Author

Victoria

Victoria is a kitty history lover and diehard foodie. She spends her time researching and writing all about food, wine, and super cool cats. If she's not at her desk, you can find her in the kitchen or writing something whimsical on her blog, sluttispaghetti.com.

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Exotic Shorthair

by Victoria December 1, 2021

written by Victoria

Wide-eyed and adorable, Exotic Shorthair cats are one of the most popular breeds around. Many don’t realize that this is a relative breed, with a unique history. Let’s discover all the reasons why people fall in love with Exotic kitties!

exotic shorthair cat facts

This breed was a secret at first…

The Exotic Shorthair cat didn’t happen by pure accident. This breed was created purposefully by American Shorthair fanciers in the 1960s who thought that Shorthairs and Persians together would create a very pretty kitty.

As you could imagine American Shorthair breeders weren’t too happy about this. They were obstinate to let this new American Shorthair-Persian hybrid cat be taken seriously. But, Cat Fancier Association judge and breeder Jane Martinke had a different idea. She thought the breed had great potential and accepted it to CFA championship status in 1967.

As this new cat breed gained more popularity, the CFA limited Exotic Shorthair breeding to only American Shorthairs and Persians. Before, some breeders actually crossed Burmese and Russian Blue cats as well, so that the cats could achieve a perfectly silvery coat.

Garfield

Garfield was an Exotic Shorthair cat!

Yes, the lasagna-loving cat Garfield was an Exotic Shorthair. While this cat breed was first bred to be silver-colored, the continued breeding with only Persian cats created Exotic Shorthairs all kinds of colors. This includes orange tabby, like Garfield!

The ironic part is that Garfield’s character doesn’t exactly reflect an Exotic’s personality. Garfield was known for his sarcastic and sort of selfish personality, not to mention his excessive laziness and terrible love of food. Exotic Shorthairs aren’t like that at all…

If there’s one word to describe an Exotic Shorthair, it’s loyal.

Exotic Shorthairs love their humans. They are super loyal to their owners. So much so that they adore cuddles and will even purr or lick you to show off their affection.

Exotic Shorthairs adapt to your schedule. These cats won’t pressure you- they’re usually down to do whatever you want to do! That could be playing a fun game or snuggling up and watching a movie together.

When you’re alone with your Exotic Shorthair, don’t be surprised by how much love their shower you in. But, when a new person comes around, watch as your Exotic gives them the cold shoulder. Their love is reserved for you, and only you.

exotic shorthair cat

This is also one chill kitty

What many adore about Exotics is just how chill these cats are. They don’t really put any pressure on you. Exotics just go with the flow.

Exotics are very polite kitties. They rarely meow, only gently nudging you or meowing softly when they need something. These cats also prefer calm environments and cozy places to hang out. So, always make sure there’s a special space for your Exotic on your couch.

These cats also do not need a ton of space to live a full life. They can thrive in a little apartment or a mansion. To Exotic Shorthair, there really isn’t a difference, unless you leave them alone too long. Exotics are very susceptible to separation anxiety and need consistent attention.

Someone nicknamed this cat the “Lazy Man’s Persian”

One upper hand of the Exotic is it is a lot lower-maintenance than its Persian parents.

Persian cats have long, delicate fur that requires daily grooming. For busy folks, that may sound like a lot. Exotic Shorthairs, on the other hand, only need to be groomed weekly. That’s because Exotics acquired a shorter coat from their Shorthair parents, which is a lot easier to take care of than a Persian’s long locks.

exotic shorthair kittens

But, make sure to take care of your Exotic Shorthair’s face

What can cause trouble for your Exotic Shorthair is surprisingly its face (despite how cute this cat is!) This kitty inherited a flat nose from its Persian parents. This may cause breathing problems for your cat. With that said, it is super important that you monitor your cat’s diet, ensuring that your Exotic maintains a healthy weight. Cat obesity will only cause more breathing issues for your Exotic.

Flat-nosed kitties also struggle with tear drainage. This may cause your Exotic to have tear stains under their eyes, which you should gently clean often. Remember – Exotics are very sweet-tempered and usually make grooming a painless process.

Exotics may be a new breed, but they sure are loved. Do you or anyone you know have an Exotic Shorthair at home? If so, don’t be shy to share any of these Exotic Shorthair facts with them. We’d also love to hear all your stories about these sweet kitties too.

gray exotic shorthair cats

December 1, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Cymric Cat Breed

by Victoria November 27, 2021

written by Victoria

Cute, lovable, and oftentimes tailless, the Cymric is a rare and totally adorable cat breed. Whether you believe this cat is its own breed or not, there’s no doubt the Cymric has a personality and charm of its own.

Let’s dive into all the facts on the Cymric cat!

So, how do you pronounce Cymric?

