Anatomy
The skeletal system in cats consists of over 230 bones and provides structure, support, and protection. Major parts include the cranium, mandible, vertebral column, ribs, and pelvic bones. The cat’s skeleton allows its spine to be very flexible and helps it jump, run, and climb with ease (Atlas of Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy).
The muscular system in cats includes muscles that control posture, movement, and internal organs. Key muscle groups include the limbs, neck, back, abdomen, face, and tail. Cats have powerful leg and back muscles for running, jumping, and pouncing on prey (Cat anatomy – Wikipedia).
The digestive system includes the mouth, teeth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Cats have small intestines optimized for digesting high-protein foods. Their sandpaper-like tongue aids in grooming and has tiny barbs ideal for scraping meat from bones (Cat anatomy – Wikipedia).
The cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood, and blood vessels. The cat heart has four chambers and pumps blood through the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Cats have higher blood pressure than humans and their heart beats faster to accommodate their active lifestyle (Cat anatomy – Wikipedia).
Behavior
Cats communicate in various ways, using vocalizations like meowing, purring, trilling, hissing, and growling. They also communicate through body language, conveying emotions and intentions via facial expressions, ear and tail positions, and posture. For example, an alert, upright tail signals a friendly greeting, while a swishing tail indicates agitation. Cats also scent mark their territory by rubbing scent glands against objects.
Hunting is a strong instinctual behavior for cats. Domestic cats retain their predatory nature and like to chase, pounce, and play with toys that mimic prey. They primarily hunt using their keen senses of sight, hearing, and smell. Cats are agile and can leap high distances when pouncing on prey. They use their retractable claws to catch and kill prey.
Cats are meticulous groomers and spend much of their waking time licking, scratching, and cleaning themselves. Grooming serves both hygienic and social purposes. It helps distribute skin oils, remove loose hair, and maintain coat condition. It also allows cats to monitor scents and pheromones in their environment. Mutual grooming between cats is a social bonding behavior.
Cats are crepuscular and sleep between 12-16 hours a day, with the most active periods being dawn and dusk. They alternate between short periods of sleep and wakefulness throughout the day and night. Cats like sleeping in cozy, comfortable spots like boxes, cat beds, shelves, and sunny windowsills. They prefer sleeping in locations that allow them to remain alert to any potential threats in their environment.
Breeds
Some of the most popular cat breeds include:
The Siamese is one of the most recognizable cat breeds. Known for their pointed coat pattern and striking blue eyes, Siamese cats are active, vocal, and highly social. They form strong bonds with their families. Originating in Thailand, the Siamese became popular as pets in the 19th century. They are lean, elegant, and athletic cats. [1]
The Persian is a longhaired breed prized for its luxurious, flowing coat and sweet, gentle personality. Typically quiet and calm, Persians enjoy being lap cats and thrive when kept primarily indoors. Their long coat requires daily grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Selective breeding has unfortunately led to breathing issues in some Persian lines. [2]
The Maine Coon is among the largest domesticated cat breeds. Their size, prominent ruff, and semi-long coat suit them for dealing with cold winters. Despite their intimidating stature, Maine Coons have playful, affectionate personalities. Intelligent and adaptable, they make great family pets. Some Maine Coons even enjoy being walked on a leash. They are believed to have originated from matings between semi-wild domestic cats and raccoons. [3]
The Ragdoll is a laidback, gentle breed known for going limp when picked up. Their silky, medium-length fur comes in a variety of pointed patterns. Originating in California in the 1960s, Ragdolls arenow popular worldwide thanks to their affectionate nature and cute looks. They tend to follow their ownersfrom room to room and enjoy interacting with people. [1]
The Sphynx is a hairless breed known for its wrinkled, Sphinx-like appearance. Despite their bare skin, Sphynxes are surprisingly soft and warm to the touch. Lacking fur, they require regular bathing. While not hypoallergenic, their lack of shedding helps minimize allergens. Sphynxes are energetic, mischievous, and demand a lot of attention. Their extroverted personalities often include behaviors like giving headbutts. [2]
Diet
Cats have specific nutritional requirements that must be met through their diet. According to Cornell University, cats need adequate amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and amino acids [1]. Adult cats require a diet that is at least 26% protein on a dry matter basis.
There is debate among veterinarians regarding whether wet or dry food is preferable. Dry food is more affordable and convenient, but wet food has higher moisture content. According to VCA Hospitals, dry food may help clean cats’ teeth, but wet food is more similar to the natural diet of cats [2].
Treats should compose no more than 10% of a cat’s daily caloric intake. It’s important to not overfeed treats since they are often high in calories and carbohydrates.Food allergies and sensitivities may cause gastrointestinal issues or skin irritation in cats. Common food allergens for cats include beef, dairy products, chicken, fish, wheat, corn and soy. Elimination diet trials may help identify problematic ingredients [3].
Grooming
Grooming is an important part of caring for your cat’s health and wellbeing. Proper grooming keeps your cat’s coat clean, reduces shedding, prevents mats and tangles, trims overgrown nails, and cleans the ears. Key aspects of cat grooming include:
Brushing: Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Use a bristle brush or comb and be gentle, especially on sensitive areas. Brush short-haired cats weekly and long-haired cats daily.
Nail trimming: Trim nails every 2-3 weeks to prevent overgrowth, scratches, and pain while walking. Use cat-safe clippers and cut the tip off carefully, avoiding the pink quick inside. Reward with treats afterwards.
