Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and meet my five hilarious cats: Clutch, Cyril, Alex, Zelda, and Zazzles.

One problem I’ve never had to deal with in my house is picky eaters. The most likely reason for this is competition. There was only one time that I had a single pet in the house, and that was Clutch, a cat that had come to me fresh from the mean streets of Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, UK, and a street cat is never going to pass up a meal!

Although it’s not always the case, most cats and dogs that are fussy eaters, or leave their food to come back to later, are only children. As soon as there is another mouth that might steal your food, you learn to eat what you are given when you are given it! The other reason many pets become picky is that they are in the process of training their humans.

Although it’s perfectly fine, and not at all dangerous, for a cat or dog to miss the occasional meal (as long as they’re not unwell or doing it on a regular basis), many owners will get quite worried if their pet refuses to eat their food. So what do they do? They race to the kitchen to find something more tempting, like some fresh chicken or fish, or some leftover rice pudding…you get where I’m going with this.

Animals aren’t silly, and once they realize that turning their nose up at their regular food will get them something even better, it’s only a matter of time before their cat or dog food is being replaced with a rotating smorgasbord of Michelin star-worthy meals. Fortunately, I have never fallen victim to this particular form of manipulation, and my cats remain unaware that things like cooked chicken pieces are anything but an ‘after-dinner digestif’.

However, they have managed to work out one way to manipulate their way into the occasional second breakfast or dinner.

Cats and Hobbits

Unless you’ve been living in a (Hobbit) hole, you’ll have heard of Lord of the Rings, and even those of you who haven’t watched the films (multiple times, in the extended versions, and with cast commentary) as I have, might have heard the quote from the mischievous Pippin:

Not to mention ‘elevenses, luncheon, and afternoon tea.’

We’ve established that my cats don’t shy away from a feed, and in fact, they can be downright greedy. But, they are also quite cunning.

Twice a day, all five cats gather together to meow and nag to make sure that Husband and I don’t forget to feed them. We never have, but obviously, they don’t want to leave anything to chance. If one of us has beaten the other home, or left for work early, we can usually tell if the cats have been fed by the enthusiasm of the group’s demands. On most days, one or two will come begging for some more later, but we are not going to be fooled by the food-loving Cyril into feeding them again.

Every now and then, maybe once or twice a month, I swear that the cats come together and agree to go for a second meal. They will come to either Husband or me, whichever one hasn’t already fed them, demanding, with all five voices, to be fed. It’s not until the food is down that a voice comes from downstairs, saying “I’ve already fed them!”

The Conspiracy Theory

You might be thinking that I’m reading too much into the behavior of a group of greedy cats, but here’s why I believe that this is a coordinated attack:

In order for their plea for ‘second breakfast’ (or elevenses, supper, etc) to work,

1. all five cats need to be in on it – if only a few (usually Cyril or Zelda) come begging, we can assume that they have all been fed, and that they are just hoping for second helpings.
2. they need to target the person who didn’t already feed them – for obvious reasons.
3. they can’t do it too often – if they were all begging for more food every day, we would never be fooled. It is because they only do this very occasionally that they manage to pull it off.

It might seem far-fetched to think that my cats are capable of such high-level espionage, but unless you can prove otherwise, I will continue to believe it!

Do your cats manipulate you? Tell me about it in the comments below.

The post But What About Second Breakfast? When My Cats Think They’re Hobbits by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

This Week’s Winner

Silliest

Cutest

Most Dignified

Name:	Oliver
Breed:	Maine Coon
Fun Fact:	He’s having a diarrhoea a whole day until slimy & watery poo but he still stood tall & look down upon us, the peasant of the household, who only live to serve this young archduke.
Socials:	@TirthamOliver

Most Expressive

Best Action Shot

Sleepiest

Enter Your Cat

Submit your kitty for a chance to be featured! Click here

The post Catster Photo Contest: Cats of the Week Winners (November 14, 2024) by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every week, we share a story from one of our cat-loving Catsters. This week is about Crystal and her soul cat, Ivy.

Hi Catsters!

If you’ve read my introduction, you’ll know a bit about how I adopted Ivy and how unsure I was that I was ready to take on such a big responsibility.

Today, I’m going to be taking you through how I prepared for Ivy’s arrival.

Having never owned a pet on my own, saying that I was nervous is an understatement.

First Things First: The Cat Carrier

After Ivy had to be taken away from her original family (storytime on that to come!), she was staying with a lady who had her own rescue shelter.

Ivy had to be vaccinated and spayed before I could pick her up – something that I wholeheartedly agree with.

I was asked if I had a cat carrier and, strangely enough, this was the last thing I had thought of. I’ve thought about cat food, bowls, beds, scratchers, litter boxes, but not the actual thing I would use to get her to my house. (This can tell you a lot about how I am as a person, haha!)

The lady expressed that the cat carrier is of utmost importance – it shouldn’t be one of those basic, plastic cat carriers that are found around every corner. It needed to be sturdy, ideally have a metal gate/door, and be able to lock securely. It would also be ideal if it couldn’t be opened from the top. All of this to make sure she wouldn’t escape during the 2-hour trip to my house.

This led me on a journey and a half of trying to locate a carrier that would tick all of these boxes, in a way that I could afford. I couldn’t believe the prices of these carriers in our local pet shops. I eventually ended up buying a second-hand, barely used cat carrier from a very sweet old lady. I thoroughly washed and sun-dried the carrier and got approval from Ivy’s temporary foster mom.

Cat carrier: check.

Next Up: The Bowls

Now this was way before I knew about cat whisker fatigue and their dislike for having their water right next to their food, so no judgment, please!

I settled for two basic metal bowls. Easy to clean and not needing as frequent replacing as plastic bowls.

