Blog News

November 10, 2016

Viva la difference!

Cats and humans are very different. We're pretty intense in company, talking, hugging and kissing, but don't see our friends and family very often. Cats are much cooler. They prefer frequent check-ins but not a lot of prolonged physical interaction. Many cats regard our hugs and need for touch as oppressive and only just put up with it. They would rather be close by, reassured by a frequent word or stroke. Better if we allow our cats to initiate physical interactions. Studies show that cats that jump up on laps and curl up stay much longer than cats picked up and placed there. The little grey cat above chose that lap and looks perfectly relaxed - and in for the long haul - there. Cats appreciate minimal restraint and prefer to be in control at all times. They will enjoy our company much more if we respect their wishes.
November 8, 2016

Urine marking

This cat is marking his or her territory. A cat squatting to urinate outside the litter box is more likely to have a medical problem like a bladder infection but could also be stressed. As Dr Helen told us last Thursday night at our indoor cat night, urine marking is normal behaviour in cats, particularly if they are anxious about other cats in their environment. To avoid increasing our own stress levels it is vital to reduce this anxiety as much as possible. Household cats must have their own separate resources ie their own food and water bowls, and litter trays. These should be in quiet, non-trafficked areas. Ensure that your cat cannot see or smell other cats in your yard. Even if your cat doesn't venture out he or she will be stressed by seeing other cats out of the window. One of our clients came up with the idea of these attractive decals - the light can get in but their cat cannot see out. Every cat is an individual and trying to work out what is stressing him or her can take some detective work. Dr Helen and Dr Georgia at Canberra Cat Vet are available to help you through the maze. In the meantime more information on urine spraying is available at iCatcare.
November 4, 2016

Food puzzles for the intelligent feline

At our information night Dr Kate talked about the benefits of food puzzles for indoor cats. These stimulate your cat intellectually, prevent boredom and induce exercise. Indoor cats are rather prone to obesity so more activity is vital to keep those kilos off. Food puzzles mimic a cat's natural day - hunt, eat, rest, hunt some more, eat or not, rest etc etc etc. Information on introducing food puzzles to your cat can be found at food puzzles for cats