Why Do Cats Sleep so Much?

There are a number of reasons behind cats sleeping for large portions of the day. Many cat owners don’t know that cats have very different sleeping patterns from humans. They have retained a lot of the habits of their wild ancestors, including the need to hunt at certain times of day when it’s cooler and safer, and they’re more likely to find their preferred prey.

You’ll rarely find your cat in a deep sleep, but it’s not impossible. Cats tend to have a kind of dozing deep sleep pattern rather than dropping into hours of deep sleep every night like humans. Your domesticated cats will take cat naps throughout the day to regain energy and be more active during twilight hours.

What does this mean for your cat’s sleeping pattern? It means your cat wakes up later in the day and will be more active between dusk and dawn. Have you ever noticed your cats sleeping while doing housework or working? That’s typical cat behavior for domesticated cats of any breed. Older cats will, however, sleep more than other house cats.

The Difference Between Nocturnal and Crepuscular

A nocturnal animal, such as an owl, will only be active at night. They sleep during the day and are active when it’s dark so that they can hunt certain types of prey. But the other reason that owls are night hunters is that their body’s build is better suited for staying active at night. They have evolved with certain traits to adapt to that time of day, while other birds are day hunters and will sleep at night.

Cats are an interesting case. Over the many years of evolution that feline species have gone through, they’ve come out with eyes that are perfect for use in low-light conditions. Their bodies have adapted to hunting during twilight hours, and their eyesight works at its best. Additionally, they are extremely stealthy creatures, so catching prey who use twilight hours to run around is much easier.

To summarise this section: Nocturnal animals are night hunters with bodies better built for being incredibly silent and feeding on other late-night animals, while crepuscular animals (like cats) are better adapted to low-light conditions rather than full darkness.

Your cat is likely to exert a lot of their energy during the twilight hours, so it’s good to be a cat owner who isn’t a light sleeper or is also active at night so that your cats don’t disturb your sleep much. Kittens won’t completely follow crepuscular habits, but they’ll quickly show signs of them once they are awake more often.

How Much Do Cats Sleep a Day?

You can expect a house cat to sleep between 12 and 16 hours in a single day. That’s the average, but they may sleep more or less than that. If you’re wondering how much sleep is healthy for your cat, don’t compare them to other species or even your own sleeping pattern. If you feel like your cat is sleeping too much or is lethargic and hard to wake up, seek veterinarian advice. Particularly if they can’t stay awake or won’t wake up.

Why is My Cat Sleeping so Much?

Your cat is having a long cat nap because it’s normal for them to do so. They will wake for food or may switch positions now and then, but cats don’t really “come alive” until the evening. This makes them an excellent companion for people who work nights or from home, but it also means that anyone in a standard 9 to 5 job doesn’t need to feel bad about leaving their kitties at home all day. Trust us, they mostly sleep and will only wake up to eat, use the bathroom, or if something startles them.

Why is My Cat Sleeping More Than Usual?

When you feel that your cat may be sleeping more than usual, it’s important to monitor their sleeping schedule and daily routine.

Older cats sleep more often than younger cats, but they will still have several hours of activity each day.

It’s hard to say this, but if your cat is very old and spends a lot of their time asleep or laying around, they may be near the end of their life. Cats live an average of 12 to 18 years, depending on their breed.

If your cat is otherwise healthy but seems to be sleeping far too much, an underlying medical issue could go untreated.

Does a Medical Issue Cause Your Cat’s Sleeping Habits?

Lethargy indicates something else going on inside your cat’s body that needs to be checked out.

Any of these symptoms should be a cause for concern that leads you to book a health check-up with your cat’s veterinarian:

• Abnormal sleepiness
• Lack of energy/low energy
• Little or no response to stimuli or changes in their surroundings
• Spending more time sleeping than usual
• Not eating as much because they’re sleeping instead

All of these symptoms are connected to lethargy. Although there may be nothing serious going on, having your cat checked out would be better if a more critical illness, injury, or medical condition causes your cat to sleep more than they used to.

What to Do if Your Cat Won’t Wake Up

If you’re struggling to wake your cat up, there are several steps you can take before the situation becomes a bit more serious:

1. First, try to wake them by calling their name and petting them.
2. If that doesn’t work after a few minutes of trying, shake their treat bag to see if that gets their attention. Try waving the open bag under their nose, too.
3. Here’s where the situation is getting more serious. Try gently moving your cat to see if they respond to the change.
4. This is where you call your emergency vet. Tell them your cat isn’t responding and you want to bring them in.

Remember to check your cat’s breathing when attempting to wake them. You can do this by putting your finger under their nose or resting your hand on their side. If you can’t feel any breath and their chest isn’t rising, perform cat CPR if you know how to, or immediately drive to your nearest veterinarian practice with your pet.

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What are Cat Zoomies?

The bursts of energy known as “cat zoomies” are a common part of cat behavior. It’s completely normal for cats of all ages to experience short, sudden bursts of energy where they seem to take laps around the house.

Younger cats are more likely to experience zoomies, but just because senior cats are getting on in years doesn’t mean you won’t see them get up and go, as well.

Frenetic random activity periods

The actual scientific name for “zoomies” is Frenetic Random Activity Periods. Frenetic is defined as “fast and energetic in a rather wild and uncontrolled way”, but zoomies is easier and more fun to say. The average cat owner isn’t going to have any idea what a frenetic random activity period is, but talk about cat zoomies, and everyone pipes up with a story or three.

Cat zoomies often happen around dawn or dusk, which means you may notice your cat becoming suddenly active as the day comes to a close or very early in the morning. This is because cats are crepuscular, and have a biological need to hunt at cooler times, rather than hunting when it’s too hot or too cold.

The thing about domestic cats is that they aren’t held to the same hunting skills or instincts as wild cats, which is why your kitty may get zoomies at odd times of the day, as well as dawn or dusk.

Why Do Cats Get the Zoomies?

The popular belief is that cats get zoomies randomly and for no reason, but this isn’t true. We know that this behavior is prevalent in kittens and young cats as a way to get rid of any excess energy that they have.

