Drax & Simba The boys. The story behind this blog started five years ago when my boys, Drax and Simba (aka Needy/Bubby) were taken in by Cats Protection, which makes it more their story than mine. They were the only two that survived of an entire litter after being rejected by their birth mother. Having a sister who works for the company, she’d often bring home kittens to foster until they were strong enough to be independent or ready for adoption into their forever homes - it’s always hard to say goodbye! After our family cat, Dillon, passed away it was decided that we’d have no more cats…. Jump to several months later and we had two new boys tearing around the house, scaling curtains, hanging off furniture and clawing the new carpet to shreds. What can I say? Weeks of bottle feeding, bathing, toilet training, playing and socialising made it impossible to let the siblings go - and let’s be honest, what’s a home without a cat? Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Milky time. They quickly developed their own little characters: Simba, the big baby (Bubby!) whose name speaks for itself; and Drax, the more independent and laid-back of the two. They weren't the closest of brothers but would often go looking for each other, enjoyed a good ol’ playfight and slept together every night. They were happy to do their own things during the day and it was nice to see Simba following his brother around from time to time. They were intelligent too, able to pick up words and gestures almost as effectively as a dog - even their memories were outstanding. Hey, it took all of two sittings to teach Simba how to flush the toilet and he was already making his own feeble attempts (he loves water so I used this to my advantage!). I sometimes wonder if being raised by humans alters a cat’s perception, makes them more inclined to learn than if they’d had a mother. As any parent will know, cats only do what they want to do - unless there’s something in it for them. Chillin' in their strawberry hut. Most of their “kittenhood” was problem free. Both were raised as indoor cats for multiple reasons, plus they were terrified of outside. Drax had a couple of UTIs which cleared up quickly and no aggression was displayed between the two, although they were incredibly skittish. Any sudden movements, loud noises such as coughing or sneezing; dropping things and carrying large objects - it was (and still is) borderline ridiculous. Strangely, Drax loved to meet new people whereas Simba would shoot off and hide until the intruder had gone. King of the jungle,  he was not! The boys would often be spooked by things, to the point that I learned to creep around the house like a master ninja. Usually they’d disappear to one of their hiding places until they were ready to come out, but one night it escalated. A quick break from terrorising the humans. All I heard was Simba come flying down the stairs and into the living room. He ran up the cat tree, soared into the air so he was inches away from smacking the ceiling and landed on the floor (unharmed, thank God) before scrambling behind the sofa. He’d also peed himself - truthfully, I wasn’t far behind! What on earth had caused such a dramatic reaction? I rushed upstairs to search for Drax and found him cowering under my bed. While I never uncovered the source of the scare, it had evidently caused friction between the boys because the whole night was filled with hissing and growling whenever they approached one another. This seemed to be a case of redirected aggression   and, fortunately, it didn’t last. Up until the age of four, these spooking incidents happened a few times, but I wasn’t overly concerned as there were never any physical fights and the process was always the same: scary event, hiding, aggression, back to normal. ​ Nap nap time. Early one unsuspecting morning, a fight broke out in the kitchen which consisted of the usual hissing and yowling until one fled the scene. We suspected either one or both of them had seen a stray cat in the garden - note that we also had an old cat flap, so it’s possible that they could have smelled the intruder if it had approached the back door. It was a much more aggressive fall out that dragged on for almost a week, during which they had their first physical altercation. I was horrified. They couldn’t be in the same room without starting a hissing war and the caterwauling was like listening to a couple of alley cats. After some frantic research into feline aggression and potential remedies, which will be outlined in more detail throughout this site, they seemed to work things out with hardly any intervention at all. Peace was restored…. for a short time. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Getting too big to share a bed. Three months later, I was woken in the early hours of the morning by yowling and the scrabbling of feet. Not again! I was more frustrated than anything, I didn’t want this to be a recurring ordeal and the whole thing felt silly and unnecessary. My boys weren’t vicious, they generally got on well and had no logical reason (as far as human logic goes) to continue this behaviour. They were brothers, that should mean something. Right?   Wrong! It's sad to say, but your cat doesn’t know or care who it’s related to. These early morning spats kept happening, almost as if it had become a habit or morning ritual. It never continued into the day, in fact everything would seem normal to the outsider but I sensed that something was brewing. There was an uneasy silence in the house that made tension between the boys deafening to me. Anyone who’s spent as much time observing their fur babies as me will know when something’s “off”. Whether it was a look, an expression or a shift in posture; the way they crept around each other in hallways or stiffened when one entered a room. My suspicions were soon to be confirmed. Helping mummy work. I was in the living room with both cats when their eyes locked in a stare that lasted a little too long for my liking. I heard one of them growling, then Simba charged over to Drax so they came face to face. Drax yowled in response, which made Simba turn and bolt upstairs with Drax hot on his tail. I’m sure I don’t have to describe the commotion of a cat fight, but I will say it’s the worst thing to listen to - especially through a ceiling. From the thunderous footfalls to the banging of floorboards as they throw themselves into a fur-flying, howling, spitting mass of teeth and claws. If it’s any consolation, cat fights often sound far worse than they are - but that doesn’t mean there’s not an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Remember, all of this escalated from a single look. Brothers hanging out. By the time I got to the boys, they’d already separated. Drax scarpered when he heard me approaching and Simba was left cowering in a corner that was splattered with his own pee. As scary and heartbreaking as it was, I started to notice a pattern. About 90% of these spats were happening in the kitchen and dining room areas, which was the site of the original “spooking”. Was there some traumatic event or memory attached to these rooms? If only it was as simple as asking the question! ​ Any specialist, expert or professional will tell you that the number one rule to feline aggression is to NEVER let them fight it out. Whether it’s a one-off incident that you’re fortunate enough to never experience again or part of a longer-term issue, they do not find resolution in conflict. That’s not to say if your cats fight once then they’ll continue to do so, it really depends on the nature of the aggression. We must find the cause or trigger in order to understand and prevent it, and so my research began. All grown up! When I started writing this article, I was deep amidst my cat hell journey and the outcome was unclear. I wanted to document my experience as reassurance to both myself and others that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been as desperate and broken-hearted as you may be feeling now, my cats having gone through numerous separations and reintroductions ; spending a fortune on pheromone diffusers , calming tablets and other recommendations given to me. Related post:   Top 10 Products I Used to Help Reintroduce Fighting Cats This whole journey seems to have been a never-ending battle of one step forwards, two steps back. As soon as you think you’re making progress, bam! Another fight, another setback, another case of rewind and start again. At times I feared the aggression would never subside, and the thought of rehoming one of my babies was absolutely crushing. The topics I discuss are unique in the fact that I’m able to apply my own personal experiences and describe how effective (or ineffective) I found various processes and/or remedies. What worked for me may not work for you, and that’s okay! You know your cats better than anyone and no two situations will be the same. With observation and vigilance, it becomes easier to spot problem behaviour and determine when, where, why and how aggression is occurring. Simba's favourite sleeping position. You’ll almost certainly find that doorways, corridors and narrow spaces - anywhere your cats come face to face or pass by one another - are common fighting zones. Especially if one acts as a blocker, preventing the other from entering or exiting rooms which is typically territorial behaviour . As time went on, it became clearer and clearer that Drax was the main aggressor. While I can’t be 100% certain, I can say with some confidence that my original suspicions of an outdoor intruder cat were the most likely cause. This happened around the same time that Drax was diagnosed with having crystals in his wee, so it could have been either one or a combination of those things. Regardless of the cause, Drax seemed to calm down after I disinfected the yard (and house) where strays might have been urine spraying , but it didn't happen overnight. Change came with a lot of trial and error.... and the most unlikely source of help.   Read the full story here: Pet Psychics: My Experience with an Animal Communicator and How It Helped My Cats Sleeping beauty. My patience was tested to its limits, as I’m sure yours will be too. We may never fully understand what’s going on in those little brains, but there’s always a reason for a cat acting out. Whether that reason is physical, emotional, psychological - or a combination of all of those things - by arming yourself with a deeper understanding of feline behaviour, you’ll stand a better chance of developing a strategy for managing inter-cat aggression . At the very least, you can take comfort in the fact that you’ve done everything in your power to help.   Trust me when I say that all of the hard work and effort will be worth it to see those fur babies snuggling up together. Best of all, you’ll be prepared in the event of any recurrences and able to nip it in the bud sooner rather than later! ​ For a more personal account of the reintroduction process, head over to this post: How I Successfully Reintroduced Cats After Fighting It's been a working progress and we're taking each day at a time. I never stop learning (or worrying) and continue to pass on knowledge and advice to other parents. Your comments, messages, likes and shares help to keep this site going and makes you a huge part of my mission to help our furry friends. Drax Simba Have you got your own story to share? Let us know in the comments or get in touch!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned in this article. Supplement Reviews Go to review ⇨ Go to review ⇨ Calming supplements are often used as a natural, drug-free alternative to medication to help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety, similar to what you'd find in a health and wellness shop. In cats, this usually manifests as behavioural problems like hiding, overgrooming, excessive vocalisation, urine spraying and aggression . It's important to address any underlying issues in conjunction with medications and/or supplements by getting cats checked over by a vet . In some cases, environmental changes or behaviour modification therapy might be necessary. You shouldn't rely on calming products alone and always discuss your options with a qualified vet. Supplements may be beneficial for cats with mild to moderate anxiety and are available without a prescription. They shouldn't have any undesirable side-effects like drowsiness, but effectiveness varies from cat to cat. Prescription medications like antidepressants and benzodiazepines are used to treat more severe cases of anxiety or aggression, particularly if caused by an underlying medical condition. Where illness isn't a factor, these should only be used on a short-term basis and as a last resort where other treatments/therapies have failed. YuMOVE Calming Care for Adult Cats YuMOVE Calming Care is a supplement that contains a unique combination of natural ingredients. It helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain to support relaxation and promote calmer behaviour in anxious cats. It can be used for stress-inducing events including: Fireworks, thunder and other unexpected noises. Changes to the environment (renovations, moving house, parties, etc). New people, babies or pets. Holidays and travelling. Vet visits. Separation anxiety. YuMOVE is labelled as the UK's No.1 Veterinary Joint Supplement Brand (Kynetec VetTrak, August 2024). Ingredients The scientifically-backed ingredients include: Lemon balm: a popular herb that helps to promote relaxation, soothe stress and encourage calmer behaviour. L-Tryptophan: an amino acid found in many proteins which is involved in the production of serotonin, helping to reduce stress. Natural GABA and L-Arginine: a combination that helps to maintain calming pathways in the brain and support relaxation. Fish protein hydrolysate: supports a cat's brain, helping calming signals to find the right spot. B vitamins: play an important role in supporting a cat's overall health, including the heart, skin, metabolism, energy and brain function. All ingredients: Each capsule provides: 62.5mg L-Tryptophan, 60mg GABA Fermentate Blend, 50mg L-Arginine, 30mg Fish Protein Hydrolysate, 15mg Lemon Balm, 3.36mg Vitamin B1, 3.2mg Vitamin B6, 3.15mg Niacinamide, 42mcg Folic Acid, 5.3mcg Vitamin B12. COMPOSITION: Product from Lactobacillus species rich in protein (15%), Fish Protein Hydrolysate (9.4%), Lemon Balm Powder (4.7%), Maltodextrin, Phosphate Salts, Yeasts, Salt, Lupin Protein Meal, Magnesium Stearate, Sunflower Oil, Hydrolysed Soy. ADDITIVES (PER KG): L-Tryptophan 1195755mg, L-Arginine 156604mg, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Hydrochloride) 10523mg, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 10085mg, Niacinamide 9866mg, Folic Acid 132mg, Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) 16mg. Directions One packet contains 30 capsules. Simply twist and pull the capsule open, then sprinkle and mix with your cat's food. Cats up to 5kg: 1 capsule per day. Cats over 5kg: 2 capsules per day. *Not recommended for cats under 10 months. If your cat suffers from any allergies, you should reach out to the customer care team for advice. Review YuMOVE capsules are easy to use, with a fine powder that mixes easily into wet food. However, it has a rather fishy aroma that's hard to disguise. If you have fussy felines like mine then adding it to food might be a turn off, especially if you sprinkle it over kibble which isn't very appetising for cats. To get around this, I mixed the powder with a drop of water and administered it orally in a syringe. I'd only advise this if your cat is tolerant. Visit As many of you will know, I'm no stranger to calming products following a long-standing case of redirected aggression between my cats, leaving one traumatised by the other. It didn't put a stop to the fighting but Simba (the victim) was less reactive to Drax's bullying. It's not a perfect solution - nothing is! - but you can see a difference in comparison to when he's not on them, as he's more nervous and hissy around Drax. There was no noticeable change with Drax, but his aggression levels came down naturally over time once the underlying cause had been dealt with. Unfortunately, I can't comment on the effects of this product for other anxiety-related behaviours. For long-term use, it's a more cost-effective option than Zylkene. Customer Feedback Many owners use YuMOVE Calming Care on an ongoing basis for nervous cats and settling rescues. It's said to reduce hiding, overgrooming and territorial aggression. However, it can take a few weeks to see the full effects and some cats refuse to eat it due to the flavour/smell. Some owners claim to have seen no change in their cat's behaviour. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. Zylkene Calming Supplements for Cats & Dogs Zylkene (75mg) is a natural calming supplement for cats and small dogs to help them cope with short and prolonged challenging situations: Fireworks, thunder and other loud noises. Changes to the environment (renovations, moving house, parties, etc). New people, babies or pets. Holidays and travelling. Vet visits. Separation anxiety or being left alone. Zylkene is not recommended for aggression as it's designed to help pets cope with fear-based stressors and may not address the root cause of aggression. Labelled as the UK's No. 1 Veterinary Calming Supplement (Kynetec market data, MAT May 2023) the product is widely used and trusted by vets, behaviourists and pet owners. Zylkene is developed by Vetoquinol, a global veterinary pharmaceutical company. Ingredients Zylkene contains the ingredient, alpha-casozepine, which is derived from a natural milk protein called casein. Alpha-casozepine has clinically proven calming effects, and studies show that it reduces anxiety in the following scenarios: Cats placed in an unfamiliar environment. Fear of strangers. General fear. Fear-related aggression. Zylkene is lactose free. All ingredients: POWDER (77.3%): Maltodextrin, Casein (Trypsin hydrolysed bovine casein), Magnesium stearate. CAPSULE (22.7%): Bovine skin gelatine. Directions One packet contains 20 capsules. You can either open the capsule and sprinkle over food or give it cats whole. Cats up to 5kg:   1 capsule per day. Cats 5kg-10kg:   2 capsules per day. *More options available for dogs over 10kg and up to 60kg. Give Zylkene 1-2 days before the stressful event or when a change in their environment is expected to happen. For long-term use, the company recommends giving one capsule a day for a month and then reassessing behaviour and speaking to a vet, if necessary. Review I'd been using YuMOVE for around a year before I heard about the benefits of alpha-casozepine during a course on feline anxiety. I had come across Zylkene when searching for calming aids, but the price put me off without really looking into it. There's also some confusion around the product itself, as research shows that it reduces fear-based aggression. However, reading through the website's FAQ section, it states the following: " Aggression can be a sign of stress in animals, however Zylkene is not recommended in aggressive animals, and we would therefore not advise its use. Our best advice would be to speak to your veterinary practice and a qualified clinical animal behaviourist regarding your pet. " Understandably, it might be the company covering themselves in the event that aggression stems from dominance. Offensive aggression can present quite differently to defensive aggression, and cats can quickly go from confident to cocky! Related post: Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines Nevertheless, I thought it'd be beneficial to see if Zylkene helped with Simba's fear of his brother. Even with Drax having reverted to his placid self, Simba remains cautious and it leads to occasional misunderstandings. This could be something as simple as clashing in a doorway, which Simba believes is a surprise attack and reacts by hissing. Whether it escalates depends on how pissed off Drax gets, but I'd rather it didn't happen at all! I also use pheromone diffusers to keep the boys as relaxed as possible - a calmer environment usually means a calmer kitty! I have to say that during the first week on Zylkene, there was a noticeable improvement to Simba's confidence - and he loves the taste. I continued to use a syringe and water because it's what he's used to, and he'd happily lap up every single drop. Although I was pleased with this improvement, the "misunderstandings" continued to happen, though no more or less than usual. Simba is such a nervy cat that it can be difficult to pinpoint the trigger. I bought a month's supply to give them plenty of time to kick in, but since there hasn't been a dramatic change in his anxiety levels - particularly around Drax - then I can't justify the expense for such minimal results. Zylkene works out at double the price of YuMOVE (per capsule) which isn't ideal for long-term use, especially when your kitty is over 5kg and requires 2 per day! Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Customer Feedback A lot of feedback concurs with scientific research, with cats showing reduced fear towards people and, more rarely, other animals. Most owners use Zylkene to help during stressful situations like travelling, holidays, moving house and fireworks. Some find that it makes their cats less nervous and more playful. Naturally, Zylkene doesn't work on all cats but the biggest sticking point seems to be the price. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 4,000+ Amazon reviews. Summary It's clear that YuMOVE and Zylkene work in different ways but, for the most part, show similar results. Based on all of the points discussed, and factoring in the cost, I'd recommend YuMOVE for either short or long-term use for most stress-related behaviours and changes. Zylkene may be more suitable for short-term stress and fear-related behaviours. Chronic anxiety is rare in cats, and many issues can be resolved with behavioural training therapy or making simple changes to a cat's environment to reduce the stressor. Providing enough resources for the number of cats you have is essential, and this post contains some useful tips: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources If you're interested in my journey or find that you're in a similar situation, you can read more about it here . You can also check out reviews of the best pheromone diffusers for cats and top recommended calming sprays . Information accurate from October 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you had any success with YuMOVE Calming Care or Zylkene? Share your experiences in the comments to help out other cat parents.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Why Do Cats Scratch? Stress and Scratching Reward vs Punishment Types of Scratchers Training Cats to Use a Scratcher Deterrents Summary Why Do Cats Scratch? Scratching is a perfectly natural cat behaviour but can quickly become destructive when it involves your carpets, furniture and doing Tarzan impressions on the curtains. To understand this behaviour, we need to look at some of the reasons why cats scratch in the first place. To stretch their limbs and spine, work their muscles and aid flexibility. Sharpen and maintain their claws by shedding the outer sheaths. Scent marking using glands between the pads of their paws to deposit pheromones . Enrichment. You might be wondering why domestic cats need to sharpen their claws, since they don't need to defend themselves from predators or capture prey. This survival instinct is deeply embedded into their psychology, and declawing cats for any reason isn't only inhumane but often has severe impacts on their behaviour. Shop Pet Furniture → When cats aren't provided with scratching opportunities, they use anything from household items to clothing, shoes, blankets and wallpaper. The problem is more widespread for indoor cats since there are no trees, fences and other hard surfaces. Therefore, cats might be scratching due to a lack of resources; inadequate stimulation; boredom or attention seeking. Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats More worryingly, scratching can be a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety. Any one of the above examples could be a trigger for stress, but those experiencing chronic stress often have deeper underlying issues. Stress and Scratching Signs of acute stress in cats are evident in their body language , such as flattened ears and dilated pupils caused by a loud noise or unfriendly encounter with a stray cat. Chronic or long-term stress usually manifests as behavioural changes. These will vary from cat to cat but may include scratching, urine marking , excessive vocalisation, overgrooming and, in extreme cases, self-mutilation. Get to know the signs and symptoms of stress in this in-depth article: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment As mentioned, cats scratch to mark their territorial boundaries, leaving a combination of scent and visual markings to alert other cats. It's wise to pay attention to the location of scratching, particularly in multi-cat homes where competition might be a factor. Around food and water bowls, litter trays and other resources. In doorways, halls and narrow spaces where cats are likely to encounter one another. Near windows, external doors and cat flaps where outside cats might be spotted. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources All of these scenarios can indicate territorial insecurity or aggression , particularly if bullying or fighting is present. Cats also use scent marking to boost comfort and security. With a sense of smell that's fourteen times stronger than a human's, and as their primary form of communication, the slightest whiff of something unfamiliar is going to set off those kitty alarm bells. Consider all of the smells that are being held in the fabrics of your home. If you've had other cats, pets or people using the same sofa or treading the same carpets over the years, then your kitty's nose is going to be in overdrive. While it's not ideal to replace the entirety of your home, sometimes a thorough clean can make all the difference. Be sure to use a pet-safe disinfectant or enzymatic cleaner like Simple Solution to remove those stubborn odours. Reward vs Punishment Punishing a cat for unwanted behaviours won't solve the problem, but it will make it worse. It's easy for parents to fall into the trap of believing discipline works when kitty stops whatever it's doing or flees whenever you yell the word "no" but this is simply a fear response. If cats really understood that what they're doing is wrong then why do they keep on doing it? In fact, we can't even describe the behaviour as "wrong" because, from a cat's perspective, all it's doing is what comes naturally. Yelling at your cat incites fear, and cats react to fear by flight or defensive aggression. This can damage the cat-human relationship, creating distrust and making it even more difficult to retrain them. More importantly, it can elevate a cat's stress levels and the problem escalates. Cat Scratcher Hammock with a solid wooden frame and comfortable curved design. Features a natural sisal pad that's durable and resistant to fraying. The large size is suitable for scratching and sleeping. Another mistake, which I've fallen into myself, is rewarding cats for unwanted behaviour, essentially turning a negative into a positive. If you're lifting your cat off the sofa twenty times a day, that's twenty times you're giving them attention that they wouldn't ordinarily be getting were they not engaging in the behaviour. Talk about mixed messages! Experts agree that the best course of action is to determine the cause and redirect behaviour to a more appropriate outlet, such as scratch posts and mats instead of furniture. Furthermore, using rewards to create positive reinforcement will encourage cats to do more of the desired behaviour. Types of Scratchers Thankfully, there are many different types of scratchers available to suit your kitty's preferences, including mats and boards for those that like to scratch horizontal surfaces. If you only have posts in your home then this could be why they prefer to use your nice fluffy carpet. Here are some options to consider: Tall, vertical posts with a sturdy base to prevent toppling. Ideally, posts should be a minimum of three feet to allow cats to stretch out their bodies, using both the front and rear claws to climb. You can also get scratch posts with attached toys like feathers and dangly balls. Cat trees for climbing and exercise. Sisal mats for horizontal scratchers and carpet destroyers. Corrugated cardboard scratch boards and baskets. Some of these double up as beds, making them a great multifunctional option. Need more inspiration? Check out these tried and tested reviews: Cardboard and Sisal Cat Scratcher Reviews (Tried and Tested) Training Cats to Use a Scratcher Placement As obvious as it sounds, you should start by placing scratchers in areas where cats like to scratch. If they're focusing on one particular area of the carpet, cover it with a mat and see if they use that instead. Most cats enjoy a full body stretch after they wake up from a nap, so placing a post near beds or resting areas are also good options. As mentioned, providing scratching opportunities near external doors and windows allows cats to mark their territory for extra comfort and security. This is also the case for cats that urine spray as it allows another, more hygienic way for cats to scent mark. In multi-cat homes, placing scratchers at entrance and exit points has the same effect. In theory, you can add as many scratchers around the home as you want. As a bare minimum, you should aim for one scratcher per cat, plus one extra. Keep things interesting by providing a mixture of posts, mats and boards with different textures. Training Training cats to use scratchers can be challenging since you need to catch them in the act to be able to move them from the undesired area to the dedicated scratcher. If your cat is tolerant then you can physically place their paws onto the post or mat. Reward usage with treats, petting or whatever brings your cat the most motivation. This must be done immediately for cats to associate the reward with the desired action. Consistency is key, whether it takes a week or a month. Over time, you can start reducing rewards as it becomes a natural behaviour. Cat Scratcher Bed is multifunctional for scratching and napping. Made from high-density corrugated cardboard with a textured surface to maintain claws and withstand vigorous scratching. If your kitty needs a little more convincing, use these handy tips and tricks: Sprinkle or spray catnip onto the scratcher to encourage interaction. Arrange toys around the scratcher to turn it into a play area. You could dangle bits of string or feather wands over it so kitty will catch its claws while swatting and realise, hey, this is kinda fun! Use your own cat's scent to mark the scratcher as a familiar object, as they'd do naturally when rubbing their faces and lips over furniture and resources. Gently wipe a soft cloth over kitty's cheeks to collect the facial pheromones and rub it onto the scratcher, which they'll detect upon inspection. Alternatively, you can use a good pheromone spray like Feliway Classic . Deterrents There are various products and training aids designed to deter cats from scratching. Double-sided adhesive or anti-scratch tapes will make the area less desirable, and sprays like Woyamay Cat Repellent contain natural scents that cats are averse to. Scrubbing and washing problem areas will help to get rid of the scent that's already there, making cats less likely to go back to it. If you suspect that stress is a factor, pheromone sprays and diffusers have been clinically proven to reduce many problem behaviours associated with anxiety; however, you shouldn't rely on them without making other changes as described in this article. Skylos Cardboard Cat House has a 2-tier design for single or multiple use. Cats can lounge on the top or nap inside, and recycled corrugated card provides scratching opportunities on all sides. Summary Excessive scratching needs to be addressed, as stress can lead to long-term health issues. It's advisable to speak to a vet who may prescribe medication if any health conditions are discovered or refer you to a behaviourist. This is someone who can help with modifying your environment; behavioural training therapy and other necessary changes. Lastly, keeping your cat's claws trimmed may help to reduce their need to scratch by promoting shedding of the dead husks so that new, sharper claws can grow naturally. How often trimming is required depends on your cat: those that are young and active with outdoor access will need less maintenance than an inactive indoor cat. Be sure to use clippers designed for cats, or if you're not comfortable then make an appointment with your local vet. Recommended Products Cat Scratch Sticky Tape Navaris Cat Scratch Mat Sofa Shield Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post Conlun Cardboard L-Shaped Cat Scratcher TRIXIE Scratching Board SOL Cat Scratch Mat Conlun Cardboard Cat House with Scratching Board Do you have a serial carpet clawer at home? Let us know in the comments if these tips helped!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is Feline Aggression? Cat Body Language The Kitty Stare-Down Aggression and Play What Are the Differences Between Offensive and Defensive Aggression? More Other Signs of Aggression in Cats What Should I Do If Cats Become Aggressive? What Is Feline Aggression? The easier question to answer is: what does aggression look like? We’ve all witnessed it at some point, whether you own a cat or not. Hissing, growling, swiping, clawing, biting; and more subtle behaviours like flattened ears and fluffed up fur, particularly down the spine and tail. The dreaded stare down, which I’ll go into a little further on, is an assured sign that all hell is about to break loose. Aggressive behaviour in cats can be categorised as physical, vocal or a combination of both. ​ To add to the complexity of felines, a lot of these behaviours can be exhibited through play. Playtime helps cats to bond and is an expression of their natural hunting instincts. This means it can look as though a cat is attacking when, in fact, you're witnessing a well-timed pounce. Punishing a cat that doesn't know any different is confusing and may damage its relationship with both other cats and yourself. It’s essential that you learn how to read a cat’s body language in order to understand the true signs of feline aggression. Cat Body Language Body Part Signs of Aggression Ears Flattened or pinned back to the head. Eyes Wide or slanted; not blinking; unwavering stare-down with another cat; tense facial expression. Mouth Corners curled back with bared teeth; continuous hissing / spitting / growling / yowling; spittle around lips; biting. Fur Fluffed up or coming out in chunks; noticeable "mohawk" down the spine; cat making itself look larger than it is. Tail Fluffed up or bristly; low to the ground; swishing from side to side or thumping; tucked under the body. Paws Swatting or swiping with force; claws showing; fur trapped between nails. Posture Hunched or arched back; leaning backwards or a sideways stance; stomach flat to the ground with arms extended to show claws; lying on its back exposing hind legs. Behaviour Stalking; chasing; blocking; ambushing; cats locked together in a full-contact fight. I t's important to note that some behaviours that might be considered as aggressive aren’t always the case. Simba is very much akin to a dog in the sense that his tail never stops wagging, and during petting it fluffs up to at least double its normal size. This is known as “piloerection” and occurs due to physiological changes, similar to goosebumps in humans. A high vertical tail - you know, the one where your cat is proudly displaying its butthole to the world - is a classic example of one confident kitty. So too, vocalisations such as hissing or growling are often defensive rather than offensive: this is basically a warning to the other party to stay back! A defensive cat won't attack unless approached as its primary goal is to avoid interaction with a more dominant animal. As predators in the wild, cats need to preserve their energy for hunting - plus, they don’t want to get hurt. Spitting and long, continuous yowls may indicate that your cat is feeling anxious, stressed or vulnerable in a situation. It's also common to hear shrill screams that mimic the sound of a baby crying. This usually occurs during a physical fight or can be used as a final warning - so take this distress signal as a serious cause for alarm. Cats that don’t like each other (but show tolerance) will use avoidance tactics before resorting to confrontation, which is why you should never force them into a space together - no matter how much you want them to be friends. Cats that stay out of each other’s ways is a solution, not a problem; so don’t turn it into one. Regardless of what they’re trying to communicate, it all boils down to the simple fact that cats don’t want to fight; but they will if a perceived threat is large enough. Related post:   Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes The Kitty Stare-Down I first witnessed the infamous stare-down when my cats came to blows and quickly learned that it preceded some vicious attacks - at least on Drax's side. It was so out of character for my sweet little marshmallow but thankfully, largely due to this important warning sign, I was able to intervene before it got to a point where the boys were tearing chunks out of each other. This hard, unwavering stare i s a show of dominance or anger - intimidation at its finest. In human terms, it may appear as though your cats are trying to psych each other out. Imagine a couple of testosterone-fuelled guys standing nose to nose, jaws clenched, shoulders pulled back; necks stiff and chests puffed out. Tension drips in sweat globules down their foreheads, neither backs down. It’s just a question of who throws the first punch - and that’s exactly what your cats are doing! Poor Simba, though built like a tank with a pair of shoulders that could rival Schwarzenegger himself, didn’t have it in him to stand up to his brother. Nor would he walk away, a stubborn streak likely inherited off his mother (I blame the taurus in me). If he ignored Drax then it never would have escalated, but instead the “fight-or-flight” response is activated - which in Simba’s case, was to flee. And so begins the chase, with Drax’s predator instincts on full alert. To his credit, Simba would fight back once cornered but it was always too little, too late. They developed an offensive/defensive relationship that soon became a habit, making it more difficult to break. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Moral of the story, if you see your kitties engaging in a staring contest - no matter how close or far apart they are - step in before it has a chance to escalate. No one wants to find themselves caught in the middle of an all-claws-out cat fight. Not only are they harder to separate but, by this time, a cat’s logic has given way to survival instinct - ouch! Aggression and Play With a combination of visual and vocal cues, you can learn to interpret feline behaviour and prevent aggression from escalating; as well as knowing when to relax. We want our cats to bond and, in my own experience, I’ve found play to be an important role in the reintroduction phase . Playtime isn't only a fun bonding experience, it also helps to burn off excess energy. A tired cat is a sleepy cat, and if cats are sleeping then they're not fighting - which is a win-win for everyone. That's not to say you should thrust them into a room together and hope for the best, but encouraging interactions through play helps to create positive associations with one another. Skylos Cardboard Cat House has a 2-tier design for single or multiple use. Cats can lounge on the top or nap inside, and it includes a spring mouse toy for extra fun. Recycled corrugated card provides scratching opportunities on all sides. Conversely, it's possible that play could be contributing to aggression in the case of overexcited or energetic cats. This may be an issue if, for example, you introduce a new kitten to a senior cat. I experienced this many years ago between my older cat, George, and a black and white little terror named Dillon. As Dillon grew up, he became the most well-behaved kitty you could ask for - we were all young once! Some kitties just love to stalk and pounce on their siblings because it's fun or they simply haven't been properly socialised. Even if there's no malice intended, if you have a quieter or more reserved cat that's taking the brunt of this overstimulation, things may well turn nasty. Play aggression is usually solved by offering more toys and stimulation, as well as territory and safe places for the victims. Related post: Aggression vs Play: How to Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting Here are some pointers to help determine whether your kitties are in need of a timeout: Some hissing or crying is normal during rough play, but it shouldn't be continuous and cats will either separate or continue the play session. Growling can indicate overexcitement or overstimulation - this is usually heard when playing with toys (prey). Yowling or screaming are signs that your cats are stressed, afraid or possibly fighting. Cats play by swatting, pouncing or wrestling in short bursts, rather than locked together as in a full-contact fight. Cats will go back to normal after the play session with no lingering tension. What Are the Differences Between Offensive and Defensive Aggression? One of the first things to look for with inter-cat aggression, and we talk about it a lot here, is determining if there's a bully and a victim. Knowing the difference between defence and attack modes will further help to uncover the potential cause and how to solve it. In cat-to-human aggression, it will go towards understanding if aggression is fear-based or whether it might be prelude to a physical attack. Learning what cats are communicating through their body language is essential for all parents, not just where aggression is concerned. It enables you to more accurately "read" your cats in order to understand their feelings, emotions, needs and motivations for doing what they do. Related post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication As a general guide, a fearful cat will try to make itself look smaller and less threatening; while an offensive cat wants to appear larger and more menacing. This can also be the case for a cat in defence mode: for example, arching its back or standing sideways to present more of its body. If a cat submits then it might roll onto its back or lie down. Defensive Aggression Ears flattened to the back or sides of the head to reduce injury. Wide eyes with pupils dilated. Head tucked in. Fluffed up fur (piloerection). Tail curved around the body and tucked in. Claws exposed. Crouched stance or arched back. Body turned sideways to the opponent or leaning backwards. Stomach flat to the ground with arms extended to show claws (ready to defend). Open-mouthed hissing, growling or spitting. Swatting with claws if opponent draws too close. May roll onto its back to defend with hind legs (or submit). Offensive Aggression Ears backwards or upright. Direct stare with constricted pupils. Piloerection. Stiff, bristly tail may be lowered, lashing or thumping. Upright and fluffed out can signal anger. Claws exposed. Upright stance with rear raised and back sloping downwards to the ground (ready to charge). Facing opponent straight on or edging towards them. Growling, yowling or howling. Stalking, blocking and ambushing. May chase its opponent. Both cats will be upright on haunches or locked together during a full-contact fight.  Visit Other Signs of Aggression in Cats Sometimes aggression can be a symptom of deeper issues and there are many things to look out for, whether fighting is present or not. These include: Mood changes. Lack of appetite. Toileting outside the litter tray. Holding in pee or only peeing in small amounts. Pacing or “patrolling” areas of the home. Guarding or blocking other cats from accessing resources. Chasing cats away. Any behaviour that you’d consider abnormal suggests there may be some level of distress: an aggressive kitty is often a scared kitt y. Such changes should be investigated by a vet in the first instance. Related article: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Comfort Zone plug-in pheromone diffuser for single or multi-cat homes. Creates a calm, relaxing environment to help reduce stress and other problem behaviours, as well as tension and fighting between household cats. What Should I Do If Cats Become Aggressive? The quickest modes of intervention include using a sight blocker (such as a piece of cardboard or cushion) to cut off eye contact; making a loud noise or distracting with a toy . Sometimes that’s all it takes for cats to snap out of it, but you should be prepared to remove one from the room if necessary. As it happens, I attempted the loud noise tactic using a whistle to no effect. Both cats looked at me as if I was a madwoman and continued fighting which, considering how skittish they are, says a lot about how aggression can affect the mind. Of course, we can’t watch our cats 24/7 so don’t be too disheartened if you’re unable to prevent a fight. Similarly, don’t exacerbate the situation by yelling at or punishing your cats - and definitely don’t use your hands to separate them. Try a long-handled object such as a broom or throw a blanket over one or both cats, if necessary. Some people suggest spraying cats with water or vinegar solutions, which is fine if you want to traumatise them further - in short, DON’T DO IT. Finally, remember to pay special attention to your victim cat as aggression can have a significant impact on their health. How would you like to live in constant fear of the resident psycho that prowls the hallways, ready to leap out from every doorway or corner you pass by? Everyone needs a safe haven, including your cats. Discover more helpful tips on how to manage feline aggression at home. Have you got an aggression story of your own to share? Let us know in the comments if this article helped.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned in this article or being paid to promote their products. I wanted to put silvervine to the test and share some product reviews out of curiosity and due to my cats' lack of enthusiasm with catnip. They're not totally immune.... just mostly! Simba seems more interested in the packet itself, whether that's snorting the contents as if it's an illegal substance or chewing the corners of the packaging - hey, it makes a change from sneaking onto the kitchen counter and gnawing on the bread bags. Drax is more reactive and will generally rub or scratch areas where catnip is sprinkled, but I've not witnessed any obvious "highs". Sprays seem to be the choice of preference and he's been known to nuzzle the odd toy here and there, but it really depends on his mood and energy levels. It's also worth mentioning that I parent a couple of lazy bones that are bored of anything within ten minutes. I like to keep some catnip handy to lure them onto new beds and stands; scratch mats and posts to make them more enticing than carpets. Learn more about what silvervine is and how it works in this informative post: Silvervine vs Catnip: Which Is Best for Cats? Silvervine Reviews Go to review ⇨ Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder Go to review ⇨ Nepfaivy Silvervine Chew Sticks What Is Silvervine? In short, silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a climbing plant native to East Asia, named for its silver-white leaves and flowers. It contains two active ingredients, Actinide and dihydroactinidiolide, whereas catnip only contains nepetalactone. In theory, this should make it a more potent substance; but there's still a chance that some cats could be immune. The main forms of silvervine you can purchase for cats are powder, sticks and infused toys. Mew & Friends Silvervine Powder Despite the popularity of silvervine in China and Japan, it seems to be less known to the Western world, with a poor selection of products in the UK. I chose Mew & Friends Silvervine due to their highly-rated Catnip , as well as being a familiar brand and donating 10% of all profits to animal shelters. Mew & Friends Silvervine is 100% natural and organic and, like most powders, is produced from the plant's gall fruit, which has a higher concentration of the active ingredients. As you can see from the image below, silvervine is quite different in appearance to catnip. The finely-ground powder has a sweet, pungent earthy aroma and is brown in colour. For a mere 15 grams, it doesn't seem like you're getting much for your money, but a little goes a long way. The powder is relatively compacted inside a convenient tin, which I really like - although I can't say the same for Simba, the chewing machine. So, the packaging is a plus but what about the product? Without a nice crunchy bag to suck on (under supervision, of course) Simba was unsurprisingly indifferent and no more reactive than with catnip. Drax had a good sniff and ended up with a brown nose, which is another point to note. The powder does leave a residue - this is of no danger to cats, but if you have pale carpets then be warned. You can see an example of this in the image below depicting a test toy that I sprinkled with the product, although it's nothing that can't be washed off. While I had "high" hopes for this magic dust, unfortunately, its effects were barely a step up from catnip. I don't blame the product; as with anything cat related, some will be more interested than others. The most enthusiasm Drax has shown is with the plush toy (a freebie that came with a cool window perch) which I have to admit is a rarity, as catnip-infused toys are usually ignored. I wouldn't say it stimulates playfulness, but rather it seems to enhance excitability when he's already in the mood. He had me in stitches flinging the toy around and nuzzling it to death with the craziest eyes I've ever seen. I offered the toy dabbed in silvervine rather than purchasing one that already has it incorporated. Due to the disappointing selection of silvervine cat toys and the fact that mine aren't overly interested, it's not worth the extra purchase for me. However, if you have any experiences to share then feel free to comment and let us know if your kitties approved. To save a few pennies and use up any old catnip or silvervine, check out these fun and furr-tastic DIY cat toy ideas . Summary Despite not meeting my hopes, I would buy silvervine powder again for the following reasons: Being a parent of lazy indoor cats, anything that takes the pressure off me is a win - even if one cat is immune! Can be mixed with catnip and used to make your own soft toys. For a more cost-effective option, this Silvervine Dust by AmeizPet is around the same price for just over double the quantity. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. Nepfaivy Silvervine Chew Sticks In contrast to powders and toys, silvervine sticks for cats (also known as Matatabi sticks) come in a variety of styles which I can appreciate. From plain chew sticks to incorporated feathers, gall fruits and even catnip fillings for extra zoomies! If you know your cat's likes and dislikes, which I'm certain you do, then this may be a good (and less costly) option. My boys give these silvervine chew sticks a big paws up, and they're great to review as it's basically 5 toys in 1. In no particular order, here are the best features: The stick itself contains all the properties and benefits of silvervine. Lafite grass (rafia) which my kitties love to tear apart, probably due to the rustling sound it makes when chewed - bonus points from Simba. Catnip filling for extra attraction. Hanging gall fruit, which contains the highest concentration of active ingredients. Hemp or sisal rope, probably the best feature as far as safety goes. This makes the toy more durable and bite resistant, preventing splintering into small parts that cats might swallow. This 100% natural silvervine-catnip toy is described as being great for stress relief, as well as stimulating playful behaviour; promoting gut function; reducing furballs and eliminating dental plaque. Depending on how often your cats use them, they generally last until worn down. These chew sticks come in a pack of six and are suitable for cats over 2 months old. If you're looking for a bit more interaction, the addition of feathers and balls is an exciting option with the PetGens Silvervine Chew Sticks . While I haven't tried the standard plain sticks, the SeaMorn 30 Pcs Budget Pack is great value. Summary With so much variety and so many benefits, silvervine chew sticks are a must-have for every kitty household. Multipacks are even better as it means there's plenty to go around without squabbling, and at great prices. Both of my boys enjoy chewing, licking and batting these around and they last for ages. I always keep a supply available to swap out once they're worn down. You could even customise plain sticks with your own twine and additional bells or feathers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. I hope this helps anyone who is either unfamiliar with silvervine products or on the fence about giving it a whirl. These reviews are based on tried and tested products that are 100% natural, safe and non-addictive to your fur babies. If you'd rather stick to catnip, there's a huge variety to choose from. To make it easier, check out these top recommended catnip toys, blends and sprays . Mentioned Products Mew & Friends Catnip AmeizPet Silvervine Dust PetGens Silvervine Chew Sticks SeaMorn 30 Pcs Budget Pack Information accurate from November 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Do your cats give silvervine a paws up or paws down? Do you have any amazing products to share? Let us know in the comments!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: What Is Catnip and How Does It Affect Cats? Is Catnip the Same As Catmint? Is Catnip Safe for Kittens? Can I Give Catnip to Pregnant Cats? What Is Silvervine and How Does It Affect Cats? More Silvervine vs Catnip: What's the Difference? Is Silvervine Safe for Cats? How Do I Use Silvervine? Summary What Is Catnip and How Does It Affect Cats? As a cat parent, you'll most definitely be familiar with catnip and the euphoric effect it has on our furry friends. