cat
Inside: Science-Backed Cat Boredom Busters + Environment Enhancers
The lifestyle magazine for modern cats and their companions
FALL · WINTER 2024/25
PLAY TIPS
Enrichment
CATS for
Why & How To Play With Your Cat
Fun ways to improve your cat’s life p20
Real Reason The
WE 'RE IT G N I V GI ! AWAY t
Cats Scratch
Furniture
Publications Agreement Number 42496543 Return Mail Dept, Suite 101 - 2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9
ol Ca Win Co p18 Stuff
Are
+ what to do about it
You
Misreading
These Cat
Signals?
p68
Cat Tattoos moderncat.com DISPLAY UNTIL JAN 31 ‘25
$7.95
Most Affectionate Cat Breeds
Polydactyl Cats Feline Trivia p46 Human Foods For Cats
Expert Behaviour Advice, Catification Strategies + A Cat Lover’s Dream Trip!
FALL/WINTER 2024/25
VOL 13 NO 2
56 FEATURES 20
Mental Stimulation for Cats: Activity Ideas for Happy Cats!
Indoor enrichment essentials: six great ways to make your cat happier, smarter, and less bored!
24
Your Cat Is Trying to Tell You Something. You Just Don’t Understand. A new study suggests that people frequently misread their cat’s signals. BY SHERI RADFORD
28
A Cat Lovers Dream Trip
Famous cat-loving couple document their feline-focused travels in new book.
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34
How to Transition an Outside Cat to an Inside Cat
THE GOODS
BY MIESHELLE NAGELSCHNEIDER
32
Expert strategies for a smooth transition. 52
BY DR. MIKEL DELGADO
58
Cat-tastic designs to thrill both you and your cat!
Olfactory Enrichment for Cats
Fun ways to enrich your cat’s life by considering their incredible sense of smell!
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The 10 Most Affectionate Cat Breeds Get to know the most lovey cat breeds and their unique attributes. PHOTOS BY SARAH BAKER
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Cat Gear Look Book
64
Your at-a-glance guide to the best stuff for you & your cat.
BY SHERI RADFORD
68
Purrfect Presents
A gift guide for cats and cat lovers.
End-of-Life Pet Doulas
How a death doula can bring peace at the end of your pet’s life.
Catify Your Life
72
Healthy Paws
Solutions for everything from stinky breath to shedding!
LEFT PHOTO SUNRAY BRI CATTERY RU/SHUTTERSTOCK; RIGHT PHOTO YAVDAT/SHUTTERSTOCK; INSET ALEXANDR/ADOBE STOCK
BY CAMILLE LEMOS
28 A new study reveals the real reason cats scratch furniture—and what to do about it.
CAT LIFE 18
We’ve got months of awesome cat stuff—from cool cat trees to cat gear prize packs—up for grabs! Turn to page 18 to see what you can win.
8 Human Foods You Can Share with Your Cat
46
Safe and healthy tidbits to offer your cat!
Incredible Abstract Art Created from Ashes
48
42
BY KELLY CALDWELL
Elevate Your Litter Box Experience
Raised litter station makes litter box maintenance easier for seniors and disabled cat lovers
Meet the Brown Cats
Breeds, coat patterns, and fun facts about these feline friends.
A very cool way to remember a beloved cat. 50
We’re Giving it Away!
56
Top 5 Tips for Play
Why and how to play with your cat. 62
Cattoos
A love that lasts forever. 64
REGULAR FEATURES 6 8 10 12 16 79
Editor’s Letter Contributors Stuff We Love The Scoop Photo Contest Marketplace
Polydactyl Cats
History, traits, and famous examples of felines with extra toes. BY KELLY CALDWELL
66 COVER CAT Adorable British Shorthair Bella was a very good model and loved the attention on set. Photographed by Shaina Fishman, a commercial photographer specializing in pets.
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Connie’s Book Club
Editor-in-Chief Connie Wilson’s selection of new, must-read books for cat lovers. 76
Tiny Cat Stories
76
Cat love in short form: miniature, reader-submitted cat stories of no more than 100 words. 80
7 Interesting Cat Facts
Fascinating cat trivia and little-known feline facts.
