Cat language goes beyond the vocalizations that typically include hisses, growls, chattering, and meows. Nonverbal language such as tail talk offers many advantages over vocalizations. For example, sounds give away a cat’s location while posturing can’t be overheard. To many owners' surprise, feline communication is done in large part through…
If you've ever walked into your home to find your cat perched on top of the refrigerator, a bookshelf, or another high point in your home—and wondered what, exactly, she was doing—you're not alone. We all know there are a lot of, ahem, odd feline behaviors that aren't so easy…
Called bunting, cats rub their heads against prominent objects to leave chemical markings as a part of scent communication. Depending on the object of the cat's communication, they may be claiming ownership or indicating pleasure. Cats' Pheromone Glands Cats have several different pheromone producing glands all over the body. They…
One of the most important tasks to attend to before bringing home a new cat is to organize a "safe room" for your new feline to stay in for the first few days. It should include all the necessities a cat needs for comfort and security. Although a designated room…
Cats are fastidious animals, and they groom themselves several times a day. Yet you may have always wondered why cats lick their front feet after every meal. Even though they have not touched any food with their feet, all cats tend to do this. Food-related grooming may be a throwback…
Moving to a new home is stressful for humans and pets alike. Most cats are sensitive creatures that dislike change, so moving is one of the most stressful events they can experience. Stress can have a negative impact on your cat's health and behavior. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce…
Cat talk and non-verbal messages are sometimes puzzling. Cats have been regarded for centuries as mysterious, solitary, unpredictable creatures perhaps because humans have difficulty understanding what they're saying. While people rely primarily on speech to communicate, cats predominately communicate in a silent language. Cats speak by using complex combinations of…
A cat's sense of smell defines life for your cat. We used to believe dogs relied more on scent than cats, but current research indicates felines are incredibly scent oriented. Think of your cat’s individual smell as a feline name tag. For cats, scent determines sexual status and is used…
Cats are well known for their weird, lovable antics, and eating dirt is definitely one of their more-puzzling behaviors. If you are noticing your cat eating dirt, the cause can be simply a kitten exploring and playing with dirt or due to a medical issue. Possible Causes for Your Cat…
If you’re like most pet parents, your cat has probably become a member of your family. And, hopefully, the same goes for your kiddos. That’s why it’s not so hard to believe that there are many, many similarities between your cat and your human baby or toddler. Sure, they’re both…