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a herb belonging to the mint family that can be bought in dried blends, sprays and stuffed inside toys to aid interaction and stimulate playful behaviour. Cats will generally sniff the substance but it can be eaten in small amounts. In a hyperactive response, you might see cats nuzzling toys or zooming around on a kitty "high". Some cats zone out or appear sedated, while others could be immune. Either way, these mind-altering effects are temporary and generally last between 5-15 minutes. Related post: 15 Best Catnip Toys, Blends and Sprays To get extra scientific, the active ingredient in catnip is a chemical compound called nepetalactone. A cat's nasal cavity is lined with a specialised tissue known as the olfactory epithelium (detects smells). When nepetalactone enters the nasal tissues, it binds to the olfactory receptors and this sends signals to the brain. Some scientists believe the brain interprets them as pheromones , which triggers a release of endorphins - chemicals related to mood and happiness. This is known to cause an almost hallucinogenic feeling in cats, but don't worry! It's completely natural and non-addictive to your fur children. Furthermore, catnip stimulates an area of the brain that's responsible for sexual behaviours. When under the influence, cats may act in a similar fashion to being in heat or responding to sex pheromones. Johnson's Catnip Spray contains oil from the dried leaves of catmint. It can be applied to bedding, toys, scratch posts or anywhere you want to encourage some kitty interaction. Is Catnip the Same As Catmint? While catnip and catmint come from the same family, they're two different plants with different properties. Catmint (Nepeta mussinii) contains a compound called nepetalactol, which is less potent than that found in catnip. It's therefore commonly known for its calming effects and can be used to help with stress and anxiety . Again, this will vary from cat to cat, although I can say that one of my kitties isn't a fan of the minty aroma. Is Catnip Safe for Kittens? Catnip is safe for cats of all ages and can be offered to kittens in moderation; however, they generally won't respond until 3-6 months of age. This could be due to not being sexually mature, as their brains aren't developed enough to react to nepetalactone. If catnip has no effect on your kitten after this time period, try again in monthly intervals. It's not uncommon to take up to a year before cats start responding to the substance. Can I Give Catnip to Pregnant Cats? There's no definitive evidence for or against offering catnip to pregnant cats. While it's unlikely to cause harm, it can stimulate the uterus to contract in the later stages of pregnancy. Evidence is based on catnip being used in traditional medicine to induce labour in humans, but research into the effects on felines is limited. Catnip is well known for its stress-relieving properties, which some experts believe to be beneficial during pregnancy; however, cats can become highly excitable under the influence. It's generally not recommended for expectant mothers due to the risk of delivering her litter prematurely or injuring them during a hyperactive episode. Visit That being said, since catnip is believed to mimic the pheromones associated with sexual behaviour, some owners find that pregnant cats don't respond to nepetalactone. This could be due to hormonal changes altering a cat's sensitivity levels, or behavioural changes associated with pregnancy. The exact reasons aren't entirely understood and more research is needed. Advice on giving catnip to nursing queens is also variable, with some sources claiming that it's safe and others warning against the risks of distracting a mother from tending to her kittens. It's usually best to wait until kittens have been weaned before taking any unnecessary risks. If you decide to offer a small dose of catnip, only do so under supervision and carefully monitor your cat's behaviour. Pet Touch Catnip Bubbles are made with natural catnip oil and water, which is safe and non-toxic for cats. Contains 2x 120ml bottles and the solution can also be used with a bubble gun. What Is Silvervine and How Does It Affect Cats? Silvervine (Actinidia polygama) is a climbing plant native to East Asia, named for its silver-white leaves and flowers. Cats are usually most reactive to products made from the plant's gall fruit, which occurs when insects lay eggs or larvae on the fruit. This creates galls which are lumps containing a higher concentration of the active ingredients. The three main forms of silvervine you can purchase for cats are: Powder, which is produced from the plant's gall fruit and likely to pack a bigger punch. I like this option from Mew & Friends , and the best news is they also offer premium organic catnip! Sticks, also known as Matatabi sticks ,  are commonly used to support dental health, as well as making fun toys. Chewing on silvervine can help to clean a cat's teeth by reducing tartar build-up, and there are plenty of styles to choose from for those fussy felines. Toys that are already infused with silvervine, simply throw and watch! Although not particularly well known in the Western world, probably due to silvervine only growing in certain areas, it's one of the most popular cat treats in China and Japan. According to studies , the percentage of cats that respond to silvervine is 80% in comparison to catnip's 68%. This doesn't seem like a huge difference, but amongst that 80% are cats that don't respond to catnip. With an estimated 11 million cat owners in the UK, it begs the question: why isn't silvervine more available? With a lack of products on the market, especially in relation to catnip, one has to wonder if the hype is exactly that. Silvervine vs Catnip: What's the Difference? The main difference between catnip and silvervine is their raw or natural forms, to which the clue is in the name. While catnip is a herb, silvervine is a climbing plant with not one, but two types of attractants. As we know, the active ingredient in catnip is nepetalactone, whereas silvervine contains both Actinide and dihydroactinidiolide, making it a more potent substance. 3-in-1 Catnip Balls include catnip, silvervine, gall fruit and cat sugar. Natural plant fibres help to stimulate appetite, promote digestion and improve dental health. Sticks to a smooth wall or surface and available in multiple colours to match your decor. The effects are similar to catnip and both can be used simultaneously, although cats are known to be easily bored. Silvervine presents an opportunity to switch things up when catnip loses its effect. It can also be used to promote exercise for cats that are overweight or lacking stimulation, which is particularly important for indoor cats . For more tips and advice, check out this fun-filled post on how to play with cats of all ages . Is Silvervine Safe for Cats? Silvervine is perfectly safe for cats and there have been no known reports of toxicity, adverse reactions or addiction. Technically, cats can't overdose on the substance by smell alone, although it should be eaten in moderation to avoid stomach problems such as vomiting or diarrhoea (the same can be said for any cat treat). The only issue you might face is your kitty becoming desensitised - or more likely, bored. Silvervine sticks will need replacing once they're worn down as they can break apart and become a choking hazard or cause internal obstructions. While any adverse reactions to silvervine are unlikely, if you do notice anything then discontinue use and consult your local vet. How Do I Use Silvervine? Silvervine should be used in the same manner as catnip, starting with a small pinch to test the effect it has and offering more as required. As a general guide, moderation is key for an enjoyable experience and to prevent overstimulation. You can sprinkle silvervine powder on toys, scratch posts and bedding - a quarter to half a teaspoon should be adequate for one sitting. Each cat will react differently so you can adjust the amount based on your cat's specific reaction. If it has no effect whatsoever then don't feel the need to keep adding more because, chances are, your cat isn't interested. If using sticks, offer one at a time under supervision to begin with. You may see your cat gnawing, licking, rubbing or tossing it around. Remember to replace when necessary and keep an eye out for any splinters or breakages. Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Silvervine chew sticks with Lafite grass, catnip filling, hanging gall fruit and sisal rope for safety and durability. Aids stress relief, promotes gut function, reduces furballs and eliminates dental plaque. Summary In the battle of silvervine vs catnip, neither are better or worse for cats than the other. The properties of silvervine, with two active ingredients for double the potency, make it a strong competitor. Despite a lack of availability, the extra benefits and variety of silvervine chew sticks swing it for me, with the option of incorporated feathers, bells and other kitty favourites. If your cat isn't interested in catnip then there's a good chance it'll be more reactive to silvervine, and it's completely safe to try. Of course, the final verdict lies with our four-legged friends! Join me for some kitty crazy silvervine product reviews , where I put this "magic dust" to the test using my own little helpers. Mentioned Products Cuckoo Catnip Mew & Friends Silvervine Have you tried any silvervine products? Do they live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 8 Tips to Stop Cats from Urine Spraying Outside: Shoes Deep Clean Cat Flaps and Curtains Urine Repellent Sprays Natural Homemade Repellents Keeping Cats Away from the Area Wildlife Neutering and Spaying Also in this article: Why Do Cats Urine Spray? What's the Difference Between Urine and Spraying? Urine Marking and Territorial Aggression Why Do Cats Urine Spray? Unfortunately, urine spraying or "scent marking" is a normal part of being a cat and therefore not easily solved. Our furry friends use many different scents to map out their environment, from marking areas as safe and familiar to alerting other cats of their presence. You'll no doubt have seen them using the glands in their cheeks by rubbing their faces on anything and everything, which is healthy behaviour and positive signs of a happy kitty. We take more notice of pee because it's a little - okay, a lot - more invasive, not to mention stinky. Stopping cats from spraying, whether inside or outside of the home, is best achieved through preventative measures and deterrents rather than punishment because, to them, it's a natural form of communication. Related post: Why Do Cats Urine Spray in the House and How to Stop It? Visit What's not so normal and may indicate a potential issue is cats using urine spraying to mark areas where they feel threatened or there's some kind of external stressor. Once they've sprayed in a particular area, they'll be encouraged to do it again to surround themselves with their own scent, boosting confidence and security. It's more common for cats to spray outdoors where there may be competition with other cats, so it becomes a literal pissing competition - nice! This ordinary behaviour can fast become a territorial war, and I know from experience the devastating effect it can have on resident cats. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting What's the Difference Between Urine and Spraying? It's important to recognise the differences between urinating outside the litterbox and spraying because they can both indicate underlying issues. Understanding your cat's behaviour makes it easier to diagnose the problem and find a solution or remedy. Cats will typically spray vertical surfaces rather than horizonal ones, such as walls and doors, so it looks more deliberate than a puddle on the floor. Both can be linked to stress or indicative of a medical issue, although spraying is usually associated with territory marking and mating - hence why it's a good idea to get cats neutered or spayed . A cat that's spraying will have its tail vertical in the air to direct at a target in shorter bursts, rather than squatting to release a large amount of urine. The tail may also quiver and they make a treading motion with their back legs. Feliway Optimum plug-in diffuser contains a new pheromone complex for enhanced serenity. It helps to solve common signs of stress including spraying, scratching, fear and conflict. Recommended by vets and behaviourists. Urine or spray contains information about a cat's age, sex and health amongst other things. It's an essential form of non-verbal communication, from mating availability to warning other cats to stay off their turf. Both male and female cats can spray, but it's more common in unneutered males that have the ability to mark frequently. Tomcats have the strongest smelling urine and are far more territorial, but that doesn't mean they'll go looking for trouble. Cats will generally avoid confrontation, so fighting only occurs when two dominant cats encounter each other and neither is willing to back down; or as a last resort if one or both cats feel under threat. In simple feline terms, defending one's marked patch is threat enough! Urine Marking and Territorial Aggression If a stray enters your garden and picks up the scent of other cats, whether it's a household kitty or another stray, this could trigger a territorial reaction where they end up competing for that patch. Even spotting cats through a window might cause them to spray around the house or garden because they can't get inside. With a sense of smell that's fourteen times stronger than a human's, rest assured that your fur babies will be able to detect an intruder well before you do - they might even start spraying within the house to combat it. Pee has a potential to create havoc in the home, and territorial wars are one of the main causes of inter-cat aggression . If you’re familiar with My Story   then this topic will come as no surprise, as it sparked several months of kitty hell when my boys turned on each other in ways I never could have imagined. Related post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats If you suspect an intruder may be upsetting your own kitties, bear in mind that visual sightings may only be half of the problem. One of my neighbours had indoor cats and Drax would often watch them window to window, so how was this any different? Could it be that he'd smelled the intruder through an old cat flap we had for previous four-legged residents? Even so, there's no way it could get into the house because the flap was permanently locked. Perhaps it had sprayed in the yard or around the door, in which case a blast with the hosepipe should get rid of the problem. Nope! I didn't take into account another contributing factor: humans. Even dry urine will contain scent and pheromones that can be transported on the bottoms of our shoes. Was I the one bringing this filth into the house and upsetting my poor boy? Perhaps it didn't occur to me sooner because Simba wasn't remotely bothered by it – or at least, he showed no signs of territorial aggression. The only thing that had upset him, unfortunately, was Drax. How to Stop Cats from Spraying 1. Shoes My first piece of advice, especially where resident kitties are concerned, is to invest in some outdoor-only shoes. This will help to limit unwanted behaviour and prevent the spread of urine. Shoes should be left in a shed or other storage option so that any issues are contained to outside the house. If or when entering the home, use an antibacterial wipe on the soles and leave them by the door. If this seems inconvenient then consider the prospect of cleaning every floor of every room, which if we're going to be thorough, is exactly what you should be doing to scrub away traces of the "invasion". Pet Fresh Cleaner & Disinfectant for indoors that can be used as is or diluted up to 100:1, with multiple scents to choose from and a whopping 5 litres. Keeps the house smelling fresh for days.   2. Deep Clean After an initial deep clean, go over high-traffic areas once a week or until you start to see an improvement in your cat's behaviour. I recommend using a  pet-safe disinfectant o r carpet cleaner, paying special attention to areas that lead outside such as doorways. Wash both sides of the door and, if you have a yard or patio, soak and scrub it with a strong outdoor disinfectant. Related post: 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats 3. Cat Flaps and Curtains Cat flaps should be covered and close any curtains where you think an intruder might be spotted, especially overnight as cats are most active before sunrise and sunset. While this won't stop the spraying, it limits visual contact and is therefore less likely to attract strays to the area. If curtains aren't an option then you can get temporary blinds, screens and self-adhesive privacy films for windows. To really get to the bottom of the issue, you could invest in a spy cam to capture evidence of when, where and how these intruders are, well, intruding! 4. Urine Repellent Sprays Anti-cat pee sprays contain scents that cats are averse to such as citrus and eucalyptus. They work to mask the traces of pheromones in urine, which are the biggest attractant for cats. Eliminating this may also help to reduce other unwanted behaviours such as digging and scratching . C&G Urine Stop Spray contains citrus and lemongrass, which acts as an anti-microbial agent. These natural ingredients make it both pet and eco-friendly. For more outdoor cat deterrents, including jet sprays and ultrasonic repellents, check out these top recommended cat deterrents for gardens and yards . 5. Natural Homemade Repellents For a more natural urine repellent, you can use the same fresh scents that are found in commercial sprays, although their effectiveness is debatable. Scattering fresh lemon or orange peels around your home is believed to repel cats, as well as wet coffee granules and vinegar. These won't eliminate stains or smells left by urine so regular cleaning is essential. Some plants and herbs, including lavender, rosemary, mint and geraniums are believed to deter cats. You could also try planting prickly or thorned shrubs. 7. Wildlife Another big attractor is wildlife, so if you have a garden filled with bird feeders then this will surely add to the problem. Food encourages birds, squirrels, mice, rats and other rodents, so your property effectively becomes a hunting ground for cats. Leaving wildlife to go hungry may not seem like a fair or ideal solution, but limiting or sectioning off feeding areas may be less enticing for our feline friends.   6. Keeping Cats Away from the Area Whether you're tackling strays or your own territorial kitties, we want to keep them away from problem areas for as long as possible until the urine scent has gone and they've (hopefully) forgotten or moved on to other places - preferably away from your house or garden. Try letting cats out for shorter durations or block off areas where there's evidence of spraying or fouling. Other practical measures you can take involve using gravel or pebbles instead of soil, which will be uncomfortable on a cat's paws so they're less likely to dig; and using a mesh barrier to protect plants and flowerbeds. Install high fences where possible and check for any gaps or holes that could be used as entry/exit points. Don't leave food or water out for cats and shoo them away whenever spotted. 8. Neutering and Spaying At the risk of causing a war between neighbours as well as rival cats, you could ask fellow owners if their cats are neutered a nd politely educate them on the benefits. Some people genuinely don't realise how hormones can lead to problem behaviours, especially if they're not witnessing it. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress More desexed cats means less strays roaming the streets, which is more of a danger to themselves than anything. Unlike the wilderness - a cat's natural habitat - built-up areas like towns and cities are not suitable for the domestic cat as there's an inability to really thrive. Shelters are being overwhelmed with abandoned kittens, and I've heard enough horror stories from staff and volunteers to turn anyone's hair grey. I ask all parents, owners and guardians to act responsibly and not contribute to an already growing problem. Related post: Trap-Neuter-Return Programs for Stray Cats: How You Can Help ALL animals deserve to live safe, healthy, happy and comfortable lives. Our cats deserve a place to call home. Mentioned Products Rabbitgoo Privacy Film for Glass Windows C&G Urine Stop Spray Have you had issues with strays or four-legged invaders? Let us know in the comments if these tips helped!