In USA: MODERNCAT (ISSN 1929-3933) Volume 13, Issue 2. Published semi-annually by Modern Cat Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Cat, PO Box 4767 Blaine, WA 98231-9901.
LEFT TOP PHOTO ANDREW MARTTILA; RIGHT TOP PHOTO CHALABALA/BIGSTOCK; LEFT TOP INSET DEVYN DOBINSKI; LEFT BOTTOM INSET ZIPPYCLAWS; RIGHT INSET SSSTOCKER/BIGSTOCK
Discovered: Surprising Reason Cats Scratch Furniture
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BODY & SOUL
EDITOR'S LETTER
Social icon
Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.
A
h, cats. Our enigmatic, endlessly fascinating (and sometimes frustrating!) best friends. If you’re dealing with inexplicable or unwanted behaviour, our feline behaviour experts have you covered! In this issue, you’ll discover what your cat needs to thrive and how to be a better cat guardian. For example: Are you misreading these cat signals? A new study reveals which cat behaviours are frequently misunderstood (p 24).
CONNIE WILSON WITH DAO DAO, PHOTO TANYA KING
OUR READERS WRITE
Cover Cat Dreams
Fing is patiently waiting for @americasfavoritepet voting to start– for the chance to be on the front cover of @modern_cat_mag!!—@chelsearaeblair
We’ve packed the issue with fun facts, the best stuff for your cat, and expert advice from renowned vets and behaviourists. We recommend science-backed cat boredom busters and environment enhancers. We explain why and how to play with your cat in Top 5 Tips for Play (p 56) and reveal the real reason cats scratch furniture—and what to do about it. As usual, we have giveaways galore—find out what’s up for grabs on page 18! Explore fun, easy ways to enrich your cat’s life on page 20, then tag along on a cat lover’s dream trip! Famous cat-couple “Kitten Lady” Hannah Shaw and her husband, cat photographer and fellow kitten rescuer Andrew Marttila, share photos from their dream vacation documenting cats around the world.
Curl Up & Read
I love reading the latest issue of Modern Cat Magazine!—@purrpurrpepper
You’ll discover the most affectionate cat breeds (p 68), as well as human foods you can share with your cat. Find your “cattoo” inspiration (that would be cat tattoo) on page 62 with the coolest cat tats. Have you been eying an unowned, outdoor cat in your neighbourhood? Mieshelle Nagelschneider, aka The Cat Whisperer, explains how to transition an outside cat to an inside cat. There’s all this and so much more! We hope you enjoy this issue as much we enjoyed putting it together. Thank you for being a part of our amazing cat-loving community! With love,
Connie Wilson, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
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Happy Cats Love Modern Cat!
Cute, bubbly, bright eyed. One happy little kitten full of energy and playfulness. —amirahid
CON TRIBUT O R S FALL · WINTER 2024/25 VOL 13 NO 2
Dr. Mikel Delgado has
been working with cats professionally for over 20 years. She is co-owner of Feline Minds, where she offers assistance to cat owners, animal shelters, and corporations. Mikel completed her PhD in animal behaviour at UC Berkeley and was a postdoc at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. She is the author of the recent book Play with Your Cat! and co-authored the book Total Cat Mojo with Jackson Galaxy. In this issue, she shares how to offer all-important olfactory enrichment for your cat—turn to page 52!
Publisher
Modern Cat Inc. Editor-in-Chief
Connie Wilson Editor & Creative Director
Jennifer Nosek Design & Production
Megan Carpick Comptroller
Cecilia de Roca Chan, CPA, CGA Sales
Simran Parekh Audience Development Coordinator
Yaunna Sommersby Subscriptions & Office Administration
Anna Regino Marketing & Sales Assistant
Aly Stamper Administrative Assistant, Sales & Marketing
Mina Zivkovic Administrative Assistant
Angelie Hizon
Cat behaviourist Mieshelle Nagelschneider is a regular Modern Cat contributor, as well as the new host of My Cat From Hell, which has over one billion viewers internationally. Mieshelle studied animal behaviour and welfare at Oxford, Harvard, and the University of Edinburgh. Her awardwinning book, The Cat Whisperer, is the first scholarly cited cat behaviour book for cat owners. She is also co-owner of The Cat Behavior Clinic (thecatbehaviorclinic.com). Turn to page 34 for Mieshelle’s expert advice on transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor cat!
