Cat Nutrition – Healthy Whiskers

Do Cats Get Cold?

Dan Cantero — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 03:47:16 +0000

There are a few things to keep in mind if you are concerned that your cat may be cold. First, do cats get cold? The answer is yes, cats can get cold. Just like humans, when the weather dips below a certain temperature they can start to feel the effects.

Cats are very resilient creatures. Generally speaking they are very good maintaining the correct body temperature. However, they can still get themselves in trouble if they are exposed to very cold conditions and there are a few things to keep in mind if you are concerned that your cat may be cold.

Don’t all cats regulate their own temperature?

How well they can combat the cold can largely depend on the breed. Different cat breeds have different types of fur some of which are better at keeping out the cold than others. A healthy coat will not allow air in but also protect from getting wet due to rain for example.

Their coat is not the only thing that can determine how well they deal with the cold and can also depend on the age of the cat as well as their overall heath status.

So how can you tell if your cat is feeling the cold?

Luckily, there are some obvious signs that you can be on the lookout for that will tell you that your cat is feeling the chill.

If you are feeling the cold then it’s likely that they are too. We are not so different when it comes to temperature and a cat’s normal body temperature is a little higher than that of a human so if you are feeling the chill, there is a good chance they do too.
If your cat is very cold, you may notice that they will be shivering or trembling. If you notice this make sure you take action immediately and provide them with a cosy spot where they can warm up.
Curling upon your bed, couch or near a heater. Cats will naturally seek out warm spots when their temperature falls. They will normally sort themselves out by finding a warm spot and generally curling up and taking a nap.
You may also find that they will avoid cold surfaces if they are feeling the cold. Tiles or concrete floors can get very cold and cats will avoid these if they are cold.
During the night when heaters are off, your cat may jump on your bed. They will curl up against you to get warm from you. In some cases such as with our cat Mimi, she will climb under the sheets when she is really cold and place her paws up against me.

Can cold affect my cat?

Specially with older cats, you might notice that they are not as active during the colder months. This is due to stiff joints that is made worse by cold weather. Generally they will look a bit more lethargic. This is not because they are tired but because it takes them a little longer to warm up and get those joints loosened up.

What can I do to help my cat keep warm?

What should you do if you think your cat might be too cold? One of the best things you can do is provide them with a warm and cosy place that they can retreat to and control their body temperature. This is really not that hard. There are cat beds both open and enclosed that your cat will love. However, you don’t have to spend any money to provide your cat with a warm bed that they will love. A simple cardboard box on its side with a soft blanket will do very nicely. Cardboard provides excellent insulation against the cold and on very cold nights your cat will love you if you place a blanket that that you have warmed up in the dryer.

Another thing you can do to help your cat keep warm during the colder months is to make sure they are eating enough food. A healthy diet combined with plenty of good quality food can help keep them warm from the inside out. If your cat seems like it is shivering or huddled up in a corner trying to stay warm, it might be time for a trip to the vet. Your vet can help determine if there is an health problem causing your cat to feel cold

If they do get cold there are a few things you can do to help them. It is mostly about their fur and the surrounding environment which needs to be taken into consideration when trying to keep your cat warm.

Conclusion

As long a you provide your cat with a warm place to sleep and a good diet, they will be well prepared to deal with the cold weather.

Cats do get cold, but for the most part they are well equipped to handle it but, there are some things you can do to keep your kitty stays nice and cozy when winter hits!

Food For Felines: Why Nutrition Is So Important To Your Cat

Allison Salonko — Sat, 04 Dec 2021 23:48:14 +0000

Cats, just like all creatures, require specific nutrients and minerals for optimum health. Feeding our feline friends a balanced diet is truly important for growth and overall maintenance of their bodies. Pet parents should always be informed on what nutrition is the most important and how we can keep our lovely kitty companions happy and healthy for many years.

A nutritious and balanced diet is important for healthy growth and development, as well as the overall physical and mental health of cats.

What Essential Nutrients Do Cats Need?

As a veterinary technician I am often asked by new pet parents what food would be best for their cat. I always tell them, anything that is balanced and complete like an over the counter cat food. But it is important to understand what makes a commercial diet nutritionally balanced.

When it comes to cats, there are several nutritional components in their diet that are key to their longevity. All of these necessary nutrients perform a specific job in the body and are broken down into 6 different categories.