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: How to Choose a Suitable Cat Carrier Turning Carriers into a Safe Place Cat Calming Products Travelling to the Vet Clinic Taking Multiple Cats for a Vet Visit Summary For the majority of parents, this could be more accurately titled: Vet Visits from HELL . The worst thing you can do is scoop up your unsuspecting cat and shove it into a carrier, as much as we want to get it over with as quickly as possible. The same would apply to any pet: I had a bunny that would scarper whenever he saw the basket of doom . If you're not familiar with this site then get reading, because here's where you want to use a cat's territorial nature to your advantage. How to Choose a Suitable Cat Carrier The carrier should be a safe haven, not a prison. How would you like to be plucked out of your comfy home and carted off to some unknown destination in a plastic box? Wouldn't you feel slightly more comfortable if that box (or vehicle) belonged to you? Preparing cats for a vet visit starts not hours, but days before stepping into a clinic. If you're lucky enough to have cats from a young age, ideally kittens, this is a good time to normalise vet trips - which you should be doing with check-ups, vaccinations, microchipping and/or having them desexed . Taking cats on short car journeys may also help them get used to travelling. If your kitty associates its carrier with fear, that trauma is going to come flooding back every time he or she sees it. Any kind of enclosure is going to freak a cat out because it prevents escape, which is their first response to danger. Not to mention all of the new smells that a clinic has to offer, including the scents of other animals. To ease this process, selecting the right type of carrier is a good place to start. Beaphar Herbal Calming Treats contain hop flowers, Melissa and valerian which is known for its calming properties. They help to promote relaxation and reduce the symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying and excessive vocalisation. Removable tops or lids are ideal so you can lift your cat into and out of the carrier, rather than trying to force it through a front entrance. It also allows the vet to carry out their examination from the carrier with minimal handling. Sometimes cats don't appreciate being touched by their owners, let alone a stranger. Have you ever petted your kitty, only for it to start grooming the area that you put your hands on? As for the size of the carrier, it should have enough room for cats to stand up or lie down and adjust their position; but not so big that they fall around while travelling. Cats Protection recommend using a carrier that's a few centimetres longer, wider and taller than your cat - so if you have kittens then it'll need upsizing as they grow. Carriers should also have ventilation slots on each side. Visit It's not unusual to see people travelling with cats in soft carriers or even backpacks, as is the current social media trend, which ultimately depends on the temperament of your cat. Remember they're capable of ripping and biting through fabric if they're stressed or frightened enough, and it doesn't offer as much protection as a plastic or metal wire carrier. They're also harder to clean if kitty has an accident! Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Cat Carrier is a 2-door model with a front and top opening for loading pets. It has ventilation on all sides and easy-open latches. Turning Carriers into a Safe Place Now you've chosen the perfect carrier, it must be transformed into that all-important safe space. Start by leaving it in a room that your cat frequents for a few days, up to a week, prior to the vet visit. This gives them a chance to claim it as part of their territory by marking it with their scent, reminding them that it's safe and familiar. Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Place a blanket or towel inside for the cat to lie on, or use bedding that's already covered in its scent. If you have cat trees and shelves, you can wipe over the area with a cloth and use that as a familiar object. You could even use an old T-shirt because, of course, they'll recognise your scent too! Toys and treats will create positive associations and help to entice a reluctant kitty. Cat Calming Products For the big day, you might want to use a spritz of the various calming sprays that are available on the market. Pheromone-based sprays like Feliway or Pet Remedy's essential oil blends come highly recommended, all of which can be sprayed inside or over the carrier prior to the journey. Plug-in diffuser versions of these products are available, although effects aren't always immediate and may require several weeks to work. Tablets, such as Zylkene Calming Supplements , help pets to cope with short-term challenging situations including travelling and fireworks. It contains alpha casozepine, a natural milk protein with clinically proven calming properties. They can be administered in advance of a vet trip but, again, may take a couple of days to build up in the system. Always consult a vet before giving cats supplements. Herbal calming treats and spot-ons are also good options. Whatever you decide and whatever works best for your cat, there are plenty of products and brands to choose from. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets Feliway Classic Spray contains pheromones that help to reduce common signs of stress. Can be used during major changes including renovations, travel and vet visits. Available in 20ml or 60ml bottles that are suitable for use at home or on the go. Travelling to the Vet Clinic Try to schedule your visit outside of rush hours to avoid getting stuck in traffic and minimising the time your cat has to spend in its carrier. Most clinics tend to be quieter in the morning, then you have the rest of the day to help cats settle down. You might want to choose a day when you don't have any other activities planned, such as visitors coming over. To reduce movement when travelling, hold the carrier level so your cat isn't sliding around and use a seatbelt to secure it while driving. Where a cat is crying, panting or generally stressed out, you can cover the carrier with a towel or blanket. Limiting visual stimulation may give them a chance to calm down and focus on themselves. Cats also appreciate height advantage, so if there's a table in the clinic's waiting area then do make use of it. Remember too that a frightened kitty may pee on its bedding, so take a spare towel just in case. Taking Multiple Cats for a Vet Visit If you have multiple cats that require a health check-up, it's advisable to take them together so they both smell the same upon their return. We don't want any unnecessary cases of non-recognition aggression , especially where fighting is already present. Each cat should have its own separate carrier. As touched on earlier, calming spot-ons should be used with caution in multi-cat homes. This is because they're applied topically and may change the smell of cats, thus escalating the situation. If it isn't possible to take cats to the clinic together or you're worried about them stressing each other out, keep them separated for 12-24 hours after the visit. This way, the remaining cat isn't being subjected to any foreign smells. Related post: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps Lastly, cats take emotional cues from humans, so staying cool and collected is as beneficial for them as it is for you! Summary To make it even easier, use this brief rundown as a handy reminder for your next vet visit: Invest in a suitable carrier. Add familiar bedding, blankets or towels. Use calming sprays. Offer treats to reward or entice. Secure the carrier with a seatbelt and minimise movement. Take multiple cats for check-ups together or separate for 12 hours minimum. Stay calm - you've got this! Mentioned Products Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Cat Carrier Zylkene Calming Supplements for Cats & Dogs Beaphar Calming Spot-On Have you been struggling with your own vet visits from hell? Let us know how we can help in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. The modern day kitty has an array of luxurious bedding on offer, but which one to choose? Does your kitty love to snuggle up or stretch out? Do they enjoy bonding time with the family or hideaway dens to escape the hustle and bustle of human traffic? While cat trees and perches are essential pieces of feline furniture, most will appreciate the extra level of comfort from their very own cat bed. In this article: MEWOOFUN Cat Sofa Bed Enjamoy Plush Donut Bed SUOXU Plush Cat Bed Nobleza Cat Igloo Furjoy Cat Cave D isdain Cute Cat Bed Bedsure Cat Basket MORA PETS Self-Heating Mat Petlicity Pet Radiator Bed PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock ⭐⭐⭐⭐ MEWOOFUN Cat Sofa Bed This stylish pet sofa is crafted with soft, fluffy materials and offers a cosy place to relax with the family. It has a non-slip bottom and the cover is removable for easy machine washing. The MEWOOFUN Sofa Bed is available in a variety of colours to suit your home decor and furnishings. It's designed for medium-sized cats of all ages and is especially good for seniors that can't jump onto higher surfaces. Customers are happy with the product size and say the medium is generous for 5kg cats. It's easy to put together and comfortable, but some mention that it's a little floppy in parts and could do with more padding. Dimensions: Medium: 66cm (l) x 48cm (w) x 33cm (h) Large: 85cm (l) x 65cm (w) x 29cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 700+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Enjamoy Plush Donut Bed The Enjamoy Donut Bed is made from plush shaggy fabric with extra thick PP cotton filling for a warm, cosy nap. The raised rim supports a cat's head and neck, and it's great for joints and muscles. The bed has an anti-slip and water-resistant bottom to help it stay clean. The donut design is ideal for pets that like to curl up and creates a sense of security for nervous kitties. It comes in multiple sizes and a choice of colours: grey, dark grey, pink and brown. Due to the height, it may not be easily accessible for seniors or very young kittens. Customers describe the bed as soft, fluffy and good value for money; but a little small in the centre. Make sure you refer to the size chart for the inner dimensions and measure your cat to ensure it fits in the dip. To stop the bed from flattening over time, plump it up to retain its shape. Sizes: 50cm x 50cm x 20cm 60cm x 60cm x 20cm 70cm x 70cm x 20cm 80cm x 80cm x 20cm ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ SUOXU Plush Cat Bed The SUOXU Cat Bed is designed to keep pets toasty warm during colder months. It has a plush roof stuffed with foam and is suitable for cats that like to hide and nest for increased security. You can also fold down the roof to create a donut bed. The product is available in grey or pink and each have different sizes. It has an anti-slip bottom and is machine washable. This bed is recommended for cats up to 7kg or 10kg depending on which size you choose, but some customers say it's not suitable for larger cats. Do check the inner dimensions as well as overall size before buying. It's praised for being ultra soft and cosy but easily collapses if pets jump on it. Since the bed arrives vacuum packed, instructions from the manufacturer advise giving it two weeks to decompress to its rigid state. Sizes: 50cm (l) x 35cm (h) 65cm (l) x 40cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nobleza Cat Igloo Igloos provide another comfortable, private hideaway for cats to rest and nap. This one has a 2-in-1 feature that makes it easy to fold up and use as a second style of bed. The removable cushion can be placed inside the tent or on top of it when collapsed. The cushion is machine washable but the igloo is hand wash only. Owners appreciate the Nobleza Igloo for shy cats but say it might be a squeeze for larger adults. The cushion isn't the softest, but you can use your own or pad it out with a folded blanket. It also collapses if jumped on so may need popping back up if you have excitable kitties! Dimensions: 38cm (l) x 38cm (w) x 33cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Furjoy Cat Cave The Furjoy Cat Cave has a top platform for lounging and an enclosed den for multiple cats to use at once. It includes two reversible cushions with breathable felt cloth on one side and thick sherpa on the other, making it perfect for all seasons. The cave is constructed with sturdy, lightweight MDF boards and features a scratch pad on one side, with a hanging pompom for extra enrichment. It pops up for quick assembly and can be folded flat for easy storage or travel. The compact but classic style works well in any room. Customers appreciate the product's value for money and say it does everything it's supposed to do. It's surprisingly sturdy and roomy for most medium-sized cats. Dimensions: 39cm (l) x 39cm (w) x 38cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews.   ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Disdain Cute Cat Bed This unique cat bed has a cartoon design with two ears and a hanging pompom so cats can rest and play at the same time. It's stuffed with soft cotton padding and has a removable cushion inside. It has a non-slip bottom and is hand washable. Customers say the Disdain Cat Bed is comfortable, spacious and cute. However, the material receives mixed feedback and some find it a little cheap, saying it doesn't hold its shape and is easily squashed. The product arrives vacuum packed so it'll need a good 24 hours to decompress to its full rigidity. Dimensions: 40cm (l) x 40cm (w) x 34cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bedsure Cat Basket This soft sherpa basket features a double-sided pillow for all seasons, with a suede exterior to keep its shape. It has an anti-slip bottom and is machine washable. It's available in two sizes and various colours including grey, pink and blue. Owners find the Bedsure Cat Basket to be of good quality and comfortable for cats. The padding is nice and soft around the edges but not as sturdy as a hard-sided basket. The small size is said to be spacious for medium-sized cats, with the large one ample for larger breeds and small dogs. Sizes: 51cm (l) x 48cm (w) x 15cm (h) 63cm (l) x 53cm (w) x 20cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ MORA PETS Self-Heating Mat Keep your cat toasty in cold weather with the MORA PETS Self-Heating Mat, no electricity needed! This is designed to absorb, hold and reflect your pet's body heat to provide natural warmth. The thermal bed is made from ultra-soft fluffy fabric and is double-sided, with a removable cover for machine washing and drying. The self-heating technology claims to decrease pain associated with arthritis for senior cats, as well as providing extra warmth for hairless breeds. All it needs is a pet's bodyweight to start the warming process. This unique feature is much appreciated by cats, with customers praising the warmth, softness and comfort of the bed. There are two sizes to fit most cats and, while it may not be the thickest mat, you can place it on top of a pillow, blanket or other cat bed for extra comfort. Sizes: Small: 61cm (l) x 45cm (w) Medium: 74cm (l) x 47cm (w) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Petlicity Pet Radiator Bed Radiator beds are perfect for keeping cats snug during the winter months and provide an ideal spot for your feline to curl up and relax. The cover is made from soft faux fur material with a collapsible metal frame for easy storage. The large hooks fit most radiators and it's suitable for pets up to 5kg. The cover can be removed for easy washing and it's available in grey, black or white. Customers find the Petlicity Radiator Bed to be ultra soft, good quality and easy to attach to radiators. The frame itself is sturdy but moves when cats jump on and off, which deters my cats from using this type of bed. Since there's no solid base, it also dips beneath the cat's body weight so may not be suitable for larger or heavier cats. Dimensions: 46cm (l) x 30cm (w) x 25cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ PEFUNY Cat Window Hammock The PEFUNY Window Hammock has a stainless steel frame with a weight-bearing capacity of 18kg. It's sturdy and durable with four suction cups to provide a safe place for cats to rest without breaking or falling off. Cats can jump up and down with ease to make use of their natural climbing abilities. The hammock allows cats to bask in the sun and observe the outdoors without damaging your decor. For extra stability, it comes with screws for installation onto a wall if preferred. The hammock can be folded up when not in use, making it a great space-saving piece of furniture for indoor cats. The cover itself is double-sided for all seasons, with soft wool on one side and breathable silk on the other. It features a zipper design so can easily be removed for washing. It's available in white or grey. Owners say the hammock is easy to mount with great stability, and some mention that the large size supports two cats at a time; while others claim that it doesn't hold larger breeds. Having one of these myself, I find the length to be ample but it's a little narrow in width. If cats enjoy stretching out then their arms and legs might dangle over the edges. Longevity is the biggest issue with window beds as the suction cups tend to loose sticking power over time. However, this is longer lasting than the pressure-style suction cups that use caps to squeeze the air out. Sizes: Medium: 52cm (l) x 30cm (w) Large: 61cm (l) x 30 (w) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Based on 20,000+ Amazon reviews. Has your kitty got a favourite bed or do you have any great cat buys to share? Drop your recommendations in the comments to help out fellow parents.

" After 12 terrifying days of conflict between Israel and Iran, a fragile ceasefire is in place. But for the animals, the nightmare is far from over. As bombs fell and civilians fled, countless pets were left behind - abandoned in shattered homes, or dropped at overwhelmed shelters by desperate families with nowhere else to turn. These animals didn’t deserve this. They are hungry, terrified and in urgent need of help ." - Network for Animals Impacts of Middle Eastern War on Animals In a time of chaos and uncertainty in the Middle East, millions of human lives are affected - yet the consequences of war extend far beyond people to their beloved pets, who are often left behind. The pain and suffering of animals may be less visible, but it remains just as severe. Even wildlife is unable to escape the horror, with the destruction of their habitats causing issues such as: Increased competition for resources. Forcing animals into human-populated environments like towns and cities, which are unsuitable and lead to dangerous encounters for both humans and animals. Poaching in areas where law enforcement is weakened, pushing species closer to extinction. Pollution and contamination of soil and water. In addition to pets and wildlife, farmers in Gaza have reported the deaths of thousands of cattle, goats and sheep due to food and water shortages. Israeli bombardment has even destroyed Gaza zoos, and the animals that survived are left starving alongside their human caregivers. Efforts from charities and welfare organisations to aid animals in conflict zones face significant hurdles. Rescuers often struggle to access dangerous areas, have limited resources and no government funding. Still, they risk their lives every day to reach as many abandoned, trapped and injured animals as possible. This isn't limited to the Middle East but conflict around the world - our planet earth - which the powers that be are so desperate to destroy, without care or consideration for its other inhabitants. Credit: AEA & LTAL Network for Animals and Partners " At Starting Over Sanctuary (SOS) in central Israel, our team cares for over 1,700 animals - 1200 of them donkeys, many maimed and traumatized by war. SOS has just rescued a horse and 60 cats who were severely injured - some dismembered, others blinded by shrapnel - after a devastating missile strike in Tel Aviv. The sanctuary is already struggling to cover its skyrocketing monthly expenses for food and medical care for more than 1,700 animals. Now, with dozens of new traumatized and wounded rescues in need of emergency surgery, food and shelter, the costs are rising by the day ." - Network for Animals Network for Animals' partner shelters in Israel and the West Bank are at breaking point. Let the Animals Live (LTAL) shelter is at 120% capacity, with over 300 cats and dogs crammed into every available space. Families whose homes were destroyed are begging them to take in pets that they can no longer care for or don't have permits to cross international borders. At the Animal Environment Association (AEA) - the only shelter in the West Bank area - animals arrive every week that have been hit by cars, shot or abandoned. Donations and adoptions have slowed, the cost of food is rising and supplies are running out; yet each day brings more rescues, more cries for help and more hungry mouths to feed. Sulala Animal Rescue On a smaller scale, yet equally as noteworthy, Sulala Animal Rescue is the only organisation in the Gaza Strip that rescues stray animals. Founder, Saeed Al Err, started out feeding and tending to stray cats and dogs, and he quickly built up a reputation in the area. In addition to the 40 cats he keeps at home, another 30 live with volunteers and he oversees a shelter that's home to 200 dogs! Sulala Animal Rescue primarily runs on donations, which don't cover all of the necessary costs. Now, with an endless flood of abandoned and injured animals that have been traumatised by war, times are harder than ever. Credit: Sulala Animal Rescue A Call to Action From one cat owner to another - one animal lover to another - can you imagine being faced with the impossible decision to leave your furry companion behind in the desperation to save your own life? I implore you not to let the pets of the Middle East be a mere afterthought and help to make their lives just a little more bearable - not just for the animals, but for the owners they were torn from. Even the smallest donations are put to good use at Network for Animals, an organisation that I've followed and supported since the invasion of Ukraine, which opened my eyes to the brutal - and at times, unseen - effects of war. As history repeats itself, again, we must unite to make a difference. If you're unable to donate, you can use the power of your voice and social media to share information. Education is key in tackling the impact of war on animal life and, on a broader scale, global awareness can help to generate increased support for conservation and rescue efforts. Remember, the wellbeing of animals is intertwined with our own. You can help by: Staying up to date with this topic on the Network for Animals website or making a donation . Following Sulala Animal Rescue on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram or TikTok where you can find their donation details. Donating to other animal welfare organisations that have placements in the Middle East. Sharing this post and other articles. * Network for Animals is a non-governmental, international animal welfare organisation that often works in difficult situations where animals need the most help. With your donations they can rush food, medicine and emergency care to the helpless animal victims of this brutal war, as well as supporting their partners in rescuing animals with nowhere else to turn. Credit: Said Khatib/AFP via Getty Images " The suffering of animals knows no borders. " " Photos and videos of dead animals, emaciated dogs, starving cats and flocks of birds in Gaza have been circulating on social media since the war began in early October. Many were killed, but others starved to death. The survivors are traumatized. Some also suffer physically in the absence of veterinary care ." - M&S Research Hub " The scarcity of food and shelter has led to immense suffering, especially among cats, dogs, horses, donkeys and birds.... We don’t have a presence in the affected region. We have been signposting our supporters to Sulala Animal Rescue and encourage donations to this organisation so they can provide aid and practical support to animals caught up in the conflict.... At the request of Sulala we have written to the US Government, Israeli Ambassadors in key locations and the Israeli Government imploring them to allow aid for animals through the checkpoints. " - World Animal Protection " We at IFAW extend our heartfelt concern for the people and animals enduring the current conflict in Israel and Gaza. We express our condolences for the innocent lives lost and our profound sympathy for the people and animals affected by the turmoil. We acknowledge the immense challenges faced by families forced to flee, being separated from loved ones and leaving behind their beloved pets and livestock, adding another layer of tragedy to an already devastating situation ." - International Fund for Animal Welfare Share your thoughts in the comments.