Because cats are often awake at night but don’t need to hunt when food is provided for them, they use these quick bursts of energy to get more exercise and burn off the energy they have but don’t need. This way, your kitten can settle down for a long snooze and be around the house more when you’re awake, too.

Cats will adjust to their owner’s schedule so that they can socialize. Cats are very social creatures and spend time watching their owners understand them. This is why your cat will randomly come up to you during the day and sit with you or loaf near you. It’s also why cats will sleep when you’re sleeping or lying down. They’re socializing, and it’s nothing to worry about.

Excess energy

The most common reason that your cat will get the zoomies is to burn off excess energy. Cats with high energy levels will get the zoomies more often than not, and that quick burst of activity then enables them to continue relaxing or even settle down to sleep.

If you have an older cat who seems to be more active than usual, isn’t sleeping a lot, and is losing weight, we recommend taking them to the veterinarian. Older cats exhibiting hyperactive episodes like this, coupled with the other symptoms we just outlined, could potentially be suffering from a condition called Feline Hyperthyroidism.

Feline hyperthyroidism

The condition known as Feline Hyperthyroidism slows down your cat’s metabolism. They may become intolerant to the cold, gain weight, lose hair, and become weak. Despite these very negative symptoms, it’s possible for cats with low levels of thyroid hormones to exhibit hyperactivity during their day, which can seem like the cat is having an episode of zoomies.

It’s difficult for cat owners to figure out what’s wrong with their cats when they are both sleepy and have episodes of activity. This behavior is fairly normal for healthy cats. Cats are known to sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day, after all. So, in combination with the lethargy and episodes of activity, it’s best to look out for fur loss, weakness, and weight gain.

Lack of exercise

If you aren’t playing with your cat enough, they will end up with pent-up energy that they don’t know what to do with. Ultimately, this energy is translated into short bursts where your cat runs a victory lap or three around your home.

Cats have little control when they’re doing zoomies, which can lead to them running into things and knocking objects off of tables. Be sure to spend time with your cat every day to keep their energy levels normal and give them enough mental stimulation.

How to Stop Cat Zoomies

• Play with your cat several times a day, especially before you go to bed.
• Let your cat graze throughout the day, rather than feeding them two big meals.
• Create a calm environment at home, using cat pheromone products if necessary.
• Get your cat a playmate so that they can focus some of their energy on socializing with them.
• Schedule a visit with your vet for advice.

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The Definition Of Cat Screaming

Cats screaming is as obvious as it sounds. The noise itself is a primal, sometimes high-pitched, sound that can shake you to your core. It’s not a sound that is commonly made but most cats may scream to alert you of something troubling to them.

Screaming Compared To Your Cat’s Meow

When adult cats meow it can be to communicate simple things. They may be greeting you, asking for attention, demanding food, or needing their litter box tended to. Kittens meow for similar reasons but may primarily do it to demand food or milk.

Screaming, on the other hand, is not common and can often be your cat trying to alert you to something more serious which we have gone into below.

Why Do Cats Scream?

Cats will often yowl or scream to gain the immediate attention of their owner. However, there are some other reasons that you may not have considered before. Here, we have listed the most common reasons why cats scream.

Distress

Sometimes a cat screams to get your attention if they are in distress. For example, they may start screaming if they’ve been accidentally locked out of the house or in a closet. The same goes if they’ve gotten themselves stuck somewhere.

Pain

Some medical conditions and illnesses such as kidney disease or arthritis may leave your cat in immense pain resulting in screaming. Medications can often combat the affliction but if you’re not aware of a health issue, cats scream to try and bring your attention to the problem.

Fear

Indoor cats that are not fond of visiting felines may feel the need to scream to tell you they are fearful or angry. Cats might also scream if they are in a position they consider menacing such as being approached and touched by children or being harassed by other animals or dogs in the house.

Screaming might also be the warning of an oncoming fight with other cats or pets if they are particularly hostile or territorial.

Confusion

Older cats may develop the tendency to scream or meow more. Sources claim that as cats age they can begin to develop signs of dementia and will scream or meow excessively out of confusion. This cognitive dysfunction and mental confusion will leave them feeling disorientated and, as a result, can make them feel angry or fearful.

Hormones

As we all know, hormones wreak havoc with our systems and the same can be said about cats. When a female cat enters her heat cycle she might begin screaming in an attempt to find a male cat to mate with. Males yowl in response to smelling or hearing a female in heat.

Why Do Cats Scream At Night?

Cats are primarily nocturnal creatures and will likely spend the daytime getting some sleep. Therefore their most active period is during the night when their humans are in bed. It’s during this period that they may additionally become anxious or scared as their owner is not around fully to pay them attention.

Note: In addition to yowling or screaming, excessive meowing may also be apparent if the problem is important. In addition, depending on a cat’s individual personality and temperament, yowling can sometimes be a form of attention-seeking.

How To Stop Your Cat From Screaming

When cats scream, it’s important that you investigate the reason behind it. Ignoring it may allow a health condition to exacerbate or will leave your feline friend feeling more and more anxious or stressed.

Seek A Vet Immediately

When your cat’s screaming excessively it’s important that you rule out a medical issue, to begin with as numerous diseases can leave your cat in agony. A veterinarian will not only be able to provide medication to help ease the suffering but can also provide advice for aftercare if the issue is long-term.

A vet may also be able to recommend specific diets to satisfy your cat’s appetite if the screaming happens because they’re hungry. Similarly, if you rely on an automatic feeder, make sure that it always has a good amount of dry food in before you leave the house or go to bed at night. This will ensure you won’t be woken or be met with a crying cat when you get home.

Get Them Spayed/Neutered

Spaying female cats will not only prevent an unwanted litter but it will also prevent certain diseases (especially if they are outdoor cats). Moreover, having a veterinarian fix your cat will reduce bad behaviors that are the result of being in heat.

Adjust Your Home

Making a safe space for your kitty can make an incredible difference to their well-being. Aging cats especially will appreciate a safe and familiar space to relax. It will also offer a place to go to get out of the way of children and other pets (or even a new pet if applicable).

Also, spend time with your cat. This will not only strengthen your bond with your cat but will also help ease any anxiety or stress your cat may be feeling. Playtime is also important as it can occupy your cat mentally.

