- To me, this photo show just how beautiful cats really are.
Cats are wonderful creatures and bring much joy to their owners – from small children to the elderly living on their own. They quickly become part of our family, in fact they think they own us! However, there are times when they have a problem that can’t be resolved immediately, when we, as responsible owners, need some advice. It can be anything from finding out why your cat is continually scratching at his or her ears, why they have suddenly stopped using the litter box or what’s the best food to feed them. Perhaps you want to house train your cat with a minimum of stress to you both, or you want to stop your cat scratching the furniture. You may want to know what is wrong with your cat and whether a trip to the vet is necessary.
Cat Problems Resolved contains a growing library of articles on various problems that I or others have had with our cats or kittens. Please feel free to browse through them either by using the links below or you can search by category to the right. If you have specific questions or problems, leave a comment and I will answer them personally.
I have started a new page called ‘From the Web…‘ where I will be posting articles and videos from other people’s websites for your interest and further education. The link is at the top of this page.
Cat Behavior – Food Aggression
Occasionally you will find a cat with unusual aggression patterns. One of these is food aggression. Sometimes food aggressions can be put down to one cat trying to be the ‘alpha’ cat in the family, but there can be other causes as well. Find out what causes food aggression in cats and what to do about it.
Cat Behaviors and What They Mean
Cats behave in certain ways because it is instinctive for them to do this. They are not doing it to upset you. Cats don’t understand the concepts of revenge or spite. They just do things which they believe are ‘normal’. Learn just what these different cat behaviors mean.
How Much Food Does a Normal Cat Eat Per Day?
Different cats will eat different amounts of food during a day. Much will depend on the age and breed of the cat, as well as its metabolism. Some cats are finicky eaters and pick at their meals, and some will keep asking for more. Rather like humans I guess. Find out just how much you should be feeding your cats to keep them in optimal health.
What it Means When Your Cat is Ignoring You
Cats have a body language all of their own. They use their eyes, ears, tail and whole body to get a message across at times. They will also use psychological tactics to let you know what is going on, just as we do. Learn why cats ignore you and what to do about it.
Unexplained Weight Loss in Cats
If your cat starts losing weight, you need to find out what is going on as this can be as serious as weight gain. You need to rule out behavioural issues such as stress or changes in routine. There are many reasons for behavioural problems such as a new addition to the house (visitors or baby), changes to the house itself such as repainting or redecorating, or even a change in diet. Sometimes it may just be noisy animals or children that are putting the cat off eating, especially if it is not used to this noise. You need to find the reason any unexplained weight loss in your cat.
Does Your Cat Need a Flea Collar?
Cat flea collars seem to have been a hot topic of discussion lately. There are pros and cons about different types of flea collars and of course, both sides say they are right. Many flea collars on the market today contain strong chemicals. The chemicals obviously kill the fleas. However, would you place a chemical necklace around a child? I wouldn’t think so. Learn about the best type of flea collar you can get for your cat as well as your family’s health.
Your cat is a natural when it comes to grooming itself. Their tongues, paws, claws and teeth are all used in grooming. And being the fastidious creatures they are, cats will groom themselves many times each day. In fact, washing is one of a kitten’s first activities. Cats groom each other even before they can walk.
Reasons Why Your Cat Might Be Fussy
We know cats are independent creatures who only tolerate us humans. But what makes them fussy. And just what does having ‘a fussy cat’ mean.
Litter Box Training For Kittens
Training your kitten to use the litter box is the first thing you should do when you first bring your kitten home. Getting this right will save you days of cleaning up puddles and messes later. Find out the easiest way to litter box train your kitten.
Good quality cat tree furniture is probably as important for your cat as its bed or feeding bowls. It gives your cat somewhere to climb, rest, stretch and sharpen their claws on. It can also save your furniture and curtains from being scratched.
How Cats Bond With Their Owners
We all know that cats are solitary animals who can survive quite well without human intervention. A look at any feral cat population, or those farm cats who live in the grain or hay shed keeping the mouse population down, will illustrate this perfectly. However, cats have become used to ‘belonging’ to humans through society. For generations now the majority of cats are born into a family then moved onto other family situations. How did you get your cat? Find out how cats bond with their owners.
Cats are normally very healthy but like all of us, sometimes they can get sick. It is up to you to recognize when your cat is sick and what to do about it. Usually, sickness in cats is due to a congenital defect, an infection or parasite of some sort or through an accident. Learn to look for the signs that show your cat is sick.
Why You Should Get Your Cat Registered
Cat registration is something that is becoming more and more necessary in today’s society. Cats can and do wander, even if they are supposed to be kept indoors. It only takes a moment for a cat to escape, especially if they are on heat. Please, get your cat registered for your own peace of mind.
As cats are by nature solitary animals, it can sometimes be difficult to recognize if your cat is stressed. However there are certain behaviors that will become evident when your cat is stressed about life in general or something specific. They can be similar to what happens when we get stressed ourselves. Learn what look for to see if your cat is stressed.
Your cat’s vet is an incredibly important person in both your lives so choose wisely. In fact, your vet is as important to your cat as your doctor is to you and your family. Please, don’t wait until an emergency to start looking. In fact, I would suggest finding a vet before or as soon as you bring your new cat or kitten home. Speak to the people where you got your kitten from. If you live in a different area, do some research and ask your friends or the local pet shop for recommendations. Please, don’t take chances with your cat’s vet.
Overweight and obese cats are at risk of developing serious health problems, just as you and I would under the same circumstances. Feline obesity is a more serious condition than most owners realize. Do you know what to look for to see if your cat is overweight or obese?
There are some special considerations you need to be aware of when taking care of a pregnant cat. Most importantly, she needs to be kept in the best health as possible to ensure the delivery of healthy kittens. If you are breeding, there are some steps to take before mating. However, the majority of us with our domestic cats are usually confronted with the fact that she is pregnant, so I suggest following these tips as soon as you can.