INTERESTED IN SUBSCRIBING? Give us a call at 1-800-417-6289 or subscribe online at moderncat.com/subscribe Advertising inquiries call (866) 734-3131 In Canada: MODERNCAT (ISSN 1929-3933) Volume 13, Issue 2. Published semi-annually by Modern Cat Inc. at Suite 101 2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Cat, Suite 101 - 2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9 In USA: MODERNCAT (ISSN 1929-3933) Volume 13, Issue 2. Published semi-annually by Modern Cat Inc. at 142 Churchill Drive, Newington, CT 06111-4003. Postage paid at Hartford, CT and additional offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Modern Cat, PO Box 4767 Blaine, WA 98231-9901. PHONE
(604) 734-3131 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3131
FAX (604) 734-3031 OR TOLL FREE (866) 734-3031
Kelly Caldwell is a writer and
photographer based out of Guelph, ON. Her articles and photographs have appeared in a variety of print and online magazines. She is a member of the Dog Writer’s Association of America and has been honoured by the DWAA with a Maxwell Award for her photography. Kelly is pictured here with her senior cat, Evee. In this issue, Kelly uncovers fun facts about polydactyl cats p64, as well as everything you ever wanted to know about brown cat breeds p42.
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The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photographs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of services or products within those advertisements. Copyright 2024/25 by Modern Cat Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, electronic or mechanical, including the Internet or photocopying without the written permission of the Publisher. Modern Cat and its logotype are the trademarks of Modern Cat Inc. Modern Cat is published two times a year. Two-year subscription prices: Canada $18CAD, U.S.A. $18USD, foreign $45USD. Subscription orders and customer service inquiries should be sent to Modern Cat Subscription Services, Suite 101 - 2930 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC Canada V6J 3Y9
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ENTER TO WIN
We’re giving it away! Enter to win fabulous giveaways November through April. Go to moderncat.com/giveaways to enter! Lucky readers will win every two weeks.
November
1st -14th
Win a feline enrichment prize bundle from MyThreeCats.com! Includes a Skyliner Scratcher and a 5-Level Wall Mounted Cat Activity Tree for all of your cat’s enrichment needs.
January
1st -14th
Win 1 of 2 cat food and litter prize packs from Dr. Elsey’s! Includes three 40 pound bags of Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Litter and three 6.6 pound bags of cleanprotein kibble.
December
15th -30th
Win 1 of 2 cat toy prize packs from ZippyClaws! Includes toys from the ZippyClaws holiday collection, the Birthday Party pack, Mini Donutz, and the Fish in Bowl Burrow toy.
15th -31st
Win the Siberian Mountain Cat Tower from Prevue Pet Products! This extra-large cat tower has jute wrapped scratching posts, a cozy hideaway, basket and swing hammocks, and plush toys!
Win 1 of 3 litter care prize packs from Catalyst Pet! Includes a 10 lb bag of Catalyst litter, a premium scoop, a sisal litter tracking mat, and compostable poop bags.
Win 1 of 3 cat gear prize packs from Armarkat! Includes the durable and functional S8502 and A7407 cat trees and a cozy C70NBS cat bed.
15th -31st
Win the ultimate cat gear prize bundle from Spot! Includes a large assortment of toys, treats, and accessories for your kitty!
February
1st -14th
Win 1 of 3 Immunity Boost Bundles from Fera Pets! Keep your cat’s immune system in tip-top shape with their Immune Support Mushroom Powder, Fish Oil, and Probiotics + Prebiotics Powder!
15th -28th
Win a one-year supply of cat litter from Dofu Cat! Includes four bags each of the Dofu Cat Tofu Litter, Coffee and Bean Litter, and Cereal Litter.
April
March
1st -14th
1st -14th
15th -31st
Win 1 of 3 one-year supplies of cat snacks from Noochies! These single-ingredient and protein rich Freeze-Dried Cat Snacks support immune and digestive health.
1st -14th
Win 1 of 2 feline wellness prize packs from Vetericyn! Includes two bottles each of the Vetericyn Plus Feline Antimicrobial Facial Therapy, Hydrogel, Wound and Skin Care, and Ear Rinse solutions.