It’s super important to know that Cymric is pronounced ‘kim-rik.’ Yes – the first ‘C’ is just like a K.

Cymric cats have old roots

The origins of these cats date back a few hundred years. We’re talking back to the 1700s most likely. This is when the Manx cat arrived on the Isle of Man, an island nestled in the Irish Sea between Ireland and England. Manx and Cymric cats are nearly identical to each other, apart from their hair. But, the Manx cats didn’t just appear out of the blue there – many speculate that the Vikings may have brought these cats over via ship centuries ago!

But, what makes Manx and Cymric cats different from their old, potentially Viking cat ancestors is their tailless figure. Yes – you heard right. Manx cats do not have tails at all. This spontaneous mutation was thought to have occurred in the 1700s or 1800s on the Isle of Man, giving the Manx. The Cymric followed after, as the long-haired version of this cat breed.

These cats are as wise as their age

The Cymric is one intelligent kitty. This cat can pick up any game rapidly fast. It’s no wonder Cymrics love to play a game of fetch or go for walks on a leash.

Not only do Cymrics adore their families, but they also rely on their humans to stay mentally stimulated. With that said, it is best not to leave your Cymric alone too long, as these cats will get restless and grow tons of separation anxiety.

Cymric cats have four types of tails

What may seem bizarre about Cymrics is that they are generally tailless cats. To get specific, Cymrics have 4 types of tails. There’s the rumpy tail, or essentially no tail at all. Then, there is the rumpy-riser, which is a small knob where a cat’s tail would be. Following that is the stumpy tail that is roughly a third of the length of a regular cat tail. Finally, there’s the ‘longy’ or full-tail.

cymric kitten

There is some debate around if the Cymric is an independent breed

The Cymric’s history has caused a few disagreements among cat associations on whether or not this cat is a breed on its own. In fact, the CFA in particular doesn’t consider this cat to be its own breed. Instead, the CFA classifies the Cymric as a variation of the Manx cat, called the Longhair Manx.

On the other hand, the ICA (International Cat Association,) along with most other relevant cat associations, recognizes Cymric cats as their own breed.

They are also pretty athletic kitties

What many adore about Cymrics is just how tough they are. These cats are medium to large in size, with stalky legs and muscular bodies. It comes as no surprise that Cymrics love to climb and jump on things. So, make sure you don’t leave the cat food on the top of the fridge. Your Cymric might find it funny to knock the bag straight to the ground…

cute cymric kitten

Cymrics are natural-born human lovers

Cymric cats live for affection. These cats absolutely love their humans. They are super kind and gentle in their ways. Cymrics love to play whenever they can. This all makes these cats great additions to any family, even ones with small children.

These cats are also known for their fantastic hunting skills. A Cymric has been called a ‘watch cat,’ as this kitty will keep an eye out for any and all pests. So, don’t be surprised if you hear your kitty growling. Your Cymric is just trying to protect you!

Grooming is a priority for Cymric cat owners

There is no doubt that this cat has gorgeous looks. To make sure your kitty stays healthy and beautiful, a consistent grooming routine is a top priority.

Cymric cats have double coats that need brushing around 3 times a week. It is also best that you pay close attention to your Cymric’s teeth, brushing them once a week if you can.

The Cymric cat is a quirky, rare cat breed that will charm any cat owner. Do you or anyone you know have a Cymric cat at home? If so, we’d love to hear all the funny stories about this playful and adorable kitty.

November 27, 2021 0 comment

Cats

Study Reveals That Cats Use Their Ears to Track Their Owners

by Victoria November 23, 2021

written by Victoria

We can all pretty much agree that cats are almost always two steps ahead of us. And, a recent study proves just how true that is, by how cats use their ears to track their owners. Crazy, right? Well, this study is 100 percent real. More importantly, it’s revealing that cats may have more complex minds than we ever even thought.

This study all started in Japan

One of the most (if not THE most) cat-loving nations is Japan. A place full of cat cafes, islands, and temples, it comes as no surprise that a revelational study on cat behavior happened in this very country.

It all began with a doctoral student at Japan’s Kyoto University. Saho Takagi was observing cats and started to recognize the fascinating way they responded to sounds. She noticed, in particular, how one cat had just one ear tilted back as if the cat was listening to something very carefully. It stirred up questions for Takagi – what are cats thinking about? Are they listening to us more deeply than we think?

So, Takagi decided to take her observations to the next level, with serious research and experimentation.

white cat watching

How cats use their ears to track their owners: the experiment

Takagi and her group of researchers came up with a very clever experiment. In order to guarantee that the cats were solely listening to their owner’s voice, the researchers chose to play the voices of cat owners through a speaker, hiding the owners from sight. This eliminated the possibility that the cats could track their owners by visual cues.