6 Essential Substances Your Cat Must Have In Its Diet To Thrive
Cats require a certain balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, fresh water, minerals and vitamins in their daily diet. It is up to us to provide that mix for them in order for them to stay healthy and thrive. Do you know what your cat food must have for your cat to remain healthy and active?
Cat Behavior – Why Your Cat Yowls at Night
Hearing your cat, or a neighbor’s cat yowling at night can be a frightening experience. It is such a screeching noise that makes my blood curl. It sounds as though someone is being murdered, painfully. And why is it during the night, when you expect your cat to be asleep on the foot of your bed or in its own bed. Learn the reasons why your cat yowls at night and how to stop it.
Digestive Problems In Your Cat
The most common digestive disorders in cats are vomiting and diarrhoea. Both can be serious and lead to dehydration if not taken care of quickly. You need to find out what is causing this as soon as you can.
As with humans, kittens and older cats are usually most susceptible to diarrhoea and can become dehydrated quickly which can become potentially life threatening. Digestive problems in your cat really do need to be investigated quickly.
We know that cats are amazing creatures but here are some interesting facts about its body.
The skeleton of your cat is strong and light, specifically designed for speed and hunting. The neck is extremely flexible, allowing a wide range of movement that you and I can only dream about. Find out how your cat’s amazing body allows it to hunt so well yet be so gentle when jumping onto your lap.
How to Kitten – Proof Your House
Kitten proofing your house is extremely important for the health and safety of your precious little kitten. Once they are old enough to get about, they want to explore their new environment and investigate all those interesting smells. Find out how to kitten proof your house and keep your precious bundle of fur safe.
There are some behavioral problems in cats that can be tolerated and some that can’t. These behaviours will be specific to you and your cat. Something that you will tolerate may be different to what someone else will. A good example of this is excessive meowing. Personally I don’t like this, I prefer my cats to talk to me rather than shout all the time. Owners of Siamese cats will probably enjoy this sound as this particular breed is known for being noisy. It is up to you to decide which of your cat’s behavioral problems you want to change.
Unless your female cat has been spayed, one day you are probably going to find that she is pregnant. Even the best laid plans can go astray and that one time your cat gets out is the one time she’ll fall pregnant.
Are you aware that your cat will go into heat every two weeks if there is an unneutered tomcat around? Learn just what the signs are to find out if you have a pregnant cat.
Does Your Cat Need a Special Diet?
Some cats have special dietary needs and you need to be aware of these to keep your cat in top condition. There can be special times in the life of a cat when their nutritional needs change. It is at these times when nutrition can be important that many cat owners are unsure what they should be feeding their cats. Learn the best special diet for your cat during these times.
Cat Psychology or Understanding Your Cat
It can be very hard for us humans to understand just what goes on in our cat’s mind. They seem to remain a mystery and this is exactly what the cat wants. Because they can be totally independent and even solitary, they are hard to ‘read’. Cat psychology is fascinating and a real eye opener!
Cats have now become the world’s most popular pet, far outstripping dogs. They are easy to own and watching them grow and play and learn can be a fascinating pastime.
There are varying tales of just where the domestic cat originated ranging from southern Europe or northern Africa. It is agreed that they spread by being used on sailing ships to keep the rat and mice population down and preserve the food stocks. Learn about your cat’s history and how it became domesticated.
The Importance of Food To Your Cat
Obviously we all need to eat. Just try going all day without eating and you will rapidly understand just how important eating is. How does this relate to your cat? A nutritious diet is very important to the health and long life of your cat and the right cat food plays a very important role. in cat care.
Cats are creatures that love a routine. I’m sure you notice them rubbing at your legs and meowing when you’re preparing dinner. They no doubt can smell the food and they want feeding too. These tips for a well behaved cat will make life much easier for you and your cat.
Older Cats – Nutritional Cat Food
Older or senior cats need and deserve special dietary consideration. They are like us in that things don’t always work as well as they did when we were younger.
As our cat ages, food moves more slowly through the digestive tracts. The older can also has a slower metabolism than when she was younger. Quite often the stomach and intestines don’t do quite as good a job of digestion and absorption which can lead to malnutrition. You need to be aware of what to feed your older cat to keep it in top condition.
Even before you bring your new kitten home, there are a few things you need to have ready. This will not only help you, it will make it much easier and less stressful for your new kitten to settle in. Do you know which items to buy
The Domestic Cat And Its Wild Cat Cousins
The domestic cat we invite into our homes shares more characteristics with its wild cat relations than you might think. Find out the fascinating similarities between your domestic cat and its cousins in the wild.
Learning About Your First Kitten
It is always so exciting to add a kitten to your family. However, at first it might seem that caring for something so small is a daunting task. Kittens, like all babies, have basic needs that must be taken care of if your kitten is to grow up to be healthy and happy. Learn what you need to have and do to take care of your new kitten.
Cat Intestinal Parasites – Tapeworms And Stomach Worms
>Tapeworms and Stomach worms are internal parasites that feed off your cat in order for them to live and multiply. There are some creatures that live inside your cat without causing harm. However, some parasites, including tapeworms and stomach worms can cause adverse reactions in your cat. If you see a worm or something you aren’t sure about, put it in a baggie along with a piece of moist paper towel and take it to your vet. He is the best person to be able do diagnose
Roundworm and Hookworm in Cats
Roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite of cats, with an estimated 25% to 75% of cats affected. The numbers are usually higher in kittens. Hookworms (Ancylostoma and Uncinaria) are less than 1/2 inch (1cm) long, slender, thread-like worms that attach to the lining of the cat’s intestines Here they are able to feed off nutrient rich blood. Find out how to treat your cat or kitten for roundworms and hookworms.