Food and water bowls: check.

The Cat Bed

So, I knew that cats had a reputation for not necessarily sleeping in their beds the same way dogs do. Everywhere in the house is fair game – including the sink!

But when I saw the cutest plaid, round, pink cat bed, it was a no-brainer. I thought about all of the cat snoozes she could take, curled up in her cute little bed. (Yeah, right. That was not the case at all.)

But nonetheless: cat bed, check.

The Litter Box and Litter

I had been doing a lot of research in the days leading up to her arrival, and honestly, it wasn’t enough.

I knew the litter box’s size was really important, but I didn’t really know how big/small she was. I settled on a very basic, standard litter box and non-clumping, highly absorbent, biodegradable cat litter.

Litter box and litter: check.

Last Up: Toys & Accessories

I, once again, foolishly believed that she would love all of the toys widely available at every pet store. Little squeaky mice, light-up balls, and even a self-moving mouse.

I would later find out that no, she actually hates all of those.

Out of all of the toys I got for her, the only real winner was the wand toy! (Even though that interest didn’t last long.)

I also got her a collar and a nametag with her name and our number on, just in case.

I also got her a cat tree made by yet another very sweet lady, who I found on one of our Facebook groups. Granted, it wasn’t the prettiest or the sturdiest, but it would have to do for the first couple of weeks. Oh, and we also kept every single box we had from purchasing our first kitchen appliances, as one does.

And that checked off the last on my list: toys & accessories.

This was the long and short of how I prepped for Ivy’s arrival! I was a little misinformed at the time, and my judgment may have been clouded by my excitement. But the basics got us through the first few weeks!

Since then, we’ve upgraded big time.

Ivy now has:

• A Hepper NomNom Bowl
• A water fountain
• Not one, but two cat trees
• Close to one million ping-pong balls
• Two cat scratchers
• A de-shedding brush
• We also ended up mounting floated shelves in our apartment for her to galavant on

And this list keeps growing, every single week. Because honestly, she deserves it!

How did you prepare for your cat’s arrival? Are there some things you wish you knew beforehand? What are some things you’ve changed or acquired extra since then?

The post Preparing for a Kitten’s Arrival: How I Prepped for Ivy by Crystal Uys appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

EveryCat Health Foundation has been honored with the November 10^th Donation Award from the Cat Writers’ Association, in conjunction with the CWA’s 30th anniversary. They will be this year’s beneficiary of the CWA’s fundraising efforts. Read on to find out more about the foundation and how you can help support feline health research and change cats’ lives around the planet.

EveryCat Health Foundation has supported medical and scientific breakthroughs in improving cat health and treating critical diseases since its founding in 1968. The CWA produced a video to highlight all of EveryCat’s contributions:

CWA President Lynn Maria Thompson shared how proud they are to raise funds for the EveryCat Health Foundation. “[Their] investment in feline health research has had a profound impact on the lives of millions of cats. Looking back at our 30 years of dedication to excellence in cat-centric written, visual, and audio media, and our shared love of cats, we feel that EveryCat is a perfect fit for our fundraiser.”

“We’re absolutely delighted to be honored by The Cat Writers Association in this way,” said EveryCat Executive Director Jackie Ott Jaakola. “We’re so impressed with their efforts to engage cat lovers everywhere and they’ve been equally supportive of our mission to help all cats everywhere. You can really see their excellence and dedication in the fabulous video they produced for the fundraiser.”

About EveryCat Health Foundation

EveryCat Health Foundation is the world’s only nonprofit focused solely on funding feline health studies and improving feline healthcare. With nearly 400 million companion cats bringing joy to their families across the world, and cat ownership growing, feline health research remains underfunded compared to many other animals.

Their mission is to advance feline health by supporting groundbreaking research and education. “Every cat, every day benefits from our foundation.”

Founded in 1968 by The Cat Fanciers’ Association, EveryCat Health Foundation awarded its first grant in 1971, and since then has awarded more than $10 million in grants for groundbreaking cat health research at more than 30 partner institutions worldwide. Through the support of dedicated donors and partners, this funding is made possible. Research supported by EveryCat Health Foundation helps veterinarians by providing educational resources that improve the treatment of common feline health problems and prevent many diseases. Grants are reviewed and awarded with the help of the foundation’s expert Scientific Review Committee.

They are still dedicated to their original vision of promoting the health and welfare of all cats, worldwide.

For more information, visit: https://everycat.org/.

EveryCat Health Foundation Grants

Grants from EveryCat have helped veterinarians improve the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases and conditions and evolved the practice of feline medicine. Some of the most notable advancements EveryCat-funded research has made possible include:

How Can I Help?

Individuals and organizations can donate to the fundraiser here.  They are nearly halfway to their goal of $2500, but with the help of our Catsters, we’re sure we can help them exceed their goal, in the name of health for all cats!

To learn about the ways you can support the EveryCat Health Foundation outside of the fundraiser visit here.

As the world’s only nonprofit foundation with the sole mission of supporting feline health research, EveryCat Health Foundation’s collaborative work is made possible through the generosity of sponsors and donors.

The post EveryCat Health Foundation Honored Recipient of Cat Writers’ Association Annual Fundraiser in 2024 by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

It’s a fact: Cats do not like having their teeth brushed. But it’s also true that poor dental health can dramatically shorten your cat’s lifespan. So what’s a kitty owner to do?

TEEF for Life says they have the solution. This innovative animal dental care company has created a powder that changes how mouth bacteria behave, thereby protecting teeth against plaque buildup and decay. And all you have to do is add a tiny amount of it to your cat’s water dish each day to see these amazing results.