The experiment also took place in different settings as well. The researchers observed the cats at home and in cat cafes.

To test the cats, Takagi and her researchers placed speakers in various rooms, playing recordings of the cat owner’s voices at individual times, in different rooms. Takagi did this purposely, to see how cats responded to the relocation of their owners’ voices, without any other visual or vibrational signals.

As the cats listened to the recordings of their owners, Takagi and her researchers analyzed the response of the cats. Each cat appeared surprised that their owners’ voices moved from room to room, without any additional sounds at all.

beautiful burmese cat staring

The results of the experiment

What Takagi and her researchers found was pretty thought-provoking. Seeing that the cats felt surprised suggested that the cats expected other kinds of movement accompanying their owner’s voice. This prompted the researchers to suspect that cats use their ears to track their owners more intensely than we thought. As Takagi puts it, cats most likely create their own ‘mental maps’ of their owners’ behavior.

Whether you want to call it love or kitty control issues, this study is absolutely fascinating. For the most part, cats are known for seeming rather disinterested in human life, unless it’s a situation where cats feel they could benefit from. Yet, Takagi’s study might be proof that cats are more involved in our lives than we think.

“It is generally believed that cats are not as interested in their owners as dogs are, but it turns out that they were mentally representing the invisible presence of their owners,” Takagi explained to CNN.

This ‘invisible presence’ alludes to the fact that cats may be a lot more invested in us than we initially thought. The idea that cats creatively map out an owners’ behavior and follow it shows that cats rely on their owners emotionally. This means that cats may have more complex minds, full of imagination, that we’ve only scratched the surface of.

cat ears listening

What this means for cat-human relationships

As Takagi alluded to, cats may have just as much interest in us as dogs do (although they may show it a little differently…)

Discovering that cats strategically and thoughtfully follow the movement of their owners signifies that cats do find at least some comfort in their human relationships. It also shows that cats may not only be big sleepers but big thinkers too. Who knows what kind of plans kitties are thinking up while they snooze away in the living room window…

It comes as no surprise that our kitties are this smart. If there’s one thing we know about cats, it’s that they surely know how to use their senses. It’s what makes cats so good at playing games, sneaking around, and surprising us. But, what makes this study extra special is how it shows that our cats may love us more than we ever even knew!

Do you enjoy reading about cat studies? We’ve got a whole bunch for you to enjoy—check them out here on CattitudeDaily.com.

November 23, 2021 0 comment

Cats

Big Cat 411: All About The African Lion

by Victoria November 23, 2021

written by Victoria

The African lion is one majestic animal. Known as the “King of the Jungle,” this big cat has long been a symbol of power, centuries before the Lion King ever hit theaters.

There is so much to learn about this extraordinary animal. Continue reading to discover all the facts about the African lion!

African lion facts

The African lion doesn’t only live in Africa

Although it is known as the African lion, this big cat doesn’t only live in Africa. It actually lives across Africa and Asia. In the past, the African lion also roamed in Southern Europe. You may be surprised to hear that lions were found in ancient Greece and Spain. The ancient Greeks viewed the lion as an incredible symbol of wealth and power, depicting these mighty animals in various myths and legends.

Unfortunately, due to the hunting of the centuries, lions went extinct in Europe. Outside of captivity, you will not find a lion roaming around on your next Eurotrip.

These cats have the loudest roar

When we picture lions, we imagine their large bodies and their thunderous roar. Well, lions do in fact have the loudest roar of any big cat. In fact, you can hear a lion’s roar from up to 5 miles away!

African Lion and her cub

The African lion is the only big cat who loves to socialize

If you’ve read a bit about big cats, you’ve probably discovered that most are solitary animals that rarely engage in groups. Lions are the total opposite. These animals thrive in groups, which are called prides. Prides are like lion ‘wolf packs,’ which can be made up of 2 to even 40 lions.

Only the male has the iconic lion’s mane

One thing that distinguishes lions from other big cats is their mane. Yet, not all lions have this impressive head of hair. Only the male African lion has a mane. The mane is a tell-tale sign of sexual maturity. Aka, when a lion grows its mane, it’s time for him to leave his mamma’s house and become a leader of his pride.

What is so cool about a lion’s mane is its color. The darker the lion’s mane, the more threatening the lion is. If you remember the Lion King, you will remember the dark, rich color of Mufasa’s mane. That’s because he was a healthy lion, full of testosterone, and not afraid of a fight. But, Scarr’s fur was a lot darker. Of course, in the film, this symbolized his evil nature. But, in the wild, an extra dark mane symbolized that a lion was extra well-fed, making him a dangerous fighter.

African lion pride

This cat has some incredible vision

Apart from its incredible roar, the African lion has remarkable night vision. This cat only needs 1/6th of the light that humans do to see at night. This makes lions fierce nighttime predators.