15th -30th
Win 1 of 5 one-year subscriptions to Modern Cat magazine, chock full of helpful articles, heartwarming stories, and so many cute cat photos!
No purchase necessary to enter or win. Beginning November 1, 2024 at 12:01 AM (PST) through April 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM (PST), enter each day at moderncat.com/giveaways. Each biweekly giveaway ends at 11:59 PM (PST). Every two weeks, the specified number of winners for that giveaway will win the prize featured in the giveaway calendar (ARV: $200). Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Contest is open to legal Canadian and/or US residents 18 and older as of date of entry. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited by law. Giveaway subject to complete official rules available at moderncat.com/giveaways.
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INSET PHOTO: YO-YO SUBMITTED BY SHYANN
s y a w a e v i G t a Gre
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Purrfect Presents A gift guide for cats & cat lovers!
Ensure your cat’s safety with real-time tracking and virtual fences. Monitor their activity and health, all in a waterproof, cat-friendly design! tractive.com Big solutions from a little boost! Go! Solutions Booster recipes for cats serve as a complete and balanced meal alternative, as well as a delicious wet food topper. go-solutions.com Treat your cat to some magical holiday fun with this set of Festive Cheer toys from ZippyClaws. Tap into your cat’s prey drive and keep them engaged in active play for hours! zippyclaws.com Looking for a more fruitful relationship with your cat? Just add Yeowww! Catnip Strawberries! These berry fun toys are just the thing to shake up kitty’s playtime. Stuffed with organically-grown catnip, the leaves and stems also feature a fun crinkle texture! yeowww.com
The gift that keeps on giving! A subscription to “the best cat magazine ever” makes the perfect under-$20 gift for the cat lover in your life. Just $18 for a two-year subscription, moderncat.com/subscribe
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Gift the joy of crinkle this holiday season. The Crinkle Ball will keep your cat happy and entertained all year long! Made in Canada with materials sourced in the USA. crinkleball.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Purrfect Presents
Purr-fect for cats and small dogs alike, the Squishmallows Cam the Cat Pet Cave features a Dome enclosed for maximum comfort, featuring a unique “squishy” fabric, a cushioned center pad that can be removed to double as a lounger bed. Easy to maintain: spot-clean and air dry only. amazon.com
Give your cats the purr-fect gift with Cat Crack Catnip! Harvested in North America, 100% natural, non-GMO, and packed with 78%+ Nepetalactone potency – this catnip is legit! catcrack.com
Immerse your cat in a world of fun with Kitty Love Bubbles! These non-toxic, catnip-infused bubbles captivate your kitty’s attention, sparking their playful instincts. Great for holiday stocking stuffers! atomicbubbles.com
These dancing cactus cat earrings are sure to make someone on your list smile! They measure 3/4 of an inch tall and are made in the USA using sterling silver. markpoulin.com
This Holiday Stocking is purrrrfect for every nice (okay – the naughty ones, too) kitty this holiday season. A beautiful keepsake item and ideal gift set that includes an adorable trio of felted cat toys! mythreecats.com
Treat your kitty to the purrfect holiday gift: Kitangle’s modern litter box! Not only does your furry friend benefit but you'll also enjoy the seamless, high-sided design in your home. kitangle.com/shop moderncat.com
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SPECIAL PROMOTION
Purrfect Presents #1 ranked, multi-award winning, HandsOn Gloves are the revolutionary allin-one shedding/ bathing/grooming gloves. Animal preferred for the loving HandsOn massage. HandsOn is changing the way we bathe, de-shed, and groom all our animals. Forever. handsongloves.com
Explore your cat’s secret life with Mr Petcam HD! The world’s go-to miniature video camera for capturing the world directly from your cat’s point of view. mrpetcam.com
The Big Zeke, originally designed for a three year old 27 pound Maine Coon, is perfect for large cats who weigh up to 25 pounds. Get one for your Zeke! Use discount code ALYGG0125 for 20% off through 5/1/25. felinedesign.net
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Armarkat: Luxurious, ecofriendly cat furniture designed for comfort and style. Loved by pets and owners alike for over 25 years! Discover more at armarkat.com/magazine-special