How To Tell If You Have A Sick Cat
A sick cat is not something anyone wants to have. Cat owners should always be aware of their cat’s health, just as you would for your children. There are various signs that will tell you if your cat is
Cats can develop an abscess as a result of a fight with another cat or from something as simple as a grass seed in the skin. When the grass seed or claws from another cat puncture the skin, they can pass bacteria into the underlying tissue. It is extremely important to know how to treat a cat abscess to prevent your cat becoming very ill.
Cat mites are small parasites that burrow into a cat’s skin. There they lay eggs and feed and the cycle continues. Mites are extremely contagious and can be easily passed from cat to cat. You need to recognize the symptoms of cat mites so you can give your cat the correct treatment.
I am sure just about every cat owner has had to deal with cat fleas at one time or another. They are horrible pests that make life uncomfortable for your cat and your family. Are you aware of what you need to do to rid your cat and your house of cat fleas?
Giardia are an internal parasite called protozoans which inhabit the digestive tracts of cat. They are a one-cell organism. Giardia cysts (the second stage of reproduction) are spread from one cat to another and by being passed within the faeces. You need to be aware of the symptoms of giardia in cats to keep your cat healthy and free of internal parasites.
Caring For Older Cats – Arthritis
Just like us, cats can get arthritis and slow down as they get older. Arthritis seems to afflict more male cats than females and cats that are overweight. Feeding your cat a balanced diet is important for general health, as is making sure it has the opportunity to exercise. Do you know the best way to look after a cat with arthritis?
Feline Panleukopenia or Distemper
Feline Panleukopenia or distemper attacks the lining of the gastrointestinal tract causing ulcers. Panleukopenia is caused by a ‘parvovirus,’ and is a life-threatening disease. The virus is considered to be everywhere, meaning it can be found in just about every place that is not disinfected on a regular basis. You need to be aware of the signs of Feline Panleukopenia or Distemper in your cat.
Cats seem to spend most of their life sleeping. Or at least that’s how it appears to us. In reality, they are only having a cat nap. Just what is a cat nap. How are they different from power naps. And nanna naps.
Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite and can cause serious damage to your cat. A protozoan, Toxoplasma, infects your cat’s intestines. In extreme cases, it can cause a range of respiratory, digestive and neural symptoms. Find out the signs of toxoplasmosis in your cat.
Infectious diseases in cats are caused by viruses, fungi, parasites or bacteria that your cat has picked up somewhere. The infection can be spread by bites from fleas and ticks or by a protozoan such as giardia or toxoplasmosis. They can be spread through direct or indirect contact or through airborne pathogens. Learn how to treat infectious diseases in cats.
Seeing your cat scratching could be an indication of fleas, ticks, grass seeds or a skin condition. With both my cats, it can also indicate a prickes or similar caught in the fur. During the summer months both Tikki and Cassie will come in daily when I am working and rub against me, which is an indication that they want seeds removed from their tail or body. There are other reasons why your cat may scratch so find out what they are.
Common and Not So Common Cat Diseases
Various cat diseases are unfortunately causing the death or ill health of tens of thousands of cats each year. Many of these diseases are preventable or easily treated if found early enough. However, like most diseases, if left untreated they can become serious or fatal. Find out more about common and not so common cat diseases and what you can to to help your cat.
Sometimes there can be problems in training your cat or kitten to use the litter box. Patience and time are the keys here. The more patience and time you can spend training your cat to use the litter box, the faster and easier the training will be. Learn the best way to get over those litter box training problems.
You don’t like feeling dirty (unless you’re 3 years old) and neither does your cat. Cats wash and groom themselves daily but you can help keep their fur and skin in top condition as well. Find out the best tips for cat grooming to make your cat look and feel great.
Top 10 Tips to Stop Your Kitten From Chewing on Electrical Cords
Kittens seem to have a fascination with electrical cords. Their sharp teeth and mischievous behavior can easily ruin them, as well as power to your equipment. However, chewing on cords not only causes problems for you, it could kill your kitten. Read the article about Top 10 Tips to Stop Your Kitten From Chewing on Electrical Cords. It just could save your kitten’s life.
Until a friend approached me asking what the bald patch on her cat was and I did some research, I assumed that ringworm was an internal parasite. Do you know what feline ring worm is and what to do about it?
We all know how stressful it can be to have to move house. There is the confusion of things being packed away and shifted. You and I know what’s going on, but your cat doesn’t. He will be confused as nothing is in its right place. Do you know the best way to help your cat shift house?
Cat eyes can be so expressive and tell you so much. They can gaze directly at you and if you’re not used to it, it can be disconcerting. Your cat’s eyes truly are the window to their soul. Learn more about your cat eyes and how to look after them.
I came across this article about how to recognize the signs of kidney failure in cats and have posted it here for your information. Cat kidney problems seem to be on the rise and this is one of those cat health problems that needs to be dealt with quickly. Its critical to seek immediate veterinary treatment when you notice the signs of a problem kidney in a cat. Find out more about cat kidney problems in Kate Reiger’s article.
When people hear a cat hissing they usually try to stay clear of it. Hissing often comes just before a fight with another cat or scratching and biting a human. Would you know what to do if confronted with a cat hissing at you?
Does your cat like to chase after your feet when you are walking, or try to bite or nip your feet and heels when you are relaxing in the evening or perhaps enjoying the garden or sitting in the sun? Sometimes cats can get carried away and you need to know what to do about these over aggressive toe biting cats.
If you have cats and are asked to take in a dog for whatever reason (the death of the dog’s owner or relocation overseas etc), you need to find out if they get along with cats. If they don’t, this can be a problem. Find out the best way to introduce older cats and dogs so there are no problems.
Even though your cat’s nose is tiny, are you aware that it has a highly developed and very keen sense of smell? This helps with feeding, social life, and much more. Learn why your cat’s sense of smell is so important to its survival.