These cats have no natural predators

As you can imagine, a cat that weighs anywhere from 280 to 450 pounds must be pretty intimidating. Combined with their massive jaws and claws, lions remain true apex predators. This makes them essential to their environment, as they balance the food chain and their overall ecosystem.

male African lion

But, African lions are still in grave danger

Yes, these big cats may be fierce and ferocious. But, that cannot protect them from the numerous threats to their survival.

Sadly, the African lion is considered critically endangered and vulnerable to extinction. According to National Geographic, there are only half as many lions as there were 25 years ago. That is scary and heart-breaking. How could the famed “King of Beasts” be disappearing?

As you may have guessed, we have mostly human intervention to blame. The ways humans have affected the African lion’s survival are quite cyclical.

First, the African lion’s territory has shrunk substantially over the years, limiting their access to prey. With livestock farmers also losing access to land due to urban development, these farmers are also searching for land to reside in. And, these farmers do not want lions there to eat up their livestock. This stimulates more illegal poaching, which already is a threat to lions. Some farmers have even gone so far as to support the poisoning of entire lion prides.

African lion facts

There is a way we can help protect these amazing big cats…

It would be absolutely heartbreaking to lose a magnificent animal like the lion. There are still ways for us to help limit the lion’s endangerment and help these animals to thrive. Organizations like the African Wildlife Conservation and African Conservation Experience offer opportunities to donate and even volunteer to help save these gorgeous creatures.

The African lion is one mighty animal. We hope that you share all these facts about the African lion, helping spread awareness and protection for this beautiful big cat.

November 23, 2021 0 comment

Cat Health Tips for Cat Owners

Signs Your Cat Is Going Deaf

by Victoria November 20, 2021

written by Victoria

Cat deafness is more common than you think. That may sound frightening but don’t freak out. Just as humans lose their hearing with age or other circumstances, so do our feline friends. There are signs your cat is going deaf that you can pick up on. From there, you can learn how to help and empower your kitty to still live its best life!

signs your cat is going deaf

What Causes Cat Deafness?

There isn’t just one reason why cats lose their hearing. In fact, there are multiple causes behind cat deafness.

The most common one is, of course, age. For humans and cats alike, our ears degenerate over the years from minor traumas. This affects the nerve endings in our ears. It also makes our eardrums less flexible, preventing sound from traveling through. The result – our hearing just isn’t what it used to be. When it comes to hearing loss from age, you’ll notice a slow degradation in your cat’s hearing. It will not be an overnight thing.

There are other causes of cat deafness. Although these are less frequent than deafness from old age, you shouldn’t brush off these culprits. Cats can experience deafness from things like serious ear traumas, infections, or growths. Sometimes, cats can even have hearing loss from certain medications.

Some cats are also vulnerable to congenital deafness. This is when a cat is born partially or completely deaf. What is astounding about this is that congenital deafness is almost always pigment-related for cats. Surprisingly, white-haired cats are very susceptible to congenital deafness. So are cats with heterochromia, a genetic mutation that gives cats odd-colored eyes.

Signs Your Cat is Going Deaf

So, you now know the causes of cat deafness. But, how do you know for sure if your cat is losing its hearing?

There are a few tell-tale signs your cat is going deaf. The most obvious sign would be your cat’s response to basic movement. Typically, if you get close to a cat, they will respond very quickly (they’re hunters – remember?) However, a cat losing its hearing will barely respond. And, when they notice you’re there, they will seem extra startled.

A big sign of hearing loss in cats is a change in their usual routine. When a cat is losing its hearing, it will stop responding to normal cues. That cue could be you coming home from work or opening up a brand new can of food. You’ll notice your cat’s lack of response. You may also notice your cat being a little louder than usual, meowing more loudly and persistently.

Another interesting sign that your cat is going deaf is a change in sleeping patterns. Deaf cats sleep more deeply and sometimes longer. Try not to disturb a deaf kitty while they rest. It would be very shocking for them. Cats are naturally alert, even while they sleep. But, without their hearing, they can’t be as quick as their instincts want them to be. So, a disturbance during their slumber could be traumatizing.

What Should I Do If I Think My Cat is Deaf?

The first thing to do is take your cat to the vet. Your vet will be able to evaluate your cat and assess the cause of deafness. More often than not, it is simply just age. But, you want to always make sure of the cause, especially if your cat isn’t that old.

signs your cat is deaf

Tips for Living with a Deaf Cat

Once you know for sure that your cat is suffering from hearing loss, you need to make sure your home is cozy for your feline friend.

Sticking to a schedule is super important for deaf cats. It allows them to feel more trust and control in their environment. This routine should be solely indoors. A deaf cat is extra vulnerable outdoors because they cannot hear the noises of cars or any other major threats to their life.