In this article: How to Calculate Carbohydrate Content Dry Matter Basis Summary How many carbohydrates are in your cat's food? You won't find the answer on a packaging label, or anywhere for that matter. Since carbohydrates aren't necessary in a cat's diet, manufacturers aren't required to disclose this information, despite most dry foods containing an average of 30-40%. Sources of carbohydrates like veggies and grains are cheaper than using animal-based protein. A wild cat gets everything it needs from the meat, organs and bones of prey - including a very small amount of plant matter from the stomachs of animals. This would already be partially digested and therefore easier for a cat's body to break down. The ingredients in commercial food must be heavily processed, which proves the point that carbohydrates are unsuitable for cats. They're mainly used as fillers to bulk out food and can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, allergies, urinary tract disease and other health issues. Visit Carbohydrates are a highly debated topic, but if you want to learn more then it's all broken down in this eye-opening post: Cats and Carbohydrates: Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats? Regardless of opinion, we should be aiming to feed our cats as close to a natural diet as possible, which means paying attention to those carbohydrate levels. Once we know that, we can work out the total calorie content . There's nothing wrong with contacting the manufacturer to get this information, but you could be waiting a long time for a response. With a few simple calculations, we can smash through this lack of transparency and discover the truth about what we're feeding our cats to make more informed decisions. How to Calculate Carbohydrate Content Let's look at the formula for working out carbohydrates per 100g of cat food. Step 1: Look for the "analytical constituents" section on your cat food label or packaging and note the percentage of protein , fat , fibre , ash and moisture . Technically, moisture only has to be listed if it's greater than 14%. This won't be a problem with wet food, but if dry food doesn't state the moisture content then you can either contact the manufacturer or assume it's between 8-10%. Step 2: Once you have these numbers, add them all up and subtract the total from 100. IAMS Advanced Nutrition Indoor Dry Cat Food Using the image above as a reference: 36.5% (protein) + 12% (fat) + 6.9% (fibre) + 6.4% (ash) + 8% (moisture) = 69.8% 100 - 69.8 = 30.2 So, the carbohydrate level in this dry food is 30.2% . It’s important to learn how to compare this to wet food as the results will appear significantly different. Gourmet Mon Petit Meaty Variety Wet Food Using the same formula: 12%  (protein) + 2.6%  (fat) + 0.05%  (fibre) + 1.7%  (ash) + 81.5%  (moisture) = 97.85% 100 - 97.85 = 2.15   The carbohydrate level in this wet food is 2.15% . By contrast, it seems as though wet food has a lower amount of protein, fat, fibre and ash due to the higher moisture content. The percentages shown on a cat food label are "as fed" which gives us the nutrient values with moisture included. For a true comparison, we have to remove the moisture to find what's known as the "dry matter basis" or DMB. Dry Matter Basis Use the following formula for calculating food on a DMB. For reference, I'm using the same wet food as pictured above. Step 1: Subtract the moisture content from 100. 100 - 81.5% = 18.5 This means the total percentage of food that isn't moisture is 18.5% . Step 2:   Divide the "as fed" percentages shown on the label by the dry matter percentage we've just calculated (18.5%) then multiply the result by 100. *Results rounded to the nearest whole number for ease. Protein: 12% / 18.5 = 0.64 x 100 = 64 The amount of protein on a DMB is 64% . Fat: 2.6%  / 18.5 = 0.14 x 100 = 14 The amount of fat on a DMB is 14% . Fibre: 0.05%  / 18.5 = 0.002 x 100 = 0.2 The amount of fibre on a DMB is 0.2% Ash: 1.7%  / 18.5 = 0.09 x 100 = 9    The amount of ash on a DMB is 9% Carbohydrates: 2.15% / 18.5 = 0.11 x 100 = 11 The amount of carbohydrates on a DMB is 11% The same formula can be used on dry food, which is why it's important to find out the exact moisture content, if possible. You can see the results displayed in the table below, which gives us a fairer comparison of wet and dry food. Dry Food Wet Food Protein: 39% Protein: 64% Fat: 13% Fat: 14% Fibre: 7% Fibre: 0.2% Ash: 6% Ash: 9% Carbohydrates: 32% Carbohydrates: 11% *Percentages as DMB If you'd prefer a quicker option, there are plenty of carbohydrate and/or dry matter basis calculators online; but it never hurts to understand the mathematics so you can double check if necessary. I like this carb calculator from Caticles that's simple to use, with helpful instructions and feeding tips. For converting nutrients to a dry matter basis, you can use this calculator from the Feline Nutrition Center . To learn more about your cat's energy needs and requirements, check out this helpful post: How Many Calories Does My Cat Need? Summary While there are lots of factors to consider when choosing a quality cat food, from vitamins and minerals to additives and preservatives, this should give you a basic understanding of the key nutrients that are essential for a cat's survival. Commercial pet foods are formulated to be nutritionally balanced according to guidelines set by the FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry) or AAFCO in the States. However, don't be fooled into thinking these guidelines are designed for cats to thrive at peak health. Rather, they're the minimum requirements to maintain basic bodily functions. As a reference point, the FEDIAF guidelines for a complete food for adult cats are: Protein: 26% (DMB) Fat: 9% (DMB) Fibre: no minimum requirement for carbohydrates. Compared to a natural diet in the wild, which consists of approximately: Protein: 55% Fat: 43-44% Fibre: 1-2% These numbers vary slightly depending on source but, nevertheless, it explains why commercial food is so carb heavy. Grains and vegetables are used to make up for the substantial lack of animal protein and fat, which is a greater energy source than any other nutrient. If you need more convincing, remember that a mouse is made up of 70% water. Cats restricted to a dry food diet are at serious risk of dehydration, on top of other deficiencies caused by low animal protein substituted with an excessive amount of carbohydrates. For a more natural and species-appropriate diet, you might consider raw feeding or a fresh cat food company like KatKin . Find out more here: Fresh Raw and Cooked Cat Food: Tailor-Made Nutrition Sent to Your Door! Did you find this carb calculator helpful? Has it changed the way you feed your cats?

Cats are often described as being hard to read, with complex behaviours and an aloofness that's a world apart from the domestic dog. With fewer facial muscles than humans and a limited range of expressions, it's no surprise that our felines have earned themselves this reputation. To me, all this means is that they use other forms of communication. That communication is body language and, as parents, we see it every day. When kitty hisses, you know to back off under the threat of pain. When she meows the house down, you go running to the rescue, even though you know she just wants a drink out of the kitchen tap. When she rubs against your legs as you walk through the front door, you return the greeting with petting. Cats know how to get what they want because they've learned how you react to their behaviours (which is also the key to undoing the less desirable ones!). Not all behaviours are so obvious - to humans, at least. Cats understand each other perfectly well, as demonstrated by the array of warnings they give before engaging in physical conflict. Most cats are smart enough to pick their battles, but emotions can go from content or neutral to defensive and threatening in seconds. During those seconds, there are a sequence of body language cues that are easily overlooked. These cues can tell you when your cat is happy and when they're frightened, comfortable or uncomfortable, on edge or relaxed, sick or healthy and much more. By observing the eyes, ears, whiskers, tail, fur, posture (and vocalisations) we can understand our cats on a much deeper level and thus improve the cat-human relationship. Cat Body Language Eyes Ears Whiskers Tail Posture Despite having fewer facial muscles than humans, recent studies have shown that cats can produce 276 distinct facial signals during social interactions with other cats. It's believed that domestication (and humans) have greatly shaped their communicative abilities, and to witness the evolution of such a misunderstood creature is quite fascinating. Eyes As humans, eye contact is a vital part of communication and usually happens before striking up a conversation. Cats focus primarily on scent - imagine sniffing someone instead of shaking hands! - as a direct stare is more likely to be taken as a threat. This tells us that, while cats don't use eye contact in the same way as humans, it plays a significant role in communication. With pupils that dilate from thin slits to wide circles in an instant, they can tell us a lot about a cat's mood, especially in combination with other signs and signals. Related post: Cat Vision: How Do Cats See the World? Neutral, relaxed. Relaxed eyes with a soft gaze and small oval-shaped pupils - " I'm content. " Eyes partially or fully closed - " Snooze time. " Slow blinks, also known as the cat kiss or cat smile - " I love you ." Excitement, anxiety, fear. Wide eyes with dilated pupils or "saucer eyes" to help assess their surroundings, whether from the thrill of spotting a bird outside or the shock of seeing you wearing a pair of cat ear headphones (I'm looking at you , Simba!). Check the environment for clues as to what may have caused the arousal and look for other signs of fear, such as flattened ears or fluffed up fur. Aggression, dominance. Hard, direct and unblinking stare. If between two cats then a fight is imminent - cue Mortal Kombat theme tune. Offensive cats may have squinted eyes with thin, slitted pupils; defensive cats tend to have partially or fully dilated pupils. Learn the differences between offensive vs defensive aggression in this detailed post: Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines Cats may stare for other reasons, such as observing prey or trying to catch their owner's eye at dinner time. You might want to avert your gaze just in case. I once fostered a kitten with the biggest, most beautiful deep blue eyes I'd ever seen. Unfortunately, they captivated me for a few seconds too long and this tiny baby let out the cutest hiss. She forgave my mistake in no time, but I couldn't help being taken aback at how innate this behaviour was - and from just a few weeks old! Pupils can also be affected by light, medication and pain. Ears Cats can swivel their ears through 180 degrees, one of many features that allow for some of the most superb hearing in the animal kingdom. As a highly visible area of the body, observing the direction and position of the ears can give valuable insight into what cats are feeling. You can use the images below for reference, taking note of any changes you notice in the eyes as well. Relaxed, neutral, alert. Upright and facing forwards - " Just chillin'. " Alert ears will be more erect and directed towards the stimulus. Since cats can move their ears independently, one may be pointed to the side if assessing or unsure. A cat in rest mode will have more relaxed ears that may fall to the sides or backwards. Anxious, frightened, defensive. Ears facing downwards, low and to the sides of the head (airplane ears) - " This makes me nervous ." Cat may feel threatened or preparing to defend itself. Both of my cats get airplane ears when the other enters a room, more so if they haven't been getting along. It's a good indicator of nervousness, so pay attention to the situation and what happens next. Terrified. As a general guide, the degree of flattening can indicate how severe a cat's discomfort is. Unsure or annoyed ears will be slightly back or edging backwards - " I don't like this. " Scared or stressed ears will be turned backwards and flatter - " This is scary ." Terrified ears will be fully flattened so you're unable to see them, giving the appearance of a round head - " Go awaaaaaay! " Cats may pin back their ears during play, when highly excited or aroused. Occasionally, Simba zooms around with what I call a "helmet head" so the situation is an important factor. Related post: Aggression vs Play: How to Tell If Cats Are Playing or Fighting Scared, stressed, aggressive. Flattened and facing backwards or turned out to the sides of the head - " I'm ready to attack! " May be accompanied by hissing or growling as a warning - " Back off! " An offensive cat may have its ears upright and slightly rotated forwards, and posture will help to determine if it's about to charge. You'll notice that some of these ear movements can mean more than one thing. This is because cats that feel threatened will often turn aggressive as a last resort, and a cat that's getting ready to fight will want to protect its ears from teeth and claws. Do not approach an angry cat unless it's to separate one from another; this may prevent the situation from escalating, particularly if it's in combination with a direct stare. Whiskers Whisker movement is subtle, but it can sometimes help to confirm other behaviours if you're unsure. Calm, neutral - straight out to the sides of the face. Confident, curious - pointed forwards or pushed towards the stimulus. Fearful - pulled in close to the face. Tail Most of us know the sight of a confident kitty flouncing around with its tail up like a flagpole, and no one becomes a cat parent without a personal introduction to the rear-end. However, did you know that it's one of the most expressive parts of a cat's anatomy? You can use the images below for reference. Friendly, content. Vertical or raised, may have a hooked end (known as the question mark shape) if kitty is interested or unsure - " Hi, wanna be friends? " Curved down gently and up at the tip - " I'm interested ." Wagging gently - " I'm pleased to see you ." Sometimes quivers when a cat is happy, such as during petting (can also quiver when urine spraying) - " This feels good ." Tail wrapping occurs when a cat approaches its human or animal companions and "hugs" them with its tail. You might have experienced kitty rubbing against your legs as it does this, depositing scent from the glands on the base and along the tail. This beautiful social interaction between cats could be likened to humans holding hands. ' Annoyed, frustrated. Flicking or twitching tip - " You're pee-ing me off. " Cats also flick their tail when they're focused intently on something like a bird in the trees, or struggling to contain their excitement. A slow and steady wag indicates that kitty is unsure of how to respond or trying to make up its mind. Heavier thrashing will help to determine if there's a problem rather than simply concentrating. Anxious, fearful, submissive. Lowered and tucked between the legs or wrapped tightly around the body - " I want to hide ." Low and fluffed out, cat trying to make itself look bigger and stronger - " Don't mess with me! " Cats often sit with their tail curled around their body for comfort and warmth, with a neutral or relaxed posture. Annoyed, aggressive. Lashing or thumping from side to side - " You're testing my patience. " Fluffed out and standing upright - " Now I'm mad! " Straight down and perpendicular to the ground - " I'm ready to attack! " Some tails can be harder to read than others, as I discovered when dealing with aggression between my boys. Simba is more dog than cat, with a tail that's constantly wagging whatever his mood; and Drax is long-haired so you never know whether it's fluffed up or not! Similar to ear positioning, we can assume that the lower a cat's tail, the unhappier it is - but this also depends on the individual cat. Posture While it's impossible to list every single combination of cat postures, body movements and facial expressions, we can summarise the most common ones and their meanings. Relaxed, comfortable. Lying down with a stretched out body, legs fully extended and an exposed stomach. Unlike dogs, a cat showing its tummy doesn't mean it's asking for a belly rub. It's a display of comfort and trust around its human or animal companions. A confident kitty will have loose, fluid body movements and may greet you with a high tail, upright ears and a friendly head bump. Generally, it's easy to distinguish a happy cat from an unhappy cat through vocalisations alone. However, there are many reasons why a cat might be hissing or growling: fear, stress , anger or even pain. Such emotions can present in a similar manner, as