Cat hair loss can happen, just like in humans. The causes could be hereditary, alopecia, or due to outside reasons such as fleas or stress. Find out what you can do if you notice your cat losing its hair.
There are many people, myself included, who advocate having their cat spayed or neutered. Despite the ever growing media coverage of having pets spayed or neutered to prevent a feral cat explosion, there are still many people who choose not to spay or neuter their cats. Learn why it is a very good idea to have your cat neutered or spayed.
There is a distinctive cat urine smell that signals your cat has stopped using the litter box. Sometimes it will be in the bedroom or on the bed, in the lounge room on on your children’s clothes. Discover some easy tips that can help you solve this smelly cat urine problem quickly and easily.
Training Your Cat To Use The Litter Box
Updated information on training your kitten to use the litter box. Training your new kitten or cat to use the litter box is probably one of the most important things to do. In the wild, a cat will scratch a hole in the soil or leaves to go to the toilet. Learn the easiest way to train your kitten or cat.
Cat Behaviors or Just Who Owns Whom
As any cat owner will tell you there can be a dispute about owning a cat and having a cat own you. Depending on the bond that exists between you and your feline friend, this can change daily or even hourly. Cats, according to cats, are superior to any creature on earth. Find out how you can be the one in charge!
I’m sure you know just how much cats love you to pat and stroke them. I’m not sure who becomes more relaxed, my cat or me. The skin of a cat is very sensitive and so are the hairless pads on the feet. Find out why cats love being stroked in some places more than others.
Your Cat’s Natural Instincts And Behavior
Cats and kittens are a wonderful creatures. They are inquisitive, energetic, and love to play. The games that kittens love to play are those that will help develop their natural instincts. Be prepared for your kitten to practice on you. Find out how you can help your kitten develop its natural instincts and behavior.
When you introduce a new cat to your home, it’s much easier if you can do it while the cats are young. However, this is not always possible. You might take in a stray, or look after a cat for a friend who is away on holiday. Do you know the best way to introduce cats?
Good cat food nutrition is essential for the health of your cat. It is not important what type of food you give your cat – tinned (wet) food, dry food or cook it yourself, however it is important to make sure the food is nutritious, healthy and suitable for the age of your cat. Are you aware of just what your kitten or cat needs in the way of good nutrition?
How To Keep Cats Out Of Your Garden
Neighborhood cats using your garden as their own playground or toilet can be extremely annoying. Especially if these other cats frighten or fight with your own cat. There are some tricks and methods you can use to keep these unwanted visitors out. Just plugging the gaps won’t necessarily keep cats out of your garden but there are some inexpensive ways to get rid of them.
There can be many reasons why your cat won’t eat. The first thing I would check is to make sure she isn’t sick. Check with your vet to find out how to check your cat’s temperature. If your cat has been vomiting or regurgitating its food, a trip to the vet is advised. Find out more reasons why your cat is not eating.
It is important for all cats to have healthy teeth. This is even more so in older cats. Just like with humans, their teeth break and chip. If they are in any sort of discomfort, it will be much harder for them to eat and stay healthy. Learn the best way to check your cat’s teeth and how to clean them.
Does Your Cat Scratch Your Furniture?
I guess 99% of us have had to growl at our cat or kitten for scratching the furniture or climbing up the curtains. Find out why cats do this and what you can do to prevent them scratching your furniture and ruining it.
Cat ear mites are most often seen in kittens, though they can and do affect cats of any age. They are extremely contagious, and can be passed from cat to cat and even from a dog to cat. Learn how to check for cat ear mites in your pet.
Cat spraying or urine marking is when your cat sprays small amounts of urine to announce his presence. This is usually done on vertical surfaces such as door frames, walls or furniture. Do all cats spray to mark their territory?
Feline heartworm is something you don’t want your cat to get. Heartworm can kill your cat suddenly without any signs of infection. Learn how feline heartworm is spread and when a trip to the vet is necessary.
Cat vomit is something that every pet owner will have do deal with eventually. Sometimes it is just a hairball or perhaps too much food that causes your cat to be sick. Find out when it’s time to take your vomiting cat to the vet.
Creating A Safe Environment For Your Cat
Kittens and cats are inquisitive animals and love to play with anything that will fit in their mouth. This includes small toys, balls of wool, feathers and electrical cords. If you are adopting a kitten, make sure your home is safe for them.
Does your cat pounce on you when you walk past? This can be normal kitten behavior. However, if your cat doesn’t know when to stop attacking you, you might have an aggression problem. Chasing and playing with moving toys is part of play aggression and is an important learning activity for your cat or kitten.
I find it very sad that many healthy and beautiful cats and kittens end up either abandoned on the side of a road or left at a shelter because their cat ‘makes the house smell’. First find out why your cat eliminates inappropriately, then retrain it. There are many easy to use and non chemical cat urine removers on the market today. Find out what you can to do stop this problem and keep your beloved cat.
Cats really do make marvelous pets. They help keep our older citizens company, they can help children learn responsibility and they can make young children laugh with joy. I find it very relaxing and soothing to have a cat curled up on my lap in the evening while I watch TV after a busy day.
Unfortunately Feline Diabetes is more widespread than most people realize. It can affect up to 1 in 400 cats and seems to be more common in overweight cats and male cats. With care, cats with feline diabetes can live long and fulfilling lives. Learn how to treat your diabetic cat.
This staggering number is the estimated number of homeless or feral cats in America today. Cats become feral when they are dumped by thoughtless people who no longer want their cat or kittens for whatever reason, or when they find it is too expensive to take them to a shelter.
How To Keep Your Cat In Top Condition
Like all of us, cats need exercise to keep in top condition. This is especially so for cats who catch prey such as mice. Cats seem to spend a lot of the day sleeping so it is important to make sure your cat gets enough exercise. Find out some easy ways to help keep your cat in top condition.