Additionally, if your cat screams to be let in after being locked out, it may be a good idea to install a kitty door to let them come and go as they please.

Getting Support

Despite what some may believe or hear, cats can sometimes become lonely and may need a bit of extra attention. If this is the case, try hiring a pet sitter during times you are not at home to keep your cat or kitten company.

What Not To Do: Scolding will not prevent your cat from screaming as it will only exacerbate bad behavioral tendencies. Scolding your cat will temporarily stop the screaming but they may become scared of you or begin to act out more.

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One of the many things that cat owners often get spooked by is when they see their cats staring at an empty wall without moving an inch of their body for hours. For these spirited animals, this is an unnerving thing to do. Have you ever woken in the middle of the night and wondered, ‘Why is my cat staring at the wall at this hour?’ or ‘What is it that’s making them behave in this peculiar way?’ Well, let’s find out!

An Acute Vision

Compared to humans, cats have superior vision. While human eyes allow us a 180-degree view, felines eyes offer a 200-degree view. In addition, their peripheral vision also spans out far and wide to create that awesome cat stare.

Cats are also quick to respond to low lighting due to an increased number of rod cells which let them have a clearer sight at night. With the help of these special tissues that gather additional light, cats are much better at detecting movements, even in low lighting.

However, cats lose their edge when it comes to colored vision. Unlike humans, they cannot perceive a massive variety of colors due to the diminished number of cones in their retina, commonly known as photoreceptor cells. These receptors function best in bright light, which means cats do not see many colors during the day.

But since they have such a keen vision, cats can spot even the slightest movements in their surroundings. So, the next time you see your cat staring at an empty wall, it might be due to the presence of a tiny insect such as a bug or bee climbing up the wall. They can even see dust particles in the air during broad daylight and will stare at them for as long as possible, trying to detect any movement. While this may be negligible to the human eye, it is very much visible to our felines.

Audibility

As well as having acute eyesight, cats can detect high-pitched sounds that humans are unable to hear. While humans have an audible range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, cats have a range of 55 Hz to 79 kHz. This is why, if there is a sudden noise in your house in the middle of the night, your cat is always the first one to wake up.

People who stay alone at home often sleep next to their cats since they can detect low-pitched sounds and instantly alert their humans by pawing or calling them out. Thanks to their powerful hearing ability, they can also chase rats inside the house even when they cannot see them.

So, do not get spooked out if you ever end up spotting your cat staring at the corner of a dark room or your kitten looking up when there is nothing there. They are probably listening to the slow music coming from your neighbor’s house. You never know!

You may also like our post on: Do Cats Like Music?

Curiosity

You are probably aware that cats can be curious and anxious pets with erratic personalities. One second, they are sitting next to you enjoying a television show, and the very next second, they run off to a different room only to stare at a wall for hours. It is this curiosity that gives them the patience to look at things for hours.

By paying attention to the slightest detail inside the room, cats are also often aware when something has been misplaced within seconds after entering the room. And they often stand outside the room staring at nothing, trying to figure out what has been moved or replaced in their absence.

Supernatural Beings

Even though it is the 21st Century, many people still believe in the presence of ghosts and other supernatural beings such as vampires and demons. Some people also think that cats can sense the presence of supernatural beings. In fact, that might be their only reason for staring at a single spot inside a dark or dimly lit room in your house.

However, you should know that there has been no proof that confirms the existence of supernatural beings living among us. So, there is nothing to be scared about if your pet suddenly demonstrates its ‘cat stare’.

A Medical Problem

If see your feline exhibiting strange behavior, including staring at the walls, and it also coincides with other symptoms including seizures, they could be suffering from a medical condition known as Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome.

Though rare, Hyperesthesia in cats can cause them to suffer from anxiety and manifests in repetitive, obsessive, and self-destructive behavior. Their skin can also become sensitive to touch, and they end up licking and grooming themselves repeatedly.

Even after years of research, doctors still haven’t been able to identify the actual cause of Hyperesthesia in felines. Some believe it may be a repercussion of a traumatic event that took place in the past, causing the cat to act out, while others believe it is a neurological disorder. There is also a good chance that it might be due to a spinal injury, an abnormality of the nerves in the brain, or increased stress levels.

If you also see them itching their skin, you should ask your vet to examine them properly to check if they have been affected by flea allergy dermatitis (FAD). A flea allergy can cause their fur to fall off if scratched aggressively. This scratching and itching continuously will also aggravate their skin condition, and your cat can get paranoid. This can also lead to Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome-related behavior such as anxiety and staring or meowing at a wall or nothing at all.

Having an unbalanced diet is thought to be another cause of hyperesthesia. Your veterinarian or animal nutritionist can prescribe a properly balanced diet for your cat to help with the condition.

Related Post: Best Cat Scratching Pads

Symptoms of Hyperesthesia

Himalayan, Siamese, and Burmese cats are more likely to suffer from hyperesthesia than other breeds. As well as seeming to ‘zone out’, the other signs and symptoms of Hyperesthesia in felines include:

• Biting
• Excessive scratching
• Constant jerking as they become sensitive to touch
• Showing self-destruction
• Self-grooming and licking
• Anxiety
• Pouncing on its tail
• Alarming vocalization
• Dilation of the pupils
• Acting out
• Seizure disorders
• A sudden increase in their activity
• Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)

Treatment for Hyperesthesia

If your cat shows signs of any of the symptoms listed above, you should take them to a vet immediately. Anti-depressants such as SSRIs, sedatives, or anti-anxiety medicines are usually prescribed in such cases. With the help of an expert, you should also make a diet chart so that your cat can stay healthy and free from physiologic and metabolic stress.

To prevent future Hyperesthesia events, try to spend more time with your cat, as you may not always know when your cat is stressed out or facing anxiety issues.

Take a look at our guides on Anti-Anxiety for Cats and Calming Collar for Cats.

Cats Staring At Nothing

Understandably, most cat owners can be unnerved to find their cats staring at walls and other specific objects. But what are you to make of their behavior if they stare at nothing for a significant period? The superstitious may even suggest that these feline creatures, attuned to the supernatural, are observing something ‘otherworldly’.

