In this article: The Witch's Familiar Cats As Supernatural Beings Cats in Folklore and Superstitions Cat Mythology and History Cats and the Paranormal When we look at our cute, fluffy domestic moggies, it's hard to imagine that they were once feared as symbols of evil and the supernatural. Cats have been long misunderstood throughout the ages - and still are to this day. This is largely due to their nocturnal habits, elusive behaviour and.... ahem , nonchalance! While cats were considered bad omens by some cultures, others like the Ancient Egyptians believed they held divine connections that granted protection, fortune and luck. This article explores how these mysterious creatures have inspired stories and beliefs that stretch back thousands of years. The Witch's Familiar The Middle Ages in Europe was a particularly tough time for cats, especially black ones, as they were linked to witchcraft and dark magic. Many believed that cats were demonic entities in disguise - and even the devil, himself. It was thought that witches could transform into cats or use them as familiars to do their bidding. This might have been help with casting spells, spying on people and causing harm. Association with a familiar was also used to convict witches during the Salem witch trials, but what gave cats this bad rep to begin with? Satan the Cat. Credit: History Bombs The earliest reports of witches' familiars date back to 1510 and mention other animals like dogs, rats and toads. Later in 1566, a pamphlet details one of the first women in England to be tried and executed for witchcraft. Agnes Waterhouse confessed to owning a black cat named Satan, given to her by her sister, Elizabeth Francis. There are many bizarre tales about Satan, from granting wishes to killing livestock and murder! Could Satan the Cat be the reason why our feline companions are so famously associated with witches? Unfortunately, this connection created widespread fear that had tragic consequences for cats through mass extermination in some regions. The decline in population is thought to have contributed to the Black Death, since cats were natural predators for disease-carrying cats that were subsequently left to flourish. Whether this is fact or theory, it's hard to know for sure. Nevertheless, these ancient beliefs have gone on to inspire modern film and TV - think Salem from Sabrina the Teenage Witch or Binx from Hocus Pocus . Cats As Supernatural Beings As born hunters, it's easy for a cat's predatory behaviour and frightening anatomy to put people on edge, so we can only imagine how they were perceived in an era plagued with superstition. Let's look at some of the traits that make cats natural candidates for supernatural associations. Glow in the Dark Even as a cat lover, I can think of more than a few instances where I've been startled by a pair of glowing orbs in the middle of the night, usually accompanied by a scurrying shadow that sends me tumbling to near death. The reflective eyes of a cat are definitely spooky in the right setting, and as a creature that's built for stealth, they make for some great jump scares! Related post: Cat Vision: How Do Cats See the World? Creatures of the Night Cats are often mistaken for being nocturnal but, in fact, their most active hours are dusk and dawn for hunting wild rodents and birds. They're definitely not vampires, although it's easy to make the comparison with their deadly fangs and spine-tingling hissssss . The Sixth Sense It's not only a cat's teeth that are sharp, but their incredible sense of hearing - some of the best in the animal kingdom. Cats are alert to the faintest creak on the stairs and the slightest shift in the air. They'll stare into empty corners of your ceiling and dash across a room when there's nothing there. This doesn't necessarily mean there's a ghost in your house - but if there was, your kitty will be first to detect it. Lone Wolf Cats are unique in many ways, especially as the only domestic pet that's permitted to leave the home - and even hunt for food - because we know they're capable of taking care of themselves. If left to their own devices, a cat will come and go as it pleases. This has led to the theory that cats domesticated themselves and humans are just a convenient source of food, shelter and attention. This is easy to see when you persistently and lovingly call your cat's name, only to be completely ignored when you know full well that they can hear you! A cat's aloofness and unpredictability isn't for everyone, but any owner that shares a bond with their cat will understand that they have their own special ways of communicating. This makes them all the more intriguing to me. Cats in Folklore and Superstitions Cat superstitions vary by culture, and the Ancient Egyptians weren't the only ones to hold them in high regard. Traditionally, cats are seen as symbols of good luck in China; and in Russia, they're believed to protect the home from evil spirits. In Scottish lore, a strange black cat appearing at the home is a sign of prosperity; while a woman owning a black cat in Japan is thought to bring luck in love. This contradicts beliefs surrounding black cats in other cultures where they're heavily demonised. Italian myths, for example, hold that they're omens of death and misfortune. The Cat Sith, translated as "Fairy Cat", is a Celtic folk creature that was said to resemble a large black cat with a white spot on its chest that haunts the Scottish Highlands. It had the ability to walk upright on its back legs, but only when no one was watching - which is one thing I can believe! If you're ever visiting Scotland, be sure to keep a lookout for the Cat Sith. Everyone has a story to tell, and it's most likely that, for bad or good, none of them hold any truth! Cat Mythology and History As mentioned, the Ancient Egyptians are renowned for their love of cats, as shown in feline-esque statues like the Great Sphynx of Gaza; carvings; amulets and deities. The goddess, Bastet, was depicted with the head of a lioness and later changed into the full form of a cat. As the goddess of love, domestication, fertility and protection, she was known to be very important. The Egyptians also worshipped Madfet, the first known goddess that had the head of a leopard or cheetah. She was the goddess of justice and protected the sun god, Ra; as well as the pharaoh's chambers from snakes and scorpions. The lioness goddess, Sekhmet - sister to Bastet - was the goddess of war, plague, healing and protection of pharaohs. Related post: 10 Facts About Cats in Ancient Egypt and Why They Were Worshipped Cats were perceived to have protective qualities due to the killing of rodents that destroyed grains and crops; and chasing away snakes and scorpions. The Ancient Romans also recognised their usefulness, and their independent natures made them symbolic of liberty and freedom. Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, was often depicted with cats at her feet. Freyja, the Norse goddess of love, beauty and war, travelled in a chariot that was pulled by two large cats. The cat's reputation was soon to darken when Egypt became a Roman province and adopted Christianity as its official religion. It was the rise of the Roman Empire that caused Christianity to spread across Europe, as it did Egypt, banning pagan customs, traditions and destroying temples. People became suspicious of cats due to their association with paganism and pagan deities like the Egyptian goddess, Bastet. According to theories , early Christians found the independent nature of cats to be a rebellion against religious teachings that said Adam (and subsequently all men) had dominion over all animals. Furthermore, the Catholic church began to declare cats as incarnations of the devil, and so began the vilification of our feline friends in Medieval Europe. Cats and the Paranormal The cats' mythology is so vast that, to this day, they continue to feature in ghost stories and other paranormal phenomena. Many people report cats behaving strangely in areas that are suspected to be haunted, as if they're aware of an unseen presence. Paranormal investigators, psychics and mediums claim that cats, like many animals, are sensitive to supernatural energies that most of us are unable to detect. I once heard about a friend of a friend, whose husband passed away. Some days later, a random cat walked into the house and went to sleep on the deceased's shoes. It continued to return, which she took as a sign from her beloved that he was still with her. A personal story of my own, after my cat, Dillon, passed away, both my mum and me kept hearing the sound of him meowing in the hallway. Was Dillon letting us know he was still around or were our imaginations to blame? Films, TV and books reinforce this connection, with cats often portrayed as mystical creatures that are linked to the spirit world. Who knew that hundreds of years after the famous witch trials, cats would still be dubbed as the witch's familiar, inspiring Halloween costumes and decorations as if in celebration of this devastating era of history. Today, cats mostly stand as beloved pets, but echoes of old superstitions still influence how some people view them. By recognising the history of cats and the challenging myths that led to their persecution, we can acknowledge that their natural instincts and behaviours do not deserve to be punished. This should encourage kindness and curiosity rather than fear. In the grand scheme of things, humans are the cause of much more evil than the domestic cat! Are you superstitious? Do you cross the road whenever you see a black cat? Share your spooky feline tales in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. 8 Types of Feline Aggression: Territorial Non-Recognition Redirected Play Hormonal Fear Petting Maternal Feline aggression rarely starts with a physical altercation, but it can most certainly end in one if a cat is pushed to its limits. Spotting the signs  early will help to determine how, why and where aggression is occurring; in other words, it's essential to find a trigger. One of the most common issues parents face is fighting in multi-cat households, but aggression can also be limited to one particular kitty. It's not unheard of for cats to attack their human guardians either, which can happen suddenly and without obvious warning. Aggression can be categorised into several different types, which will further explain the cause and, most importantly, how to manage it. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting ​What Causes Aggressive Behaviour in Cats? In the first instance, a vet visit is essential to rule out medical issues and seek treatment if necessary. If health is good then there's likely to be an external stressor. Cats are solitary predators by nature and don't typically form social groups, therefore competition for resources is part of their survival instinct. Offering multiple food/water stations, beds and litter trays is something you should be doing regardless of whether aggression is present or not. The more we can limit stress, the less chance there is of behavioural problems developing. Just as with humans, stress is the body's response to anything that needs attention. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Shop Pet Furniture → In cats, this could be triggered by factors such as illness, fear and changes to their environment. Aggression is often a physical manifestation of stress , so it may be worth investing in a behaviourist who can observe your cats and make an accurate diagnosis. The purpose of this article is to understand the different types of aggression and their associated behaviours, some of which I’ve witnessed in my own cats and, hopefully, you can resonate with. Types of Feline Aggression 1. Territorial Aggression ​ We already know that cats are territorial creatures, both inside and outside of the home. Whether it’s spraying over the carpet or finding those pesky poos in your flower beds, our four-legged friends LOVE to mark their territory. A more convenient, less stinky way of doing this is by using the scent glands dotted around their bodies. You’ve most certainly seen them claiming objects around the house by rubbing their cheeks on furniture, clothes, bedding, litter trays - even you! This scent contains pheromones   and is a valuable communication tool used to identify one another; create familiarity and mark a space, person or thing as safe. 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. Basically, cats love to own stuff! This is a common cause for squabbling, no matter how big or small your household and whether you have two cats or twenty cats. They also have scent glands between the pads of their paws, so you’ll be thrilled to know that scratching serves more of a purpose than pulling up your carpets. Scratchers come in many forms, from traditional posts to corrugated cardboard beds and baskets. Another great option, these SOL Cat Scratching Mats   are crafted from sisal to deter cats from clawing carpets. They can be placed over problem areas and easily stored away. Related post: Cardboard and Sisal Cat Scratcher Reviews (Tried and Tested) As independent creatures, it’s often said that cats are merely tolerant of each other, but I don’t believe it’s as simple as that. I’ve parented enough cats to know that they’re capable of forming bonds while appearing indifferent to each other on the surface. We see it when one cat dies or is in some kind of distress, others will sense and react to it in subtle or obvious ways. Whether it’s a bond of love or they’re simply used to having each other around, it would be ignorant to think that cats naturally prefer to live alone. They may be content in their own company, but they’ve evolved to accept companionship and are perfectly capable of forming attachments to both animals and humans. PawHut Cat Stand with a round bed covered in plush fabric and sturdy base to prevent toppling. Includes a jute scratching post and hanging pompom. Signs of territorial aggression may include: ​ Squabbling over or around important resources such as food, water, beds and litter trays. Blocking entry/exit points like doorways and halls by sitting or sprawling themselves across the space. Chasing other cats away from what they consider to be their areas. Stalking and ambushing. Spraying or fouling.​ ​ Note that the above behaviours can be displayed in any form of aggression, but there are some basic steps you can take to limit or prevent territorial behaviour. Learn more about how to manage feline aggression  at home. 2. Non-Recognition Aggression ​ This typically happens when cats from the same household are separated and reunited, such as one goes for a vet visit and the remaining cat becomes uncharacteristically aggressive or fearful. It all goes back to the importance of scent, as we see when cats greet each other with a good old butt sniff. A cat can look the same, sound the same, act the same as it always did; but if it smells alien then all hell breaks loose. It may seem strange to us humans that cats can temporarily "forget" each other, but I've witnessed it happen by sight alone. My sister has a cat that wears a cone collar due to a condition that makes her scratch her face, for which she's on lifelong medication. She's perfectly content to wear it, more so than not wearing it, so it's only removed to be washed or changed. The other household cats are so used to seeing her with the collar on that as soon as it's taken off, you have a bunch of nervous, glaring cats that are too cautious to approach their sister. Whether they're spooked by the change of appearance or think it's an entirely different cat, who knows, but this is a great example of how easy it can be for non-recognition aggression to kick in. Being away from home in a strange environment with unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells can cause a lot of stress, which other cats may pick up on and react accordingly. Especially if the returning kitty seems to be cowering, jumpy or skittish as they'll notice behavioural changes, too. As with my sister's cat, it could be a case of removing the collar makes her anxious and tempted to start scratching. All of a sudden there's not one, but two or more anxious cats which can lead to the next type of aggression: redirected. 