The loss of a major sense also means your cat will be relying on its other senses for survival, especially its eyesight. You should prioritize visually communicating with your cat. For example, you should show your cat their food, leading them to their bowl, to indicate its mealtime. The vibrations of your footsteps will act as a little guide for your cat to follow you as well.

Deafness in cats isn’t unusual. It is usually just a part of growing old, just like for humans. If you are living with a deaf kitty, make sure to take extra care of them. They can still live full and fun lives, all they need is just a little assistance!

November 20, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Nebelung

by Victoria November 16, 2021

written by Victoria

You can’t talk about new cat breeds without mentioning the Nebelung. This pedigree cat breed is very lovable for many reasons. And, we’re diving into them all.

Let’s discover all the facts about Nebelung cats!

Nebelung cat breed

The Nebelung cat has a super cool name

The name of this cat may sound a little strange. Don’t judge a book by its cover, though. Nebelung means ‘creature of the mist’ in German. That’s pretty cool, right? It must have something to do with this cat’s beautiful blue-grey coat…

This cat is probably younger than your parents

The Nebelung is a very new cat breed. We’re talking less than 40 years old.

This breed began in Denver, Colorado, somewhere around the early 1980s. A woman named Cora Cobb bred two cats, whose origins are still a bit of a mystery. Many believe it was a stray black short-haired cat and a Russian Blue cat. These kitties together had two litters. Cobb couldn’t help but notice that one kitty in each litter had stunning and silky blue-grey fur. So, she kept both cats, naming one Siegfried and the other Brunhilde, both names of characters from the German play ‘The Ring of Nibelung.’ Now, you see where the name comes from!

Cobb didn’t stop there. She continued to breed the cats, despite the resistance of many Russian Blue breeders. Because of Cobb, the Nebelung breed was recognized by The International Cat Association in 1987.

Nebelung cat

It’s hard to beat the Nebelung’s gorgeous coat

There is no doubt that the Nebelung has a show-stopping coat. It is a thick and full double-coat that is silky and soft to touch. Not to mention its unique blue-grey color that is just too pretty to ignore.

Of course, like most beautiful things, a Nebelung’s coat requires maintenance. It is a double coat, which is pretty dense and can get matted rather quickly. So, it is very important that you brush a Nebelung on a weekly basis. This will ensure your kitty’s coat not only looks fantastic – it will also help you and your cat avoid unwanted, painful knots.

A little fun fact about the Nebelung’s coat – it takes two full years for it to completely grow in!

The Nebelung is a natural apartment dweller

This cat breed is very chill. Nebelungs do love attention, but they don’t really need it. They’d much rather do their own thing, and play whenever you are around. This, combined with this cat’s love of lounging, makes the Nebelung the perfect indoor cat.

rare nebelung cat

But, that doesn’t mean these cats don’t love to play!

What makes Nebelungs such awesome cats are their versatility. For the most part, these cats are sweet, chill, and march to the beat of their own drum. Yet, Nebelungs do love their toys. It’s important to always keep toys around so that your Nebelung can have a little fun. You don’t always have to be there to play with them – Nebelungs can occupy themselves easily. But, these kitties won’t mind if you decide to join in, especially if you are their special person.

Nebelungs love their families, and that’s it

What is super funny about this cat breed is their loyalty to their humans. Nebelungs prefer to have one or two humans that they trust with all their needs. (Russian Blue cats are the same way!)

The Nebelung is a very chill cat that doesn’t seem to give much attention to new folks around. This cat will be happy to just have its family around, and that’s it.

So, if your friend comes over and wants to catch your Nebelung’s attention, don’t be surprised if your cat doesn’t find your friend interesting at all. Nebelungs are friendly, don’t get us wrong. They just would much rather be alone than have to introduce another new person into their lives. That isn’t too hard to relate to…

purebred Nebelung cat

These are also very healthy kitties

As expected, these cats are susceptible to the usual cat medical issues. When it comes to genetic issues, it takes time for these to occur in cat breeds. The Nebelung cat is a very new breed, so it has yet to develop any known genetic problems. Yup this means that Nebelungs can really live a long time, even up to 20 years.

The Nebelung is a very new pedigree cat with a charming personality and stunning looks. We’d love to hear all the facts and stories about Nebelungs if you or anyone you know has one at home!

November 16, 2021 0 comment

Cat Behavior

How Do Cats Sense Human Emotions?

by Victoria November 15, 2021

written by Victoria

Our kitties are seriously intuitive animals. Yes, they can be sassy and seem aloof sometimes… BUT, there is one thing for sure – our cats know how to make us feel better. We wouldn’t have them as part of the family if that wasn’t true. Many of us cat owners do wonder, though – how do cats sense our human emotions? Is it some kind of cat superpower?