Bathing: Most cats only need bathing every few months or when dirty. Use a cat shampoo and lukewarm water. Avoid their face and ears. Dry thoroughly with a towel to prevent chill.
Ear cleaning: Check ears weekly and clean gently with a cotton ball to remove any wax or dirt buildup. Never insert anything into the ear canal.
Health
Some of the most common diseases in cats include cancer, diabetes, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), heartworm disease, high-rise syndrome, and rabies. Vaccines can help prevent some diseases like panleukopenia, calicivirus, herpesvirus, and rabies. Getting your cat spayed or neutered can reduce the risks of reproductive diseases and cancers. Parasites like fleas, ticks, ear mites, and intestinal worms are also common in cats, so regular preventative medication is recommended.
Housing
Proper housing is essential for cats to thrive. This includes having adequate space, appropriate litter facilities, places to climb and scratch, toys for physical and mental stimulation, and cat-proofing to keep them safe. Some key components of good cat housing include:
Litter Boxes: Cats should have at least one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Litter boxes should be scooped daily and fully cleaned out weekly. Boxes should be large enough for the cat to turn around in and be placed in quiet, accessible areas of the home. Pet Friendly Future recommends placing multiple boxes in different spots if you have multiple cats.
Cat Trees and Scratching Posts: Cats have a strong desire to scratch, so providing appropriate outlets is vital. Cat trees and scratching posts in areas the cat frequents gives them positive places to scratch and climb. Vertical and horizontal scratching posts with a sturdy base are ideal. Covering posts in sisal rope or cardboard appeals to most cats.
Toys: Interactive toys provide cats with much-needed physical exercise and mental stimulation. Good options include toy mice, balls, feather wands, treat puzzles, and more. Rotate toys to keep cats interested. Make sure to supervise play with string toys to prevent swallowing.
Cat-Proofing: Cats are naturally curious and can get into trouble. Cat-proof your home by keeping dangerous items locked away and securing loose items. Use child locks and latches to limit access to certain areas. Keep toilet lids closed and clear counters and shelves of fragile items. Shelter Medicine recommends providing ledges, wall shelves, and cat trees for safe climbing and perching.
Lifespan
The average lifespan for a pet cat is 13-17 years. According to Cat Care 4 Life, a well cared for cat may commonly live to 15 years old. However, there are many factors that can affect a cat’s lifespan.
Some key factors that impact lifespan include diet, healthcare, environment, and neutering. Neutered cats tend to live longer than unneutered cats. Indoor cats generally live longer as well, with a reduced risk of injury and disease. Proper nutrition and regular vet checkups also promote longevity.
As cats reach around 11-14 years old, they are considered seniors. At this stage, more frequent vet visits are advised to monitor health issues like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and arthritis. Adjustments to diet, environment, and activity may help senior cats continue to thrive in their golden years.
While the average cat lifespan is 13-17 years, some cats are lucky enough to reach 20 years or even older. The current world record for oldest cat lived to be 38 years old. With excellent care and a loving home, many cats continue to live happy, healthy lives into their senior years and beyond.
Training
Proper training is essential for cats to learn good behaviors and discourage unwanted ones. According to How to Train a Cat: The Beginner’s Guide to Good Kitty Manners by Pumpkin, leaving the carrier door open with toys or treats inside can help a cat get comfortable with it. Giving positive reinforcement like pets when the cat enters is also recommended. The Ultimate Cat Training Guide by Catschool suggests starting with easy tricks, keeping sessions short, eliminating distractions, and rewarding wanted behaviors.
For litter box training specifically, the key is maintaining a consistent routine. Place the litter box in a quiet location and avoid moving it. Use positive reinforcement like treats when your cat uses the litter box. Thoroughly clean the litter box daily to encourage use. To teach basic commands like sit, stay and come, use food rewards and a clicker for training. Say the command clearly and reward with the click and treat when it is followed. For unwanted behaviors like biting or scratching, redirect your cat’s energy into appropriate scratching posts and toys. Use a firm “no” for unwanted behaviors.
Travel
When traveling with cats, it’s important to have the proper carrier and understand best practices for car travel, air travel, and boarding your cat.[1] For any form of travel, cats should be transported in secure, well-ventilated carriers specifically designed for cats and kittens. Carriers should be large enough for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Place familiar bedding inside the carrier along with a few toys to help keep cats comfortable.[2]
For car travel, secure the carrier with a seatbelt and do not allow the cat loose in the vehicle. Keep the carrier in a temperature-controlled area of the car and avoid leaving the cat alone in the vehicle. Take frequent breaks to let the cat out of the carrier and stretch. Bring food, water, litter box, medication, cleaning supplies, and other necessities.[3]
Air travel involves checking your cat and carrier at the ticket counter and picking them up at baggage claim. Check airline regulations for pet requirements and fees. Attach food and water bowls to the carrier along with labeling and proper documentation. Book a direct, nonstop flight whenever possible and avoid extreme temperatures. Request a special handling sticker if the cat is an anxious traveler.[1]
When boarding a cat, select a reputable pet boarding facility. Check requirements for vaccinations and other documentation. Provide familiar bedding and belongings from home to help keep the cat comfortable. Give detailed instructions on handling, feeding, medication administration, and any special needs.[2]