3. Redirected Aggression ​ As the most common type of inter-cat aggression, this deserves a post all of its own. Seeing a stray cat through a window; loud noises such as fireworks ; moving house; new babies or any kind of stressful event whereby one or both cats take it out on each other - or even humans. This is especially something to watch out for if, like me, you have naturally skittish cats. You can read My Story for a more detailed account of redirected aggression between sibling cats. This type of aggression occurs when an overstimulated cat is unable to reach the source of the fright or whatever has triggered them. Naturally, they'll lash out at nearby animals or people - it's important to remember that this isn't a logical response, but survival instinct taking over. It's happened to me a couple of times when either fireworks or an alarm has gone off, which leads Drax to growl at me and run away. If I was another cat then it's easy to see how quickly the situation might escalate. Cats can be on alert for hours or even days after a triggering incident, and attempting to soothe them may lead to further attacks. Likewise, one wrong or sudden move from a fellow housemate can reactivate the problem all over again. Having experienced first-hand the devastating effects of redirected aggression, I've learned that prevention is better than intervention. It can take a lot of time and effort to identify and eliminate a problem, but there are no guarantees that damage can be reversed. Unfortunately, many cases of redirected aggression lead to cats being rehomed - but I'm here to help you avoid that. You can find more advice in this post: Redirected Aggression in Cats: Causes and Solutions ​ 4. Play Aggression Kittens that were removed from their mother and littermates too soon may be unsocialised, leading to inappropriate play such as biting or scratching. In short, they don’t know when enough is enough because they’ve never had another cat to teach them boundaries, either by ending the play session or retaliating. This can also apply to humans if, for example, a feral cat has never had human interaction - or owners have been teaching their cats bad habits. Using hands to play with kittens is a strict no-no. When training excitable or aggressive cats, long-handled toys like the Hianjoo Feather Wand help to keep you at a safe distance. Wands are retractable and reach up to 81cm, with 10 teasers to choose from including feathers, worms and tails. Cats with too much energy may also get a kick out of randomly pouncing on their housemates, which on first impression could look like an attack. Let me tell you that it can be rather thrilling for a cat to hide around a corner waiting for someone or something to walk past, as it utilises their natural hunting instincts. What one cat deems to be fun and exciting, the recipient may find annoying and take as a challenge or a threat. My own cats aren't particularly energetic, but quite often they can't resist the urge to swat each other on passing. This can be a completely harmless attempt to initiate play, so offer plenty of toys  and enrichment  such as scratch mats or posts, particularly in those ambush areas. Learn how to   spot the differences between fighting and play  to better understand your cat's needs and requirements. Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. 5. Hormonal Aggression Cats reach maturity between 2-4 years of age and may develop territorial tendencies, particularly unneutered males and females in heat. Urine spraying can be predominant around this time, which can cause serious problems for homeowners and other cats alike. Sexual hormones are a common culprit for territorial aggression, and probably the most easily solved. It’s important to neuter or spay all parties and, if necessary, begin the separation and reintroduction process. 6. Fear Aggression Similar to redirected aggression, cats may attack due to new stimuli such as a person, animal, noise or trauma from past events. For example, your cat had an unpleasant vet visit or suffered abuse in its previous home and, as a result, has developed negative associations with certain places or people. Thus it becomes a case of reprogramming and reassuring the cat with positive associations, while giving them the space to approach humans in their own time. If your kitty isn’t fond of someone, a visitor or new partner for example, let that be the only person who feeds, treats, pets and plays with them while they’re in the household. Be encouraging rather than intrusive and before you know it, kitty will have a new best friend! 7. Petting Aggression How many times have you been happily petting a cat when, suddenly, it swats or bites your hand? I’ve found myself in this situation more than once - more fool me for approaching cute kitties in the street. This is particularly dangerous where children are concerned, but I’m an adult with no excuses. Reasons for this behaviour are largely unknown but can be linked to overstimulation or lack of socialisation. While your average cat would walk away once it’s had enough interaction, others just like to say: “ P*ss off !” We also have to appreciate that cats may not like certain parts of their body being touched, in particular the back, rear and top of the head. This can be startling and you might be mistaken for a nasty predator. The stomach too is a vulnerable area, so belly rubs probably aren't the best idea. 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. For everyone’s safety, let the cat come to you and show you where it wants to be petted. Offer a hand (lower rather than higher to kitty) let it absorb your scent and, once comfortable, it might demand a cheek rub or ear scratch. Stay away from the chin and mouth areas unless you trust the cat and stick to shorter durations of petting. Step back at the first sign of aggression and don’t resume: this lets kitty know that such behaviour is ignored and not rewarded. Most parents know when their cat has reached its petting "threshold" but some things to look out for include: A swishing or thumping tail. Flattened ears. Twitching or shifting body positions. Giving your hand the side-eye. Failing to recognise these signs is a human error, so it's pointless blaming the cat. Related post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication 8. Maternal Aggression Queens that have recently given birth and are nursing their kittens, understandably, may not appreciate intrusions by other animals or people. This usually subsides as kittens get older but, in the meantime, offer a quiet environment and do not disturb - torture, I know! Summary In very rare cases, cats may be diagnosed with what's known as idiopathic aggression, which refers to aggressive behaviour with no underlying cause. Without a cause, unfortunately, there can be no treatment. That's why it's even more important to rule out every other type of aggression beforehand. ​ Cats that exhibit idiopathic aggression can lash out at any time, making them incredibly difficult and even dangerous to live with. Medication and behavioural training can be effective in managing the condition, but if other pets or humans are at risk then it's wise to consider rehoming to a more suitable environment. In a worst-case scenario, vets may suggest euthanasia - this should only be a last resort if and when all other options have been explored. Regardless of the cause or type of aggression, it’s important to remain calm and not get angry or frustrated at a cat that's crying out for help. Mentioned Products SOL 2PK Cat Scratch Mat Bojafa Feather Wand Set Have you witnessed aggression in your own cats? Let us know if this article helped to understand why it might be happening.

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 is thought to have 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! Related post: A Supernatural History of Cats: Witchcraft and Mythology 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.

If I was lucky enough to possess the ability to speak to animals, there are a million questions I'd ask: one of them being, how do they see? A cat's eyes are mesmerising and mysterious at the best of times, so to receive a glimpse of how they perceive the world would be an experience for sure! The evolution of scientific research, coupled with advances in camera hardware and software programs, has shown humans how insects and other animals experience colour , which wouldn't have been possible a decade ago. One project I find particularly fascinating is by the artist, Nickolay Lamm , who consulted with animal eye specialists to create stunning visualisations that compare how cats see in comparison to humans. In order to fully appreciate these images, let's dive into the special anatomy of a cat's eyes. Images by Nickolay Lamm In this article: Kitten Development Anatomy of the Eye s Night Vision Peripheral Vision Long-Distance Vision How Cats Use Whiskers to See More Do Cats See Colours? A Cat's Vision in Motion Eyes and Behaviour Summary Kitten Development As you may know, kittens are born blind and don't begin to open their eyes until 7-10 days old. During this time, they rely on scent and touch to interact with their surroundings and are completely dependent on their mother; however, they develop at a very fast rate. A kitten's eyes should be fully open by week two, but their vision is much poorer than an adult cat's. Perhaps the most remarkable feature of a kitten is their beautiful, almost opaque bluish-grey eyes. This is due to the way the light reflects out of them, but they are in fact colourless. It takes several weeks for the pigment to develop, after which they change to shades of green, yellow or orange. Eye colour is determined by a cat's genetics, which is why some breeds have specific colours, such as Siamese who are known for their striking blue eyes. This isn't the same blue as seen in the underdeveloped eyes of a kitten. Like all animals, a cat's eyes are adapted to their habitat and environment. What sets the domestic cat apart from other pets is that they're skilled hunters and capable of feeding themselves, if left to their own devices. Therefore, their eyes are structurally designed for tracking movement and spotting small prey animals in dim light. We can compare this to our human eyes by looking at differences in low-light, peripheral and long-distance vision. Image source: SeekPNG Anatomy of the Eyes Cats and humans have some similarities in how their eyes are formed, as we can see from the diagram above. Just like humans, cats have a pupil, iris, cornea, lens and retina. The lens changes shape to focus light that enters the pupils onto the retina. The retinas contain rods and cones, known as photoreceptors (light-detecting cells that send signals to the brain for processing into visual images). Rods provide low-light vision, while cones provide daytime vision and the ability to see colour. Naturally, cats have more rods than humans but less cones. This means they see better at night but worse during the day. However, the main difference is that cats have something called the tapetum lucidum: a layer of tissue at the back of each eye. If some light misses the retina, this reflective membrane acts like a mirror and bounces it back onto the retina. This gives the rods another chance to pick it up and enables cats to see in dim light. The tapetum lucidum is what makes a cat's eyes glow in the dark.... and pee our pants when we're shuffling to the bathroom at 2 a.m. As well as the regular top and bottom eyelids, cats have a third located on the inner corner of their eyes, called the nictitating membrane. This protects the eye from dirt and debris and keeps it hydrated by spreading tears horizontally over the surface, sort of like a windscreen wiper. You don't usually see the third eyelid unless cats are sleepy or there's a health issue, such as an infection. Night Vision Cats’ pupils are vertical with an elliptical form that changes shape and size depending on how much light there is. The darker the conditions, the bigger and rounder they are to capture more light (dilation). In bright conditions, they constrict into thin, slit-like shapes to protect the retina from light damage. This is controlled by the iris - the coloured part of the eye surrounding the pupil - and happens almost instantly to adjust to different conditions and improve depth perception while hunting. A human's pupils are always round and only dilate to 30% of the visible surface of the eye, whereas a cat's dilate to 80%. Their large corneas allow a greater amount of light to enter, and the lens is closer to the retina, creating brighter images at night. The amount of rod cells in a cat's eyes allows them to see 6-8 times better than humans at night. It also means they can sense motion in darker settings, but what about their daytime vision? To give you a mental picture, humans have 10 times more cone cells than cats, making our world appear technicoloured and garish in comparison to the less saturated, muted tones of our feline companions. With such large pupils, they're unable to shrink into pinpricks like a human's, hence the slitted shape. It stands to reason that cats would be more comfortable hunting in darker hours, especially when we think about how they'll happily snooze the day away. In fact, it's been said that a cat's rod cells shut down in bright light. Visit While their night vision is superior to ours, the theory that cats can see in complete darkness is a myth, likely due to their associations with magic and the supernatural . Cats need some light to see, and this corresponds perfectly with their most active hours of dawn and dusk when they'd be hunting nocturnal wildlife. They can, however, use other senses like touch and sound to navigate in darkness. The only animals that have better hearing than cats are certain insects and bats. Peripheral Vision Similar to humans, cats have forward-facing eyes which gives them a good ability to judge depth and size, as is necessary for stalking and pouncing on prey. This is known as binocular vision, meaning they have overlapping images from each eye to create a three-dimensional view, hence why they're skilled predators. Compare this to rabbits, rodents and other animals that are vulnerable to predators, whose eyes are positioned on the sides of their head. This gives them a poor depth perception but an excellent ability to see threats approaching from both sides, as well as behind. Their eyes often move independently, allowing them to see two things at the same time! Due to the angle of a cat's eyes, they have a wide 200-degree field of vision (with 30-degrees peripheral) in comparison to our 180 degrees (20-degrees peripheral) so they can see more of their surroundings without moving their heads. This helps them to stay alert to nearby threats and hunting opportunities. As rod cells are mostly located on the periphery of the retina, they also aid peripheral vision. However, the outer range suffers from a lack of clarity, as shown in the image below. Cats do have a limited ability to move their eyes from side to side/up and down, which we don't often see but it looks creepy as hell. I first noticed it when my boys went through their aggressive phase and Simba would observe Drax from the corner of his eye without otherwise moving a muscle. I suspect he was trying to avoid drawing attention to himself - or possibly acting invisible! Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Long-Distance Vision While it appears as though cats are able to spot a bird soaring through the sky, they can't see as far as a human. In fact, they're classed as near-sighted because their vision becomes blurry after about 6 metres (20 feet) while humans can see clearly up to 60 metres (or 100-200 feet). This doesn't seem very useful - in human terms, cats are just a step up from legally blind - but their eyes are perfectly adapted for their survival and focusing on the immediate environment. That being said, you might find it surprising that cats struggle to see what's right in front of them. Their eyes are large in proportion to their skull, and while they have a remarkable ability to control the size and shape of their pupils, it limits their ability to focus on objects up close - typically, within 25-30cm. If you've noticed that your cat doesn't respond to a toy being dangled in front of its face - or if they're anything like Drax, swatting in the wrong direction - it doesn't necessarily mean they're going blind! Sometimes it can be frustrating to watch a cat trying to sniff out a treat that's placed right under its nose, regardless of how much you point at it. However, this could be due to a blind spot in the same area. Cats are said to have the clearest vision between 2-6 metres, which is the optimal range for detecting movement; but this is debatable. Depending on who you ask, there are several other theories as to what and how cats see. Some experts believe that their distance vision is similar to a human's, whereas others say it adapts to their environment. For example, outdoor cats are slightly long-sighted and indoor cats are slightly short-sighted. It might be the case that different cats or breeds have different eyesights, and some are better or worse than others. I know with my own cats that Drax can spot something as small as a midge from across a room, while Simba is seemingly oblivious (or doesn't care - you never know with cats). On the flip side, Simba will swat a feather wand in front of his face that Drax otherwise misses; and he'll happily sit watching cat games on a mobile phone. There are some clear differences unrelated to environment, seeing as they were raised together as indoor cats. Either way, it wouldn't surprise me if our sneaky felines were concealing a much keener vision than we're led to believe. How Cats Use Whiskers to See You might be wondering, if cats can't see up close, how do they not bump into things? This is because they have another set of eyes - their whiskers! We mentioned this briefly in regards to moving around in the dark, making them a very important part of a cat's anatomy. Cats use whiskers to explore their surroundings in several ways. The long facial whiskers are the same width as a cat's body, which helps to determine if they can squeeze through gaps like doors and cat flaps. They also have shorter whiskers on the cheeks, chin, above the eyes and back of the front legs. Whiskers are attached to nerve endings in the brain's cortex and are so sensitive that they can detect subtle shifts in air currents, allowing them to navigate around objects in front of them. The facial whiskers are even capable of moving forwards to read the outline of prey for the perfect catch! Do Cats See Colours? We know cats don't see as vibrantly as humans due to having more rod cells than cone cells. Rods are best for seeing on a low-light or black/grey spectrum, and it was long believed that cats were unable to see in colour. This was partly due to only having two types of cones and lacking those sensitive to red wavelengths. However, recent studies suggest that cats, like humans, have three types of cones. Since there are less of them, it's likely that cats can see a limited range of colours in a similar manner to someone who's colour blind. Experts believe they mostly see blue-violet hues, yellow and grey; but are unable to differentiate red from green. We get a sense of this in the above image, where the rusty-coloured roof of the house appears almost yellow. Again, this may not be a perfectly accurate representation of a cat's world in colour. The biggest question seems to be whether cats are able to see red, especially since they go crazy for laser pointers. Additionally, cats are thought to perceive the ultraviolet light spectrum, allowing them to see trails of urine and other markings that humans cannot. This would give them even more of an advantage in the wild. A Cat's Vision in Motion As mentioned previously, rod cells are important for tracking movement in darkness, but this happens a little differently in cats. They swivel their eyes in jerking motions rather than smoothly, capturing "snapshots" of each image for processing. You could compare it to the old flip books that have a series of images that gradually change on each page. When viewed in quick succession by flipping the pages, it tricks the eye into seeing a moving animation. This means that cats are best at spotting fast or erratic motion, such as the flapping wings of a bird or scurrying mouse. You'll notice that they spend a long time observing and stalking their prey before going in for a perfectly-timed pounce. Visit A slow-moving object may appear stationary which, as you can imagine, would be very confusing. Perhaps this explains Simba's instinct to swat a misplaced object on the floor - is it just an inanimate thing or something more sinister? Yet it's humans that have the upper hand during the day, when they're at least 10 times better at detecting movement due to the higher amount of cone cells. In knowing this, you can turn offering treats into a fun game by tossing them across the room for cats to track and hunt. This not only utilises their natural instincts but provides exercise as well as a reward. Drax loves me flicking elastic bands and hair bobbles across the room, although it's less fun for me clearing up afterwards. Related post: Cat Enrichment Ideas and Boredom Breakers for Indoor Cats Eyes and Behaviour As many parents will know, a cat's eyes aren't just for seeing but for communicating a wide range of emotions and social cues. Here are some common ones to look out for. Slow blinking is a gesture of trust and affection when exchanged with humans or other cats. A form of communication you can take advantage of by relaxing the gaze and letting your eyelids drop for a second, telling them that you love them too! While a soft gaze will put your cat at ease, a direct and unblinking stare is likely to be seen as a threat. Cats use many forms of body language to signal that they're unhappy, and the stare-down is something that all owners should be aware of. Just like the baring of teeth or a swishing tail, a cat's eyes can tell us a lot about their mood. Wide eyes or large, dilated pupils can indicate fear, excitement, pain, pleasure (such as from petting) and other forms of arousal. Narrow, slitted pupils are usually angrier, particularly if accompanied by squinted eyes. This could be in response to a threat or aggression , as a squinting cat is getting ready to defend itself from injury (similar to pinned back or flattened ears). Half-closed eyes and normal, oval-shaped pupils usually mean your cat is relaxed and comfortable. They may be wider if they've spotted something of interest. It's important to observe the rest of a cat's behaviour and body language , as well as the situation, to determine if there's a problem or they're simply reacting to the amount of light in the area. Summary We may never truly know the extent of a cat's vision - or any animal, for that matter. As with most cat-related studies, there's much debate about what they can and can't see. More research is needed in many respects. Texture is another "fuzzy" area, with some claiming that they pick up on the finest details, allowing them to adapt to different environments and hunting grounds. Others will say that a lot of those details are missed and cats rely on motion for catching prey. Referring back to the comparison images, a small rodent or bird is likely to get lost amongst the bright colours and busy textures. Since these animals are typically shades of grey or brown and cats hunt in dim conditions, it further leans towards the theory that they have little need for details. Not to mention how attuned their other senses are for navigating the environment. Much of the behaviour and psychology of our feline friends remains a mystery, and vision is one of the most intriguing to me. Even scientists will admit that it's a challenge to test the responses of animals who, for the most part, are only interested in what they want to do! One thing for sure is that cats are built for stealth. For this reason, we expect them to have excellent vision - and indeed they do, by cat standards. Besides, their ability to track a fly buzzing around the house or spot a spider scuttling out of the skirting boards far surpasses a human. How many times has your cat shot across the room or stared fixatedly at the ceiling, yet you can't see a damn thing? Unless you have a visitor of a more ghostly kind, but that's another topic! Would you love the chance to see through the eyes of a cat? Does your kitty respond better to some colours than others?

*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. 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! Related post:   3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting 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. PETEPELA 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. 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. Related post: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication 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.  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. In this article: What Are Pheromones? Why Use a Cat Pheromone Diffuser? Do Pheromone Diffusers Actually Work? Feliway Cat Pheromone Diffuser Do Cat Pheromones Affect Humans? More Are Pheromone Diffusers Safe? Other Pheromone Products Raise your hand if you've clicked on a pheromone diffuser product and immediately skipped to the reviews section to scroll through hundreds of ratings in the hopes of finding that ONE miracle cure that stops your cats from fighting (*raises hand*). If you're new to the concept of these cat calming plug-ins and haven't got a clue what I'm rambling about, let's start with the basics. What Are Pheromones? Pheromones are chemicals that cats release from glands around their bodies through scent marking, particularly the cheeks, lips and chin. Although odourless, they can be detected by other cats and used as signals or messages, making them a valuable source of communication. You’ve probably seen your cat rubbing its face on objects, other cats and even you – congratulations, you’ve had the honour of being marked as safe and familiar! There are some other types of pheromones, such as those found in urine and between the pads of a cat's paws, which they use to mark their territory. Most diffusers you’ll find on the market contain synthetic pheromones that mimic those produced in the facial glands that make cats feel safe, secure and comfortable. Clever, right? Related post: What Are Cat Pheromones and How Do They Work? Why Use a Cat Pheromone Diffuser? Pheromone products are designed to help cats feel more relaxed and reduce anxiety-related behaviours like scratching , overgrooming, hiding, urinating outside the litterbox and spraying (territory marking). They also claim to diminish stress associated with new situations such as moving house; introducing other cats, pets or babies; and fireworks . Diffusers are plugged into a wall socket and the artificial pheromones are slowly released. The most well-known brand that comes highly recommended by vets is Feliway, but there are more cost-effective optio ns: Comfort Zone an d Beaphar , amongst others. 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. Using Feliway as an example, it’s recommended that diffusers are used for 3-4 weeks for best results, although many owners see effects within the first 7 days (other brands may vary). They're suitable for short-term use, such as in preparation for a house move; and long-term to tackle ongoing anxiety or conflict. While there are hundreds, if not thousands of success stories and testimonials from pet owners, the effectiveness of pheromone therapy is debatable. Visit Do Pheromone Diffusers Actually Work? This is the ultimate question, but the answer isn't a simple one. In short, scientists have identified five feline facial pheromones (FFP) present in the lips, cheeks and chin areas, known as F1-F5, that serve individual functions. For example, F3 can be used to reduce stress and the associated behaviours as mentioned above; while F4 essentially tricks cats into thinking a newcomer is someone or something they’ve previously encountered, thus minimising inter-cat aggression . (Source: Wikipedia ) This suggests that effectiveness is based on the type of pheromone emitting from diffusers, as well as the type of behaviour a cat is exhibiting. Most diffusers mimic the F3 pheromone which may help an anxious cat to chill out and even reduce tension in multi-cat households, but it won't eliminate the root cause of aggression. Cats may still fight if a trigger exists, such as competition for resources or spotting the local stray through a window. Related post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes What works for one cat might not work for another, which is perhaps why there are so many conflicting reviews. Pheromone products don’t claim to be a miracle cure and shouldn’t be used as such. They work best alongside other changes such as environmental modifications or medical intervention, if necessary. 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. Feliway Cat Pheromone Diffuser If there's one brand you've heard of in regards to pheromone products, it's likely to be Feliway. Known as the number one clinically-proven cat behavioural product, Feliway is backed by over 25 years of science and research into pet welfare. As of now there are three types of Feliway plug-ins: Classic, Optimum and Friends (Multicat in the USA). Feliway Classic mimics the feline facial pheromone (FFP) which cats produce when rubbing their face and cheeks against objects in their environment. Feliway Friends contains a synthetic version of feline appeasing pheromones (CAP): those a mother naturally releases to her kittens after birth. Similar to FFP, these are used to make kittens feel safe and protected but also aid identification, bonding and harmonious interactions between littermates. Feliway Friends is recommended for multi-cat households to minimise tension and conflict. Related post:   Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Feliway Optimum is the most popular diffuser, which contains a brand new pheromone complex that has been proven to calm cats better than ever. It contains a blend of feline pheromones that are designed to address a wider range of behavioural issues. Having tried both Optimum and Friends, you can read a full review of Feliway plug-ins ; as well as a comparison with some other well-known brands. Feliway Friends Plug-In Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Do Cat Pheromones Affect Humans? Feline pheromones have no effect on other pets or humans as we don't have a specialised organ for detecting them, nor is there any odour from the diffusers themselves. There is, however, a growing interest in the subject of pheromones impacting humans, despite products claiming otherwise. Studies now suggest that we may be able to detect pheromones subconsciously, with a potential for influencing human behaviour. Some companies have started selling pheromone-based products, including candles and fragrances, to enhance mood and happiness. However, scientific evidence is limited and still a huge topic of debate. Most diffusers are paraffin-based, so people who are sensitive to the substance may experience headaches or allergic reactions. Are Pheromone Diffusers Safe? Yes, pheromone products are formulated especially for cats and pose no risk to their health. The only thing to be cautious of is the safety of the device itself. As with any plug-in diffuser, it works by heating the liquid so it travels up the length of the reed to permeate the air. It's normal for diffusers to feel warm, but anything involving a flame or heat - particularly electrical appliances - should be carefully monitored for overheating or burning. Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours, and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. Although rare, some people complain of burning smells coming from diffusers and dark patches on the surrounding wall; but this could be a residue from the oil itself. For safety, manufacturers advise replacing plugs every 6-12 months and not leaving empty diffusers plugged in. Once they run out, use a refill or switch it off at the socket. Some diffusers have an automatic shut-off if problems are detected, but we shouldn't rely on this alone. Diffusers are suitable for wall sockets only, with no adaptors or cables. They should be safe it you follow the manufacturer's instructions. It goes without saying that any liquid will cause harm if ingested, so remember to check for leakages or spills. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. Other Pheromone Products As well as diffusers, you can get sprays and wipes for a more immediate “hit” that can be used on things like bedding, cat trees, baskets and carriers prior to a vet visit or other stressful situ ation. Feliway Classic Spray contains the same pheromones as the diffuser version and is available in 20ml or 60ml bottles. For a more natural alternative, it’s worth mentioning that Pet Remedy  offers products containing valerian, known for its relaxing properties, and other essential oils. These work with pets’ natural calming systems to make them less reactive to stressful situations, and their effects start to help immediately. With the added benefit of not being cat specific, you can use Pet Remedy diffusers and sprays on other animals such as dogs, rodents and birds. Dog pheromone products are also available and can be used in conjunction with cats for multi-pet households. Related post: Best Cat Calming Plug-in Pheromone Diffusers (Tried and Tested) Cat pheromone diffusers and similar products are a helpful tool in managing problem behaviours, whether anxiety related or reducing tension and conflict within multi-cat households. However, they're not intended to replace traditional treatments or medications. If cats are showing signs of stress then it could be an underlying illness or injury. Your first point of call should always be a registered vet. Mentioned Products Feliway Classic 30 Day Starter Kit Feliway Classic Pheromone Spray Have you tried any of the diffusers mentioned or think you've found a better alternative? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments to help out fellow cat parents.

