All About Cats and Kittens:
Stress Reduction - It has been proven by physicians and psychologists that having a cat/kitten can actually lower your blood pressure and relieve stress.
Companions - Cats make ideal companions for older people or adults who are living alone.
Popularity - Cats and kittens have edged dogs out as the most popular pet in America!
Sight - Sight is one of a cat's strongest senses because their eyes are so big, and can see an image or even the slightest movement in darkness. However, they are usually color-blind.
Whiskers - Your cat's whiskers are extremely sensitive and help guide them when there is complete absence of light, alert them to changes in their environment and the approach of strangers.
Tail - Your cat's tail usually serves as an indicator of their mood:
Carried high - proud and content
Extended straight - stalking
Thrusting from side to side - may be angry
Curiosity - Cats are extremely curious and will climb into almost anything to explore, which can pose certain dangers, especially if the 'something' is an open trash can full or rain water, or a toilet with the lid up, or an empty paper bag which might be stepped on by mistake.
Cats love to sleep in warm, dark places - so keep dresser drawers, trunks and closets closed. Before leaving home, always do a 'cat-check' to make sure that your cat has not been accidentially locked in a closet, etc.
Think like a cat - Remember that they are always looking for a new place to explore!
If your cat is allowed outdoors, be sure to blow your horn and bang on the hood of your car before startng the engine. Cats like to crawl up under the hood to keep warm.
Purring - Cats start purring when they are kittens and most of them purr when they are secure, content or sleeping. However, some may purr when ill or frightened.
Kneading - Kneading is a motion a kitten first makes instinctively when they are nursing from mother. Many cats continue to do so as adults, as it is a sign of contentment and affection, and is often accompanied by purring.
Claw Sharpening - A common misconception is that cats 'scratch' to sharpen their claws; however, they are merely satisfying the instinct to stretch and 'clean' their claws.
Cat 'Scratching' - Another reason cats 'scratch' is to mark their territory. They do this by leaving a visible sign and their scent, which is released from glands between their toes! Cats will try to satisfy this biological urge regularly and if their scratching post is convenient, they will leave your furniture alone. If you are having trouble getting your cat to use the post, try rubbing catnip on it to make it more appealing to them.
When your cat starts to scratch something that's off limits, clap your hands sharply and say"NO" in a stern voice. Then pick them up and take them to the scratching post and play with them there with their favorite toy, encouraging them to climb and scratch. Stimulate their urge by petting them with firm strokes down the neck and back. And, always reward them with gentle petting and praise when they use their posts properly.
An easy wasy to prevent your cat from damaging furniture is to apply double-faced tape to the areas where they are most likely to scratch.
Also, no catnip for kittens under 6 months old, as they become even more wild and crazy, making learning proper behaviors difficult for them and you!!! Lots of kittens toys without catnip, such as balls with bells inside, cat teasers, etc. are best for kittens at play.
Please visit our web site at http://www.saveourstrayssos.com
Thanks for your support!!!