However, having established that cats are well-accustomed to their surroundings with their superior eyesight and hearing, there is no doubt that this matter is nothing out of the ordinary. However, while we may find ourselves staring at space for hours, lost in our thoughts, it is different from cats. If your pet is showing such errant behavior, then it does have an explanation.

As mentioned previously, cats have eyesight that surpasses those of humans in many ways. So, if you feel that they are staring at ‘nothing’ for hours, it probably means that your pet is seeing or observing movements or minuscule things that go undetected by the human eye.

Another thing to consider is that cats have excellent auditory organs that allow them to perceive sounds beyond our capabilities. So, the matter may be as simple as them focusing on slightly muffled sounds or out of their hearing range while staring at nothing much like human beings often do. If not, they may be trying to decipher a new sound alien to them but also inaudible to us. Or they are probably fascinated by those dancing particles visible in broad daylight!

As well as superior hearing and eyesight, cats also have a sense of smell that is fourteen times stronger than human beings. This is due to the double quantity of receptors in the olfactory epithelium, which is basically the cells responsive to smell.

Just like focusing on sounds, your feline companion may have noticed a smell that they particularly like or find intriguing and is spending an awful lot of time trying to discern its origin or simply enjoying the odor while gazing at ‘nothing’. Even if you cannot smell it yourself, air fresheners or other products may help drive the former odor away.

The Bottom Line

So, ‘why does my cat meow at the wall as if there is something there?’ and ‘why does my cat stare at nothing at all?’

In many cases, there is a perfectly harmless explanation as to why cats stare, and it is most likely related to something that they can see, hear, or smell that you are unable to detect.

This behavior can also be linked to a medical condition triggered by stress or obsessive behavior.

It is essential to always make your feline friends feel safe at home as this can minimize and even prevent such out-of-the-ordinary occurrences. Like any other pet, cats also crave attention and love. But leaving cats alone for hours can make them feel lonely, and the feeling of loneliness is likely to stress them and cause them to ‘act out’.

Related Post: Best Cat Toys

So, even after a busy day at work, try to make up for the day when you get home by playing or cuddling with them. A little bit of love goes a long way for these adorable yet unpredictable creatures and spending time with them every day can help make sure your cat is healthy and happy.

But in all honesty, you won’t ever really get a proper explanation for why they may stare at the wall for hours. However, if you suspect a medical reason or are ever concerned, please visit the vet’s clinic with your fur baby and get an expert opinion.

Source:

1. Behavior problems in cats MSD Vet Manual

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Pouncing is Part of Stalking Prey

Cat lovers may see their feline friend as a lovable ball of fur but cats are accomplished hunters. They have a lot of skills that help them stalk and catch prey to eventually kill it and eat it. They have retained most of the skills that are possessed by wild cats and even by the big cats like the mountain lions.

It is the most energy-efficient way of catching prey and saves a lot of running around!

This natural instinct follows a set pattern and every pounce is preceded by stalking. When a cat spots something that they want to pounce on, the ritual starts. In the wild, this would be other animals (such as mice and voles). Domestic cats follow the same pattern but substitute small mammals for toys.

What a Pounce Looks Like

If you have observed your kitty closely, you will have seen that a pounce always starts with stalking. A cat settles into a stalking position and prepares its hind limbs. At this point, cats stare at the toy or whatever else they are fixated on. This is when the butt wiggling starts.

They wiggle their butts just the right amount to get their rear legs in the best position for the most powerful and accurate pounce. A butt wiggle is also how they adjust their energy so that they have enough power. Butt wiggling is critical for a successful pounce!

You may notice that if your cat is focused on a large toy or on large prey, they will wiggle their butts, even more, to get the energy to pounce.

After the pounce, typical behavior is to hit the cat toy with their paw and then pick it up with their paws or mouth and toss it around. This looks as if they are playing with it but they are actually trying to get it into the best position for biting so that they can kill it quickly.

Does a Kitten Pounce for Play?

Kittens love to pounce as a way of perfecting their hunting skills. It’s super cute to see baby cats wiggle their rear end but your kitten is actually learning an important skill. Kittens perfect their pouncing skills by the time they are about two months old!

You can make it more fun by getting them a mouse toy or some interactive cat toys that they can practice stalking and pouncing on.

What is a Cat About to Pounce Thinking?

Stalking and pouncing behaviors are all about the hunt! At this point, your cat does not think that they are playing and are about to pounce on a toy. In their head, they are pouncing on prey to get food to survive!

However, pouncing can also mean that your cat is feeling agitated. In fact, you can often tell how agitated your cat is feeling by observing how their pouncing behavior. The Humane Society suggests that pouncing can be playful, indicating that your cat simply wants to play with you. They may leap at humans in their homes. However, if their tail is twitching and if they are growling, this is not playing! Your cat is agitated and means business so do not go near them as you could get a scratch or a bite.

What Does it Mean When a Cat Pounces?

Pouncing is usually a totally natural behavior and does not indicate that anything is wrong with your kitty. However, it can mean that your cat is upset about something. If they persist with agitated pouncing or if they have some other changes in personality, it is worth getting them checked out by your vet.

There are some medical conditions that cause agitation in cats. These include cognitive dysfunction and hyperthyroidism.

It can also be triggered by changes in your cat’s environment such as a house move or introducing another new pet cat or dog into the household.

Why Does My Cat Pounce at Nothing?

When your cat pounces at nothing, they are probably playing. It is a great way of keeping themselves amused. Cats can show a behavior called play aggression – where they are playing but can get a little rough. If your cat is pouncing at your feet and ankles, you will already know this!

The problem is that cats are used to playing with other cats. They have thick fur and loose skin and it does not hurt when another cat pounces on them or gives them a bite. It is not their intention to hurt you but they may enjoy getting your attention.

Why Does My House Cat Pounce?

Domesticated cats rarely have to hunt for food. House cats get all the food they need from their loving pet owners. Yet, they still continue to stalk and pounce. This is because these behaviors are ingrained in their nature. Even though they do not have to hunt, they will still feel a compulsion to act in this way.