*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? More 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 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. 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 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! 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 . Visit 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. 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. 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. 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! Beaphar CatComfort Excellence Calming Diffuser contains a copy of the feline facial pheromone to help reduce stress-related behaviours, and the maternal appeasing pheromone to promote bonding and harmony in multi-cat households. 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 StressLess Herbal 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 and customer feedback. Christmas - the season of novelty socks, cosy pyjamas, luxury hampers and offensive mugs. With hundreds of thousands of products on offer, it can make the festive period more stressful than it needs to be. These 20 gift ideas for cat lovers are guaranteed to take some of the pressure off so you can relax with family. From clothing and decor to stationary and crafting ideas, discover the purrfect gifts for those cat crazy friends, partners, relatives or colleagues. Meowy Catmas everyone! 20 Gifts for Cat Lovers: Women's Cat Socks Luxury Scented Candle Set Cat Mug Gift Set Soxo Plush Hot Water Bottle Best Cat Mum Blanket Puimentiua Cat Slippers The CatFather Shirt Wearable Hooded Blanket Sterling Silver Cat Necklace Monty Bojangles Chocolate Truffles Gift Set More Engraved Novelty Wine Glass Cat Tote Gift Set Cat Hand Towel ZXHQ Diary and Planner 2026 Cats with Mandalas Adult Colouring Book Paper Cats Origami Kit ZEERSHEE Cat Crystal Ball Figurine ALBK Personalised Christmas Tree Decoration TOARTi Black Cat Welcome Plaque RICHIE Cat Solar Garden Ornament ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Women's Cat Socks Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without novelty socks! This pack contains five pairs of cat-themed socks with cute faces and paws in mixed colours. The socks are made from 80% cotton, 15% acrylic and 5% spandex for a comfortable, stretchy fit. They're suitable for shoe sizes 4-9 UK and fit most women and teenagers. These socks are perfect for tight budgets, secret Santa, stocking fillers or a little something extra. They come highly recommended by customers for their softness and bright colours. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 200+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Luxury Scented Candle Set A set of six mini candles in cat-themed pots with different scents: lavender, peppermint, sweet orange, jasmine, ginger and cedar. Candles are made with soy wax, 7% essential oils and lead-free wicks for a clean, smokeless burn. This is better for the environment and creates a soothing ambience for relaxing, bathing, meditation and yoga. Each 70g candle has a burning time of 12-15 hours and comes complete with a bamboo holder. Once completely burned down, you can repurpose the pots as a succulent planter! The candle set is beautifully packaged with a gift card, ready for Christmas day. Customers love the look and smell of candles when lit and say the smell is strong, but not overpowering. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cat Mug Gift Set This charming cat-themed gift set promises a delightful experience for any feline fan. Includes a glass mug, socks, rose scented candle, rose bath bomb and greetings card. The set is designed to offer a spa day at home, or relax after the Christmas buzz with a hot chocolate and warm soak. Customers love the quirky mug, while the bath bomb is said to smell delightful. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Soxo Plush Hot Water Bottle The Soxo Hot Water Bottle features a soft fleece cover with a cute cat face design, which can be removed for easy washing. The large 1.8l capacity bottle provides long-lasting comfort, with durable rubber that doesn't easily split or burn. As well as keeping you toasty warm, the hot water bottle can be used to relieve muscle aches and pains; soreness in the joints; stomach cramps and menstrual pain. Other designs include a dog, llama and panda. Customers find the Soxo Hot Water bottle to be extra fluffy and effective for keeping warm during winter. They appreciate how cosy it is and say it lasts for a long time. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best Cat Mum Blanket A multi-purpose blanket suitable for beds, sofa throws, outdoor picnics - or even a bed for pets! Features various cat images and quotes to make the recipient feel extra special this Christmas. It's made from 100% high-quality polyester, soft and breathable in all seasons. Get the cad dad version here: Best Cat Dad Blanket The blanket is reviewed as being great quality, a good size, comfortable and super soft, despite being on the thinner side. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Puimentiua Cat Slippers These unique slippers are embellished with cat faces, whiskers and little ears. They're made with thick plush to ensure a cosy, skin-friendly feel, with an anti-slip EVA sole. The slippers are also available in grey, pink, white and brown. Customers love the soft, fluffy material against their feet and say the slippers are a perfect fit, as well as being warm and comfortable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ The CatFather Shirt One for the cat dads, this parody "CatFather" shirt is an offer you can't refuse. It has a classic fit and is available in a wide range of colours in men's sizes XS-6XL, as well as a selection of women's and children's sizes. Customers like the quality and fit and say it's a fun gift for cat dads. Be sure to grab a tee for your partner, dad, brother, son or fans of the old gangster flicks. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 40+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Wearable Hooded Blanket A wearable blanket made from soft flannel to keep you warm and cosy on winter nights. It features a hood with cat ears and hand pockets with a paw print design. The blanket has an oversized fit and is perfect for wrapping around you while watching Christmas films, reading or relaxing. It's available in several different animal designs including a penguin, sloth and cow. The blanket is reviewed as being soft and cuddly, ideal for both adults and children. It's lightweight but warm at the same time. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterling Silver Cat Necklace A 925 sterling silver cat pendant that's both dainty and elegant for a special someone. The pendant is 20mm x 6mm and comes with a sterling silver chain that's 45cm in length. The material is hypoallergenic, lead-free and nickel-free so won't irritate the skin. Presented in a gift box. Customers love how dainty the pendant is and say it's an adorable little gift for both adults and teenagers. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Monty Bojangles Chocolate Truffles Gift Set Discover the magical world of Monty Bojangles with deliciously moreish, cocoa-dusted truffles in collectible tins, each themed around its corresponding flavour. These include Choccy Scoffy (original chocolate); Coconut Crush (coconut dusting); Flutter Scotch (creamy butterscotch); Cocoa Nib Night (vegan-friendly dark chocolate). Truffles are individually wrapped for freshness so you can stash them for later or share with loved ones. The cool, quirky tins can be refilled or reused. These melt-in-the-mouth truffles are reported to be scrumptious, and the reusable tins are a hit with cat lovers. You can also purchase tins separately, with a wide variety of other flavours to choose from. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 5,000+ Amazon reviews. Shop pet supplies 30% off orders over £39 with code UKNEW30 →  Click to accept 100 coupon bundle →  Click to accept ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Engraved Novelty Wine Glass A novelty wine glass laser engraved with a cat and text that reads: " It's not drinking alone if the cat is home ". The glass has a contemporary shape that's comfortable to hold and, unlike printed glasses, you don't have to worry about the design washing off - which means it's dishwasher safe too. The glass can be personalised with an additional message engraved onto the reverse side, if you select this option when purchasing. It arrives gift boxed ready for the recipient, perfect for relaxing on the sofa with a fine wine and feline friend. Reviews mention that the glass is well-made with clear writing and a lovely presentation box. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cat Tote Gift Set This gift set includes a foldable canvas tote bag with inner pocket; makeup/wash bag for cosmetics or toiletries when travelling; and a pair of socks that fit most women. The tote and makeup bag feature a high-quality floral design with a different black cat on each side. Customers are pleased with the value for money, strong tote bag and comfy socks. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 80+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cat Hand Towel Say goodbye to boring bathrooms with a novelty hand towel, featuring a realistic-looking cat that's available in over 30 styles to match your own feline family members. The towel is designed to hang on a towel rack or rail, with snap buttons on the cat's paws that prevent it from sliding off. The soft fabric is 85% polyester and 15% nylon with strong absorption properties, and it measures 25in x 6in. This humorous towel can also be used in kitchens and makes a great housewarming gift. Customers love the fun factor and say it's soft on the hands. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ZXHQ Diary and Planner 2026 For a magical start to the new year, look no further than this 2026 diary and daily planner. Bound in a faux leather hardcover that features gorgeous artwork, there are 380 pages with generous space for writing tasks, notes and appointments. All UK holidays are pre-marked, and there are extra pages for personal information, contacts and an income and expense tracker. You can also enjoy daily quotes to inspire positivity, focus and motivation. The diary features colourful tabs for each month, two ribbon bookmarks, an inner storage wallet and pen loop. All of this is packed into the portable size of 8.5in x 5.9in. Customers appreciate the planner's organisation features, especially for those with a busy schedule; and writing space. The excellent quality makes it a well-received gift for loved ones. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews . ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cats with Mandalas Adult Colouring Book Cats with Mandalas allows you to express your creativity and love for felines with 50 unique colouring pages, helping to ease daily stress. With single-sided pages to reduce bleed-through and high-quality paper that's suitable for colouring pencils, pastels, gel pens, fine liners, marker pens and watercolours. The large format keeps you busy for hours of relaxation. Also includes a free digital PDF copy of the 100 best illustrations from the brand's adult colouring book range, which you can print out as many times as you like. Colouring books have a therapeutic effect for both adults and children. Cats with Mandalas includes a variety of different species of cats, from simple designs to full pages. The paper is reported to be thick enough to use marker pens without the ink bleeding through. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 500+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Paper Cats Origami Kit One for the crafty cat lovers, this origami kit contains 50 pre-printed paper sheets for folding into 3D cat figures. Easy to fold with high-quality paper, cats can be displayed on shelving, tables and desks. This DIY gift is suitable for adults and children of all experience levels, perfect for crafting time with the kids on Boxing Day! Reviews praise the origami kit for being a fun and unique little boredom breaker. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 30+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ZEERSHEE Cat Crystal Ball Figurine  This crystal ball figurine is made from high-quality K9 glass crystal and features a laser engraved cat under a starlit sky, raising its paw up to a crescent moon. The ball is approximately 6cm x 6cm and comes with a metal display stand. This modern, unique alternative to a snow globe is perfect for cat enthusiasts and looks great in the home all year around. Reviews mention that the crystal ball is exquisite for the price, with clear laser engravings and a finish that catches the light beautifully. You might also be interested in these design variations, each with a different kitty: ZEERSHEE Cat Crystal Ball IFOLAINA Cat Crystal Ball ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 1,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ALBK Personalised Christmas Tree Decoration Personalised baubles never get old, whether you want to display your pet's portrait on the Christmas tree or remember those that have passed over the rainbow bridge. Each 3in x 3in ornament features double-sided, HD and UV printing for rich, fade-resistant colours; with a crystal glass or ceramic finish. You can choose from multiple designs and personalise with your own text and favourite family photo - animal or human. The included ribbon allows for easy hanging on trees, wreathes, doors or anywhere around the home to show off your precious memories. Customers praise the quality of ornaments and especially love how they look on the Christmas tree. They also come in a lovely gift box. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 100+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ TOARTi Black Cat Welcome Plaque The TOARTi Welcome Plaque has a retro vibe and can be hung anywhere in the home or garden. Made from 0.5cm thick MDF, which is durable for outdoor use, with an HD text and image print. It measures 25cm x 28cm and is easy to mount with the attached rope. Customers find this plaque to be good value for money, and the fun design is perfect for welcoming visitors to cat-friendly homes and gardens. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 300+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ RICHIE Cat Solar Garden Ornament An adorable cat statue holding a solar LED lantern that brings a warm and welcoming ambiance to gardens, patios, yards, balconies, porches or windows. The ornament is made with UV-resistant resin that withstands all weather conditions for a long-lasting addition to your home or garden. Simply place the cat in a sunny spot for 6-8 hours, and the built-in sensor will automatically light up at dusk for 8-12 hours. No worrying about electricity costs or battery replacements! The statue measures 5.31 inches (l) x 3.34 inches (w) x 7.48 inches (h). This little solar light receives positive feedback for its brightness and sturdiness. It works well in all weather conditions and illuminates flower gardens beautifully. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 600+ Amazon reviews. I hope this list helps you to find the perfect gift for loved ones this Christmas. Happy shopping!