Maybe. What we do know for sure is that cats have some impressive skills that allow them to keep up with all of our emotions.

how do cats sense human emotions

So, How Do Cats Sense Human Emotions?

There are a few ways that cats identify the feelings of their humans. It all comes down to our cats’ amazing sensory skills. Because our little guys are natural-born hunters, they use their senses to keep up with everything around them, including our emotional behavior. This goes from observing us, to listening to us, to even smelling us.

Yes, cats essentially analyze us in every way. They know that we are their protectors, part of their family. So, cats rely on our actions and behaviors when dictating their own actions too. This may sound surprising, as cats are wildly independent. Don’t get us wrong – cats still are very independent of their owners. They are also survivors, who want to protect themselves and their families at all times.

So, how do cats catch on to our human emotions? In a couple of ways…

Cats Listen When We Talk

Cats have incredible ears. They have the ability to hear pitches and sounds that humans can’t. Of course, going back to their hunting genes, this comes as no surprise. Without excellent ears, a hunter is lost.

With that said, cats love to listen to us. They remember the changes in the tones of our voices. Cats notice when we raise our voice when we are aggravated and lower it when we are calm. You may notice your cat listening by their change in behavior. When we are upset, and our voice is loud, our cats will most likely run and hide. The loud pitch of our voice is frightening to their ears.

how do cats sense human emotions?

Cats Can Identify Facial Expressions

A cat’s eyesight may not be its strongest sense, but it is still one they use strategically. One way is to analyze how their human is reacting to the situation. A study conducted by Jennifer Vonk and Moriah Galvan in 2015 revealed that cats catch on to our expressions, especially more positive ones like smiling. Cats are more likely to engage with their humans by purring and rubbing up on our legs when they notice us smiling. It is like our cats gravitate towards positive energy, so to speak.

Do Cats Know How to Comfort Us?

It is clear that cats can pick up on human emotions. We mammals all have emotional systems and the sensory skills to pick up on emotions around us. But, since our felines are obviously not human, they have very different reactions to our emotions.

As mentioned before, when we are angry and upset, a cat is more likely to run away than to sit and try to console us. This is due to a cat’s innate response to loud sounds. This doesn’t mean that our cats don’t care about our emotions. But, it does show that cats are the more self-interested when it comes to assessing our emotions. Cats are more concerned with how our behaviors may affect them. So, if we’re angry and crying, and our cats know that this usually comes with loud screams, our cats may choose to run and hide from the noise to protect themselves.

The same goes for the opposite situation. When we are happy, we give our cat scratches, snuggles, and treats. So, when our cat notices signs of our happiness, they’ll definitely stick around.

Of course, in a perfect world, we wish our cats could react a little differently. Or, just talk to us altogether. But, let’s be real – that would take away the unparalleled attitude and mystery of our kitties. What we know is that our cats do know how we are feeling. They just have their own way of showing it.

how to cats sense human emotions

November 15, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Big Cat 411: All About The Black Panther

by Victoria November 9, 2021

written by Victoria

Wild cats are fierce animals that inspire many of us across the globe. The black panther is surely one of them. This cat was chosen to be the name of a revolutionary political party and even a Marvel superhero. Now that’s pretty awesome.

How much do we really know about this big cat? Many of us have imagined a black panther’s mysterious and fierce nature. Yet, most of us don’t really know if this cat is real or just a mythical cat that lurks in jungles far away.

Continue reading to discover all the facts about black panthers!

black panther cat

The Black Panther isn’t actually a species…

The secret is out. The black panther isn’t a species of cat. Panther, in general, refers to the genus panthera. This genus encompasses jaguars, lions, leopards, and tigers. So, technically all of these cats are panthers (although we don’t really say that because that would be a little too confusing, right?)

So, how can you tell that all these cats are panthers? Generally speaking, animals under the panthera genus share similarly shaped skulls. Also, all these cats have larger vocal folds, a key physical trait that allows these cats to roar. Yes – panthers are the only cats who can roar!

What is a Black Panther then?

A black panther is still a panther. It just is a melanistic version of the panther. This means that the cat expresses dark pigments in their coat, depending on their genetic makeup. It all comes down to a funny thing called alleles. Alleles are variations of genes that can cause mutations, such as changes in fur pigment.

black panther facts

Leopards and jaguars are usually ‘mistaken’ as black panthers

Not every panther can be a black panther. In fact, the melanistic attribute of these cats only affects maybe 5 percent of panthers.

Almost always, leopards and jaguars will have the alleles necessary to create dark pigment in their fur. This is also why black panthers look almost identical, making you think that this cat is in fact a species of its own.