Grooming and brushing your cat can not only be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your family, it can also be extremely relaxing. Having a purring cat arching its back as you brush it gives a wonderful feeling of satisfaction. It can be likened to having your hair washed and brushed at the hairdressers, something I love. Learn the best tips on grooming your cat.
Caring for Older Cats – Incontinence
It is hard for cats when they face incontinence problems. Because cats are such fastidious creatures, they are highly embarrassed. They feel they have ‘let the family down’ and will even withdraw from being around them. Older cats in particular can have problems with incontinence. Do you know what to do when faced with cat incontinence?
Training Your Cat – Keeping Them Off Your Counter or Desk
Cats are naturally inquisitive creatures and love to know what is going on and what their favorite person is doing. They can no doubt also smell the food you are preparing and will want to check it out.
It is important to stop this behavior as early as possible. Learn the easy way to keep cats off your counter or desk.
Too many people rush into getting a new kitten for the family or children. They see a friend with a kitten or find an adorable one in the pet shop. There are responsibilities that come with owning a pet and a cat or kitten is no different. Find out the steps to take before adopting a kitten.
Are you aware that giving children responsibility for looking after his or her own kitten or cat can help them develop into caring, responsible adults with the ability to plan ahead and form lasting relationships? They understand from an early age that pets are for life and are relying on them for their very existence. Learn more about how to use a cat to teach your children responsibility.
Domestic Cats – Indoors or Outdoors
There has been much discussion as to whether domestic cats should be kept indoors or allowed to roam free outside. There are pros and cons for each side – indoor cats live longer and are at less risk of infection or accidents with other cats, dogs or cars but can become bored easily and create havoc in the house. Some people don’t have the choice – they don’t have an outdoor place for their cat to roam in. Find out how you can keep your indoor cat happy.
If you start finding cat urine in unexpected places, you need to find out the reason this is happening. Make sure your can is not in pain or uncomfortable when eliminating.
Finding the reason for this unwanted problem is the focus of Cat Urine Problems.
Cats are beautiful independent creatures that can bring much joy to a home. However, it is necessary for you to make your home ‘cat friendly’. By this I mean having a cat door if your cat is to be allowed outside, somewhere warm to sleep and lots of love and play time toys. Read more ways to make sure you create a cat friendly home.
Skin infections can be the source of a cat’s distress; they can also be the consequence of self-mutilation, which then causes her to scratch even more. The original diagnosis could be fleas, an allergy to something in the home such as chemical cleaning products or her food, mange, ticks or ringworm. Find out just what your cat’s skin problems are.
In cats there are normally two types of aggression – play aggression (such as kittens exhibit) and serious aggression (when the cat bites, scratches for no discernable reason). Kittens, and some older cats, will engage in play aggression such as pouncing, chasing, biting, hissing, stalking and scratching behavior, something that is completely normal. Learn to read your cat’s body language to avoid being injured.
We all enjoy a massage when we are lucky enough to have someone knead the shoulders, neck or back. Cats enjoy a massage as much as we do and it is especially beneficial to them. Massaging your cat in the evening can be a wonderful bonding experience.
I came across a wonderful article called Without A Voice by Jessica Crawford and have posted it here for your enjoyment and education. It truly shows the “throw away society” we appear to have become. The “used-to-be” pet finds itself left behind or abandoned on the street, or caged in a shelter among many other unwanted souls in a shelter. The once loved pet is now feral and a menace to society.
Tags: A Short Cat History, adopting a kitten, Avoiding That Cat Urine Smell, Behavioral Problems in Cats, Best Tips for Cat Grooming, Caring for Older Cats, Caring For Older Cats – Arthritis, Caring For Older Cats – Nutritional Cat Food, Caring For Older Cats – Teeth, cat abscess, cat adoption, cat aggression, cat behavior - why your cat yowls at night, Cat Behaviors or Just Who Owns Whom, cat bond, Cat Ear Mites, cat eyes, cat flea collars, cat fleas, cat food nutrition, cat grooming, cat hair loss, cat hissing, cat incontinence, Cat Intestinal Parasites – Tapeworms And Stomach Worms, Cat Kidney Problems, cat massage, cat mites, cat naps, Cat Neutering And Spaying, Cat Psychology or Understanding Your Cat, cat registration, cat spraying, cat teeth, cat urine problems, Cat Urine Removers, cats, Cats and Their Sense of Smell, cats grooming, cats losing weight, Cats Make Wonderful Friends, Cat’s Skin Problems, Common and Not So Common Cat Diseases, Creating a Cat Friendly Home, Creating A Safe Environment For Your Cat, digestive problems in cats, does your cat need a flea collar, Does Your Cat Need a Special Diet, Does Your Cat Scratch A Lot, Does Your Cat Scratch Your Furniture, Domestic Cats – Indoors or Outdoors, feline arthritis, feline diabetes, feline heartworm, Feline Panleukopenia or Distemper, Feline Worms -Ring Worm, feral cats, Giardia in Cats, grooming your cat, Helping Your Cat Move House, how cats bond with their owners, how to keep cats out of your garden, How To Keep Your Cat In Top Condition, How to Kitten – Proof Your House, How To Tell If You Have A Sick Cat, Infectious Diseases in Cats, introducing cats, Is My Cat Pregnant, is your cat stressed, Is Your Cat Vomiting, keep your indoor cat happy, Kids and Responsibility, kitty litter, Learning About Your First Kitten, Litter Box Training For Kittens, Litter Box Training Problems, litter tray training for kittens, natural flea collars, Older Cats and Dogs, overweight and obese cats, Preparing For Your New Kitten, Roundworm and Hookworm in Cats, sick cat, The Domestic Cat And Its Wild Cat Cousins, The Importance of Food To Your Cat, Tips For A Well Behaved Cat, Toe Biting Cats, Top 10 Tips to Stop Your Kitten From Chewing on Electrical Cords, toxoplasmosis in cats, training kittens, training kittens to use litter box, Training Your Cat To Use The Litter Box, Training Your Cat – Keeping Them Off Your Counter or Desk, unexplained weight loss in cats, why you should get your cat registered, your cat's amazing body, your cat's vet, Your Cat’s Natural Instincts And Behavior, Your Cat’s Play Aggression, your sick cat
Hi Kathy,
your page as a whole, pics and posts prove you are an cat expert!