However, they may be trying to tell you that they want more attention. House cats rely on their humans for entertainment. They can show this by pretending that you are prey and leaping out at you. Just like dogs, cats can suffer from separation anxiety and may miss you a lot when you are out.

Playing Games With Your Cat

Why not use the pouncing behavior as the basis of a game with your cat to provide them with mental and physical stimulation. You could get a mouse toy or a feather wand to flick around. Another option is a laser pointer which cats find fascinating.

Playing with your cat gives you the chance to bond with your pet and to get to know them better.

Sources:

1. Understanding feline language – Humans Society
2. Serena Sonoma, Why Do Cats Wiggle Their Butts Before They Pounce? – Live Science

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Should I Let My Cat Outside?

Ultimately, we can’t make this decision for you, but we can give you all of the pros and cons to help you decide whether you want your cat outdoors or not. Ideally, the first thing you should do is look for other animals in your area that are roaming the streets. Do they look healthy? Are any of them injured? Do they have cat collars?

These questions will give you a good feel for the other pet owners in your neighborhood. Looking at other cats will tell you how well the people around you treat free-roaming cats, whether they’re stray cats or have a home nearby.

Why Does My Cat Want to Go Outside?

The great outdoors can be very enticing to indoor cats. They spend a lot of time looking through windows and hunting other animals that they can’t reach. It can be a source of excitement and frustration for them. Cats are often naturally curious, as well, which makes them want to go places you don’t usually let them go.

It’s likely that your cat has seen you leave the confines of the house and are wondering what’s out there that they can play with. House cats can get bored if the cat’s indoor environment isn’t mentally stimulating enough.

My Indoor Cat Wants to Go Outside – What Do I Do?

Do you have a cat that paws at the backdoor and leaves you thinking “wow, my indoor cat is obsessed with going outside”?

When the scratching posts just aren’t cutting it anymore, it might be time to think about some supervised time outside for your cats. We’d like to stress that just because you’re letting your cat venture outdoors doesn’t mean they suddenly have to become outdoor cats. It’s perfectly acceptable for you to let your cats out once a day or every few days just so they can roam around and enjoy the outdoor life without the risks.

Actually, many cat owners do this. There’s a whole market in the pet industry that is dedicated to protecting cats while they’re outside without letting them leave the boundaries of their home. These products include cat harnesses, pet fences and borders, playpens, and catios (cat patios).

The catio is one of our favorite solutions because it gives cats an area right by their home that’s still outdoors. They can get some fresh air without their pet owner worrying about them.

We’d like to stress that it’s extremely unlikely that a cat who has lived inside their whole life will go running off the moment they’re let outside. In fact, some house cats are terrified the first couple of times and run back in!

Should Cats Be Allowed Outdoors?

The natural world is full of felines that live outside. Humans have domesticated certain breeds of cats so that they can be our companions, so it’s right to say that there is merit behind the idea of both indoor cats and outdoor cats.

Some people believe that, when you keep a cat inside, you are being cruel. But other pet parents who keep their cats indoors say the same about forcing a cat outdoors. Domestic cats do best wherever they are most suited. For some household cats, that’s indoors, for others, it’s outdoors. And for some, both is the answer.

In the end, it should be about what’s best for your cat. Cats have a lot of natural behaviors, including hunting, that can be catered for either way. You should be thinking about your cat’s safety first of all, and then what the history of your cat suggests would be best. That includes their personality traits, how confident they are out in the world, and whether you think they could look after themselves out there.

Can Domestic Cats Survive Outside?

Domestic cats can survive fine outside, even if they’ve been indoor cats their whole lives, and suddenly get out and become lost. Many lost cats reunite with their owners in pretty good condition, though they might be a bit starved.

Cats have great natural instincts and will be able to survive by themselves. Letting cats outside isn’t going to be some awful thing if you take the proper precautions. Plenty of other pets do just as well outside, and cats are more than willing to defend themselves.

Outdoor Cat Survival Guide

First and foremost: Do not let your cat outside if they are not chipped. No unchipped cat should be allowed outside. Without a microchip, there is nothing identifying them as your cat and practically no chance of finding them if they go missing.

Be sure to put up some kind of barrier or fencing that will stop your cat from escaping into the next garden and running off. Alternatively, buy a cat harness and test it indoors beforehand. Fair warning, most cats hate harnesses at first and they will need to spend some time building up to using them for more than a couple of minutes.

Keep your cat’s favorite treats or dry food on hand when you decide to take them out. It’s also good to put their litter box outside while they’re out there so that they can have a familiar scent around.

The First Day Outside for Your Feline Friend

1. Set up outside ready for your cat. Add their food bowl, litter box, and any barriers or fences that you’ve purchased. If you brought an enclosed playpen or catio, be sure to set that up before you take your cat outside.
2. Put the harness on your cat if you elected to purchase one. If not, carry your cat outside while keeping a secure grip on them until you get to the area you’ve set up. If you’re worried about them getting loose or your cat doesn’t like being picked up, you could briefly place them in a cat carrier.
3. Place your cat in the area set up for some outdoor time. Be aware that indoor cats who are often skittish may want to go back indoors within the first couple of minutes. If your cat tries to bolt, grab them and take them back inside.
4. Don’t spend too much time outdoors the first go around. Let your cat sniff around, explore, enjoy the new, stimulating environment, and then take them back in. You’ll need to build up to having them outside for longer periods of time.

10 Reasons to Keep Your Cats Inside

1. Indoor cats live longer
2. Your cat is naturally shy
3. Your cat has had negative experiences
4. Your cat has health issues
5. Your cat is currently unwell
6. There are larger animals in your neighborhood, such as big, aggressive dogs
7. Cats constantly go missing in your area
8. The cats in your area don’t look clean or healthy
9. Your cat hasn’t been microchipped and neutered
10. Your cat is not happier outdoors and/or is scared of being outside

Risks of Letting Your Cat Outside

Contagious Diseases

• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)

FIV is a viral infection that affects cats. It causes affected felines to have a weaker immune system when compared to cats that don’t have the virus. FIV is most commonly found in unneutered male cats who have been fighting for territory. It’s spread through biting and body fluids, though it can be spread from mother cats to her kittens. FIV-positive cats live relatively normal lives, though it is said that they are more prone to various illnesses.