represented by the signals and cues shown below. These images from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals can be used as a valuable reference. Image credit: ASPCA Fearful, anxious, illness, pain. Crouched on all fours with a low, tucked in tail and head pulled into the shoulders. Muscles are tense in preparation to run away. Cat will try to appear small and non-threatening or hide. Image credit: ASPCA Scared, defensive. The classic "Halloween cat" pose with straight legs, an arched back and downwards pointing tail. Cat may stand sideways to present more of its body. This is what's known as a distance increasing signal, where a cat does everything in its power to make itself look big and scary so other cats think twice about approaching. This includes puffing out their coat - or "piloerection" - caused by the involuntary contraction of muscles at the base of the hair follicles. It gives the fur a bristly appearance, particularly down the spine and tail. A cat in this posture may appear aggressive but, actually, it's trying to avoid such an encounter because it lacks the confidence to charge. Image credit: ASPCA Defensive aggression. Cat's body is flat to the ground and rolled to one side to expose its claws. Ears are back with tense facial muscles to display the teeth. Another distance increasing signal, performed when a cat feels that it's unable to escape an unwanted interaction and essentially backed into a corner. This posture has been labelled as the "pariah threat" and denotes a cat that's ready to protect and defend. The term pariah is given to a cat in a social group that's targeted or picked on by other members. Simba adopted this posture after he was under constant attack from his brother and began to stand his ground instead of running away. I can tell you that it stopped Drax in his tracks every time! If you're dealing with inter-cat aggression and are unsure of who the offender is, the pariah threat and Halloween pose are good indicators of a cat that's being bullied. Offensive aggression. Cat faces its opponent straight on or edges towards them with a direct stare and constricted pupils. Its ears will be backwards or slightly forwards and piloerection may occur. Upright stance with rear raised and back sloping downwards with a low head, ready to charge. Stiff tail that will be lowered, lashing or thumping. Unlike defensive aggression, an offensive or dominant cat won't hesitate to attack. It may proceed to stalk, ambush, block or chase another cat. Common vocalisations include growling, yowling or howling. Summary Remember, each cat has its own way of communicating that may not always align with what we know and expect from cats. As described, some will aim to make themselves look bigger and more menacing when threatened; others try to look as small as possible. Simba's tail fluffs up like a bottle brush when he's happy as much as when he's frightened, and Drax prowls around in the offensive posture even when he's not being offensive! Know your cat and pay attention to the situation, the environment and any other animals or humans that are present. Observing all areas of a cat's body in conjunction with facial expressions and vocalisations will enable you to more accurately "read" your cat to understand their feelings and respond quickly to behavioural issues like aggression, as well as potential stressors. Did you find any of these tips useful? Does your cat have its own unique way of communicating? Share your experiences in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable. Best Calming Sprays: Feliway Classic Spray Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray Catly Cat Calming Spray WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Beaphar Calming Home Spray Overview Go to review ⇨ Feliway Classic Spray 🥇  Top Recommended Go to review ⇨ Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray 🥈  Best Value Go to review ⇨ Catly Cat Calming Spray 🥉  Best Herbal Remedy Go to review ⇨ WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray Go to review ⇨ Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Go to review ⇨ Beaphar Calming Home Spray You've probably noticed a variety of cat calming sprays on the market, which suggests there are a lot of stressed out kitties at home. You might even recognise some of these brands, particularly if you've already tried plug-in diffusers , collars or herbal treats. Some products are better suited to short-term anxiety, while others - such as diffusers - can be used on a longer-term basis to tackle problem behaviours. The portable option of a spray makes it convenient and more suited to a wider range of scenarios, but it can get expensive for continuous use. Whichever you choose, it's important to remember that what humans consider as "inappropriate" behaviour is completely normal for your kitty. Urine marking , scratching and aggression towards other cats are part of their innate survival instincts; however, in a domestic setting, it can indicate an underlying issue. As always, it's crucial to get cats checked over by a vet to rule out health concerns, as stress can also be a response to pain. Other signs that your cat might be suffering from anxiety include excessive meowing, hiding, overgrooming and loss of appetite. Related post: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Resources are important for ensuring a feline-friendly, stress-free home. If you don't provide enough litter trays, scratching posts or stimulation, no matter how many calming products you use, cats are still going to claw your furniture, wee on the carpets and run around howling at 3 a.m. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Whether you're wondering which calming method is best for your kitty, what makes sprays a good option or have no idea where to begin, this article explores six different sprays that you can use in the home and on the go. Some situations and scenarios that might benefit from calming sprays include: Using on carriers prior to travelling. Vet visits. Moving house. Renovations. Fireworks and thunder. Settling or introducing new cats. Bedding and safe places. Targeting problem areas of the home (where cats scratch, urinate, etc). Multi-cat conflict. To learn more about the effects of stress on our feline friends, why it happens and how to manage it, this post is essential reading: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Visit 🥇 Top Recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐   1. Feliway Classic Spray Feliway has been developed with over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare and is trusted by vets, animal charities and behaviourists. Just like Feliway Classic Diffuser , the spray version contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone (FFP) that cats release when rubbing their cheeks, lips, chin and forehead against objects in the home. This marking behaviour allows them to feel safe and content, as well as creating a "group scent" with other animals and their owners. The main advantage of a spray is that it can be used to help reduce stress on the go, as well as providing support at home for up to five hours. Simply spray in an area approximately 15 minutes before introducing cats to new environments or situations. The synthetic pheromones mark areas as safe and secure, reducing the need for scratching, urine spraying, crying and other stress-related behaviours. As mentioned, the portable option is something you don't get with a diffuser that has to be plugged in for continuous use. This is one of two sprays that I've tried, and it allowed me to target specific areas of the home where my cats kept getting into spats - namely doorway jams that allowed for those dreaded stand-off opportunities. They weren't always like this, as you may know if you're familiar with my blog, but it's taken twelve months of trial and error to bring peace back to the home. I didn't expect that sprays would make much of a difference, but I can say with a certain amount of confidence that spritzing the doorways has made a significant improvement. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Feliway Classic Spray comes in two sizes: 20ml lasts for approximately 16 sprays, while 60ml has around 50 sprays. This sounds like a decent amount, but the instructions advise using 8-9 sprays per application - which means a 20ml bottle only lasts for two separate occasions. On the plus side, I've never used that many sprays in one go as there's a generous amount of vapour. Feliway is known for its high price tags, and with the spray being effective for a maximum of five hours, it can get rather extortionate for long-term use. If this timeframe isn't enough or you want to cover a larger area, you'll save money by using a Feliway diffuser and reserving the spray for an extra boost when needed. According to Feliway studies, it has a 92% satisfaction rate with 9 out of 10 cats showing improvements in scratching and urine spraying. Customer reviews are also positive, with many finding the product beneficial for travel and vet visits; settling rescue cats and new additions. Opinions aren't so favourable regarding the smell, even though it's supposed to be odourless, the spray is ethanol based so needs a few minutes to settle. Related post: Feliway Reviews: Classic, Optimum and Friends Diffuser Comparison ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 Based on 5,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✕ Takes 15 minutes to work. ✓ Choice of sizes. ✕ Expensive. ✓ Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓   Veterinary recommended. 🥈 Best Value ⭐⭐⭐⭐   2. Pet Remedy De-Stress & Calming Spray Pet Remedy is clinically proven to work with pets' natural calming systems by mimicking GABA, a natural calming agent present in mammals, birds and reptiles. This means it can be used in multi-pet homes and the effects are immediate. The spray contains a low concentration of valerian, a herb that's known for its relaxing properties; along with vetiver, basil and clary sage essential oils. It's designed to help animals feel safe in unpredictable situations, both in the home and on journeys. Just a couple of squirts is all you need for bedding , cat trees, problem areas and carriers prior to travelling. While you should avoid spraying directly onto pets so they don't associate the spray with stressful situations, its water-based, pH-neutral formula is safe on fur and skin. It can be used to aid bonding by spraying a little onto your fingers and gently rubbing around muzzles, under the chin and top of the chest to help with scent swapping. You can also spray harnesses and leads when walking a nervous cat or dog. Effects can be seen immediately and last for 2-6 hours depending on the individual pet. I've used Pet Remedy many times during fireworks and thunder, as well as calming my cats down after fighting . Similarly, customers report positive experiences when settling anxious pets and making stressful situations less.... well, stressful! It also works well with the Pet Remedy Diffuser , but some people don't like the herbal aroma. Related post: Pet Remedy Calming Products for Cats with Reviews (Tried and Tested) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1 Based on 5,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Suitable for all pets. ✕ Harmful to aquatic life. ✓ Contains valerian. ✕ Strong smell. ✓   Large 200ml bottle. ✓ Effective immediately. 🥉 Best Herbal Remedy ⭐⭐⭐   3. Catly Cat Calming Spray Catly is a German brand that focuses on plant-based formulas and recycled packaging to protect animals, humans and the planet! What makes this product a little different is that it's described as a "rescue remedy" that provides relief from stress by creating a relaxing home environment. The soothing blend of ingredients helps to calm agitated nerves and promote lasting relaxation. It contains calming chamomile and catnip , which is believed to stimulate a cat's pheromone receptors to induce feelings of euphoria. Other ingredients include sage and vitamin E, which act as antioxidants to protect cells from damage; support the immune system and promote cognitive clarity. This can help to improve mood and overall mental health. Owners find that the product helps with multi-cat conflict, nervous adoptees and excessive meowing. Many enjoy the pleasant aroma but it isn't effective on all cats. The cruelty-free, vegan formula is an alternative to traditional sprays and diffusers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.6 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Natural ingredients. ✕ Less effective than other products. ✓ Vegan. ✕ Can cause allergic reactions. ✓ Pleasant smell. ✓ Contains catnip. ⭐⭐⭐   4.    WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray WEALLIN Cat Calming Spray mimics the feline facial pheromone to help cats adapt to new environments, soothe anxiety and address certain behavioural issues. It can be used for fearfulness, hiding, separation anxiety, vet visits and conflict in multi-cat households. Spray should be applied to surfaces where cats regularly scratch or urinate to prevent damage to furniture and carpets. It lasts for up to five hours, with improvements to behaviour seen within 7-14 days. One bottle contains approximately 50 sprays and, while it's a little pricey, you can save money by purchasing a double pack. Customer reviews are positive for use during fireworks, travelling, soothing nervous cats and aiding sleep. However, some mention that the spray smells of lavender which pets (and owners!) may not appreciate. ⭐⭐⭐ 3.8 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. ✓   Feline facial pheromone. ✕   Takes 7-14 days to see the full effects. ✓  Veterinary recommended. ✕   Scented. ✓  Single or double pack. ⭐⭐⭐⭐    5. Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray Beaphar CatComfort Calming Spray is clinically proven to calm and reduce unwanted behaviours by replicating the feline facial pheromone. It's recommended for cat flaps to encourage use, which is a neat trick for training outdoor cats; window ledges in the event of peeping Toms; vet visits and areas of the home where cats need extra reassurance. A small 30ml bottle produces around 214 sprays, making it a cheaper alternative to other pheromone-based products. Directions advise 9 sprays per application which lasts up to five hours. Customer reviews mention that you don't need much to see the effects and there's no odour. It's said to reduce excessive crying during vet trips and travelling, but it doesn't work on all cats. Beaphar's calming spray can be used in conjunction with other products in the Beaphar CatComfort range, including a diffuser and spot-on. Related post: Beaphar Cat Calming Products: Diffuser, Spray, Spot-On, Collar and Tablets ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2 Based on 800+ Amazon reviews. ✓ 10% feline facial pheromone. ✕ Not effective on all cats. ✓   Lasts up to 5 hours. ✓ Clinically proven. ✓ Value for money. ⭐⭐⭐⭐    6. Beaphar Calming Home Spray Another product from Beaphar, the Calming Home Spray contains valerian, renowned for its ability to promote feelings of relaxation and calm. It's designed for cat and dog households to reduce symptoms of stress including scratching, spraying, constant meowing or barking and destructive behaviour. The 125ml bottle is generous compared to similar sprays but doesn't contain any other ingredients. It can be sprayed onto blankets, bedding, toys and other items used by pets; as well as carriers prior to a car journey. It's recommended for use during fearful situations such as renovations, fireworks and thunderstorms. Despite a negative opinion on the smell, owners find the product to be helpful during fireworks, travelling and spraying over bedding to help nervous pets sleep. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Based on 12,000+ Amazon reviews. ✓ Suitable for cats and dogs. ✕ Strong odour. ✓   Contains valerian. ✕ Harmful to aquatic life. ✓ Effective immediately. Summary As I always say when recommending or reviewing calming products, all cats will respond differently and some won't respond at all. Herbal options like Pet Remedy are generally better suited to stressful situations, and pheromone products help to tackle more deep-rooted behavioural problems. To find out what works best for your cat, I suggest trying one of each (herbal and pheromones) to see if either one makes a difference, then you can narrow it down to a couple of brands. If you're looking for a longer-term solution, it may be cheaper and more effective to use a plug-in diffuser. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Information accurate from September 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Have you tried any of the calming sprays mentioned or did these reviews help you to make a decision? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.

