Posts Tagged: Cat Behavior

Cats tend to receive far less veterinary care than other household animals. Travel is a big stressor for many cats, and when a cat is stressed, their owner is stressed, too. The intense fear and anxiety related to traveling directly impacts routine care, as owners opt out of wellness visits (especially if cats appear and behave normally). With a little bit of effort, you can reduce your cat’s anxiety so he can get the veterinary care he needs.

Cats are masters of nonverbal communication; after all, nothing says “I love you” like a good, strong head butt from your favorite feline or a dead rodent conveniently deposited on your welcome mat. Understanding how our pets communicate with us is an essential part of pet ownership and can help you build a strong, loving bond with your furry friend.

When we enrich soil, we’re making steps toward improving or enhancing it. As a result, plant life can flourish. The same is true for the pets we care for. Dog owners enrich the lives of their dogs by engaging them with outdoor activities and plenty of exercise. 

The same cannot be said for owners of strictly indoor cats. To protect them from boredom, stress, and anxiety, an approach to indoor cat enrichment can make all the difference. It is also important to consider the kind of enrichment your cat might need. Enrichment for cats in apartments is very different than for those with plenty of space to run around and entertain themselves. Similarly, senior cat enrichment is much different than it is for kittens.

Cats are known for being fastidious in their self care. They spend hours upon hours grooming and primping and while we admire their dedication, most cat owners know that a tongue and saliva aren’t really a substitution for a good bath, every now and again. 

Most kitty caregivers have accepted their role in cat grooming. Some brushing, the occasional bath, nail trimming, no big deal. But when it comes to cleaning your cat, how far do you need to go? Is cleaning your cat’s derriere in your job description?

The cat is a complicated creature. As a Certified Cat-Friendly Practice, though, Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital tries our best to understand where these quirky, magical creatures are coming from.

Although we still have a lot to learn, cat behavior is a topic that is becoming increasingly studied and understood. One interesting theory is the tree dweller or bush dweller theory. The question of which type of plant a feline friend identifies with can help us to better understand cat personalities.

Most people imagine that cats are sweet, friendly, and incredibly docile (if not a little judgey). But considering the myriad ways that the wild ancestors of today’s domesticated felines survived so well, it’s no surprise that they can get a little, well, freaky. 

If you’ve ever come face to face with an angry, aggressive cat you know it’s a deeply uncomfortable, unpredictable and even frightening place to be. 

Know the Score

Aside from litter box issues, aggression is the most common feline behavioral problem facing owners today. It is an important defense mechanism that is hardwired into their DNA, but if it’s left unchecked aggression can create problems at home. 

Many myths about cats persist today, including the idea that they like being left alone. They might not be as demanding of an owner’s time and attention as dogs, but cats are social animals with important needs. In fact, when they are apart from the people they love, cats feel separation anxiety, just like dogs and other pets. 

So, what’s an owner to do when they have to leave their cat home alone? Whether it’s for a standard shift for work, or you’re simply stepping out to run errands, there are ways to communicate your devotion to their every feline need.

Cat owners generally know when their cat is hungry, restless or affectionate simply by recognizing and interpreting their vocalizations or body language. While cats can be quite specific about their needs, they can also be incredibly subtle. When it comes to fully understanding feline communication, taking a close look at your cat’s tail can go a long way.

Between the Felines

People usually cannot pick up the scent signals deposited by cats, but we can definitely observe their unique layers of body language and listen closely for variations of vocalizations. Without a doubt, cats can be pretty clear communicators, but that doesn’t mean we always know implicitly what they’re trying to say. 

If you’ve ever pondered your cat’s unique behavior, you’re not alone. From a love of cardboard boxes, to sleeping in circles, to pouncing on your feet, cats have no shortage of quirks. 

Among these might be the rhythmic motion your cat makes with her paws, pressing in and out, as she sits on your lap. Also known as kneading, this behavior gets its name because it resembles a baker working bread dough. 

But why do cats knead? Come along with Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital as we explore this question. 

You love your cat, but sometimes it can feel as if you just don’t understand each other. Why does Fluffy seem to enjoy being petted one minute, and attack your hand the next? What do those slow blinks mean? And what’s the deal with the strange chirping sounds he makes when he spies a tasty looking bird or squirrel through the kitchen window?

These and other quirks are part of the joy of cat ownership, and understanding them can lead to a better relationship with your sweet kitty. The team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has tackled our favorite weird cat behaviors…for your reading pleasure….