I had a chance to try TEEF for Life’s Protektin30 Prebiotic Dental Powder for Cats on my one-year-old Domestic Shorthair, Makoa. After three weeks of using this product, I can’t say enough about how easy it makes daily dental care. Find out what else I like about this product and where I found room for improvement in my full TEEF for Life review, below.

Overview

Our Experience

I first discovered TEEF for Life when looking for oral care solutions for my senior dog with advanced periodontal disease. After a couple of months of use, I saw a dramatic improvement in her oral health.

My cat, Makoa, is still young enough that his teeth are in great shape but I know that won’t last if I don’t start caring for those teeth. And with this feisty feline, brushing is simply not an option, at least, if I want to keep all my fingers.

That’s why I decided to give TEEF for Life a try for him.

In addition to their dog-specific formula and their All Pet formula, they also have a cat-specific formula, and that’s the one I decided to use for Makoa.

After three weeks of using this product, I’ve found a lot to love about it and have very few complaints.

What I Liked

The thing I have always loved most about TEEF for Life is how easy it is to use. All you have to do is put a tiny spoonful of the powder in your cat’s bowl each day after you refresh the water. Give it a little stir after you’ve added the powder and that’s it!

This product works by changing how the bacteria in your cat’s mouth function. Bad bacteria eat sugar and starch and create plaque and acid—both very bad for teeth. This powder changes the bacteria’s metabolic pathways, causing them to switch to a diet of protein, instead.

One way these rewired bacteria get the protein and nutrients they need is to digest plaque instead of creating it. This new diet not only helps break down existing plaque but also reduces acid production to protect tooth enamel.

While TEEF for Life is sure to note that their product should be used along with a daily tooth care routine, using it alone is certainly better than doing nothing, which is the only other option most cat owners have.

As I mentioned, Makoa’s teeth are in good shape since he’s so young, so there isn’t much of an effect to note. However, I know from using this product on my dogs that it definitely helps reduce bad breath and plaque buildup. And I’m hopeful that by starting this product now, Makoa will never have to deal with these common dental issues.

Where I See Room for Improvement

When I first started adding this product to Makoa’s water bowl, I noticed that he seemed hesitant to drink. I reduced the amount to half a scoop and this seemed to help. After about a week, I slowly increased the amount to a full dose, which he tolerated well.

The taste may be off-putting to some cats. Luckily, this formula is effective even at low doses. For super-picky cats, the “All Pet” formula might be a better choice as it’s designed for sensitive systems and palates.

The only other issue I noticed is that the product causes some extra scum buildup in the water bowl. This isn’t a big issue, but it does mean I have to wipe out Makoa’s water bowl every day rather than just dumping and refilling it.

Aside from taking some time to get used to and requiring some extra bowl cleaning, this product has been super easy to use. And, from my past experience with it, I’m confident that it’s effective for promoting oral health.

One thing is for certain, it’s a lot easier than brushing those dagger kitty teeth! I would definitely recommend it to any cat owner looking to prevent or treat oral health issues.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

Ingredients

Protektin30 Prebiotic Dental Powder for Cats contains four ingredients:

All these ingredients work together to reduce plaque and bad breath while supporting beneficial oral bacteria and overall oral health.

Kit Contents

When you first order TEEF for Life, you’ll want to choose the “Dental Kit” option. This kit includes pouches of Protektin powder, a reusable glass jar with a desiccant packet to keep the powder fresh, and a scoop for easy measuring. You can choose from 30, 90, or 180 servings.

When your kit arrives, simply pour the powder into the glass jar and add the desiccant packet to keep it safe and fresh. After your initial order, you can conveniently order refills of just the powder packets, or subscribe for ongoing savings.

What to Expect

Protektin works to improve your cat’s oral health gradually, delivering noticeable results at different stages:

You should see full results after about 5 weeks, but consistency is key. To ensure effective use, add the powder to your cat’s water daily after you refresh the dish. This simple routine will help maximize the benefits of Protektin.

About TEEF for Life

TEEF for Life was started by Dr. Emily Stein, who also owns Daily Dental Health, a human oral hygiene company that has produced some very effective and easy-to-use people products.

Is TEEF for Life a Good Value?

TEEF for Life may be a bit more of an investment than a pet toothbrush and toothpaste, but the added benefits make it well worth it.

The 30-day starter kit is an affordable entry point, and for those looking to save, the 180-day kit offers a lower cost per dose, with additional savings for subscribers. Refill packets, each providing 30 servings, are also available individually, and there are significant discounts—up to 25%—when buying in bulk and subscribing.

How We Tested

I tested this product by enlisting the help of my cat, Makoa. After ordering the TEEF for Life starter kit, I began adding the powder to Makoa’s water bowl every day.

I kept notes on how well Makoa tolerated his dosed water as well as notes about his oral health over the next three weeks.

To get a full sense of this product’s usefulness, I added it in various amounts to the water dish to see how Makoa would react. While he first tolerated only partial doses, he eventually got used to the flavor and I was able to up the amount to a full dose without any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the daily dose of TEEF for Life?

The TEEF for Life dose is incredibly small at just 1/32nd of a teaspoon. This amount can be mixed with up to one gallon of water and still produce noticeable results.

How long should I use TEEF for Life?

For best results, TEEF for Life should be used—as the name indicates—for life! You can start the product as soon as your puppy or kitten is weaned and continue using it daily to maintain a healthy oral bacterial balance.

What if I have dogs too?

All of the TEEF for Life formulas are safe to use for all pets, though each formula is tailored to the specific needs and tastes of the species indicated. The “All Pets” formula is sodium-free and made for sensitive cats and dogs, making it a great choice for multi-pet households.