If you want to get nerdy about genetics, we have a fun fact for you. Leopards require recessive alleles to gain a dark-furred coat while jaguars need to have dominant alleles in order to produce dark pigment in their fur. That’s because each species is unique and requires a different genetic makeup to produce darker pigment in its coat.

facts about the black panther

These cats do have rosettes, you just can’t usually see them!

What do leopards and jaguars both have? Pretty rosettes on their fur. While each cat has different kinds of rosettes, these rosettes don’t just go away when a cat has darker fur. If you look closely at a black panther, you will most likely see their rosettes. Of course, we don’t advise getting too close to one of these big cats. Just wait until the sun shines on their fur and you will probably get a glimpse of their fur pattern.

The Florida Panther isn’t a panther (and cannot be a black panther, either…)

Something that is often very confusing is how the Florida Panther isn’t entirely a panther. The Florida Panther is a puma concolor, or a cougar. These cats live in, you might have guessed it, Florida.

It is extremely rare to find a black cougar, although people have claimed to spot black Florida Panthers before. It all really remains a mystery!

black panther in the wild

No matter what you call them, these cats need our protection

All of the panthera cats, leopards, jaguars, lions, and tigers included, need our help to sustain their populations. Each cat has a unique endangered status, but all of them are classified as endangered to a certain degree.

There are several causes behind the endangerment of these animals. From deforestation to poaching, these majestic cats are seeing their populations decrease annually. As cat lovers, we should help support and protect these beautiful big cats. They may be big and fierce, but they can’t protect themselves from everything.

To learn more about how to help protect cats from the panthera genus, there are several organizations working to protect these cats locally and internationally. The WWF is always a great source to start with.

So, did you learn something new about black panthers? We sure hope so. It’s pretty fascinating how a cat can be born with a wholly unique look. With only around 5 percent of panthers having the genetics necessary to have black fur, we can 100 percent say that being a black panther is something special.

November 9, 2021 0 comment

Cat Breeds Cat Breeds / Types of Cats

Feline 411: All About The Korat Cat Breed

by Victoria November 6, 2021

written by Victoria

Korat cats are nothing short of gorgeous. It’s rare to see a Korat cat, but when you do – you can’t miss these kitties. Their silky grey coats and striking green eyes can snag anyone’s attention, no matter if they are cat lovers or not.

So, what makes Korat cats so cool? Well, we have the 411 on these felines and we’re letting you in on the scoop!

korat cat breed

Korat Cats have been around since the 14th century

Yes, Korat cats are that ancient. These cats are from Thailand, where they are known as Si-Sawat cats. Korat cats appeared during the time of the Siamese kingdom, specifically within the Ayutthaya period. This sounds kind of ironic to hear, that the Korat cat was born in the Siamese Kingdom. Now that’s some real cat history.

So, where do these cats get their Western name from? This cat’s name pays homage to its very beginning. Many believed that the breed originally came from the Northern part of Thailand, known as Korat.

But, these cats didn’t arrive in America until 1959…

There were quite a few centuries between the emergence of the Korat cat and their entrance into the Western world. For the most part, Korat cats remained primarily in Thailand, treasured by locals. But, in 1959, the Korat cat finally made its way to America. It was recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association just 8 years later.

This was the first officially documented presence of the Korat cat in the Western Hemisphere. The only other time the Korat may have made an appearance in the West was in Britain, in 1896. Yet, there isn’t enough records or report to prove that it was in fact the rare Korat cat.

Korat cat breed

The Korat is one of the purest cat breeds around

What makes Korats rare is their bloodline. Due to their history, these cats have stayed a natural breed for quite some time. There hasn’t been much crossing of their breed with other cat breeds. However, Korat cats still are pretty rare, making a purebred Korat still difficult to find.

This cat was a symbol of good fortune

Korat cats weren’t living the stray life in ancient Thailand. These cats were considered true gifts to society. We are not kidding – up until the 20th century, Korat cats were never sold in Thailand. They were only given as gifts!

How did this tradition start? Since the 14th century, Thai people considered the Korat cat a sign of luck and prosperity. In fact, the Korat cat was one of the most popular wedding gifts, to wish newlyweds good fortune.

pretty Korat cat

Despite their gorgeous looks, Korat cats are easy to groom

What makes a Korat cat stand out is its undeniably stunning coat. The Korat has a short silvery-blue coat that glistens in the light. Not to mention their charming, heart-shaped face and royal emerald green eyes.

Such a pretty and regal cat would probably be difficult to groom, right? Nope, not the Korat. Their simple and short coat makes grooming as easy as pie. You just need to brush your Korat weekly, to ensure dead hairs are cleaned out of its coat.

It’s best not to leave Korats alone too long

Korats love people, and they aren’t afraid to show it. A Korat is very loyal and gets easily attached to its humans. No matter who comes to visit, your Korat cat will not leave your side.