Having our 17 year old ‘Lady Jane’ around has always been a pleasure, watching as well as listening.
Only recently she seems to feel old and lonely if nobody is in earshot and tapping through the house she begins to moan out heartbreakingly loud.
All the best for your project.
Mara
Very nice blog. I can tell, like me, you love cats. Thanks for visiting my .
My cat is pulling chunks of fur out but doesn’t appear to have any skin irritation,fleas or ticks I am puzzled to say the least,
do you have any suggestions?
Hi Lyn
Has something happened lately to upset her routine? It could possibly be attention seeking. If extra love and attention don’t work take her to the vet to be on the safe side.
Kathy
I have a very anxious cat who constantly meows at me, no kidding! He follows me everywhere I go and often, he’ll race me to the place he thinks I’m headed to. He truly is my shadow and no matter how much love he receives, it’s never enough. He likes everyone he sees and meows at them too. Sometimes long drawn out meows. It may sound “cute” but it is very annoying. I’ve grown up with cats my whole life and have NEVER encountered a cat like mine. So I guess my question is, what’s his problem? How do I get him to stop? Other bad behavior things he does, include scratching my couch and rug and jumping on my counters.
My cat wants to defecate in mostly one area inside the door going to the garage. He does not want to go outside; he has never been. I can leave the door wide open and he will never pass the door. One person told me to put him in the washroom for a couple of days away from everyone, but this has not worked. We have also placed a dish with food near the spot; this worked for a while but doesn’t anymore. There are no other cats and his litterbox is cleaned regularly. This is an on going problem. Save this cat from a trip to live in the barn. I can not take it!!!!!
Hi Tom,
Cats don’t like defecating where they eat and sleep. Try moving the bed as well as his food to the exact spot. If this doesn’t work, try spraying some citrus scent or crush up a leaf or two from a lemon tree on the spot. Other tips include getting some plastic carpet runners and turning them upside so the nobbly side is up – cats don’t like walking on this. The same goes for foil. They don’t like the feel or sound of it. Let me know how you go.
Kathy
Hi Melissa,
Have you tried picking him up and cuddling him? My cat nearly drove me crazy with her meowing. I got angry then one day decided to ignore the meow and just pick her up and cuddle her while talking gently. It worked! She still comes in and meows at me but a cuddle seems to be all she wants. It takes about 60 seconds. Apart from that, try playing with him. It sounds like he just wants attention. I hope this helps, please let me know.
Kathy
Hi Kathy
I can’t seem to find a contact link on your site. I do have a question for you though. Don’t worry it isn’t anything unpleasant but would be better if you responded via email.
Thank you
Guy
Sorry about that Guy. I’ll fix that but you can contact me at kathy.robkat@gmail.com
Have a stray cat. She drinks a lot of water and eats ok now (roast beef in gravy only). Sleeps all day & night. Expels a lot of water but very little poop. Is there a laxative for cats?
Hi Len,
There are a few really cheap laxatives around the home. Try milk first. I’ve had to stop giving my cats milk as it caused diarrhea. You can also try putting Vaseline or butter on the paws. The cat will lick it off and this should help. Is the roast beef and gravy a cat food or your leftovers. If leftovers, the gravy could be too salty. If you’re feeling really generous to a stray you can buy cat specific laxatives from your vet or pet store. Make sure there is plenty of water available as this will help also.
Hope this helps.
Kathy
HI-
I have a problem that I realize is TOTALLY my fault. My husband heard of a cat that the owners didn’t want and were going to “put down”. We brought her home (which was already occupied by a male cat,5 yrs old), and all cat fur broke loose. Cappy, my original cat HATES Izzie, our new cat. He stalks and attacks her. Neither have front claws so no physical damage occurs. Lately both cats have started urinating on our beds, the dog beds, cushions, just about anything.
Help!! We love both cats, what can we do?
Hi Wendy
I’ll write an article on this and put it up this week. In the meantime, make sure Cappy is getting lots of love and attention. He could be feeling that he is being ‘replaced’ by the new cat. Cappy is undoubtedly trying to make himself the Alpha cat. It is important that he doesn’t do this as Izzie will end up always be on the receiving end of everything. If possible, keep them separate until they get used to each other. Put Izzie into a different room for a while and only let her out when there are two of you there to ‘referee’. Feed them separately until they learn to live together. The urinating will pass. It is horrible while it’s happening though. Each cat is trying to ‘stake its territory’ by marking it. Read the articles on Spraying and Litter Box Problems for some ideas on how to stop them doing this. Let me know how it goes.
Kathy
not sure how old my cat is. She was a drop off I have had her for a little over a year. My problem is fleas. She has never been bath. I have given her pills and used different treatments from the Vet.& store. I have noticed she has what I would guess to be flea poop on her skin.Digs and licks all the time. Mostly in the house does run in and out all day long. Love her very much but not sure what to do I don’t think she would let me bath her. She doesn’t even like to be brushed. Can you help?
Sue this is a difficult one. How tame is she. Will she allow you to pick her up and stroke her? Once she trusts you, you may be able to brush her which will remove some fleas. Can you use a flea collar? I believe there are also some topical creams which are just applied to the head/neck area or powders which you can shake over her. If at all possible try to use a natural treatment as adding chemicals to her skin is not advisable. I wouldn’t suggest bathing her, she’ll lose trust in you.
