Many of us scruff cats, having learned that this is how mother cats carry their kittens, or it's what we’ve observed others do—at the groomer, vet, shelter, and even at home. Fortunately, there are other ways to pick up and handle cats. Scruffing can exacerbate behavioral issues and make handling more difficult—and even harmful—over [...]
Many cats develop arthritis, especially after age twelve. Animals can't tell us when they feel pain, so we have to watch subtleties in their behavior and body language. Older cats often hesitate before jumping down from surfaces. Although cats can climb, jump, and leap onto higher surfaces, most prefer walking up and down using [...]
Recently, I read a study on the relinquishment of animals in shelters and rehoming. It looked at demographics and the reasons people give up their dogs and cats or rehome them. Of course, since the research was based on people surveys, it may not be completely accurate — as people often make up reasons for [...]
Please note: Declawing is a painful and invasive procedure. It is an amputation. Botched surgeries are not uncommon. Pain and complications can last for months, if not years—and sometimes for the entire lifetime of the cat. Declawing can create behavioral problems such as timidity, avoidance of owners, hiding and retreating, biting (especially associated with play [...]
If you have a cat who doesn't like to be picked up or held, try these tips. Position yourself next to or slightly behind your cat. Place your outer arm underneath the cat's chest (and belly), and your other hand in front of the cat's chest to control the front legs. Pick up your [...]
There is often confusion in the use of the words feral and stray. It is important to know or be cognizant of the differences, since 'feral cat' is a label that is frequently misused and overused. The label can have dangerous consequences for cats since most shelters will kill ‘feral’ cats or people will assume the [...]
Pet Ownership and Renting: A Growing Problem Many people rent, though most would prefer to own. In many cities, apartment rentals cost more than mortgages and for much less space. Rentals often come with added challenges such as lack of parking, old appliances, noisy neighbors, extra fees, deposits, and instability. People with animals face [...]