Keep your cat youthful and healthy with the Functional Feline Powder organic mushroom blend formulated by Dr. Rob Silver. Supports immune function, a healthy gut microbiome, and cognitive health! NSF certified, gluten-free, and non-GMO. shop.realmushrooms.com
Meowijuana’s Knock ‘N Nibble Refillable Treat Dispensing Toys offer a unique blend of mental stimulation, physical fun, and tasty surprises. Best paired with Meowijuana’s Crunchie Munchie Cat Treats. Watch your cat’s curiosity and intelligence come to life as they paw, knock, and roll this durable treat dispensing toy! meowijuana.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Purrfect Presents
Never scoop again! Litter-Robot 4 solves the litter box problem with automatic, self-cleaning technology that quietly provides a fresh bed of litter after every use, while also reducing odors and litter tracking. litter-robot.com
Pet hair on furniture, rugs, or clothes? Try Lilly! Brushes clean up fluffy fur, while soft-blade products tackle embedded short and wiry hair. More efficient than vacuums, eco-friendly, and easy! amazon.com
Delight your feline-loving friends with this Cat Lover Gift Box from Aryce Gifts, featuring charming cat succulent planters, adorable cork coasters, cute cat magnet, and stylish cat-themed desk accessories. Perfect for any cat enthusiast! amazon.com
Kitty Poo Club keeps litter box care simple with leakproof, odour-controlling boxes delivered fresh each month. It’s a clean and convenient solution that makes taking care of your cat effortless and stress-free! kittypooclub.com
Check out the Catit PIXI Smart Mouse Camera! This adorable mouse-shaped posable camera enables you to easily check in on your cat, and even talk and listen to them when you’re away from home. Available on catit.ca
Purrfectplay Catnip Baby Carrots are perfect to toss, carry, and juggle! Little organic cotton gems that keep your kitties active. Made in the USA, these toys are fragrant, fresh, and plastic free! purrfectplay.com moderncat.com
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BODY & SOUL
Elevate Your Litter Box Experience
litter box duties. With LoftyLoo, Diane can now clean the litter box on her own. “You like to do things yourself, even if you are old,” she says.
Height Advantage Raised litter station makes litter box maintenance easier for seniors and disabled cat lovers
C
leaning a cat’s litter box can be difficult and even dangerous for older or disabled cat lovers. People with persistent pain, arthritis, and other chronic illnesses often struggle with this dreaded task. For wheelchair users, cleaning cat litter boxes is nearly impossible.
A Game Changer
Finally, there’s an ADA-accessible litter box solution that allows cat owners to clean the litter box while safely seated or in a standing position. LoftyLoo Raised Litter Station is a needs-based product developed “out of love and necessity” to address the requirements of cat owners suffering from physical limitations.
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Recommended by veterinarians, this elevated litter box is designed with both feline and owner needs in mind. The higher position helps cats feel secure while addressing the physical challenges many cat-caregivers face, providing a wheelchair-accessible solution that eases the burden of litter box maintenance. It also helps prevent dogs from accessing the litter, making it a game changer for multi-pet homes.
A Solution for Disabled and Elderly Cat Owners
Diane from Missouri hasn’t been able to care for her cat independently in years, relying on her daughters to handle the
Traditional litter boxes often fail to consider the physical needs of cat owners, leading to potential neglect and, ultimately, house-soiling issues. With LoftyLoo, cleaning is straightforward and manageable, reducing stress for both cats and their caregivers. It’s better for cats, too, says Dr. James Peterson, a Kansas City veterinarian. LoftyLoo is designed to cater to cats’ natural behaviours and instincts. The elevated position satisfies a cat’s preference for high places, offering them a sense of security and control. Its open, quiet design prevents the anxiety that enclosed or noisy automated boxes can cause. “Healthy cats naturally feel safer and more secure when their litter box is elevated and away from other animals,” says Dr. Peterson. “An elevated litter box allows cats to do their business in a safe and comfortable space, reducing anxiety and promoting overall wellbeing for all.”
