Feline Education

What is house soiling and Inappropriate elimination in cats?The most common unwanted behavior described by cat owners is house soiling. This includes urinating or defecating in unwanted areas outside the litter box. House soiling is sometimes called inappropriate...

Why is my cat afraid of going into the carrier or riding in the car?Going into a cat carrier and riding in the car are usually rare experiences for cats. Cats quickly learn that car rides routinely end in unfamiliar and potentially scary places, such as the veterinary...

Cats that are kept for companionship are typically neutered (castrated), unless they are intended to be used as breeding stock. Neutering prevents accidental or indiscriminate breeding and reduces the frequency of undesirable sexual behaviors such as mounting and...

Why is my cat most active at night? Cats are crepuscular animals. This term is used to describe animals that are most active at dawn and dusk. Free- roaming cats that do not rely on people for food or entertainment are most active at dusk and dawn. This behavior makes...

When does a female cat have her first estrus cycle? Cats have their first estrous (reproductive) cycle when they reach puberty. On average, puberty, or sexual maturity, first occurs in cats at about six months of age, but this can vary slightly by the time of year...

The old adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” can be directly applied to feline health care. Avoiding an illness is always better than treating it, and when it cannot be avoided, intervention is always more effective if started sooner rather than...

When it comes to things you like, if one is good, two is better, right? That philosophy doesn’t always apply when it comes to cats. Many people choose to adopt two cats at a time, especially when the cats are special pals. When cats are adopted as a duo, it’s usually...

Kittens are full of energy, excitement, and fun! Transitioning to a new home is a big step for even the most playful and outgoing kitten. Setting your kitten up for success will help minimize stress for pets and people alike. What can I do before I bring my new kitten...

Several products on the market can help with behavior management. The products listed below are helpful suggestions, but please note that we are not affiliated with or endorse any particular brand or product. In addition, although we attempt to keep the names of...

What is meant by ovariohysterectomy or spaying? Spaying is the common term used to describe the surgical procedure known as an ovariohysterectomy. In this procedure, the ovaries and uterus are removed completely in order to sterilize a female cat. Why should I have my...

Why should I keep my cat indoors? There are many reasons to keep a cat indoors. One major benefit is that your cat will be safe from outdoor hazards. Free-roaming cats risk life-threatening encounters with vehicles and predators. They may also bring home parasites...

What is pyometra, and how does it occur? Pyometra is a serious and life-threatening infection in the uterus. The condition must be treated quickly and aggressively. Pyometra is a secondary infection due to hormonal changes in a female's reproductive tract. Following...

Why do cats scratch? Scratching surfaces is normal feline behavior. Although scratching does serve to shorten and condition the claws, another important reason cats scratch is to mark their territory. Scratching a surface leaves visible claw marks and releases...