Conclusion

Whether you have a new kitten with shiny white kitten teeth or an ancient cat battling stomatitis, I highly recommend getting them on TEEF for Life sooner rather than later. This scientifically proven effective product does more than a toothbrush ever will and is so much easier to use.

I’ve seen remarkable results using this product on my senior dogs, and my cat happily laps up his TEEF water every day, which means I don’t have to worry about trying to brush his razor-sharp canines. While TEEF for Life is a bit of an investment that you’ll have to continue to make for the life of your cat, it’s a very simple and very effective way to improve their oral health for maximum longevity and better overall health.

The post TEEF for Life Protektin30™ Review 2024: Our Hands-On Experience by Sara Seitz appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

As creatures of habit, cats dislike change. Something as simple as moving their litter box can cause them to get anxious and start acting out. Now imagine how having to wear a harness feels, let alone being pushed to walk while attached to a leash. Most cats would freak out or at the very least, refuse to move.

This doesn’t mean you can’t train a cat to walk on a harness, though, because you certainly can, and it’s worth a try! Harness training is a wonderful way to give your cat more freedom to explore the outside world.

But before the adventures can start, you need to invest time in helping your cat get used to wearing one. Keep reading for 10 easy tips to do just that!

Our 10 Tips for Getting Your Cat Used to a Harness

1. Introduce the Harness Slowly

We mean slowly. Start by placing the harness near their favorite sleeping or play area, allowing them to explore and become familiar with it over a few days. This helps transform the harness from a foreign object to a familiar and non-threatening item in their environment.

For example, if your cat loves sleeping in a specific corner or has a favorite toy, place the harness near these locations. Over time, you might find your cat sniffing or even playing with the harness, which indicates their curiosity and growing acceptance.

2. Reward and Praise Them

Positive reinforcement is key when helping your cat associate the harness with good things. Whenever they approach or investigate the harness, offer them treats and verbal praise.

Gradually increase the level of interaction with the harness, such as touching it to your cat’s body or draping it over their back. Shower them with attention and yummy morsels every single time. It won’t be long before they think harness = awesome.

3. Practice Touching the Cat’s Body With the Harness

Once your cat is desensitized to the harness’s presence, use it to touch different areas of their body, starting with the face, paws, and sides. Remember to pair the touching with a yummy treat. Take your time! Do not rush to put on the harness until your cat is perfectly comfortable with you touching them with it. Next, work on increasing the amount of time that you touch different areas of their body, such as for more than a couple of seconds, then proceed to practice putting on the harness.

4. Practice Putting on the Harness

For this part, choose a quiet spot to keep your cat relaxed and comfortable. This is exactly the mindset you want, so they don’t fight the harness as you’re putting it on.

Sit with them and let them sniff the harness again. Then slowly put the harness on, continuously praising and offering treats throughout the process. Remove the harness after a few seconds and repeat this exercise over several days to build positive associations with the harness.

5. Keep Sessions Short

Avoid overwhelming your cat with lengthy harness training sessions. Begin with just a few minutes per day, and gradually increase the duration as they become more at ease with the harness.

Always end training sessions on a positive note, whether it’s with a treat, pets, or a play session, to maintain your cat’s interest and motivation.

6. Let Them Wear the Harness Indoors

Once your cat tolerates the harness, have them wear it around the house for short periods.

Encourage your cat to engage in normal activities like playing, eating, and sleeping with the harness on to further strengthen positive associations. The goal is to render the harness “invisible,” a normal part of their routine.

7. Attach the Leash

When your cat is comfortable wearing the harness indoors, start attaching the leash. Avoid pulling or tugging—let them explore and move around with the leash dragging behind them. This helps them get used to the extra weight and length of the leash.

Only put on the leash for a few minutes at a time, with several practice sessions throughout the day. Stay in this stage for about a week.

Taking your cat for a walk may sound challenging, but the right harness and leash can make all the difference! We recommend Hepper's Cat Harness & Leash Set because it combines important safety features with stylish and comfortable design elements.

Hepper Cat Harness and Leash Escape Proof Set -...

• Escape Proof - Cat leashes and harnesses for walking aren't all equally secure. Our double aluminium...
• Superior Comfort - Our cat harnesses are lightweight, made with premium velvet fabric, breathable...
• Free Extra Strength Leash - You don't need to worry about your cat escaping this harness. This cat...

Check Price on Amazon

From the highly adjustable, machine-washable velvet harness to the sturdy nylon climbing rope leash, this set has everything you'll need to start adventuring.

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

8. Practice Gentle Leash Control

Once your cat is comfortable wearing both the harness and the leash, you can begin guiding them around the house. Hold the leash gently, avoiding any dragging or forcing them in any direction.

Instead, use toys or treats to encourage your cat to move with you, helping them understand the concept of following your lead.

9. Transition to the Outdoors

Begin taking your cat outside by starting in a quiet, enclosed outdoor space, such as a backyard or balcony. Hold the leash, and let your cat explore at their own pace, offering treats and praise to make the experience enjoyable.

10. Gradually Increase Exposure

Over time, slowly introduce your cat to busier outdoor environments. Stay close to them and keep initial outings short. Be patient and attentive to their needs, monitoring their body language and reactions. If they seem scared or stressed, return inside and try again another day.

Again, don’t force them to stay on the leash longer than they like. Doing so can undo all your hard work! Let your cat dictate the pace, and respect their limits.

How to Pick the Right Harness for Your Cat

Don’t have a harness yet, or your current one doesn’t fit well? Follow these steps to pick out the perfect one.

1. Measure Your Cat

An ill-fitting harness isn’t just uncomfortable for your cat. It can also be dangerous because if it’s too loose, they may be able to escape the harness. If it’s too tight, it can irritate their skin or even cause injuries.