PHOTO LOFTYLOO
Diane in Kansas City, MO sits to clean LoftyLoo
SPECIAL PROMOTION
pidan Tofu Cat Litter monitors
cat health with occult blood test particles, offers
superior clumping, odour control, and eco-friendly disposal, ensuring cleanliness and early detection of feline
lower urinary tract disease. teddybob.ca or teddybob.us
The RYERCAT Toothbrush is a unique dual-sided, cat-specific toothbrush with a micro head and pointed pick end. Designed
based on feline anatomy, it’s the smallest cat toothbrush on the market! It’s Biodegradable and available in nine colors. RYERCAT is a small family business based in Vancouver, Canada. ryercat.com
The PUROBOT ULTRA is the first automatic litter box with AI technology, featuring an AI camera that monitors and records stool and urine status for preventative care. It includes
Help your cat live their best life with these wellness products!
multi-cat facial recognition, 20-day scoop-free use, touch-free disposal, and
more, addressing traditional litter box problems. Use code
2024moderncat for $50 off! bit.ly/4cxt7TG
Manage cat acne, cuts, mouth sores, and more! Use Vetericyn’s Feline Facial Therapy to remove irritants, clean discharge in and around eyes and nose, reduce inflammation, and soothe the itch and irritation associated with allergies. vetericyn.com
Create a nutrition-packed feast by building a custom
bowl with functional recipes like
Go! Solutions Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Salmon Recipe and adding a Go! Solutions Booster wet food topper.
go-solutions.com
Portland Pet Food Company’s Salmon N’ Pumpkin and Chicken N’ Pumpkin cat meals are crafted with quality ingredients sourced entirely within the United States. Designed to serve as rotational meals or tantalizing toppers. Featuring whole-food, limited ingredients, and low in phosphorous, they are easily digestible and ideal for cats
with digestive sensitivities! portlandpetfoodcompany.com moderncat.com
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#
Devon Rex: The Mischievous Charmer With large ears set atop a pixie-like
face, the Devon Rex possesses a mischievous charm that is hard to resist. This breed is all about expressing love through playful behaviour and constant companionship. Their soft, curly coats invite gentle strokes, while their intelligent and sociable nature ensures there's never a dull moment. If you're looking for a feline friend who will shower you with affection and keep you entertained with their antics, the Devon Rex is your go-to companion.
The Purrfect Partner in 9 Persian: Serenity
#
At the pinnacle of feline affection stands the majestic Persian. Known for their serene and gentle nature, Persians are the epitome of a furry love potion. Their sweet, responsive demeanor makes them the perfect lap cat, ready to offer a soft purr as a balm to your busy day. With their luxurious, flowing coats, Persians require regular grooming, which only strengthens the bond between pet and owner. As you brush through their silky fur, feel the stress of the day melt away in the warmth of their tranquil presence.
7 Siamese: The Vocal Affectionate
#
The Siamese cat, along with its brethren, like the Oriental Shorthair and Balinese, is known for its striking appearance and vocal personality. These cats form deep bonds with their humans, often expressing their affection through loud purrs and meows. Their sleek bodies and mesmerizing blue eyes captivate the heart, while their loving and sometimes demanding nature ensures that you’ll never feel alone.
8 Sphynx: The Hairless Hugger
#
A Sphynx’s heart is as warm as their hairless body. This breed is renowned for its love of cuddles, using its velvety skin to provide comforting snuggles to its favorite humans. The Sphynx is a true extrovert, displaying a playful, loyal, and affectionate nature. Their eagerness to show love and seek attention makes them an ideal companion for those who cherish close bonds with their pets. Embrace a Sphynx and feel the warmth of their love envelop you.
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Coon Cat: The Gentle 10 Maine Giant
#
The Maine Coon, with its impressive size and luxurious coat, is a gentle giant that brings warmth and majesty into any home. Their laid-back nature combines with a playful side that endears them to everyone they meet. Affectionate, patient, and sociable, Maine Coons make excellent companions, especially in homes with children and other pets.