In this article: Common Emergencies in Cats Feline First Aid Kit What to Do in an Emergency First Aid for Cats Emergencies and CPR Also in this article: Cuts and Bleeding Broken Bones Burns and Scalds More Bites Stings Choking Poisoning Seizures Common Emergencies in Cats There's a saying that cats have nine lives, a myth that likely originated from their knack for escaping danger, with quick reflexes; remarkable agility and the ability to land on their feet. Some might call them lucky, but there's a big difference between a cat's inherent survival skills and immortality! When an emergency strikes, knowing the basics of feline first aid and having the correct supplies to hand could be the difference between life and death. Related post: Pet Bereavement Support and Coping with the Loss of a Pet Common accidents and emergencies in cats include: Injuries like burns, cuts and broken bones. Choking or swallowing foreign objects. Bite wounds from other cats or larger animals, including dogs. Road traffic accidents. Falling from windows and heights. Poisoning. Bites from venomous spiders and snakes. In some countries, gunshot wounds. Your first response in any situation should be to call a vet immediately after discovering there's a problem, who can offer instructions over the phone and prepare for your arrival; however, emergencies often happen out of the blue. There's no harm in being prepared to give first aid until you can get proper medical attention or on the way to a clinic. Related post : How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Familiarising yourself with your cat's vital signs by learning to measure their body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate can help to detect any changes that might indicate a problem. This is fairly simple and you can find step-by-step guides here: How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs Feline First Aid Kit A basic first aid kit for pets should include a selection of bandages, antiseptic and some essential instruments. Here I've compiled a list that you can find on reputable websites like the PDSA , ASPCA and Cats Protection . Cleaning: Sterile saline solution - flushing or rinsing a wound . Cat-safe antiseptic solution, spray or wipes - disinfecting wounds . Dressings and tools: Sterile gauze pads - absorbing blood . Cotton wool balls or swabs - cleaning areas . Non-adhesive bandage pads - layering up wound coverage before dressing . Self-adhesive bandages - stick to themselves without catching fur or having to use tape . Bandage tape (if self-adhesive bandages are unavailable or adding extra security). Tick remover. Tweezers - also used for ticks, splinters and foreign objects. Scissors with blunt or rounded ends so they don't catch the cat's skin when cutting bandages. Disposable gloves . Other items: Emergency blanket - to keep warm (e.g., if cat goes into shock) or use as a stretcher. Towel - soaked in cold water to keep cat cool if it overheats, or use as a stretcher. Digital ear thermometer. Stopwatch. Torch/flashlight. Ice pack Remember to keep items stocked up and refill your kit after usage. It's also beneficial to keep your cat's medical information inside, as well as the number and address of your local vet. If you want to be extra thorough, a record of their vital signs may help the vet during an emergency. Lastly, know where your cat carrier is and keep it lined with a blanket ready for use. What to Do in an Emergency When addressing an emergency, it's recommended to use the acronym: " Dr ABCs " D anger - keep yourself and others around you safe. R esponse - check if your pet responds to their name or touch. A irway - is their airway clear? B reathing - are they breathing? C irculation - do they have a pulse or heartbeat? S end - get someone to ask for help. When cats are frightened or in pain, they're more likely to lash out and bite, so it's important to remain calm and approach them quietly. Keep doors closed so they can't run outside and confine them to a single room. If handling isn't possible or causes further distress, you can restrain them in a towel and place them into a carrier for transporting to a vet clinic. As your cat's caretaker, you're one of the most important factors in recognising an emergency that might not be immediately obvious. Poisoning, for example, can have a delayed effect; and internal injuries can't be seen. Observing the slightest changes in behaviour and acting quickly can potentially save a life. You know what's normal for your cat and what isn't. First Aid for Cats The following information is not intended to replace veterinary treatment. First aid measures should only be used in the case of an emergency where help is not available. Always contact your vet at the first opportunity and follow any instructions given. Cuts and Bleeding Superficial Wounds It's fairly easy to tell the difference between a superficial cut and a deeper wound, but sometimes they look more serious than they are. This is because it can take a couple of minutes for clotting to form. Shallow cuts, scratches and grazes can usually be tended to at home; however, animals have a habit of licking and scratching affected areas which can cause infections and other issues. Keep an eye out for redness, swelling, itching, heat, discharge, foul odours, lethargy and fever. A vet may prescribe antibiotics or apply protective measures, such as a collar, to give it a better chance of healing. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Cuts and Grazes Heavy Bleeding Bleeding that's heavier will likely need more urgent attention, as cats may collapse or go into shock if the bleeding doesn't stop within 5-15 minutes. Call a vet immediately. Signs of shock include: Pale gums. Cool ears, paws or tail. Rapid or shallow breathing. Weak or rapid pulse. Lethargy. Unresponsiveness. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Bleeding Serious Injuries Seek immediate veterinary care if the wound is extensive; near sensitive areas such as the eyes or genitals; on the abdomen or chest. Some accidents, particularly traffic related if animals have been dragged or knocked across a road, may result in areas of missing skin. Internal Bleeding Internal bleeding is usually life-threatening without medical intervention, so detecting it early is crucial. Some of the symptoms are similar to shock, but be on the lookout for: Lethargy, weakness or collapse. Cold ears, paws or tail. Pale or white gums and paw pads. Bruising. Laboured breathing. Rapid heartbeat. Loss of appetite. Swollen belly. Vomiting (possibly with blood). Dark, tarry stool. Broken Bones This type of injury can be harder to diagnose unless the skin is broken and the bone is visible. Some indicators of a broken bone and corresponding locations include: Laboured breathing - ribs. Limping or altered gait - limbs. Reluctance to stand up or move - pelvis. Not eating or drinking - jaw. Unable to move - spine. There may be signs of internal bleeding or shock, especially if a cat has been hit by a car or fallen from a height. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Broken Bones Burns and Scalds Burns aren't only painful but prone to infection and scarring. You must always contact a vet, no matter what size or degree of the burn. Chemical burns can be harder to spot under the fur and continue to damage the tissue long after exposure. Signs of a chemical burn include: Behavioural changes. Vocalisations. Excessive licking over the same area. Hairless patches. Redness. Swelling. Blisters. Oozing/weeping. Odours. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Burns Bites Other Animals If a cat has been bitten by another cat or larger animal, it can create deep puncture wounds that may go unnoticed through their thick fur. Not only are mouths full of bacteria, but the top layers of skin may heal relatively quickly. This traps bacteria which can lead to infections and abscesses. Always get bites checked by a vet, particularly if the area is swollen, red or hot to the touch. Attacks from large animals, especially wild ones, can cause internal damage or rabies infection (although rare in the UK). Be sure to provide your vet with any information about the animal. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Bite Wounds Visit Snakes & Spiders Venomous snakes and spiders are rare in the UK but can cause death very quickly depending on the location of the bite and if it's left untreated. So too, we don't know if they're venomous until symptoms develop, which makes it even more important to seek veterinary help. Make a note of the snake/spider if seen, or take a photo (from a distance). Be aware of those that are venomous, if any, and how it could affect cats. Stings In the UK, the most likely cause of stings are insects like bees and wasps. They commonly occur on the face, paws or mouth and cause mild itching, redness and swelling. The main concern is if the stinger remains in the skin and leads to additional irritation or infection. If a cat is allergic to a sting, they can go into anaphylactic shock which requires immediate treatment. This is usually characterised by severe swelling of the affected area - any swelling near the airways or throat can restrict their ability to breathe. Other signs of an allergic reaction include: Skin rash or bumps. Wheezing or panting. Lethargy or weakness. Pale gums. Vomiting or diarrhoea. Collapse. Depending on the severity of the reaction, cats may need medication such as antihistamines and other anti-inflammatories administered by a vet. It's wise to research the different insects in your region so you know what to look out for. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Allergic Reactions and Insect Stings Choking Choking on foreign objects can quickly become serious as cats are unable to breathe properly due to obstruction of the airway. Signs of choking include: Difficulty breathing or wheezing. Gagging or retching. Pawing at the mouth. Drooling. Blue tinged lips, gums or tongue. Collapse. This requires immediate medical intervention, both to remove the object and ensure there's no trauma to the throat. This article from PetMD contains a useful guide on first aid for choking: How to Perform Heimlich Manoeuvre if a Cat Is Choking Poisoning Most cases of poisoning are due to a cat's curiosity getting the better of them and eating things they shouldn't. They may also lick harmful substances off their fur, inhale chemicals or absorb toxins through the skin. Different poisons can cause different reactions, but there are some general symptoms. Drooling or foaming at the mouth. Vomiting or diarrhoea. Difficulty breathing. Blue or pale gums. Loss of appetite. Increased thirst or urination. Blood in vomit, urine or stool. Loss of coordination. Muscle tremors or seizures. Weakness or collapse. Coma. In the UK, the best source of information on animal poisoning is the Veterinary Poison Information Service . If you suspect your cat has been poisoned, you can call their Animal PoisonLine for 24-hour specialist advice: 01202 509000 ( It would be wise to keep this number in your first aid kit! ) Related post : 8 Common Household Items That Are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats Call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine immediately. If known, give the name of the substance that caused the poisoning; the amount ingested and time of exposure. You can also take the poison to the vet clinic with you, if it's safe. This article from International Cat Care contains a useful guide on first aid for poisoning and removing contaminants from a cat's fur: Cats and Poisons Seizures Seizures can be caused by a range of underlying issues: head trauma, brain tumors, infection or inflammation; liver or kidney disease; low blood sugar and epilepsy. A single, short seizure usually passes within a couple of minutes but still requires investigation by a vet. Repeated, prolonged seizures that last 5 minutes or longer can indicate a serious medical issue. For more help and advice, read this useful article from the PDSA: First Aid for Seizures Emergencies and CPR CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is the treatment for cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA). It involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore circulation and breathing. When a cat is suffering from CPA, it means their heart has stopped beating; they're not breathing on their own and have lost consciousness. There are many causes of CPA, including some of those we've already mentioned: Traumatic injuries. Blood loss. Electrocution. Allergic reactions. Inability to breathe. Heart problems. Low blood pressure (shock). Unfortunately, CPR is rarely successful on cats and depends on factors such as the cause of arrest and how soon treatment was started. It can also be dangerous to start CPR if the heart is still beating, which could lead to further harm and even death. This is where " Dr ABCs " comes in useful by ensuring the cat is unconscious, watching for breaths and listening or feeling for a heartbeat. The more you practice checking your cat's vital signs, the more equipped you'll be to recognise and respond to an emergency. To give your cat the best chance of survival, ideally, you should call a vet and follow instructions given over the phone. They may walk you through CPR and can offer specialist advice if any problems arise. If this isn't possible, you can attempt CPR on route to a clinic if you have someone else to drive you; or while waiting for veterinary care. If an emergency happens and you're alone, it's recommended to skip CPR and rush your pet straight to the nearest vet clinic. The PDSA and PetMB have some detailed step-by-step guidelines on performing CPR, including helpful illustrations. Due to the seriousness of the emergency and risks involved, it's advisable to learn CPR techniques at a veterinary first aid course before attempting them on your pet. PDSA: CPR for Cats and Kittens PetMB: How to Perform CPR on a Cat *This is general advice and should not be used as a replacement for veterinary care. This article is not endorsed by any of the organisations mentioned. What’s in your feline first aid kit? Are you prepared for an emergency? Let us know if these tips helped in the comments.