Don’t trust your best guess here! Get a tape measure for accuracy! Gently wrap it around your cat’s neck and chest, then note down the measurements. Be sure to measure snugly but not too tightly. If your cat is afraid of the measuring tape, try using a soft ribbon, and then measure the ribbon.

2. Pick the Harness Type

There are different types of harnesses you can buy: vest, H-style, and figure-eight. Your choice will depend on what you plan to do with your cat.

For instance, if your cat is an escape artist, an H-style harness with a figure-eight design will prevent them from slipping out. If you’re planning to take your cat for long walks or a hike, a vest harness with a padded chest plate can provide extra support and comfort.

3. Think About the Material

The harness material will impact your cat’s comfort and safety. As an example, nylon and mesh are light and breathable, but leather is more durable.

4. Look For Safety Features

The more safety features your cat’s harness has, the better. Look for things like reflective material or bright colors that will make your cat more visible to drivers and pedestrians, especially at night.

A harness with a sturdy D-ring or buckle will prevent your cat from breaking free or escaping while on walks. Velcro straps will make it easier to take it on and off your cat, especially if yours is fussy.

Conclusion

Getting your cat used to wearing a harness takes patience and work, but the results are so worth it! Imagine being able to take your buddy on hikes, on a walk along the neighborhood, or to the corner cafe so you two can relax outside. It can literally expand your cat’s world.

Before you start training them, however, be careful about picking their harness. You want it to be comfy, secure, and packed with safety features. Don’t forget to buy tons of cat treats while you’re shopping for their harness. You’re going to need it!

• See also: How to Harness Train a Cat: 10 Vet-Verified Tips & Tricks

Featured Image Credit: Laura Sanchez Ubanell, Shutterstock

The post How Do I Get My Cat Used to a Harness? 10 Vet-Approved Tips by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Training your cat to walk with a harness and leash is an excellent option if you want your kitty to enjoy outdoor adventures. However, the first time many cats wear a harness, they simply fall over on their side. But why does this happen?

Generally, cats fall over because the harness feels like being grabbed by a predator. Falling over and freezing is an instinctive survival response. If you want your cat to learn to walk on a leash, you must help them overcome this instant reaction.

In this article, you’ll learn why wearing a harness can cause your cat to fall over. Plus, we’ll give you tips on teaching your cat to wear a harness and how to prepare them for spending time outside.

Getting to the Root of the Harness Response

Take a look at where your cat’s harness places pressure on their body. Most of the time, much of the pressure falls between the shoulder blades and around the chest. For adult cats, being grabbed or held in this area can be a traumatic experience.

Mother cats regularly carry their babies by the scruff of their necks. At that age, being scruffed triggers the kitten to relax. However, adult cats lose this instinct as they grow.

Adult cats are typically only grabbed by the scruff during mating or by a predator, which can be a stressful experience. With this knowledge, it makes sense why a cat might react to a harness by freezing and falling over.

Teaching Your Cat to Wear a Harness

So, how do you help your cat overcome their natural fear and learn to wear a harness? The answer is usually A) slowly and B) with a lot of treats!

Are you looking for the perfect cat harness? We suggest Hepper's Cat Harness & Leash Set, which includes a nicely designed, machine-washable harness made from soft, sturdy velvet and mesh.

Hepper Cat Harness and Leash Escape Proof Set -...

• Escape Proof - Cat leashes and harnesses for walking aren't all equally secure. Our double aluminium...
• Superior Comfort - Our cat harnesses are lightweight, made with premium velvet fabric, breathable...
• Free Extra Strength Leash - You don't need to worry about your cat escaping this harness. This cat...

Check Price on Amazon

This harness is easy to put on and take off and features reinforced stitching, reflective stripes, and quick-release buckles. This set also includes a great leash made from durable nylon climbing rope.

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

Preparing Your Cat to Spend Time Outside

Training your cat to wear a harness is only one step in the process of preparing your cat to spend time outside. The first thing you should do is make sure your pet is current on their vaccinations and appropriate parasite prevention. Talk to your vet about whether your cat is healthy enough to handle outdoor exercise, especially if they’re older or overweight.

Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!

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For indoor cats, the world outside can be overwhelming at first. The sights, sounds, and smells outside are far more stimulating than those found in the safety of a house. Even the most well-adjusted cat may be frightened the first few times they venture outside.

To help ease your cat into the outdoors, try letting them spend time on a screened porch or in a “catio.” These enclosed areas help your cat feel secure while introducing them to the stimulation of the outside world. Portable cat yards or tents are another option if more permanent structures aren’t available.

By the time you take your cat outside wearing a harness and leash, they should be comfortable and confident with the stimulation they’ll encounter there.

Conclusion

Despite what you might think, cats don’t fall over in a harness simply to provide you with viral social media content. Instead, they react this way because the harness triggers a survival response like they were grabbed by a predator. With patience and training, your cat can learn to overcome this reaction. Remember, not every cat will enjoy walking on a harness and leash. Consider your cat’s personality carefully before attempting to turn them into an adventurous kitty.

• See also: Are Emotional Support Vests Necessary for Cats? Recommendations & FAQs

Featured Image Credit: Sari ONeal, Shutterstock

The post Why Do Cats Fall Over in a Harness? Facts & Outdoor Tips by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

If you’ve been dreaming of taking your indoor cat on adventures outside, then the good news is that it’s totally possible to do so! From chilling out in the backyard on a summer’s day to going on a road trip with your kitty, there are plenty of adventures to be had.

But before you allow your cat to set their paws outside, you’ll need to make sure they’re properly leash trained. While leash training your cat isn’t exactly the same as leash training a dog, there’s still a process to follow. Start with the basics, and make sure your cat is comfortable before moving ahead to the next step.