• Feline Leukemia Virus

The second leading cause of death in felines, killing approximately 85% of infected cats. Feline leukemia virus can be transmitted through saliva and has an estimated survival time of 2.5 years after infection. Despite the odds, it is possible to give cats with FeLV happy lives with a good treatment plan in place.

Human Risk

Your neighbors may mean well and be friendly enough, but that doesn’t mean that the rest of the people in nearby streets are. Some homeowners get really irate when cats wander onto their property, going as far as to plant poisonous plants and put down rat poison.

Others may even see your cat and decide that they’re doing a good thing by feeding it and taking it in. Knowingly or unknowingly, they’re stealing your cat and you might not see them again. Once a cat starts getting food elsewhere, their loyalties can quickly change – or they might “go missing” because the neighbor has decided to take them in.

There are also even more worrying things like dog fighting rings where cats are used as bait. Letting cats outside is a huge risk for pet parents, but some are confident that their cat can take care of themselves and will make it back home.

Unwanted Pregnancies

The number one reason to not let your female cat outside if they haven’t been spayed yet is the possibility of her ending up pregnant. When a female cat is in heat, any male cats around her will be able to smell it, and they will fight each other and her. Cats can bear two to three litters of kittens a year, with an average of 1 to 8 kittens per litter.

Enriching the Environment of Your Indoor Cats

Following all of this information, if you decide that keeping your cat indoors is best for them, it’s crucial that you spend some time enriching their environment. That means adding toys that offer mental stimulation, cat trees for verticle space and climbing, and giving your cat some one-on-one time each day.

Here are some suggestions to make your cat’s life better at home:

• Ask each of your family members to play with the cat every day
• Buy cat tunnels that your cat can enjoy exploring
• Install large cat trees to encourage your cat to climb and give them more space
• Provide a range of cat toys for solo play
• Have at least two scratching posts in your home
• Consider adopting a second cat
• Add a catio so that your cat can spend safe time outside without leaving the property

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There are particular things that some cats may tolerate however in general most cats tend to dislike the common pet peeves covered below. Continue reading to find out more about the things cats don’t like as well as some useful information about how to make your cat more comfortable in the home.

Particular Smells

Your cat’s sense of smell is significantly more powerful than our own so it’s understandable that some scents may be repulsive or unbearable to our feline friends. The smells cats hate can range from plants, fruits, and household scents such as soaps, deodorants, air fresheners, etc.

Common Smells Cats Can’t Stand:

• Unclean litter boxes
• Citrus fruits
• Spoiled food
• Peppers
• Lavender plants
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Vinegar

Essential Oils Can Make Your Cat Sick

Many essential oils are also filled with scents that cats simply can’t stand such as citrus, lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree. As a pet parent, it’s important to take care when purchasing these heavily scented products as a number of them can be toxic to cats because of their high concentration.

There are particular essential oils that are safe for your cat however if you’re looking for ways to calm cats, pheromone diffusers are a great option that won’t harm them or upset their sensitive noses.

What smells do cats hate? Find out more here, with our in-depth article.

Too Much or Not Enough Attention

Showing your cat too much or too little attention is amongst the list of things cats hate. Sometimes your kitty wants to be left alone, in which case, they will find a quiet spot to relax. Although other times, they will seek you out for your love and affection.

Showing your pet affection strengthens the bond between the cat owner and cat so it’s crucial that you pay them the attention they need and crave. Having said this, it’s also necessary to understand when to leave them be. After all, like people, cats need their own space too.

Aggressive Petting

Unlike their canine counterparts, cats typically don’t like to be petted too much or too hard. A mistake a lot of cat owners make is being too heavy-handed with their felines which only repels them from wanting attention in the future. Aggressive petting can lead to your cat becoming overstimulated. When this happens she may respond by scratching, swiping, nipping, or simply retreating away from you.

If you’re worried about your cat becoming overstimulated when petting, take into account her body language. Cats tend to show signs when they’re becoming irritated which can include tail twitching, subtle ear movements, or shrinking away from your hand. If you spot any of these signs, make sure to be careful and give them space.

Belly Rubs

There are some cats that are anomalies and love a good belly rub although it’s a well-known fact that most cats dislike them. The belly is a very vulnerable area to a cat so they naturally want to protect it. This is why when you attempt to give it a scratch, your met with a nip or scratch.

Every now and then, they may flop onto their backs and show it off with pride. This is often a deep sign of trust although it isn’t an open invitation for you to pet it.

Body Language Cues

Cats are predominantly independent creatures that can be somewhat difficult to read. Some love finding secluded spots around the house to take their naps and relax in whereas others love to be in your company constantly. As you bond with your kitty friend, you’ll learn all about their likes and dislikes including their boundaries when it comes to being petted. If you want to find out more about cat behavior, take a look at our article which details more about cat behavior and body language.

An Unclean Litter Box

Cats are known to be hygienic and therefore they will simply refuse to use a dirty litter box. The smell of their own excrement and urine are amongst the many scents cats hate. Instead, they will either hold it in, which can result in health problems, or find an alternative area to relieve themselves in.

If you have multiple cats, make sure you have enough litter boxes in your home. More than one cat will mean that the box becomes dirty more often which increases the chances of your cat going to the bathroom elsewhere. Therefore it is vital that you monitor and maintain their litter box.

Startling Sounds

Generally, cats hate loud noises as they can often leave them on edge. Fireworks, doors slamming, yelling, or accidentally dropping something heavy can startle anyone but it’s worth considering how sensitive your cat’s ears are. Similarly, prolonged loud sounds such as music and the volume of your TV can also make your cat uncomfortable.

Always keep a close eye on your cat’s behavior. If you find yourself playing music often or have the tv volume up, observe how your cat reacts. If they leave to find a quiet spot to settle in, far from the noise, it could be that the noise overwhelms them.

Grooming

As we’ve mentioned previously, cats are clean animals and will take good care of themselves without interference from humans. Pet owners will sometimes try and help their kitties stay clean by grooming them which isn’t always necessary.