The relationship between cats and humans began around 7500 BC in the Middle East, and since then they've evolved from wild hunters to beloved household pets. Yet there's still a lot we don't know about our feline companions. In some ways, they remain largely unchanged from their wild counterparts. A cat's territorial nature and ability to live independently from humans, along with their strictly carnivorous diet, are just a few traits that make them unique amongst domestic pets. Our feline fascination could fill a novel, but let's break it down into 20 surprising facts that you may not have known about cats. Visit 20 Surprising Cat Facts They're colourblind, but not completely. Contrary to popular belief, cats don't see in black and white. Experts believe they can see some colours due to the presence of cone cells in their eyes, which are responsible for day vision and the perception of colour. It's likely that they can see blues, greens and yellows but struggle with reds and pinks. Their colour vision is less vibrant than a human's. Related post: Cat Vision: How Do Cats See the World? Whiskers are their second pair of eyes. Whiskers aren't just for show, they help cats to "feel" their way around. The 24 whiskers either side of their face are twice the thickness of normal hairs and the same width as their body. They're also highly sensitive and connected to nerve endings in the brain's cortex. This helps cats to detect changes in their environment, navigate objects, judge the size of gaps and even catch prey. Sleep up to eighteen hours a day. Ever wondered where the term "catnap" comes from? Conserving energy is essential for a cat's survival as they hunt in short bursts of energy, as well as being on the lookout for predators. This means they're technically awake for less than half of their lives. With our beloved housecats, we can't rule out boredom as a factor! Unable to taste sweetness. Cats have 470 taste buds in contrast to a human's 9,000. They share many of the same as us - salty, sour and bitter - but lack the receptors for sweetness, since they have no need for them in the wild. Cats are obligate carnivores but can be attracted to the fats in human food - as demonstrated by my cake-obsessed Simba. Only meow at humans. Cats primarily communicate with each other using body language and other cues, with meowing reserved especially for humans. Kittens meow to get their mother's attention, and this continues into adulthood as a learned behaviour in domestic cats. Simply, they've adapted to communicate with us through vocal sounds by imitating the back-and-forth process of human communication. A clever way to make us do their bidding! Have hooks on their tongues. If you've ever been licked by a cat, you'll have felt the rough texture of their tongue. The surface is covered with sharp, backwards-facing hooks called papillae that aid in removing flesh from prey, grooming and drinking water. Purring can signal pain. We all recognise the purr as a cat's happy sound, but did you know that it can also be a response to fear, stress or pain? The soothing vibrations are believed to have self-healing properties, and studies show that this unique frequency is effective on humans by lowering blood pressure, reducing anxiety and healing the bones. Have super hearing. Did you know that the only animals with better hearing than cats are certain insects and bats? Humans can hear frequencies of up to 20,000 Hz, while cats can hear up to 64,000 Hz. Their ears are attuned to pick up the high-pitched calls of prey animals like mice and birds, and they can swivel them around like satellite dishes to 180 degrees. Despite this, cats are great at pretending they can't hear us! Can run up to 30 mph. The average domestic cat can run up to 30 mph in short bursts - that's the speed limit for driving in most residential areas of the UK. It's faster than the human record and most dogs, which is impressive given their small size; but it depends on factors such as age, breed, health and motivation. Emphasis on motivation . If your lazy, overweight moggy wants to bolt down the street at 30 mph of its own accord then I'm sure it will; otherwise, don't hold your breath! Can't see in the dark. While most think cats are nocturnal, they're actually crepuscular, meaning they're most active at dusk and dawn. These are optimal hunting hours, which you might have guessed from those 5 a.m. zoomies. A cat's eyes are designed to spot small, fast-moving prey in dim light. They can't see in total darkness, but they are able to see 6-8 times better than a human at night. Have unique nose prints. Just like human fingerprints, a cat's nose has a unique pattern made up of tiny bumps and ridges, making it a special identifying feature. So much so that it might be considered to replace microchipping in the future. Sweat through their paw pads. Cats have sweat glands in hairless areas of their body like the paw pads, nose, lips, chin and anus where the surface area is very small. Despite their thick coats, domestic cats originated from Africa and are designed to cope with sweltering temperatures. They have other effective cooling methods such as grooming/licking their fur, panting and stretching out their bodies. You should always provide fresh water and shaded areas to prevent overheating. Have two organs of smell. Cats don't have two noses, but they do have the vomeronasal organ located in the roof of their mouth. It consists of two ducts that connect to the nasal cavity, and cats draw air into the ducts to "taste" scents. This is primarily used to detect pheromones, recognisable by the Flehmen response - more commonly known as the "stink face" - where a cat will curl back its lips and open its mouth in a grimace while sniffing. Recognise human voices. Research has shown that cats can distinguish between different human voices. In a study of sixteen cats in Paris, ten responded to their owner's voice when calling their name; but not to strangers. Funnily, more signs of interest were shown when owners used their "cat voice" in comparison to speaking normally. Next time kitty ignores you, try speaking to it like a baby! They're lactose intolerant. Giving cats a saucer of milk seems like nothing out of the ordinary, but it's a great way to give them an upset stomach. They're unable to digest the sugar (lactose) contained in cow's milk and other diary products, but you can offer specially formulated cat milk as a treat. Have a third eyelid. The nictitating membrane, also known as the third eyelid, helps to protect the eye from dirt and debris and keeps it hydrated. You can't usually see it unless a cat is sleepy or ill, but it's a whitish-pink crescent shape on the inner corners of their eyes. If you look close enough, you might catch it blinking! Can only move their jaw up and down. A cat's jaw works like a hinge, opening and closing in an up/down motion to a wider degree than most mammals. This is due to their carnivorous nature, with sharp teeth and long canines for tearing through prey, allowing a powerful bite without exerting pressure on their jaws. These restrictions mean that cats are unable to move their jaw from side to side, which humans use to chew vegetables and other foods. Have similar brains to humans. A cat's brain might be teeny - and by no means identical to a human's - but it has all the same basic parts. Most notably the limbic system, which is involved in emotion, motivation, learning and memory. This may come as a surprise given the aloof nature of felines, who seemingly have no interest in doing what we want them to do. This doesn't mean they're unintelligent or incapable; it means they're sentient beings with their own unique way of communicating. Also called toms, mollies or queens. A tomcat is a sexually mature male cat that hasn't been neutered, while molly refers to a spayed female that can no longer have kittens. The term "queen" is given to a mother cat that has recently given birth, is pregnant or lactating. This regal title aligns with her protective, nurturing characteristics and emphasises her important role within the cat community. They're superheros! Due to their association with witchcraft and Satan in the Middle Ages, cats were condemned as evil by the church and many were eliminated across Europe. Funny enough, this led to a spike in disease-carrying rats that wiped out millions of people during the Black Death. If it wasn't for their usefulness as vermin control, cats might have become extinct - and humans not far behind. Whoopsie! These fascinating facts are just a glimpse into the complex nature of cats. Understanding these traits and behaviours can help you to better connect with your furry friend and appreciate the unique bond you share. Related post: 11 Essential Tips Every New Cat Owner Should Know Did any of these facts surprise you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. All photos are my own and previously unpublished. Twelve months ago, my home was turned into a house of horror when my four-year-old sibling cats started fighting out of the blue. Having never dealt with   inter-cat aggression before, it was a major learning curve as to what the domestic cat actually needs in order to live a full and enriched life. Many cats find the home setting to be extremely stress-inducing due to their solitary nature in the wild, particularly indoor cats . Pet food and supply companies are constantly evolving to meet the complex requirements of modern kitties, as well as offering them all of the luxuries they deserve. Who'd have thought pet sofas would be a thing one day? Related post: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment As someone who's grown up with cats, it's easy to see how standards have not only risen but excelled over the years. When I was little, all I remember is Whiskas cat food and clay litter. Cat trees weren't invented until the late 60's ( I'm not that old) but they were still somewhat of a luxury growing up, and nowhere near as elaborate as they are now. Trees are an essential piece of feline furniture, not only for sleeping but to provide climbing and scratching opportunities; however, they can also take up a lot of room. In the UK, our living spaces tend to be.... compact, shall we say. As mentioned, there are so many options to choose from: wall-mounted shelves, window hammocks and floor-to-ceiling trees are ideal for making use of vertical space in smaller areas or apartments. If you're looking for something less cumbersome to fit in your living room without causing an eclipse (I know the feeling!) then smaller stands or perches can be tucked in corners; next to your sofa; under your desk or anywhere kitties like to hang out. They're also great for adding different levels for all ages and activity levels. Shop Pet Furniture → When one of my boys started using every nook and cranny to stalk and ambush the other, which you can read more about here , I had to get creative and make a lot of changes to the home. Hundreds of pounds and an equal amount of grey hairs later, peace has been restored - and it was worth every penny. That's not to say you need to spend a fortune on cat furniture, most will be happy with a cardboard box and your dad's armchair. Mine were some unique circumstances that left me pretty desperate for a solution. Giving cats more territory to claim as their own can help to make them feel at home, and I came across some great buys that I wanted to share. Related post: 10 Best Types of Cat Beds Small Cat Trees, Stands and Towers: PawHut Small Cat Stand with Bed Purple and Blue Kitten Tower with Ladder PawHut Cat Scratching Post with Bed PawHut Small Cat Tree PETEPELA Self-Groomer Cat Tree PawHut Multi-Level Cat Tree with Condo PawHut Cat Tower with Condo PawHut Climbing Tower with Steps Yaheetech Cat Tower with Platform PawHut Small Cat Stand with Bed This stood out to me due to the large bed, which is roomy enough to fit my 5kg and 6.5kg boys without them being squashed. I don't consider my cats as being particularly big, but a lot of cat tree perches and condos are ridiculously small for the average adult cat. The bed isn't cushioned but it's covered with 100% polyester velvet - warm for winter nights and cool for the summer. The large base is made from solid particle board, with double jute scratch posts to prevent it from toppling over. Bed size: 44cm x 34cm The product description states that the stand is suitable for cats under 5kg, but it could easily hold some of the larger breeds; as well as being low for seniors. It features two hanging pompoms and is available in white or grey. Overall dimensions: 42cm (h) x 48cm (w) x 38cm (d) ✓ Sturdy. ✓ Medium and large cats. ✓ Available in white or grey. Purple and Blue Kitten Tower with Ladder Okay, I admit it - this was too cute not to buy! Although the ladder was a tad ridiculous for my adult cats so I never attached it, but I've added a reference image below. Cuteness aside, the flower-shaped bed is a good size considering it's made for young kittens. Proudly modelled by Drax at just under 5kg, sporting a battle scar on his nose from a scrap with his brother - and a rather untamed winter beard. I should have given it a comb but the photo opportunity was too good to miss. Bed size: 31.5cm x 31.5cm I was initially concerned that the stand's delicate build and narrow scratch post would leave it looking like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but Drax has spent many evenings curled up on it and enjoys using the scratcher, too. I wouldn't usually recommend it for adult cats, but it's an ample size for growing kittens as well as those learning to climb. The stand is covered by mohair plush fabric which doesn't shed, and it has a curved ladder for helping little claws to grip. A popular choice that sells out fast, so grab it as and when you can! Overall dimensions: 48.5cm (h) x 39.5cm (w) x 39.5cm (d) ✓   Small cats and kittens. ✓ 4-step climbing ladder. ✓   Jingly ball. PawHut Cat Scratching Post with Bed A simple design featuring a scratch post made from jute rope and a large round bed with a soft plush interior. Small and compact, this is tucked away in the living room's bay window and just the right height for people watching. It's a decent size for small to medium cats to curl up in, but the high sides are a little restrictive. The stand is recommended for cats weighing up to 4kg, which is about right as far as space goes. Drax doesn't mind squashing up inside the bed, even if he does resemble a Russian hat; but Simba (6.5kg) hasn't even made the attempt! Bed size: 35cm x 35cm Overall, this high-quality stand is neat and contemporary with a sturdy structure, solid base and hanging pompom. It's available in beige, grey or white. Overall dimensions: 49cm (h) x 40cm (w) x 40cm (d) ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Space saving. ✓ Stylish. PawHut Small Cat Tree An interesting design featuring two resting spots: a cute paw-shaped platform and lower bed for multiple cats to share. The stand is covered in soft plush with a sisal scratching post and hanging pompom. This is the smallest cat tree reviewed and, though it claims to support cats up to 5kg, even Drax struggles to perch on the top; while Simba makes the whole thing wobble. I initially got it for the base as my cats like dens, so my plan was to drape a blanket over the perch. While this isn't as stable as I'd hoped, it takes up hardly any space and is best for kittens or small cats. Overall dimensions: 44cm (h) x 41cm (w) x 41cm (d) Bed size: 32cm x 31cm ✓ Small cats and kittens. ✓   2 resting spots. ✓   Cute design. PETEPELA Self-Groomer Cat Tree With double posts and a heavy particle board base, this compact little activity centre is sturdier than it looks. Featuring a sisal scratching post and scratch mat; grooming arch; hanging pompom and ball on a spring. The top bed isn't huge and is described as being suitable for small to medium cats, but it must be comfy because Simba loves it. Even better, the cushion is removeable for easy washing. Bed size: 44cm x 35cm This is a cool, multi-functional product that can be used for playing, grooming, scratching and sleeping. The downside.... it's usually out of stock! There is an alternative version without the grooming arch: PETEPELA Cat Scratching Post with Plush Perch Overall dimensions: 50cm (h) x 40cm (w) x 50cm (d) ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓ Toys and massager. ✓   Removable cover. PawHut Mult-Level Cat Tree with Condo This multi-level cat tree comes with a padded top bed; plush condo and perch; sisal scratch posts; hanging pompom and massager for added enrichment . As you can see, not only am I a fan of PawHut , but I chose a few of these stands because they were the right height for window gazing - and this one fits multiple criteria. It's small and compact enough to fit behind a TV unit, while having a roomy condo and bed that both of my boys can fit in snugly, despite being recommended for cats under 4.5kg. They actually had a scrap on this when Drax snuck into the living room during a separation period, and it didn't budge with a combined 11.5kg hanging off the sides. Bed size: 42cm x 34cm; Condo: 39cm x 29cm Needless to say, this combines quality and sturdiness with climbing ability for seniors and growing kittens. The only negative is that assembly was tricky, but a little blasphemy never hurt anyone - least of all the cats! Overall diameter: 85 (h) x 48cm (w) x 48cm (d). ✓   Small and medium cats. ✓   Multiple climbing levels. ✓   Spacious condo. PawHut Cat Tower with Condo This 3-tier cat tower is quite a bit higher than the others at 96cm and features a large bottom condo with a removable cover, so you can change the style or open it out if preferred. The sisal scratch post is somewhat of a beast at 16cm in diameter and can withstand a lot of damage from the sharpest of kitty claws. The middle "perch" is hardly big enough for a kitten to sit on. My cats use it as a step to climb onto the top bed, which is more than generous in size. Even Simba can stretch out without hanging over the edges, which ticks a major box as he loves his comfort. Bed size: 42cm x 36cm; Condo: 45cm x 40cm I bought this cat tower for the height and single seater to give Simba a safe space away from Drax, and it's perfect for gazing out of taller windows. Now they're friends again, they take it in turns to stalk the pigeons on the roof. The particle board frame adds to the sturdiness of its structure, making it difficult to topple over when jumping on and off. The maximum weight guideline is 4.5kg but this is ideal for larger cats in my opinion. Overall dimensions: 96cm (h) x 45cm (w) x 40cm (d) ✓ Medium and large cats. ✓   Thick sisal scratching post. ✓   Condo with removable cover. PawHut Climbing Tower with Steps Always the tester - or poser, whichever fits - Drax loves being king of the castle. I originally bought these steps for Simba to use as a quick escape during Drax's unprovoked attacks but, in typical kitty fashion, he did the opposite of what I wanted and completely ignored them. It worked out well in the end because Drax will plant his backside on anything and as long as he was out of the way, these unpleasant encounters became less and less. Bed size: 30cm x 30cm The different levels or steps help to keep cats active, as well as benefiting seniors that can't jump onto high platforms and kittens learning to explore. The steps are covered in plush fabric with sisal scratch mats for easy gripping and sharpening claws. At the very top is a cosy lounging spot, although it's rather small even for Drax. Yet, somehow, he always manages to squeeze into the tiniest of spaces - there's a reason he's nicknamed "Mr Slinky". This climbing tower is available in beige or grey to suit your decor. Overall dimensions: 100cm (h) x 50cm (w) x 50cm (d) ✓ Small and medium cats. ✓   Climbing steps. ✓   Scratch mats. Yaheetech Cat Tower with Platform Described as having an adequate size and compact design, this small cat tree comes with a single top perch, spacious bottom platform and cat condo - although I'd call it more of a kitten condo, which is why I never attached it. For growing kittens, this offers several cosy lounge spots. The construction is designed to be solid but lightweight, supported by 3 sisal scratching posts and a large rectangular base. The top perch is way too small for an adult cat to curl up on, perhaps with the exception of Drax who'll happily sleep with his arms and legs hanging over the edges. The middle platform - and the reason I bought it - is huge and bears up to 12kg, which is the equivalent to a couple of large cats or one monster cat. That being said, I often sit on it while petting the boys, which adds another 52kg of human weight and it hasn't collapsed yet! Perch: 29cm x 29cm; Platform: 70cm x 34.5cm The condo hangs down from the large platform and is easy to take off without affecting the structure when kittens grow too big for it. The base is covered in plush fabric so it still allows for a third resting area, or you can make your own den by draping a sheet over the platform like I did. This is a great space-saving tree for cats of various ages and sizes, but due to being a lightweight model, if you have excitable cats then it'll likely fall over. For some reason, Simba decided to claw half of the fabric off the top perch so I wouldn't rate it for longevity - but that's cats all over! Overall dimensions: 90cm (h) x 70cm (w) x 34.5cm (d) ✓ Most sized cats and kittens. ✓   Extra large platform. ✓   Compact. Information accurate from September 2025 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating. Do you have any of these little cat trees at home or something similar? Share your buys and inspo for other pet parents.