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Ingenious solutions to common cat-life problems PROBLEM: FREQUENT LITTER CHANGES, ODOUR CONTROL, AND LITTER TRACKING
PROBLEM:
CAT DANDER ALLERGIES
SOLUTION: Bathe your kitty
regularly with J.R.LIGGETT’S 100% natural, non-detergent Cat Shampoo to safely and effectively remove the dander that can cause allergies. Use code: kitty20 at jrliggett.com
SOLUTION: The
pidan 3-in-1 Blend cat litter absorbs well, controls odours, and clumps easily. It’s low dust, low tracking, flushable, and longlasting, perfect for single or multi-cat households. Keeps litter boxes fresh and clean! teddybob.ca or teddybob.us
PROBLEM: FINDING A SAFE SELF-CLEANING SOLUTION
SOLUTION: Tired
PROBLEM: DOGS INVADING THE LITTER BOX SOLUTION: Prevent canine intrusions with the Door Buddy
of daily scooping but concerned about unreliable automatic litter boxes? The Leo’s Loo Too, designed by cat parents and featuring advanced triple-layer detection technology, boasts an impeccable safety history. casaleopet.com
Door Prop. Maintain a narrow door opening to keep dogs out while allowing your cat easy access. Enjoy a cleaner, dog-free litter box area hassle-free! thedoorbuddy.com
PROBLEM:
INACCESSIBLE AND NON-DOG PROOF LITTER BOX
SOLUTION:
LoftyLoo’s elevated, dog-proof design is ADA accessible, easing joint strain. Plus, it controls odours and features hidden storage for supplies, ensuring a cleaner, stress-free environment for both pets and owners. loftyloo.com
PROBLEM:
CLAY LITTER IS HARMFUL FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
SOLUTION: Every
year, five BILLION pounds of clay are strip-mined in the US for litter. Made from upcycled soft wood, Catalyst has the clumping power of clay without the environmental damage. catalystpet.com moderncat.com
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The Egyptian Mau is widely considered the oldest domesticated cat breed, with a history dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt. Evidence suggests these ancient cats existed as far back as 3,000 years ago.
Cats Have Fewer Taste Buds Than Dogs or People
INTERESTING
CAT FACTS
Cats only have 473 taste buds, far less than humans— we have 9,000—or even dogs, who have 1,700 taste buds. Cats can taste savoury, salty, bitter, and sour flavours, but not sweet.
Social gathering? Try these cat facts to get the conversation flowing!
Cat Eyes of a Different Colour Cats with two different coloured eyes are quite rare, making up just 0.6 percent of the feline population. These cats typically have one iris that’s blue while the other is green, brown or yellow. It’s caused by a condition called heterochromia, created by the same gene that makes cats white! Heterochromia iridis is more common in certain breeds, such as Turkish Van, Persian, and Siamese cats. It can also occur in mixed breed cats.
Terrific Tummies Your cat’s sagging belly has a name—and a purpose. Called a primordial pouch, it serves several functions. The padding provided by the primordial pouch helps protect the vulnerable belly and internal organs therein from teeth and claws during a fight. The extra skin also allows cats to stretch out their bodies when running or jumping, improving speed. Finally, it allows cats to store excess fat that they will later burn off. This is especially important for wild cats that don’t have ready access to food. Lions and tigers also possess a primordial pouch.
Who’s Your Daddy One litter of kittens can have multiple dads. Female cats release multiple eggs when they are in heat, so they can become pregnant with kittens from more than one “father” cat at the same time!
Why Do Cat’s Tongues Feel Like Sandpaper? The sandpaper-like rasp of your cat’s tongue is due to something called filiform papillae. These hard, backwardsfacing spines on their tongues work like a comb when grooming themselves. The rough texture also helps remove meat from animal bones. But why do dogs have smooth tongues? Though cats are extremely successful predators, they are also prey, due to their small size. This makes effective grooming paramount to help minimize their own scent and escape detection. Dogs, on the other hand, evolved from pack-hunting wolves, making grooming less important, hence the ordinary, smooth tongue.
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Cats Spend 30 - 50% of Their Day Grooming Themselves Cats spend 12 to 16 hours a day sleeping, but when they’re awake, they’re all about selfcare. Cats typically spend between 30 and 50 percent of their day grooming themselves, says Pamela Perry, D.V.M., resident in animal behaviour at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, and Camuti Consultant with the Cornell Feline Health Center. “It’s a huge chunk of their day,” she says.
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