Fat
Protein
Carbohydrate
Water
Vitamin
Mineral

While all of these nutrients are essential, there are a few that are particularly important for our feline friends. Such as protein, fat and carbohydrates, which are major energy sources for cats. Protein provides essential amino acids and fat is also important for their coat and skin and helps promote wound healing.

How Much Protein Should Cats Eat?

Many people are familiar with how cats are carnivores, but did you know that they are what’s called “obligate carnivores”? Meaning that they MUST have meat protein in their diet for appropriate growth, health and ultimately survival. A cat will die if they are not fed a diet that consists of a meat based protein.

Protein is a very important energy source for felines and it also helps develop and maintain muscle, fur, nails, skin, ligaments, tendons, hormones and so much more. A cat should eat no less than 30% of their diet in protein.

Why Do Cats Need Animal Protein?

A cat’s body requires the nutrients that animal protein provides. The main reason for it is the amino acids that the protein breaks down into and then reassembled into the type of protein the feline needs at the time. Many other species of animal, such as those that are omnivores or herbivores can synthesize certain amino acids, but cats, unfortunately, cannot. Which is why felines have evolved to ingest specific amino acids that are exclusively in other animal tissues.

Because eating meat is necessary for survival, that is why they have been dubbed obligate carnivores. Sorry to say, but your feline overlord can’t live off a vegan or vegetarian diet.

What Extra Amino Acids Do Cats Need?

Most animals only need about 9 essential amino acids to stay healthy and well balanced, but cats actually require 2 more, called Taurine and Arginine.

Taurine is necessary for their overall eye and heart health. Cats that are deprived of meat based proteins will eventually go blind from retinal degeneration and heart failure from dilated cardiomyopathy. Other issues with their central nervous system can be seen as well.

Arginine deficiency can be a swift killer. It leads to elevated levels of ammonia in the bloodstream, which can lead to seizures and death due to effects it has on the neurologic system.

Feline Nutrition: How Do I Make Sure I Am Feeding My Cat What They Need?

Many commercial diets are going to cover the basics of what a cat needs nutritionally. I know there are hundreds of cat foods on the market but you can’t go wrong with most dry foods from a reputable source.

Recommended Brands:

Trying to feed a homemade diet can potentially run into disastrous issues with lacking in certain essential ingredients. Make it easy on yourself and your cats by providing them with a good brand of food that is balanced and nutritionally complete.

As pet parents, it is our job to supply our feline companions with a healthy and delicious source of food and enrichment. Afterall, our feline overlords are meant to be spoiled and worshipped!

Can dry cat food go bad?

Dan Cantero — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 03:08:29 +0000

Yes. Dry cat food can go bad. But I can’t take a long time. What we need to know is how long can you keep dry cat food before it goes bad.

In this article we are going to discuss the following things

How long does dry cat food stay fresh for?
How can you tell if dry cat food has gone off
What are some of the things that can accelerate dry cat food going off
Why you should not feed your cat food that is no longer fresh
The best ways to prevent dry cat food going off

Exactly how long can dry cat food stay good for?

Most cat food manufacturers suggest that dry cat food should be consumed within 6 weeks of opening the packet. The truth is that dry cat food can stay fresh for longer than that if stored correctly. The main reasons why cat food can expire are air, moisture and heat. Any of these will start to break down the food product. More importantly, it will also reduce the nutritional value of the food.

How can you tell if dry cat food has gone off

Most people will be able to tell by the smell of the food. Even though this is cat food and not human food, you will still be able to tell a difference in smell from when you first open a packet to food that is not so fresh. Your cat is also quite sensitive to food that is no longer fresh. Cats are not as tolerant to bad food as dogs are and they will let you know if they are not interested in the food which likely means that the food has gone off. If too much moisture is present in the dry food, the food pellets will become soft and mushy rather than hard and crispy.

What are some of the things that can accelerate dry cat food going off

Pet food is susceptible to the elements as human food. Just like our food, dry cat food will eventually go bad but the real damage starts the second you open the packet. The main culprits are air, moisture and heat. Most dry cat food is provided in a air-tight packet. This helps to maintain the freshness of the product and keep air and moisture out. When you open the packet for the first time, you are introducing air and moisture in the packet and this is what accelerates the process of the food going bad. Storing the food in a hot place will also have the same effect even for an unopened packet.

Why you should not feed your cat food that is no longer fresh

The main and obvious reason why cats should not be given old stale food is that they could get sick from food that might have bad bacteria. Dry cat food is organic and so can develop bad bacteria that can be dangerous to them. You would not eat food that has gone off so why would you feed it to your pet? Additionally, food that has expired will not have the nutritional value that your cat needs for good health. Cats can be very sensitive with their food and they are unlikely to eat food that has gone off.