It is very important to wash all bedding she uses and to thoroughly vacuum carpets and furniture if she is in the habit of jumping up on it. As she has access to the outside she could be picking up more fleas from neighborhood cats. I’ll write an article on this later in the week.
Kathy
Sue this is a difficult one. How tame is she. Will she allow you to pick her up and stroke her? Once she trusts you, you may be able to brush her which will remove some fleas. Can you use a flea collar? I believe there are also some topical creams which are just applied to the head/neck area or powders which you can shake over her. If at all possible try to use a natural treatment as adding chemicals to her skin is not advisable. I wouldn’t suggest bathing her, she’ll lose trust in you.
It is very important to wash all bedding she uses and to thoroughly vacuum carpets and furniture if she is in the habit of jumping up on it. As she has access to the outside she could be picking up more fleas from neighborhood cats. I’ll write an article on this later in the week.
Kathy
She is a very trusting loving cat. Loves to be held and stroked. On either my husband or my lap all the time. I did bath her, with
Sergeant’s Gold Flea &Tick Shampoo for cats and Kittens stated kills fleas&ticks flea eggs for 30 days. Last night after only a wk. I felt lumps on her skin and she has flea poop and fleas all over her. She is also wearing a collar. I plan on bathing her again in a little while. She is usually a loner so I think she is getting them from the field beside our home. This is a real problem sure which there was a easy solution.
I am not a cat person and I have a cat who is 10 yrs old it drives me nuts, I hate everything associated with it. The cat box the constant meowing, the cat hair on everything. I would love to give it to someone to love but no one wants her.
Any suggestions?
Casey if you really don’t want to have a cat, I suggest taking it to your nearest cat shelter or rescue place. Giving it to a friend doesn’t really work as the cat can escape and try to get back to you. Cat shelters are the most humane way of getting rid of a cat. If they can’t find a home for it they will euthanize it.
Hi Sue,
I’m glad she allows you to do these things. Talk to your vet. He may be able to suggest something stronger to get rid of the fleas. If she is getting re-infested, she is either picking them up from other cats or from bedding or similar in the house. Cat fleas can’t live for long away from their host but they also live on dogs, rabbits and rodents. You mention your cat getting them from the field. Is is possible to keep her inside for a couple of weeks? I don’t want to frighten you but the total flea life cycle can range from a couple weeks to several months, depending on environmental conditions. Have you washed the bedding/vacuumed the carpets and furniture?
Please keep in touch and let me know how it goes.
Kathy
The local shelters are full and I only want a non kill shelter I am willing to pay. The only reason I kept her is for that reason she use to belong to my son. Any other suggestions.
I’m not sure where you are Casey. Are there other shelters further away? Is your son able to have her? Can you try your local council to see if they have any suggestions? If you can give me more information I may have a better idea of how to help you.
Kathy
how to mating my male and female cat. they don’t like each other
I’m not sure if I understand your problem Amily. You want to mate your male and female cats? Are they siblings or from completely different litters. Cats may appear to fight and not get on, but this could easily change as soon as your female comes on heat. Females do make a lot of noise when they’re on heat and when the mating is actually taking place so don’t get upset by that.
Please let me know if you need more information.
Kathy
Does anyone know why a cat is so sensitive when touched where the tail meets its back? I have a female cat that is over ten years old and when I touch her in that area she lets me know she does not like it.
Hi Donna
One of my cats absolutely loves being scratched there. I guess it must vary for individual cats. Like having our feet rubbed I guess. I love it, others hate it.
Kathy
We have discovered the reason Sister Kitt has so many fleas that seem to be infesting her daily. She has discovered that the vacant home beside us with the field she is a great hunter of field mice. We watched her and after she sits for hours spying on movement she will capture her prey and after she plays with them she sits on them to make sure no one gets it. I take this to be a natural skill.LOL I still am fighting fleas we stripped her bedding vacuuming and throwing away the bags cleaned carpet and furniture. Bathing,brushing,collar,sprays,pills,pro-cision flo tubes, vet visit didn’t seem to be the answer. I’m hoping that when the weather gets down to freezing she won’t be out hunting anymore rodents and maybe our problem will be resolved.
Good luck Sue!
Hello, Kathy (and anyone else who may be able to help),
Ruby, one of our 15 month old orange tabby cats recently started chewing on the carpet outside our bedroom door. (We shut the bedroom door and do not let her sleep with us.) We have tried covering the area with a towel, which Ruby pawed out of the way so she could chew. Two kinds of bitter and citrus spray applied directly to the carpet have not stopped her from chewing. We even sprinkled the carpet with red pepper flakes which Ruby pawed out of the way before going at the carpet again. Any suggestions?
Hi Amy,
This is one of those strange behaviors that cats sometimes have. It’s more common than you might think. Does she only chew on that one spot? Cats that chew carpet seem to prefer doorways or near a wall. Often they will do this when they are relaxed or tired.
Have you always shut Ruby out at night? There are a couple of other tricks you can use to stop her. Instead of red pepper flakes which she can move, try sprinkling some pepper or cayenne pepper on the carpet. You could also tape some tin foil over the spot or put sticky paper (in Australia it’s called contact paper and is used for covering books etc) on the floor, sticky side up but taped down so she can’t just move it. There is also something called a scat mat which gives off a mild static electricity charge when it’s walked on (try your vet or pet store).
Is it possible that something was spilled on the carpet? Even if you can’t still smell it, Ruby probably can and she may be trying to get to that. A 50:50 solution of vinegar and warm water left to soak for a couple of hours should fix that.
If you have any offcuts from the carpet, try using it to make a scratching post (sturdy) and put some toys and catnip on it to encourage her to use this.
It’s important for you to stop this behavior as cats can’t digest the fibers. They could get caught up somewhere in the digestive system and require costly surgery to fix.