With time and patience, you and your cat can look forward to enjoying everything that the great outdoors has to offer! We’ve written a complete guide to leash training your cat to help you get started!

Important Precautions

Before considering walking on a leash as a kind of exercise and adventure for your cat, think about whether this is actually appropriate and safe for them. Consider the environment: Is it safe? Noisy? Are there other loose cats or dogs? Is there a lot of traffic? Then, is this something your cat would enjoy, or would it scare and stress them? Is your cat usually withdrawn and nervous, or are they confident and inquisitive. At the end of the day, this needs to be a pleasant experience for your kitty, not one to cause them fear and anxiety.

Although your cat is unlikely to ever be out without their harness, accidents can still happen. It’s crucial they have a microchip and a collar with identification details on there, such as your name, address, and telephone number. This may be statutory in some states and countries. If your cat ever gets lost and picked up by the shelter or the vets, they will be able to reunite you based on this valuable info. Some owners may also use a GPS collar on their cats, for just-in-case scenarios.

Appropriate leash and harness training is crucial, before setting your cat’s little paws outside for the first time. Too small or too big a harness can either be very uncomfortable for your kitty, or it may easily come off if you encounter another animal and your cat gets scared. Stick to quiet areas to allow your cat to build confidence.

The 9 Steps to Leash Train Your Cat

1. Introduce a Harness

Before you even think about putting a harness on your cat, you’ll need to get them comfortable with the idea of the harness itself. Once you’ve got a harness, start to train your cat to associate it with positive experiences, like food!

Hold the harness out for your cat to sniff, and as they do so, give them one of their favorite treats. Leave the harness near your cat’s food bowl as you feed them, and let it slowly become something familiar and safe. You could even try spraying catnip spray on the harness to encourage your cat to investigate it.

Strange noises can startle cats, so once your cat is comfortable around the harness, you can also start unclipping the buckles before clipping them back together or unfastening the Velcro. Clip the leash on and off as well. As your cat comes to see what you’re doing, give them a treat.

2. Place the Harness on Your Cat

Next, you want to start getting your cat used to the feel of the harness on their body without actually fastening it. With all the buckles undone, simply place the harness on your cat’s back. Only leave this on for a couple of seconds before again rewarding your cat with treats.

Repeat this stage as often as necessary for your cat to become comfortable. With some cats, this may be just a couple of sessions; others will need much longer. Allow your cat to dictate the timescale, as rushing them now will just cause issues when you try to complete the steps later.

If your cat is hesitant, place the harness on them gently just before feeding them a portion of their favorite food. This will distract them and reinforce the idea that the harness is associated with good things!

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This harness is easy to put on and take off and features reinforced stitching, reflective stripes, and quick-release buckles. This set also includes a great leash made from durable nylon climbing rope.

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

3. Fasten the Harness Loosely Around Your Cat’s Neck

Once your cat is completely confident with the first two steps, it’s time to move on to fastening the harness. To start, you’re only going to fasten it very loosely. If your chosen harness has buckles around your cat’s belly, leave this undone and focus on getting them used to the sensation of the harness around their neck first. As most cats will have worn a collar at some point or other, they’re generally quicker to accept the harness around their neck than the feeling of it being tightened around their belly.

Keep giving your cat treats as they wear the harness around their neck and only leave it on for a short amount of time. Gradually start to tighten the harness by a centimeter or so at a time, until it fits snugly as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Most webbing harnesses should only be tight enough that you can fit one to two fingers between the harness and your cat’s neck.

4. Fasten the Belly Strap

Next, get your cat used to the feeling of having the belly strap fastened. Use the same process as with the neck strap, so start with the belly strap being very loose before you gradually tighten it. You’re aiming to tighten the harness so you can get one to two fingers between the harness and your cat.

5. Allow Your Cat to Spend Time With the Harness On

Now that your cat is accustomed to wearing the harness at the correct tightness, you want to get them used to moving around comfortably in it. Put your cat’s harness on just before they eat their meals and then take it off again as soon as they’re finished.

You’re aiming to gradually work up to leaving it on for up to 5 minutes. Watch how your cat reacts to wearing their harness, and only increase the time once they seem comfortable and confident. Many cats will initially react by freezing, lying down, or walking awkwardly. This is normal, but you want to make sure your cat is totally happy wearing the harness before you move on to the next step.

Don’t be tempted to leave the harness on if your cat is showing signs that they’re uncomfortable. This will just prolong the process, and they might start actively trying to avoid the harness.

As you slowly increase the time that your cat spends wearing their harness, you may need to encourage your cat to move around. Tempting them with a treat just out of their reach, playing with their favorite toy, or practicing their recall will all help accustom them to the sensations of moving around with their harness on.

Never leave your cat in their harness unattended, even for half a minute. It only takes seconds for them to get caught on something and panic, which will undo all your good work up to this point.

6. Attach a Leash

Once your cat is completely comfortable wearing their harness, it’s time to introduce the leash! Cats will reach this stage at different times, so one of your cats may be ready in days, while the others may take up to a month. Don’t rush the process, and trust that your cat will get there eventually!

How you approach this next step will depend on your cat and the type of area that you have where they can move around freely.

Option 1 is to attach the leash to your cat’s harness and let them get used to the sensation of the extra weight by allowing them to drag the leash behind them as they explore. This is only possible if you have a room where they won’t get the leash snagged on furniture. As your cat moves around, reward them with treats and encourage them to explore by calling them over and giving them more treats. They may take some time to get used to the leash being dragged behind them and touching their body in the process, as some cats may get startled by this.