The best ways to prevent dry cat food going off

I’m sure you’ve heard this before. “Store your cat food in a dry and cool place”. Typically, you’ll be doing the right thing if you store it along with all your other food in a pantry. This is going to extend the life of the product and keep it tasting good but, there are some additional things that you can do to extend it even further.

Most common dry cat food packs come in a large pack. These packs usually contain enough food for feeding your cat for a few weeks. Instead of filling up your cat’s dish straight from this packet, store 1 week’s work of food in an air-tight plastic or glass container.

This reduces the amount of time you are opening the original packet which reduces the amount of air and moisture that it is exposed to.

With even larger packs such as the ones you can purchase at wholesale stores, you should consider splitting the original packet into smaller portions this will also reduce the food’s exposure to moisture and air.

In our household, we use a vacuum sealer that extracts all air from the product. We divide the larger pack into smaller packs and we have been able to extend the life of the product to several months. Removing air is the most effective thing you can do to extend the life of your cat’s food.

Finally, start by choosing carefully before you purchase the food. Always pay attention to the expiration date on the packet. It’s a good idea to choose packets with later expiry dates. I usually try and find the ones that will expire as far into the future as possible.

Conclusion

Taking care of your cat’s dry food is not complicated and doesn’t have to take a lot of effort. Just by storing it correctly, you can not only extend the life of the product, but you’ll be saving money by not having to throw away food that your cat won’t eat. It’s really not that different from keeping human food fresh. Your cat will love you for it.

10 Myths About Cats Explained

Dan Cantero — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 01:05:52 +0000

Myth #1: Cats will always land on their feet

While cats are known to instinctively fall head first and may survive falls from high places, they also receive broken bones in the process. Cats are naturally curious and adventurous, but they still need some protection. If you have a balcony or window consider installing insect screens to prevent them from falling. This will allow your cat to take in the fresh air while still keeping them safe.

Myth #2: Tapeworms are caused by bad food

Some people think that tapeworms come from bad food, but pets can become infected with the parasite when they eat fleas which can carry the parasite. Cats may also get tapeworms from eating mice or birds who have been infected with these so always provide a healthy diet and be vigilant about fleas.

Myth #3: It is bad for pregnant women to own cats

Some cats can be infected with a disease called toxoplasmosis, which occasionally is spread to humans through cat litter boxes. The cat’s urine contains Toxoplasmosis and this organism can be found on your cat’s paws as well as in their faeces so it could be passed on to you when you clean out the litter box. Expecting mothers should assign cat cleaning duties to another member of the family to help prevent problems.

Myth #4: Cats can’t get rabies

Yes they can. Rabies is a viral disease that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including cats and people. If you want your cat to live a long and happy life, it is important that she gets vaccinated against rabies. The disease can be transmitted through animal bites as well as scratches so make sure she gets this vaccination regularly!

Myth #5: Cats can drink milk every day

Most cats like milk, but should not drink it. Cats are lactose intolerant so any type of dairy can cause digestive issues. A small amount of consumed milk may result in mild digestive issues but larger amounts can lead to serious problems.

Myth #6: Indoor cats don’t get diseases

A lot of people think that Indoor cats cannot get diseases, but they still are exposed to organisms carried through the air or brought in on a cat owner’s shoes and clothing. Even if your pet is permanently indoors, they still are exposed to organisms carried through the air or brought in on a cat owner’s shoes and clothing.

Myth #7: Spayed or neutered cats get fat

Regardless of these procedures, cats can become overweight or obese by eating too much. Cats need the right amount of exercise to stay fit and healthy. If your cat continues eating what it has been used to without adjusting its diet then you could see them gain weight over time if not careful about maintaining an active lifestyle with plenty more playtime.

Myth #8: Put garlic in a pet’s food to get rid of worms

The internet is full of misinformation on how to get rid of worms in cats. There are many treatments that purport garlic as an effective cure, but it’s not true; you might actually be doing more harm than good for your pet with this treatment! Garlic can cause toxicity even at low doses which could lead to problems so keep them away from it.

Myth #9: A cat’s balance comes from its whiskers

There are many people who say that cats have amazing balance because of their whiskers, but the truth is better than any fancy explanation. Whiskers work as feeler-like organs which detect things around them. The cat’s sense of balance comes from their ears just like us humans.