With that said, it’s best not to ignore or leave your Korat alone for long. While the Korat may not meow loudly to show it, this cat breed is known to experience major separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. This may make your Korat emotional and sometimes aggressive. That’s why it’s often best to have another pet around to distract your Korat kitty if you think you’ll be away from home more than you’d like.

cute korat cat

Korats are super active kitties

Another reason Korats love their humans is that they love to play. They are very witty kitties, who think fast on their feet. This means that Korat cats adore games. They are quick to pick up any game, even fetch! It’s really fun to play with Korats too, as these cats are fantastic listeners and learn the rules to any game pretty speedily.

The Korat cat is absolutely one of a kind. From their fascinating history to gorgeous looks, it’s hard not to fall in love with this cat breed.

Do you have a Korat cat? We’d love to hear all the funny anecdotes about your Korat kitty in the comments below.

November 6, 2021 0 comment

Cat Health Tips for Cat Owners

Can Cats Eat Bacon?

by Victoria November 3, 2021

written by Victoria

There’s nothing like crispy, juicy bacon in the morning. The smell just seduces us, and our felines too. You probably have seen your cat creep around when the bacon is sizzling. We love our cats and want them to enjoy all the delicious things of life too. But, wait – can cats eat bacon?

There are many foods that we can share with our furry friends. There are also many foods we can’t. It’s best to always err on the safe side.

can cats eat bacon?

…So, Can Cats Eat Bacon?

In short, yes. It is 100 percent safe to feed your cat bacon. There isn’t anything toxic about bacon for cats.

Why? Well, remember, cats are mostly carnivores. They need meat to survive. Bacon is a pork product that does offer a decent amount of protein. So, every now and then, it’s not a terrible idea to reward your cat with a little bitty piece of your breakfast.

Why Is Bacon Bad for Cats?

Cats shouldn’t be eating bacon in large quantities or on a regular basis. That’s because bacon is loaded with a ton of sodium and fat that isn’t the greatest for a cat’s diet (or a human’s either!) Cats aren’t going to the gym as many humans do. Instead, they’re sleeping around 70% of the day. And, with some cats acting more like lapdogs than tigers, a diet with tons of bacon can only lead to weight gain or cat obesity.

There are more negative side effects to feeding cats bacon often. The sodium content can lead to high blood pressure and chronic dehydration for your cat. Combined with the high-fat content in bacon, your cat can also be at risk for clogged blood vessels too. These conditions are all preventable. One step? Don’t feed your cat bacon all the time!

can cats eat bacon?

Which Kind of Bacon Can Cats Eat?

As we discussed, bacon isn’t great for cats. But, it can be enjoyed as a treat every once in a while. When you decide to treat your cat, you need to make sure you’re giving your cat bacon they can eat.

First off, cats generally shouldn’t eat raw bacon, especially if it’s cured. This puts your cat at risk for parasites. If you do want to feed your cat raw bacon (or any raw meat), it is best to speak with your vet to see if it is safe for your cat.

Fully cooked bacon or bacon bits are probably the most acceptable forms of bacon your cats can eat. Heat kills bacteria and parasites, assuring that your kitty is safe from any potential dangers in raw meat. So, if you’re looking to reward your cat with a little bit of morning bacon, cooked bacon is always the way to go. Just make sure it isn’t too hot for your cat to eat!

What about bacon alternatives? Turkey bacon, which is probably the most popular substitute, is safe for cats. It does contain less fat than regular bacon, making it a healthier alternative. Yet, turkey bacon also has a very high salt content, meaning it should be consumed in limited amounts just as plain old bacon would.

cat begging in kitchen

What Should I Do If My Cat Eats Bacon?

Ok, so your cat hopped onto the breakfast table and stole a piece of bacon. Now what? First, don’t freak out. Bacon isn’t going to poison your cat. Just be prepared for your cat to have some short-term side effects.

If a cat eats a normal human serving of bacon (or at least a strip,) the cat will most likely get a stomach ache. You may notice your cat being less active and seem uncomfortable. Your cat will most likely also vomit, so pay attention when you walk. There’s no need to step in any unnecessary messes.

It is unlikely that your cat will get very sick from eating a larger amount of bacon. But, it is always important to air on the cautious side. Pay attention to your cat for 24 hours to ensure your furry baby isn’t experiencing too much discomfort.

The next time you’re cooking up breakfast, and the house smells of bacon, you’ll be for sure teasing your kitty. Now, if you haven’t given your cat bacon at all (or in a very long time), you can let your cat join in the breakfast party with a little bit of bacon. But, be careful not to make it a habit – bacon isn’t the best treat for your cat in the long run.

Sharing is caring, and who better to share with than our feline friends. Check out this next article on CattitudeDaily.com to learn about some human foods you can share with your cat—in cat-sized portions, of course!

November 3, 2021 0 comment

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