Option 2 is better if you only have a small space to work in or your cat is nervous, and you think that they might be spooked by the sensation of the dragging leash. Instead, you can hold the leash loosely in your hand and follow your cat around wherever they’re going.

7. Teach Your Cat to Accept the Pressure From the Least

Once your cat is acclimated to the feeling of the leash, you can teach them to accept the feeling of pressure from the leash as you ask them to change direction. This is a really important step, so take your time. Some leashes have a bungee section that softens this pressure, which many cats prefer.

When your cat is wearing their harness and you’re holding the leash, choose a moment when your cat is a few feet away from you. Call them over to you with a treat, and as you do so, gently place a small amount of pressure on the leash.

Some cats react to pressure from the leash by pulling backward. They might even manage to wriggle out of their harness, which is definitely not something that you want to happen when you do go outside! Practice walking around the house with your cat, changing direction, and asking them to follow you as you do so. Again, treats come in handy here. You can watch this video to get more tips.

8. First Steps Outside

You’ll only want to start this step once your cat is completely comfortable and confident walking on their leash within your house. Your cat will likely be overstimulated for their first few trips outside, so keep these sessions short. Decide where you’ll take them before you head outside. A fenced backyard is ideal. If possible, you want to keep the first few trips fairly close to your door so your cat can go back inside if they’re feeling uncomfortable.

Don’t be tempted to open the door, and simply walk outside with your cat. This may indicate to them that it’s okay for them to walk outside when they’re not harnessed, and then you could be looking at a lost cat situation. Once your cat is harnessed and leashed, pick them up and carry them outside before placing them down in the spot that you want to explore. Your cat may simply sit and look around, or they might start walking and sniffing things.

It’s good for them to know where home is in case they ever get lost, but also be mindful that the more curious the cat is, the more keen they may be to get out. Be careful not to give them an opportunity to try an escape before being ready with their harness on. Consider clicker training and bring plenty of tasty treats with you.

If your cat is timid or nervous, it’s a good idea to keep a thick towel or cat carrier close by for the first few trips outside. If they suddenly panic, you can wrap them in the towel or put them in the carrier and take them back inside without worrying about them slipping their harness and escaping.

9. Find Out What Your Cat Likes

As your cat starts to build their confidence outside, you’ll get a much better idea about what they enjoy doing. Some adventurous cats will love the opportunity to accompany their owners for a walk, while others would rather stretch out in a sunny spot for a snooze.

Let your cat decide what they’d prefer to do, rather than trying to persuade them to do something that they’re not enjoying. As cat owners, we know that rarely works in any case!

Now that your cat is comfortable and confident walking on a leash, check out these tips for making walks even more enjoyable.

Tips for Successful Walks with Your Cat

1. Always Carry Your Cat Outside

As your cat’s confidence in walking on a leash grows, you may be tempted to put their harness on and allow them to walk outside. This is not always a great idea because it increases the chances of your cat dashing out the door when you’re not expecting it. Make it a habit to always pick up your cat before you go outside.

2. Never Leave Your Harness Cat Out on Their Own

It might seem tempting to put your cat’s leash under a table leg and go back inside to grab something, but you should never leave your cat unattended when they’re on a leash. It will only take seconds for them to get tangled in something, spooked, or panicked. Cats are impressively flexible, so they might slip out of their harness and run off. Another danger if you live somewhere with wildlife like coyotes or wild cats is that your cat could be in danger and unable to escape.

Using an outdoor cat enclosure is a better option if you want to give your cat time outside but also keep them safe.

3. Start a Routine

Just like cats know when to expect their breakfast (and will loudly let you know if it’s even a little late!), you can also integrate walks into their routine. If you start saying a particular phrase as you get ready to take them for a walk, your cat will likely start to associate that with the fun of getting to explore outside.

If you would need some more pointers or advice on training your cat, calling your vet is a great option.

Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

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Conclusion

Taking your cat for a walk can be a rewarding experience for both of you. Whether you’ve been dreaming of going for a hike with your cat or simply soaking up the sun in the backyard, most cats love the opportunity to spend time outside.

Leash training your cat isn’t a fast process, and you’ll have to be prepared to go at the speed that your cat wants to. But once you do it, the rewards for both of you will be worth it!

• See also: How to Harness Train a Cat: 10 Vet-Verified Tips & Tricks

Featured Image Credit: Nau Nau, Shutterstock

The post Leash Training Your Cat: 9 Easy Steps (With Pictures) by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Do you ever sit and watch your kitty at play, chasing after a bug or looking intently out the window, and wonder how they see the world? Feline eyes have some similarities to human eyes but also have differences; for example, take the pupil. Cats have slit pupils, while ours are round.

But why do cats have slit pupils? What’s the purpose? The reason our favorite felines have vertical slit pupils is because they are predators; think of this pupil shape as an evolutionary advantage. Here’s a closer look at the anatomy of the feline eye and how slit pupils help kitties hunt down prey.

Structure of the Feline Eye

Before we discuss the pupil of a cat’s eye in detail, let’s briefly examine the structure of the feline eye and how it works.

Honestly, cat eyes have many similarities to our own. Like us, they have the sclera (or the outer part of the eye, known as the white of the eye). They also have an iris with a pupil in the middle. The iris is the colored part of the eye, and through the pupil, it controls how much light goes into the eye.