Myth #10: Animals are able to heal themselves by licking their wounds

Some people think that animals heal themselves by licking their wounds, but this is not true. Licking can slow down the healing process and further damage to their injuries so always make sure you consult with a vet.

Like us, you want to be a responsible cat owner and provide your pet with the best possible care. This is why it is important to always get the right information from the right sources like your vet and us of course! Have you heard any other myths that need to be de-bunked? If so, make sure you leave them in the comment section below.

Why Cats Love Boxes

Dan Cantero — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 02:30:24 +0000

It turns out that boxes are made up of the perfect material for cats to play with as well as keep them feeling safe and warm. It’s the main reason why cats and Christmas go together like socks that match your shoes. It’s just a fact of life, you can’t have one without the other! Cats love playing with all those boxes filled with wrapping paper-literally anything will do as long as it is shiny and new for them to explore however they please (and who doesn’t love an adventure). I know that our cat Mimi gets just as excited when my wife’s Amazon Prime arrives at the door.

First let’s go through all the reasons why cats love boxes.

I’ll then show you how to make a box safe for your little feline friend.

All The Reasons Why Cats Love Cardboard Boxes

It Makes Them Feel Safe

Boxes make cats feel safe and secure. They provide a sense of security with their four walls that no other creature can sneak up on them or get too close for comfort. This feeling also reminds them of when Mom was there as kittens or anything else comforting like those memories from their kitten childhood!

Warm and Cosy

Boxes can help keep cats warm. Cats’ normal body temperatures range from 100.5°F (38.1C) to 102.5°F (39.2C), so they need insulation in order for their bodies to stay at an ideal temperature while outdoors; cardboard provides just that! Even if your pet is indoors only, there will still be this instinctual need for protection which boxes satisfy on some level too – providing a sense of security from threats outside such as weather conditions or predators looking into finding prey within its hiding spots.

A New Place To Explore

Cats love exploring new places, so it’s no surprise that cats get excited when you bring something into your home. This “new” factor might also explain why they like paper and bags; each provides the chance for them to figure out if their curiosity will be satisfied by looking inside or outside of what is offered as an option.

Chewing and Scratching

Cats love boxes because they’re perfect for chewing and biting. The texture plays an important role here. Cardboard is great because cats enjoy ripping through these things without actually hurting themselves. Cat lovers also love this because cardboard boxes don’t cost any money, can be recycled afterwards too!

Perfect Place For a Nap

The cardboard boxes are the perfect place for cats to have a nap. They’re warm, cosy and they don’t just insulate from cold but also noise! The dark environment provides shelter against harsh sunlight in addition to providing peace of mind when it comes time for bedtime strolls outside. Throw in a small blanket for them and it will become their new sleeping spot. A great cat nap can rejuvenate even an exhausted feline!

They Are a Great Hiding Place

Cats are naturally drawn to cardboard boxes because they provide a great hiding spot for cats, just as their wild counterparts would. Cats love pouncing on anything that moves! And what better way is there to satisfy this predatory instinct? Cardboard makes for some really fun playtime in your home.

It’s Not Just Boxes

Paper bags are just as interesting to cats as cardboard boxes. They will often jump inside them with no warning. The paper is also the perfect consistency for them to scratch at without hurting themselves.

Make a Cardboard Box Safe for Your Cat to Play In

Cats make wonderful pets. They are loving, friendly animals that make great companions for humans. But cats can be prone to some dangers around the house if they are not supervised or allowed to explore on their own accord. One of these dangers is cardboard boxes. Cats love playing in cardboard boxes, but often times the inside of the box is exposed and it can lead to injuries like cuts and scratches from sharp corners or getting stuck between two pieces of cardboard. We will discuss how you can make your cat’s favorite plaything safe with a few quick modifications!

Make a hole in the end of one side to make an entrance/exit for your cat – make sure the box is large enough that your cat can turn around and stand up inside without bumping his head on top
Secure light weight pieces of cardboard over exposed corners with duct tape or hot glue. This will make it safer for cats who like to scratch at exposed bits of cardboard, which could lead to injury from sharp edges!
Place a blanket or towel in the bottom if you want extra cushioning so that your kitty has something soft and comfortable under their paws while enjoying this new space!
Remove any staples from the box (even staples that are not exposed). Staples are sharp and can cause serious injuries to your cat. Always inspect the whole box (specially underside of the box) to ensure there are no staples present.

*Bonus: Make a small paper ball (about the size of a marble) and throw it in the box. Your cat will go mad for it!