Please let me know how you go.
Kathy
Dear Kathy,
I was wondering if you had any tips on some trouble I’ve been having with my cat. He is 5 years old, and truly perfect in most ways. The only problem is travelling. I have moved twice since I got him, and he truly hates it! He hates being in his bag altogether and will meow very loud and claw at it the entire duration of the trip. I am afraid he hurts himself by tearing out his claws. I have already been asked to leave a train compatment because of this. Once, in an airplane it got so bad the crew asked me to lock him in the bathroom. Normally he is such a friendly, loving cat, but tavelling just freaks him out. I can’t avoid travelling at least once every twp years, so am dying to find a solution to make his (and therefor) my trips more bearable. If you have any suggestions they are more than welcome!
Thanks,
Anna
Hi Anna,
Unfortunately most cats hate moving to somewhere new. They don’t usually like being in cars or any other mode of transport. The only thing I can suggest is to get him used to his carrier by having toys and something with a familiar smell to it – a piece of your clothing or his blanket. A week or so before you have to travel, speak to your vet and see if you can get something to calm him and make him drowsy. Let the vet know about how long you will be traveling (in hours preferably). He should be able to give you either tablets or an injection. Depending on your vet and your relationship with him, he may have to give the injection or he may be happy to let you do this. Follow the instructions on how long before actually traveling to sedate your cat.
When we shifted nearly 16 years ago, the tablet didn’t work on my cat and he nearly wrecked all our belongings (and us) as he got out of his box. We were all a nervous mess when we arrived at our new home. I learned that cardboard boxes are useless for keeping cats in. I’ve since bought a cat carrier!
Hope this helps.
Kathy
our cat leaves tird balls around the house almost every day.They aren’t messy and easy to clean up but are annoying and nasty.We only feed him iams and he never goes outside.Please let us know what we can do about this.Thank you
Hi,
I suggest you keep an eye on your cat and each time he squats to eliminate, pick him up and put him in the litter tray. Use a lemon or lavender spray on the areas he has used to discourage him returning there. It might take some time but it sounds like he needs retraining. Have there been any major changes in your home lately? Is it possible for him to go outside to eliminate? He might be objecting to the brand of litter you are using or even the litter box itself. Experiment and see what works. It’s important to spray those areas to help mask the smell and to stop him coming back to them.
Kathy
you need to add a link to where ppl can ask you questoins
Hi Ashliee,
Scroll down to the bottom of each article and there is a comment box there.
Kathy
Hi
I have 2 year old female is attacking my 10 year old male. He is neutered and she has not been spayed yet. She was fine until recently and then all of a sudden she is so territorial that we are thinking about taking her to Peggy Adams no kill shelter. They use to play just fine together..a little kitty play fight is ok but she is super mean now. My older cat will walk completely around her and avoid her at all cost. I dont understand why she is so mean now. Please advise I dont want to get rid of her but my older cat cannot take the stress.
I have a male cat. He is around a year old, not for sure the exact age.I have never had problems with him but the past few days he has started urinating on clothes and bedding. There have been no changes around the house and I keep his litter box clean. He still uses the box but evidentally not all the time. If I get him neutered would this possibly help the problem, or is he to old to be neutered now?
Hi Alina,
The only thing I can think of is perhaps the female is on heat and doesn’t understand why the male is ignoring her. How long has this problem been going on for. Why not try some gentle retraining. If you are home during the day and see this behavior, take the female and shut her in a room such as the bathroom or laundry where she can’t do too much damage. Make sure there is water there. After 30 minutes let her out again and repeat each time she attacks the male. Increase the time spent in the bathroom so she will associate the bad behavior with being shut away. It is a lot like time out with naughty children when they are sent to their room.
I really think you will have to have her spayed as this will calm her down considerably.
Please let me know how this goes and I will do some more research for you.
Kathy
Hi Trish,
Your cat is spraying to mark his territory. There is an article on this at http://www.catproblemsresolved.....d-spaying/
I strongly suggest having him neutered as this should solve the problem. Age is not a problem with neutering him.
Kathy
my 2 year old has come into heat 3 times around my older cat and this is the first time that she has turned on him. the first 2 heats she was fine..making tons of noise but friendly towards him. but this time around she caanot look at him with attacking. i have put her in the room for 30 in and she comes out spitting mad . she has not out of heat for 8 days and my older cat walks completely around him with his head turned to see if shes coming for him..its like all of a sudden she hates him. my older cat concedes and lays down and she still attacks..the 2 year old is named kitten..and the older one is abraham lincoln..abe
Hi Alina,
Your kitten will come out mad as she’s been shut away. If possible, persevere with this as she should get used to it. Full marks to Abe for not retaliating. While Abe is conceding at the moment, he could turn and attack kitten and you don’t want that to happen. Unless you want to breed from kitten, I suggest having her spayed. It’s a fairly simple operation and vets usually don’t charge very much.
Keep me posted on how it goes.
Kathy
HI All you at lovers I hope you help, I have two 6 month old kittens both from the same litter and they have just started to venture outdoors. One kitten has just started hiding and cowering away from us. We flea treat them every 28days but the fur on the her back visibly twitches. any suggestions.
josie
Hi Josie,
Do you think this kitten is frightened of anything? Perhaps the other kitten is establishing itself as the alpha cat and doing the cat equlivent of bullying. Keep an eye on both kittens and watch their behaviour. Perhaps some extra attention and bonding with the timid one would help. Try playing games with her and talking gently to her while stroking. If she seems to excessively groom herself, see if she has mites.
Kathy
My cat has a large lump on his throat. It is warm to the touch and his whole neck is stiff. I live in the mountains far away from any vet and I am desperate. I shaved the area and I am doing warm compresses but he is lethargic and not breathing well.
PLEAS HELP.