Feline eyes also have a lens like ours. This lens, in both felines and humans, transmits light and focuses it onto the retina to create a sharp image. However, there are some subtle differences in how the lens functions in cats versus humans. In humans, the lens changes its curvature to actively focus on objects at different distances. In contrast, a cat’s eye adjusts focus by moving the lens away or towards the retina, depending on whether it’s focusing on distant or near objects. While the accommodative power of the human eye is greater than that of a cat’s, this does not pose any disadvantage to them

Humans and felines also have retinas, though this part of the cat eye holds some differences between the two species. You’ve probably heard of two types of cells called rods and cones in your eye, also known as photoreceptors. The cat and human retina have three types of cone cells, but it’s thought that cats see far fewer colors and have a less richer color vision than we do. In fact, scientists believe they probably see colors similar to a human with red-green color blindness. Our feline friends also have far more rods in their retinas than we do, which contributes significantly to allowing them to see better in low-light conditions.

Speaking of night vision, cat eyes have a layer called the tapetum lucidum that magnifies the amount of light that reaches the retina, which gives our feline friends an amazing boost to their night vision.

Finally, the feline eye has a cornea like ours. This part of the eye is a protective layer and it is also responsible for the light refraction onto the lens, which is then focused onto the retina. The feline cornea is far larger than ours, though, which means more light can get in.

Then, of course, there’s the pupil!

Why Do Cats Have Slit Pupils?

So, why do cats have slit eyes? Because they’re hunters, and several eye features help this purpose.

The pupil of a cat’s eye is a vertical slit and thanks to this, the pupil can change its shape from being a thin line to a wide round pupil, allowing more or less light in depending on the outside light conditions. This is why sometimes a cat’s pupil is a vertical slit, and sometimes it’s big and wide. The amount of light allowed into the eye impacts the way the images are created in the brain to understand the world around a cat. Of course, different light conditions will equal different images.

Think about how large our pupils get when it’s dark; this is because our pupils are trying to get more light in so we can see better. But when we’re in brighter conditions, our pupils grow smaller to prevent dazzle in daylight. It’s the same with feline eyes. However, cat eyes are able to do that with greater finesse due to their vertical and slit-shaped pupils.

The vertical slit shape of the pupil lets a feline’s eye have greater control over the amount of light coming in. Because cats are crepuscular and do their playing and hunting during low light conditions, this gives them a great advantage while hunting. Their pupils can go extra wide to let in even the smallest amount of light so they can see their prey in the dark. During the day, their pupils go back to tiny vertical slits to keep an overabundance of light from coming in. Having a vertical slit shape also means cats can better approximate where their prey is by sharpening their depth perception.

Interestingly, large felines like tigers and lions do not have slit-shaped pupils but round-shaped. The reason for this is not exactly defined, but it is thought to be due to their greater height off the ground, their behavior as active foragers rather than ambush predators, or differences in their circadian rhythms compared to cats.

Final Thoughts

The reason cats have vertical slit pupils is because they are predators. This pupil shape provides them with the best dynamic range to allow full dilation during nighttime and great constriction to prevent dazzle in daylight, which results in cats being able to find and chase prey during high and low light conditions. The vertical slit shape of the eye gives a cat’s eye greater control over how much or how little light is allowed in when it changes shape. This shape also helps a cat better focus on their prey and reduces the amount of blur of horizontal contours. Just call it an evolutionary advantage!

• Also see: Facts About Cats’ Eyes

Featured Image Credit: photosbelkina, Shutterstock

The post Why Do Cats Have Slit Pupils? Feline Anatomy Explained (Vet-Verified) by Misty Layne appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Hi, I’m Christopher! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my silly Russian Blue cat, Olga.

Unlike their owners, most cats aren’t fascinated by television, which is probably good because the feline obesity problem would be much worse. Some indoor cats don’t get enough exercise, and if they are glued to the tube instead of chasing catnip mice and racing through their homes, they’ll gain weight. Olga isn’t too interested in watching TV, but sometimes she gets irritated by sound effects and soundtracks.

Young Olga’s Courage

As a kitten, Olga seemed fearless. She wasn’t easily frightened until the 4^th of July, and she ordinarily ignored the stereo and television. If I was too focused on a film, she attacked my feet or climbed to the top of the chair to smack me in the head. Like many young cats, Olga only had two speeds: high gear and park (asleep).

Her First Response to TV

When I moved to a new house with more space, she was almost a year old. I set up a stereo with a powerful subwoofer, and the first movie I watched sent Olga running for cover. The volume was too loud, and the MGM lion’s roar made her hop in the air and run under the bed in the other room. She only reacted to the roar once and determined the sound was not coming from a giant, wild cat.

Some animal experts recommend leaving a TV or stereo on when you leave to comfort your pets. Since I’ve never filmed Olga when she’s alone in the house, I’m not sure a nature program or 24-hour feed of the world’s largest aviary would help her separation anxiety.

Adult Ambivalence

She doesn’t bat an ear when she hears bird calls or nature sounds on the television, which is strange since she looks confused and irritated when she hears Pink Floyd’s Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together in a Cave and Grooving With a Pick. It’s also odd that Olga doesn’t react to the sound of fireworks on television. She freezes in fear when she hears them going off in my neighborhood, but explosions and gunfire don’t phase her when they’re not real.

Deep Bass Annoyance

Sometimes, the sound effects from movies grab her attention but rarely make her run away. She doesn’t like the sound of the self-destruct siren at the end of Aliens or the screaming at the beginning of the original House on Haunted Hill with Vincent Price. However, the only sound that makes her move closer to the speaker and question her sanity is a low, rumbling bass.

David Lynch’s films often include a prolonged rumble to build suspense or lead up to a shocking scene, and Olga isn’t fond of his sound effects. I have to turn down the volume to prevent her from clawing up the subwoofer. As for the images on the television, nothing seems to interest Olga, whether there are songbirds chirping or rodents squeaking. Leaving the TV on may help some cats when their owners leave, but Olga prefers humans to flatscreens.

The post How Cats Respond to the Television: Olga’s Occasional Reactions by Christopher Bays appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.