Nail Cutting

Nail cutting can be stressful to cats, especially since they make their own efforts to keep them in good condition with the use of scratching posts, pads, and similar toys. In some cases, many cats can become used to this if it’s done from when they are a kitten. However, it’s worth considering items that can help as opposed to trimming them yourself.

Bathing

It’s commonly understood that most felines dislike water. So unless your cat has taken a liking to play in mud and dirt, or perhaps has a skin condition, it is not always necessary to bathe them. Brushing will help long-haired cats’ fur to stay tangle and matte-free however bathing isn’t a requirement.

Check out these 12 Cat Breeds That Like Water.

Traveling

Despite what social media may have you believe, not all cats like to curl up in a carrier or specialized backpack to go on trips or hikes. They may enjoy the freedom of being outside but physical transport is not something that a lot of cats enjoy. Being confined and subjected to car rides can be daunting, especially to domestic cats although sometimes it’s unavoidable when vet check-ups or visits are necessary.

Other Cats Invading Their Territory

Some cats are perfectly content with sharing their space with other animals or pets. However, a lot of cats are still in touch with their territorial nature and loathe the sight of another cat in their space.

Not just that, but cats are also competitive. When another feline shows up in their own territory, they often feel threatened. This is because they feel as though the other cat will likely receive all of the affection and treats their humans have to offer.

Taking Medication

At times, giving your furry friend veterinary medicine is unavoidable and is essential to keep your cat happy and healthy. Medications can sometimes have a significant, off-putting smell and/or taste, so it can be a difficult task getting your cat to take them. Fortunately, there are ways and tricks of giving them meds. Often, this involves carefully hiding the medication in food or treats.

Change in Environment

Most of the time, cats prefer for things to stay the same and live comfortably knowing how the world around them functions. Whereas cats dislike change, some may not detest it altogether, although it may be difficult for them to settle and feel comfortable for a while.

Common Changes That Affect Cats:

• Moving furniture around
• Moving home
• Getting another pet
• Losing one of their humans
• A new addition to the family such as a baby or even having a friend stay the night.

Fortunately, cats can often adapt quickly to new environments. During difficult times, it’s important to give them their own space and let them adjust in their own time (a treat may not go amiss either).

One Last Note

Like dogs, most cats will have their own personality complete with likes and dislikes. Although, generally speaking, these are the most common things that kitties cannot tolerate. Some of the things above may really irritate your feline friend, whereas they may happily tolerate others. As an example, there are cats that love belly rubs or are unperturbed by loud noises! As you bond with your kitty, only you will know for sure what they love and what they can’t stand for certain.

You may also like our article on: How to Hold a Cat (The Right Way)

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How Cats Socialize with Other Cats

Kittens from the same litter mock fight all the time using play bites and scratches on their sisters and brothers. It is a way for them to experiment with how hard you need to bite to get a reaction. They also learn about stalking, pouncing, and chasing by using play aggression.

As they get older, cats tend to be solitary animals but they can also live together in the same social group. You will often see felines in households where there are two cats or even in multi-cat households grooming each other. They may even sleep next to the other cat. Play fighting can be a part of this relationship.

Cats that are settled into a household together are said to be ‘affiliated’ and they are less likely to have a real fight. However, they could still fall out if they have to compete for resources.

What Cats Playing Should Look Like

So, you are most likely to see play fighting between two cats from the same litter when they are still young or between cats that are used to living together. If you see two cats playing or fighting and they already know and get on with each other – it is more likely to be playing. If it is between two cats that have never met before, it is more likely to be fighting. Cats will take a long time to get to know each other before they get friendly enough to have a play fight!

Playing at fighting is most common in kittens at around 8-10 weeks of age so any interaction at this age is almost certainly playing.

These play sessions usually take place in an environment that has plenty of stimulation such as boxes, a cat tree, and other obstacles. It often involves the entry and exit holes of such toys and involves a lot of chasing and leaping around!

Top Signs That Cats Are Only Playing

By carefully observing your cat’s body language, you can soon tell if this is a play session or a fight. Here are the main things to look out for:

• No single cat is dominant. During playtime, cats take turns chasing and being rough. If one cat is doing all the chasing and is always on top of the other, it is not playing.
• Ears in normal position. Cats playing fighting will have their ears upright or slightly forward.
• Bodies positioned forward. During play, cats lean forward towards the other cat.
• Minimal biting. Any biting that does take place is gentle and brief.
• Claws retracted. When cats are playing, they keep their claws inside their paws because they do not want to harm their playmate.
• Flat fur. If your cat is playing, one of the main signs is that their fur will remain flat on their body.

Top Signs That Cats are Fighting for Real

Sometimes, you may spot two cats interacting in a way that suggests they are not getting on well. If you are wondering are my cats playing or fighting, these are the main signs of a true catfight:

• Cat hissing and growling. If you hear any hissing and growling these are both aggressive sounds and it is a sign of confrontation. It indicates that the cats are fighting.
• Ready for biting. The cats will have their mouths open with their teeth bared and ready to bite into the flesh of their opponent.
• Ears turned back. This is a sign of aggression in cats – the ears could even be flat on their head.
• Hair on body and tail sticking up. When the fur on a cat’s tail and body is sticking up straight, it is called piloerection. It is an aggressive sign and your pet is trying to make themselves look bigger.
• Aggressive posture. In cats, an aggressive posture is positioning the body turned to the side. Cats fighting do not normally face each other.
• Tail and whiskers position. Two key components of aggressive body language are the position of the tail and whiskers. When you see cats fighting, their tail is straight up with the tip bent or it may be swishing menacingly from side to side. The whiskers will be angled forward and will be spread apart.

You may also like our article on How to Stop a Cat Fight and Why They Happen

Reasons Why Cats Get Into Fights

If you can understand why cats get into fights, it will help you to stop them from breaking out in the first place. Here are some of the main reasons why cats fight according to cat behavior experts.

New cat in the home

This is the single most common reason that cats fight. They can be quite territorial and do not like another cat being introduced into what they view as their home. Often it is the older cat that has the issue and the more cats there are in the house, the worse the problem can be. You can overcome this by making the introduction gradual, using plenty of treats and possibly separating the cats with a baby gate.

