mortgage and council fees.

Cat Hanging Around-What Should You Do?

Julia Wilson

Why is a cat hanging around?

There are several reasons a cat may appear at your doorstep. It is lost, it is a stray, or it is a local cat who is exploring the neighbourhood. There are clues to evaluate if the cat has a home or is living on the streets. This can help to determine what to do next.

Cat-Friendly Homes

Julia Wilson

What is a cat-friendly home?

A cat-friendly home is a home that meets the physical, behavioural and emotional needs of the cat. It is not enough to adopt a cat and provide fresh food and water, they have emotional and physical needs too. We take a look at what is involved in providing a cat-friendly home.

11 Cat Care Tips For First Time Cat Owners

Julia Wilson

Cat care tips for the first time owner

You’re ready to adopt your first cat, our cat care tips help first-time cat owners navigate the wonderful world of cats so that you and your cat get off on the best foot (and paw).

Cat care begins before the cat arrives home, research and preparation are both vital to ensure you know what to expect and the home is ready for the cat to move into.

How Did The Longhaired Cat Occur?

Julia Wilson

At a glance The coat of a longhaired cat occurred due to a mutation (alteration) of the FGF5 gene (fibroblast growth factor-5), which is thought to be an inhibitor of hair elongation. The longhair mutation is thought to have originated in Russia before migrating to other parts of the world. Longhaired cats have an advantage … Read more