Poor social skills

There is a critical point in a kitten’s development when they learn how to get on with other cats – it is called socialization. For most cats, this is between 2 and 9 weeks. Hand-raised kittens miss out on this and can develop into nervous and aggressive cats that get into fights. Speak to your vet or to a cat behavior expert for advice on how to help your kitty if this applies to them.

Competition for resources

Cats will fight if they both want the same thing. Although domestic cats usually have plenty of food and shelter, they can compete for human attention. Try to make sure that you have fun with all your cats in an equal way.

Outside territory

Many of us have woken to the sound of tomcats howling and spitting at each other outside our bedroom windows. These disputes are usually about territory and who it belongs to and are most common amongst unneutered males. Cats can get badly injured in these fights.

Maternal instinct

Breeding females can be particularly aggressive. A mother cat will fight ferociously to protect her kittens. If your cat is breeding, it may be best to keep other felines away from her for a while.

Ill health

If cats that have previously got on very well suddenly start fighting, it is worth investigating if one of them has become ill. There are several medical conditions that can make a cat more aggressive and these include epilepsy, rabies, dental disease, and hyperthyroidism. It could also be due to the sensory and cognitive decline in an older cat.

It is worth getting your cat’s teeth and general health checked out by your vet.

Genetics

Some cats are simply born grumpy! Recent research has shown that there are cat genes (one is connected to a biological system called the oxytocin receptor) that make cats more irritable. In the future, it may be possible to test a cat for the presence of these genes.

Sources:

1. Aggression in Cats, ASPCA
2. Minori Arahori, Yusuke Horia, Atsuko Saito, Hitomi Chijiiwa, Saho Takagi, Yuki Ito, Arii Watanabe, Miho Inoue-Murayama, KazuoFujita, The oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) polymorphism in cats (Felis catus) is associated with “Roughness” assessed by owners, ScienceDirect

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Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?

Also called “head bunting”, headbutting is one of the best signs a cat can give a human. It means that your cat trusts you and is willing to get up close and personal. Furthermore, cats have scent glands in their cheeks, which is the reason that they may start to rub their face on your skin or clothing.

If you’re someone who leaves the house and comes back to an over-affection cat headbutt, it’s because your cat missed you.

It’s our humble opinion that any cat owner who experiences the utter joy of a headbutt from their animals should feel lucky. This form of affection is very open. In cats, it’s a way they exchange scents to claim each other as family. You may see several cats headbutting each other or rubbing their cheeks against one another. Sibling cats do this frequently.

Why Does My Cat Headbutt Objects?

Here’s where another part of head bunts comes into play. If your cat is headbutting something you’re holding or an inanimate object that is next to you, they’re trying to get your attention. It can be through jealousy, which seems funny because, well, your cat might be jealous of your phone just because it’s in your hands.

What Does a Headbutt Look Like?

When a cat head pushes against your hands, face, or any other body part, that’s a headbutt. Other cats may rub their entire side against you, but the action is really down to what your cat likes and how they want to get your attention.

We humans are suckers for cats doing cute things. The headbutt is a great sign of love and trust from a cat, and we can’t help giving them pets after they’ve done it.

Returning the Headbutt

You can return the sentiment of cat bunting in a few different ways. If you decide to bump your head against your cat’s head, be careful and do it very gently. Less of a headbutt, more placing your head against theirs and nuzzling your face into them.

Alternatively, try scratching them under their chin, petting their little bodies, giving them food, or putting your hand on their paw. You can even boop their nose together with your nose! Felines respond better to bodily communication because it’s how they speak to us.

Cats and Scenting

We’ve mentioned that cats have scent glands in their cheeks. Scent makes cats recognize what they smell, so many of them like to leave their scent on objects and people. Does your cat sleep on a lot of clothes in your house? It’s because they can smell you on them and that makes them feel safe.

The life of a cat revolves around safety, sleep, affection, and getting their paws on food. Even wild cats and other animals need these four things to feel fulfilled. Cats will headbutt each other to create a colony scent in their home, which is why multi-cat households function well after all of the cats are used to each other. Without this group scent, cats don’t recognize each other as well.

Scent Gland Locations in Cats

• On their heads (mouth, forehead, cheeks)
• Flanks (their sides)
• Paws
• Tail
• Rectum

How Do I Stop My Cat Headbutting Me?

Though headbutting is often just a means for your cat to get your attention, it can be annoying when you’re working at home or doing something you can be distracted from. Many pet owners find it awful when they’re trying to sleep at night, too. Most cats will stop trying to headbutt you if you move them away or ignore them long enough, but there are a few things you can try:

• Shut the door to the room you’re working or sleeping in.
• Throw treats in the other direction to distract your cat.
• Give in and return the headbutt to reassure your kitty before moving them away.
• Distract your cat with inanimate objects or cat toys.

We don’t advise halting this behavior often because it’s such an innate part of the way your cat shows they trust you. When you experience cat head bunting, your cat will rub their own scent on you from the scent glands in their cheeks, which is a way they mark territory and claim you as their own. By stopping your cat from putting their head close to you, you’re telling them that you don’t want to give them affection.

What is Head Pressing?

Head pressing is when a cat or dog presses their head (usually their forehead) against the floor or wall for a length of time. They will occasionally press their head against their owner, instead. Head pressing is an indication of a serious medical issue that your pet should go to the vet for so that they can be checked out. They press their head down to relieve discomfort.

Pressing Versus Pushing

Head pressing involves your pet leaving their head pressed against something, while pushing is a form of attention-grabbing or affection. It may sometimes seem like head pressing is head pushing/headbutting, but your cat will always follow through with their movement when they’re headbutting you, as opposed to head pressing where they stay still.

If your cat is pressing their head against you or standing against walls for long periods of time, seek veterinary advice. It’s a sign of discomfort, meaning your cat is in pain and trying to tell you so.

Possible Health Conditions

• Stroke
• Poisoning
• Head trauma
• Brain tumor
• Infection
• Liver disease
• Metabolic disorders

Do not be concerned if your cat sleeps face-down and always has. Some cats just like to do this and find it comfortable. The concern should come when they are standing against a wall, unmoving, with their face pressed against it.

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