In this article: What Are Vital Signs and Why Are They Important? How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs What Are Vital Signs and Why Are They Important? Vital signs measure the body's basic functions, just like a human might experience in a hospital or doctor's office. This usually involves measuring the patient's body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate and blood pressure. Since cats are experts at hiding illness or pain, knowing their vital signs can help to detect any problems that you might want to discuss with your vet. The easiest way to monitor your cat's health is by measuring their body temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate. Taking a cat's blood pressure uses specialised equipment such as an inflatable cuff and monitor. While it's possible to do this at home, it's not recommended without proper training. The methods discussed are simple and non-invasive, based on observation and touch (adult cats only). Results may vary depending on age, health, activity levels and other factors. You should not rely on this information to determine the health status of your cat. If you suspect a problem then seek veterinary advice. How to Measure a Cat's Vital Signs Body Temperature A body temperature of 38-39 ° C is considered normal for cats. Some may be slightly higher or lower, but most sources state that the range should be between 37.2-39.2 °C. Rectal thermometers provide the most accurate reading, but I do not recommend this without training at the risk of causing harm or discomfort to such a sensitive area. A digital ear thermometer can also be used, but your cat will likely not enjoy this method either. In terms of an emergency, low body temperature could be due to shock, cold or various illnesses. A high temperature can indicate fever resulting from an immune system response, such as fighting inflammation or infections; and heatstroke. Resting Heart Rate A cat's heart rate can fluctuate depending on how relaxed or stressed it is but typically ranges between 140-220 bpm (beats per minute). A calm, resting kitty will likely be at the lower end and can drop to 120-140 bpm according to the MSD Veterinary Manual . 180-220 bpm is considered stressed, frightened or elevated after a period of activity. Outside of these ranges can be a sign of serious health issues. Most owners won't have a stethoscope, but with a bit of practice, you can use your hands to feel for a pulse. Here are some pointers to help: Wait until your cat is lying down in a relaxed state as it'll be easier and give a more accurate reading. The best place to locate a pulse is along the ribcage by placing a hand towards the cat's left side, underneath its arm where the elbow joins onto the body (or the "armpit" area). You can also locate the femoral artery on the inside of the upper hind leg near to where it joins the body. Place two fingers flat onto the area and gently press until you can feel a pulse. Using a stopwatch, count the number of beats for 15 seconds and then multiply that number by 4 to get the per minute rate. You can also count for 20 seconds and multiply by 3; 30 seconds and multiply by 2; or go for the full 60 seconds. The longer, the better - but it all depends on how compliant your kitty is. Resting Respiratory Rate (RRR) The PDSA  states that the normal resting respiratory rate for cats is 16-40 bpm. This is how many breaths cats take for each minute while resting or sleeping. Some sources say that the average rate is under 30-35 bpm. A higher respiratory rate (shortness of breath) could be a sign of stress, pain or underlying heath conditions such as respiratory infections, asthma and heart failure. Respiratory rate is easy to measure as you can watch your cat from afar without having to disturb them. Wait until kitty is resting or sleeping, but not dreaming (or purring) as this can speed up breathing and won't give an accurate result. Signs of a dream state include twitching paws, legs, tail, mouth or whiskers; fluttering eyelids; soft vocalisations like chirping or whimpering. Watch the rise and fall of their chest (each rise/fall equates to one breath). Use a stopwatch to count how many breaths they take per 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the per minute rate (or 20/30/60 seconds as described above). Make a note of your own cat's vital signs and repeat regularly so you can quickly identify any changes. Practicing taking your cat's vital signs is a good way of getting cats used to being handled in preparation for a vet visit or health check-up. They'll be used to having more sensitive areas of their body touched such as the ears, legs and belly. It can also promote bonding and, with any luck, kitty will be none the wiser to your examination and just think it's being petted! If measurements seem abnormal, such as a little higher or lower than those mentioned, don't worry too much as all cats are different. Even if vital signs are within the normal or average ranges, it doesn't mean cats won't have other health conditions. Always consult with a veterinarian about the health status of your cat. *This is general information only and should not be used to replace medical advice. Have you practiced taking your cat's vital signs? Did any of these tips help? Let us know in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. This is an honest review of a free product. I may receive a small commission on purchases made through links in this article, at no extra cost to you. This helps to support my blog and pay the cat taxes - thank you! Is your cat overweight, lazy or sluggish? Do they have stinky toilet habits, a dull coat or dandruff? It could be down to a diet of processed junk, with low amounts of animal-based protein and an excess of grains and fillers. If the food you're buying isn't making your cat happy or healthy, you're not alone. Edgard & Cooper is a young but fast-growing company based in Germany, founded by two friends and their dogs - Edgard and Cooper! The pair made it their mission to create pet food that's not only delicious and healthy, but uses fresh meat in their recipes. After many years of research and partnering with universities, they found the perfect recipes and are now selling healthy cat and dog food in 13 countries. Special delivery from Edgard & Cooper! Since then, Edgard & Cooper has become a leading independent premium pet food brand in Europe. In 2024, it was acquired by US food giant, General Mills, but continues to operate separately. The company was kind enough to send me samples of their cat food range including wet food, kibble and some tasty treats that I can't wait to share with you. Of course, the final verdict lies with our important tester cats - read on to discover their ratings! Shop on the Edgard & Cooper website, Amazon and other online retailers. They also have availability in select stores across the UK, including Pets at Home. Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 In this article: What Can I Expect from Edgard & Cooper? Dry Food Wet Food Treats Final Thoughts What Can I Expect from Edgard & Cooper? Before we get to the juicy stuff, here's a little more about what the company offers and how it differs from many of the brands you'll have seen on the shelves of Tesco. Psst .... in case you missed it, I share my thoughts on commercial food here: The Truth About Commercial Cat Food: What Really Goes into Your Pet's Food? ✓ Fresh, natural ingredients. ✓   Gently cooked to preserve nutrition and flavour. ✓   Sourced from local suppliers wherever possible. ✓   Recyclable packaging. ✓   1% of sales donated to charity. All in all, Edgard & Cooper is good for pets, good for the planet and, consequently, good for you. If you're interested in learning more, you can read their sustainability plan and impact report . It's important to note that, while Edgard & Cooper uses fresh meat in their recipes, it isn't the same as a raw or fresh food company that uses 100% animal ingredients. It does, however, come with many other benefits that sets it apart from standard commercial cat foods. Edgard & Cooper Other Food ✓   Fresh meat and fish packed with protein. ❌   Overly processed meat and offal. ✓   Herbs, berries and flowers for extra fibre, nutrients and antioxidants. ❌   Unspecified ingredients. ✓   Sweet potatoes, a low-glycaemic carbohydrate. ❌   Low protein content and quality. ✓   Well-balanced, wholesome recipes. ❌   Packed with grains and fillers. ✓   Grain and gluten-free. ❌   High in carbohydrates. ✓   No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. ❌   Harder to digest. Dry Food Overview The entire Edgard & Cooper cat food range is grain-free and gluten-free, which is promising for all cats but especially those with allergies. Their complete dry food contains fresh meat, not meat meal or bone meal. Anything described as "meal" basically refers to powdered animal parts - meat, skin, offal, bone, feet - your guess is as good as mine! To be clear, all meat has to be dried and processed in order to produce kibble. Think of the difference between baking a homemade cake with fresh ingredients and whipping up a packet mix - there's a clear winner in terms of nutrition. Main benefits: Fresh meat/fish to support strong muscles. Salmon oil for healthy skin and shiny fur. Taurine to support the eyes and heart. L-carnitine to promote metabolism. Dried chicory to support a healthy gut. No added sugar. Flossie polishing off the salmon kibble. Packaging The packaging is made from recyclable paper and bioplastic, which is great for the environment but they aren't self-seal bags. This isn't a huge issue as dry food keeps for ages, but if buying this food on a regular basis, you might want to store it in an airtight container for maximum freshness. Flavours Flavour options include: Adult cats: Chicken; Salmon; Turkey & Chicken Kitten: Duck & Chicken Senior: Chicken & Turkey I received the chicken and salmon flavour kibbles for adult cats, let's take a look! Chicken Free-range chicken kibble for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Fresh chicken 50%, peas, potato (dried), potato starch, potato protein, pea protein. More Minerals, chicken gravy, chicken fat, linseed, yeasts (dried, natural source of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) and beta-glucans) 1.5%, chicory (dried, natural source of fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin) 1%, beet pulp (dried), salmon oil 0.5%, cranberries (dried) 0.003%, sage (dried) 0.003%, valerian (dried) 0.003%. 399.4 kcal per 100g Unlike most cat foods, we're not left guessing the calorie content either! Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 30% Protein: 32.60% Fat: 17% Fat: 18.47% Fibre: 2.5% Fibre: 2.71% Ash: 7.5% Ash: 8.15% Moisture: 8% Carbohydrates: 38.04% *DMB = Percentages with moisture removed for a more accurate representation. Salmon Atlantic salmon kibble for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Fresh salmon 50%, peas, potato protein, potato (dried), potato starch, pea protein. More Minerals, chicken gravy, linseed, yeasts (dried, natural source of mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS) and beta-glucans) 1.5%, chicory (dried, natural source of fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin) 1%, beet pulp (dried), salmon oil 0.5%, basil (dried) 0.003%, cranberries (dried) 0.003%, dill (dried) 0.003%. 403.9 kcal per 100g Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 30% Protein: 32.60% Fat: 18% Fat: 19.56% Fibre: 2.5% Fibre: 2.71% Ash: 7.5% Ash: 8.15% Moisture: 8% Carbohydrates: 36.95% Review Most grain-free cat foods contain vegetables as an alternative energy source, especially potatoes as the starch is used as a binding agent in kibble. What stands out with Edgard & Cooper is that recipes only use sweet potato, which has a lower glycaemic index. This means it's digested slower and results in a smaller sugar spike, keeping your cat's tummy fuller for longer so they're less likely to snack. The inclusion of potato and peas does bump up the carbohydrate content, which I'd expect with bog-standard food; but it's more than I'd like to see in a brand like this. Recipes also contain pea protein which, again, is commonly used as a substitute for animal-based protein; however, it's not a main ingredient. The exact percentages of potatoes and peas are not given, but the amount of carbohydrates gives us a good idea of how many grains or veggies are being added to any particular food. In this case, 36-38% on a dry matter basis is even higher than protein at 32% DMB. The percentage of meat decreases after being cooked due to the evaporation of water, which could explain the heavy use of vegetables. Some might call this a disadvantage of using fresh meat. If you aren't sure how to do the maths then it's very simple and can be found here: How to Calculate Carbohydrates in Cat Food and Understanding Dry Matter Basis What we do know is that the primary ingredient is fresh chicken or fish at 50% - great! Taking a closer look at this, since it's the most important part of a cat's diet, 30% crude protein doesn't sound like anything special, especially since we don't know how much of that is animal-based. However, I'd rather see 30% of labelled, quality ingredients than 50% of crap. The food contains a moderate amount of fat, which cats would benefit from in the wild; but as dry food is more calorie-dense than wet food, portion control is extremely important. The use of chicken fat and salmon oil also reduces the (unnecessary) need for plant-based ingredients. Free-range chicken is an ethical bonus. The percentages of herbs and berries are so minute that I'm not sure they warrant boasting on the front of the packaging, but this is typical of pet food manufacturers - and less is more. The kibble pieces aren't too large or small and quite flat, making them easy to chew for both adults and older cats; although the range does include a separate kibble especially formulated for seniors. For kittens, the pieces are significantly smaller. Simba diving into the chicken kibble - you have to see it to believe it! Tester's Verdict I don’t often use my notoriously picky-eating cats for testing food, especially Simba who'll only entertain a couple of different kibbles (despite my ongoing efforts to get him onto wet food). To my amazement, he took to the chicken flavour without any bribery or encouragement from me whatsoever! If you know my incredibly fussy, incredibly demanding little boy then you'll know that getting the paws-up for.... well, pretty much anything.... is a big win, so I have to give credit where it's due. The bad news? This was the only thing he would eat out of all the goodies on offer, but that's no reflection on the food - just Simba being Simba. If you've never met a cat that rejected every brand of treats available, you have now! The salmon flavour went down incredibly well with the other testers - aka, my nieces and nephew. Kit and Nobby are on the greedier side, but it was fussy Flossie that attempted to break into the bag before the kibble was even poured into a bowl. Nobby isn't sharing! Conclusion Dry food is never going to be the best dietary option for cats, but it's known for being a good cost-effective option. That being said, naturally, you're going to pay more for the fresh meat content of Edgard & Cooper. This alone makes it a big step-up from your basic commercial food - and even some of the so-called premium brands - but the protein and carbohydrate contents are about average. Overall, if you're already paying for the likes of certain "specialist" brands and your cat isn't on a prescription diet, then you might as well use that money for something that actually gives pets the nutrition they need, which this dry food does marginally better. Unfortunately, we can't escape those carbohydrates, whether they come in the form of grains or vegetables, but some are worse than others - and different cats will tolerate different ingredients. If you're confused about what to feed your cat or wondering whether you should switch to a wet food diet, this post is essential reading: Cats and Carbohydrates: Is Dry Cat Food Bad for Cats? Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 There's tons of information on the brand's website, and it's refreshing to see a pet food manufacturer that cares about feline nutritional needs enough to promote wet food as a healthier choice - or at the very least, a mixture of wet and dry. As well as the generic feeding directions provided on the packaging, which applies to both sterilised and unsterilised cats, each product page on the website includes a feeding calculator so you can work out the correct portion size for your specific cat. I tested this against my own calculations and it's fairly accurate. Perhaps most importantly, both kibbles passed the furry palettes of two of our most pickiest eaters. Wet Food Overview Edgard & Cooper's wet cat food range (complete) offers a selection of chunks in sauce and pâté. Fillets are available as a complimentary snack. Main benefits of chunks in sauce and pâté : Packed full of protein with meat/fish and nutritious offal (the good by-products like muscle tissue, organs and bone). Taurine to support the eyes and heart. No added sugar. Packaging All of Edgard & Cooper's wet food cans are made from metal, which is not only recyclable but has natural preservative properties to keep those important nutrients locked in. Food lasts for up to 24 months, helping to reduce waste and spoilage. Flavours Flavour options for chunks in sauce and pâté include: Adults: Chicken; Turkey & Chicken; Lamb & Chicken; Salmon & Chicken Kittens: Duck & Chicken; Codfish & Chicken Seniors: Chicken & Turkey Flavour options for fillets include: All ages: Tuna; Tuna & Chicken; Tuna & Shrimp; Tuna & Squid I received all flavours of the chunks in sauce and pâté; as well as the tuna and tuna & chicken fillets. Let's take a look! Chunks in Sauce Chicken Free-run chicken pieces in sauce for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 46%, beef 7%, minerals, sage (dried) 0.02%, turmeric (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.01%. 83.9 kcal per 100g Lamb & Chicken Juicy lamb and free-run chicken in sauce for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 40%, lamb 7%, beef 6%, minerals, sage (dried) 0.02%, turmeric (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.01%. 83.9 kcal per 100g Kit diving in - literally! Salmon & Chicken Tandem of salmon from an MSC-certified sustainable fishery and free-run chicken in sauce for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 37.5%, MSC* salmon 8.5%, beef 7%, minerals, basil (dried) 0.02%, dill (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.01%. 83.9 kcal per 100g Turkey & Chicken Free-run turkey and chicken in sauce for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Turkey 26%, chicken 20%, beef 7%, minerals, sage (dried) 0.02%, turmeric (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.01%. 83.9 kcal per 100g The analytical constituents for all of these wet foods are the same, as shown in the chart below. Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9% Protein: 50% Fat: 5% Fat: 27.77% Fibre: 0.2% Fibre: 1.11% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 13.88% Moisture: 82% Carbohydrates: 7.22% Happy cats and full tummies. Review This wet food provides a good balance of protein and fat that's much closer to a cat's natural diet than the dry food variety - and not a pea or potato in sight. Notice how this lowers the carbohydrate content to less than a quarter of that in the kibble, and it contains significantly less calories. With nothing but fresh meat, offal and a small percentage of herbs and berries, this is purrfect for the carnivorous kitty. These recipes claim to use "free-run" chicken and turkey which, technically, isn't the same as free-range, as animals are still confined within a barn rather than having outdoor access. However, the company is very open about their mission to push for higher welfare - more on this can be found in the ethics and sustainability section at the end. I appreciate a short, clear ingredients list with no nasties hidden under umbrella terms like "meat meal", "vegetable derivatives" or "cereals" - which, let's be honest, has become the unacceptable norm. The only thing I'd like to see here is named offal, just to confirm that it is indeed the nutritious parts of animals being used. Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 The crude protein is at 50% - again, not a huge increase from what we're used to seeing - but the fresh meat and absence of fillers makes it a worthy trade-off. It's also worth mentioning that all of these recipes contain 7% beef, hence the importance of checking the label. All products on the brand's website include an allergy section, which is helpful when choosing the best food for your kitty. These meals don't look particularly appetising, but that's the point. No artificial colours or flavours to create that overpowering "meaty" smell - just simple chunks in a light sauce, which is all you really need. Cats don't rate their plates like humans do; in fact, those bright caramel gravies are more for your eyes to tempt you into buying the product. Gobble gobble gobble. Tester's Verdict I’m equally surprised to report that the chunks in sauce went down reasonably well with Drax who, as you may know, is on a urinary diet, but we don't want him feeling left out - a little treat never hurts! I did mash up the chunks because he has an aversion to the texture, but I have to do the same with his urinary food. If your cat prefers shredded or flaked meat then you can use a fork to mash it up. I didn't have to do the usual mixing old food with new food or follow him around for half a day in the hopes that he'd try it. He only ignored it the first couple of times, which for Drax is quite the achievement! While he didn't lick his bowl clean, I'm certain it's a brand he could get used to as the occasional treat. Since he can't have much of this food, I only gave him the lamb & chicken flavour. The remaining tins were devoured by Nobby and Kit, who chased their mum around demanding more. Flossie doesn't eat wet food and is no closer to changing her mind - we tried! Pâté Chicken Silky soft pâté with free-run chicken for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 59%, minerals, cranberries (dried) 0.02%, sage (dried) 0.02%, valerian (dried) 0.02%. 93.2 kcal per 100g Salmon & Chicken Silky soft pâté with tandem of salmon from an MSC-certified sustainable fishery and free-run chicken. For adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 49%, MSC* salmon 10%, minerals, basil (dried) 0.02%, cranberries (dried) 0.02%, dill (dried) 0.02%. 93.2 kcal per 100g The analytical constituents for both of these pâtés are the same, as shown in the chart below. Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9.5% Protein: 48.71% Fat: 6% Fat: 30.76% Fibre: 0.4% Fibre: 2.05% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 12.82% Moisture: 80.5% Carbohydrates: 5.64% Lamb & Chicken Silky soft pâté with lamb and free-run chicken for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Chicken 49%, lamb 10%, minerals, cranberries (dried) 0.02%, sage (dried) 0.02%, valerian (dried) 0.02%. 91.3 kcal per 100 g Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9.5% Protein: 50% Fat: 6% Fat: 31.57% Fibre: 0.4% Fibre: 2.10% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 13.15% Moisture: 81% Carbohydrates: 3.15% Turkey & Chicken Silky soft pâté with free-run turkey and chicken for adult cats, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Turkey 31%, chicken 28%, minerals, cranberries (dried) 0.02%, sage (dried) 0.02%, valerian (dried) 0.02%. 99.1 kcal per 100g Analytical Constituents Dry Matter Basis Protein: 9.5% Protein: 46.34% Fat: 6.5% Fat: 31.70% Fibre: 0.4% Fibre: 1.95% Ash: 2.5% Ash: 12.19% Moisture: 79.5% Carbohydrates: 7.80% Review Looking at the dry matter basis, there isn't much difference between these recipes in terms of nutrition. Lamb & chicken has the highest amount of protein and the lowest carbohydrates, but only by a few percent. I usually find pâté to be a little mousse-like in texture with an unpleasantly strong smell, but this was firmer and didn't require a peg on my nose. I didn't go as far as tasting it, but you can see the quality in its appearance. The salmon used in the salmon & chicken flavour pâté is MSC-certified, which means it's wild-caught and sustainable, helping to prevent overfishing. In comparison to the chunks in sauce, neither is particularly better or worse than the other; although the pâtés contain more calories. They both have meat as the primary ingredients, with the pâté slightly higher at 59% (chunks in sauce 54%); followed by a small amount of herbs and berries. Kit sampling some chicken pâté. The pâté also comes in a fair bit cheaper per tin, which will save the pennies if you're on a budget. The main difference is texture, and the best choice will be whatever your cat prefers. There are two kitten pâtés, which is a good option when weaning them off milk onto solid food; and a senior formula for easy chewing. Also in this range are a selection of organic pâtés. Tester's Verdict Drax isn't too keen on pâté and, unfortunately, this wasn't enough to sway him. All flavours were gobbled up by Nobby and Kit without hesitation. Fillets The fillets are a 100% natural complimentary food that can be given alongside any other complete food as a fishy snack. Feeding directions advise giving cats no more than one tin per day. Personally, I'd limit any kind of fish to once a week. Tuna & Chicken Shredded tuna topped with chicken pieces in a mouthwatering broth for cats over eight weeks old, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Tuna 60%, chicken 4%, fish broth. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 18.5%, crude fat 0.7%, crude fibre 0%, crude ash 1.3%, moisture 78.9%, carbohydrates 0.6%. 86.4 kcal per 100g Tuna Shredded tuna in a mouthwatering broth for cats over eight weeks old, including sterilised ones. Ingredients: Tuna 60%, fish broth. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 17.4%, crude fat 0.6%, crude fibre 0%, crude ash 1.2%, moisture 80.2%, carbohydrates 0.6%. 80.9 kcal per 100g Drax loves his tuna fillets! Review As a complimentary food, the analytical constituents aren't overly important for these fillets but I've included them as given on the label. All we need to know is that they're high in animal protein and moisture with minimal carbohydrates. Edgard & Cooper only use skipjack tuna in their fillets, as this species is not endangered and richer in flavour. Upon opening the tin, it appeared no different to human food - in fact, I dare say it looked better! Tester's Verdict These pink, fresh, juicy fillets were scoffed in one go by Mr Drax after diving headfirst into the bowl. None of the other cats got a look in, what more can I say? Treats Overview Edgard & Cooper treats offer a selection of pillows, crunchies and rolls for cats over six months old. Main benefits: Made with fresh meat/fish. Grain-free. No added sugar. Packaging All treats come in plastic packaging that's resealable for freshness. They're designed for recycling in many areas but it depends on your local collection. Flavours Flavour options include: Pillows: Chicken; Salmon; Turkey Crunchies: Chicken; Salmon Rolls: Chicken & Turkey; Salmon & Chicken I received the chicken pillows , chicken crunchies and salmon & chicken rolls . Let's take a look! Drax guarding his chicken pillows. Chicken Pillows Delicious rewards that are crunchy on the outside with a soft, creamy centre. Ingredients: Pea starch, chickpeas (dried), fresh chicken 14%, chicken fat, sweet potato (dried), pea protein, lignocellulose, chicken gravy, minerals. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 17%, crude fat 16.5%, crude fibre 5.5%, crude ash 5.9%. 373 kcal per 100g (less than 2 kcal per treat ) Chicken Crunchies A variety of shapes with a hint of catnip for playing and relaxing. Ingredients: Fresh chicken 30%, potato starch, pea starch, pea protein, potato protein, chicken fat, chicken gravy, lignocellulose, catnip 1%, minerals. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 33%, crude fat 10%, crude fibre 2.7%, crude ash 5% 378 kcal per 100g Kit hoovering up the salmon & chicken rolls. Salmon & Chicken Rolls Soft, meaty rolls for hunting and chasing. Ingredients: Chicken 76%, salmon 10%, potato flakes, minerals, psyllium seed husks, yeasts. Analytical Constituents: Crude protein 31%, crude fat 21%, crude fibre 2%, crude ash 7%, moisture 27%. 345 kcal per 100g Flossie can't get enough of the chicken crunchies with catnip! Review This is a fun variety of treats for different occasions, with good flavour and texture options for the particular pussy cat. The pillows and crunchies are like standard treat biscuits and contain fresh chicken, as well as potatoes and peas, as main ingredients. The rolls are softer and "meatier", as well as being healthier in terms of nutrition and having the fewest calories per 100g. The pillows are described as containing less than 2 kcal per treat, but there's no saying how this compares to the others. Since treats should be limited and make up less than 10% of a cat's diet, the nutritional specifics aren't too much of an issue, and we still have a healthy dose of fresh meat in there. Which, compared to the usual "meat derivatives" and "vegetable by-products", is worth the extra pennies . Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 Tester's Verdict Drax is a big fan of pillow treats and, as expected, he took to Edgard & Cooper's chicken pillows after a thorough inspection. They're a little harder than his usual brands, but he didn't seem to mind the extra crunch of fresh meaty goodness. The chicken crunchies took a little more convincing but eventually disappeared when I wasn't looking - he only went and broke into the bag! Unfortunately, the salmon & chicken rolls were rejected but quickly snatched up by the remaining tester cats. Even Flossie went crazy for them, which is a first. Flossie checking her order. Final Thoughts I’m not exaggerating when I say that I'm shocked at how well Drax and Simba responded to this food, as we all know my fussy felines are less than ideal testers. In my opinion, this only confirms the positive feedback I received from the other kitties. Absolutely nothing went to waste and there were no tummy upsets after eating. I'll almost certainly be purchasing a few favourites in the future! There aren't many cat food brands using fresh meat in their recipes that are available in the UK, and of those that exist, you'll likely find meals containing higher amounts of protein - whether they're as tasty, only your cats will tell you. However, there are many other reasons to invest in Edgard & Cooper. Kit trying to muscle in on Nobby's meal. Ethics and Sustainability The company's ethical practices are impressive to say the least. They do a lot for the pet community, animals and the planet - from charity work to sustainability and the careful sourcing of ingredients. Of course, we can never be sure that suppliers are doing everything they say they're doing, but this is part of Edgard & Cooper's mission. As a vegetarian myself, I wanted to share this important statement from the brand's website: “ We’ve been pushing industry norms: 93% of our meat, fish and offal is of EU standard, where the Five Freedoms are a legal requirement, and we frequently go further than this with higher welfare ingredients in 52% of our products (organic, MSC, ASC, Initiative Tierwohl, plant-based) ." All bowls licked clean! Along with tracing their ingredients and pushing for better animal welfare, Edgard & Cooper have a Zero Pawprint Plan. They're one of the only pet food brands that print the carbon score of their products onto the packaging. It's this level of transparency that helps customers to compare options and make informed decisions about the food they're buying. No cat food is perfect, but I wouldn't recommend any product that I didn't believe had some value - and I certainly wouldn't feed it to my cats. If you're looking for better quality food than what you're currently feeding or want to try something different, Edgard & Cooper is a safe option - especially their wet food, which is more nutritionally balanced in my opinion. If you need help transitioning cats to new food, this post has you covered: How to Change a Cat's Food with 10 Tasty Tips More queues for the treats. Customer Feedback At the time of writing this, Edgard & Cooper has a rating of 4.6 / 5 stars on Trustpilot. This represents a great experience amongst pets and owners alike. Positive feedback includes: Good variety of products for cats and dogs, including those with allergies. Pets love the taste of food, including picky eaters - which I can 100% agree with! Improved health and wellbeing. Fast delivery and easy-to-use website with subscribe and save plan available. Good customer service. Option of donating loyalty points to animal shelters. Only 4% of reviews are less than 3 stars and usually report issues with delivery. There appears to be minimal gut problems or other adverse reactions to this food, and pets rarely dislike it. The company has replied to 99% of negative reviews and frequently offers a solution. Head over to the Edgard & Cooper website to browse their large range of cat and dog food, or check out their blog for some pawsome posts. Don't miss out on getting 20% off your first order over £20 with my exclusive code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 (only valid on the official Edgard & Cooper website). Have you tried this brand? Did your kitties approve? Share your experiences and feedback in the comments.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. In this article: Understanding Redirected Aggression Other Causes of Redirected Aggression Signs of Aggression Cat to Human Aggression Redirected Aggression Between Household Cats Separation and Reintroduction More Other Tips Summary Redirected aggression is one of the most common types of feline aggression and can severely damage the bond with other cats and their human guardians. While many relationships can be rebuilt, it takes a lot of time, effort and patience and often results in owners rehoming their beloved furries. Finding a solution can be challenging depending on the cause and severity of aggression; and whether it's directed at other cats or humans. According to the ASPCA , aggression is the second most common feline behavioural problem seen by animal behaviourists. It's taken less seriously than dogs due to a cat's smaller size, but we should note that they have a lot more weapons, with claws as well as sharper teeth. These can cause deep puncture wounds, infections, abscesses and other complications. Understanding Redirected Aggression Imagine a scenario: Cat A is perched on its favourite windowsill observing the scenery when a stray cat strolls brazenly across the lawn. The sight of an intruder on its territory causes Cat A to leap to attention, puffing out its fur like a blowfish. At that moment, Cat B walks into the room and spots Cat A in a heightened state of arousal. It's easy to see how this might cause a terrible miscommunication, since Cat B thinks it's the source of Cat A's aggression and responds by acting defensively - possibly hissing or growling. Cat A, who's already irritated by the stray, decides to lash out at its housemate in a classic case of redirected aggression. This is just one scenario of many and typically happens when an overstimulated cat is unable to reach the source of the fright or whatever has triggered them. Since it can't respond to the stimulus, it displaces or redirects that behaviour onto the nearest available target. Pet Remedy Calming Diffuser contains a low concentration of valerian and essential oils to work with a cat's natural calming mechanisms when tackling stress and anxiety. Ideal for most pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents and birds. In simple terms, you could describe it as being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It's not unheard of for cats to attack their human guardians either - it's important to remember that this isn't a logical response, but survival instinct taking over. Sometimes there can be a delay between the initial arousal and the aggression, from minutes to hours, so the attack seems unprovoked. For example, your cat was startled by a loud noise and hid under the bed. Unaware of the noise, you find your cat some time later and try to pick it up or stroke it, only to receive a painful swipe in return. This is simply a reflex as your cat is overloaded with adrenaline and hasn't had enough time to calm down. Other Causes of Redirected Aggression Seeing or smelling an unfamiliar cat is a common cause of aggression in multi-cat households, but there are some other triggers to be mindful of. Sudden loud noises like fireworks, thunder or car engines popping. New environments such as moving house and renovations. Travelling, vet visits, etc. Introducing new pets, people or babies. Seeing or being approached by other animals, especially dogs. Illness or pain. Furthermore, I've had the privilege of connecting with many cat parents through this blog who've shared their own experiences with redirected aggression. Some of these include: Accident or trauma, whereby one cat suffers a minor injury and takes it out on another resident cat. Owner shouting at their cat and provoking an attack. Building work on a house, causing one cat to start attacking another. Fireworks scaring cats into growling or hissing at humans. PawHut 2-Tier Cat Tower stands at 91cm and features a large top bed with removable cushion and a middle perch. Thick sisal scratch post and particle board frame is sturdy for larger cats. In case you're new here, I have my own story regarding redirected aggression that you can read about here . Aggression looks very similar in cats regardless of the cause, so it's crucial to understand exactly what you're dealing with in order to find the best solution. Learn more about the different types of feline aggression in this detailed post: Aggressive Behaviour in Cats: 8 Types and Causes Signs of Aggression As touched on above, most of us can spot an angry feline whether we know what caused it or not. If two or more cats are tearing chunks out of each other then you know there's a problem, but some behaviours are more subtle. Recognising the signs through body language, postures and vocalisations can significantly reduce the chance of it escalating into a full-blown attack. Some common things to look out for include: Flattened or pinned back ears. Tense facial expression. Wide or slitted eyes. Direct stare with another cat. Fluffed up fur (piloerection). Low or lashing tail. Hunched, rigid posture. Arched back. Hissing, growling or yowling. Pacing. This is only a general list as there are some noticeable differences between defensive and offensive aggression that will tell you if an attack is intentional or the cat is simply frightened. For example, a dominant cat might stand with an arched back and fluffed up coat to make itself look bigger and more menacing. It could even charge at its opponent if it thinks it has no other choice. A submissive or defensive cat will be in a more crouched position with its head and tail tucked in. It does this to make itself look small and non-threatening in order to avoid an unwanted interaction - clever, right? If you're experiencing conflict between two or more cats, then determining if there's a bully and a victim will help a great deal when managing and, hopefully, solving the problem. If you spot any of the signs above then it's advisable to remove any other cats from the vicinity as quickly as possible. For more tips and advice, see this dedicated post: Cat Body Language: Signs of Aggressive Behaviour in Felines Daintry Cat Calming Spray combines feline pheromones with the natural soothing properties of cedarwood to reduce stress and anxiety. Use around the home or spray onto carriers prior to travelling. Aggression and Stress It's also easy for owners to confuse aggression-related signs and symptoms with those caused by stress, especially as the two go hand in hand. It's suggested that stress or anxiety is a cat's emotional response to a perceived threat, and aggression is the behavioural outcome. We have to remember that a cat's survival instinct is part of their evolutionary DNA, and the "fight-or-flight" mechanism can be the difference between life and death. Cats don't want to fight; it's usually a last resort. For redirected aggression to occur, they must be very stressed indeed. Learn more here: Signs of Stress in Cats, Causes and Treatment Cat to Human Aggression Cats will rarely attack humans if properly socialised, so when this behaviour happens out of the blue, there's likely to be an external stressor. Similar to the example scenario above, aggression can be redirected onto people if you disturbed the cat while it was stimulated or tried to approach it. Think about it this way: how many times have you snapped at someone when you're in a bad mood, worked up or flustered? You might not claw their eyes out (even if you really want to) but the fact remains that adrenaline can make us do some crazy and uncalled-for things. 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. It's crucial to remain calm and not add to your cat's stress by shouting at or punishing them. This can escalate the situation, further damaging the cat-human bond and putting yourself at risk of physical injury. It can also cause cats to start associating the negative feeling with their owner, provoking more attacks as well as conflict between other resident cats. Here's what you should do to minimise distress: Unless you or your cat are in immediate danger, leave kitty alone to cool off in its own time. Trying to soothe it may cause further arousal and that's when a cat lashes out, if only to escape the situation. Ensure there are plenty of hiding places (cat beds, huts, boxes, underbed spaces, wardrobes, etc). Provide elevated surfaces like cat trees and shelves - think of the wilderness where they'd climb trees to keep a lookout and escape predators. Avoid actions that cats may consider as threatening: grabbing, yelling, making direct eye contact, shutting inside a room (it's easier to remove yourself than a raging furball with claws!). Keep a towel handy so that if you need to restrain your cat, you're both protected. You can use whatever you have nearby to block an attack - a cushion, newspaper - preferably anything but your hands. If you're the target of repeated attacks, try to redirect their focus onto a toy to burn off excess energy. Make sure you use a long-handled toy like a teaser wand to keep a good distance between you and kitty. Reward positive behaviour with treats and ignore the negative - this means ending the play session if necessary. Always let the cat come to you and don't worry about losing your precious bond. If they want attention then you'll know about it - they are felines, after all! For a deeper understanding of a cat's body language and how they interact with other cats and humans, this post is essential reading: How to Read a Cat's Body Language, Behaviour and Communication Redirected Aggression Between Household Cats   Redirected aggression, along with territorial aggression, is one of the most likely causes of fighting in domestic cats and commonly triggered by an unfamiliar feline. If you're lucky then it might be a one-off attack in response to the stimulus, but it can become a more long-standing issue, especially if the target cat retaliates. They may continue to fight whenever they see each other and no longer wish to share a territory. Health The first step when dealing with any kind of aggression, whether it's directed at other animals or humans, is to take your cat for a health check-up. I know - getting your cat to the clinic can be a challenge in itself - but if the solution is as simple as a course of medication, isn't it preferable to weeks or months of stress for the whole family? If you need more vet-related tips and tricks, I've got you covered: How to Prepare Cats for a Vet Visit and Reduce Stress Establish the Trigger Assuming your cat doesn't have any medical issues, the next step is to establish the source of fear, stress, anxiety or frustration so you can remove it. This isn't always possible, since we can't simply ask them what the problem is, but if you're observant then they'll show you in their behaviour. If kitty keeps hanging around a particular window, door or cat flap then you should be on the lookout for a four-legged intruder. In which case, you might want to invest in a suitable cat deterrent or other precautions on the off-chance a stray is urine marking outside the house. If your cat acts skittish or hides whenever there's a noise that wouldn't ordinarily bother them, it could be trauma from a memory of a similar experience. They can be on alert for hours or days after a triggering incident, and I've witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of aggression between two sibling cats that had previously got along. In that time, I've learned that prevention is better than intervention. Related post: 3 Reasons Why Your Bonded Cats Are Fighting Physical Conflict Cases of redirected aggression are almost impossible to predict or prevent, which is what makes it so difficult to solve, and we usually don't know there's a problem until the initial attack. Here are some things you can do when dealing with conflict: If cats are hissing, growling, yowling or staring at each other, place a piece of cardboard or a cushion between them to block off eye contact. My boys would do everything they could to see around the obstacle just to continue their disagreement, but it should give you a chance to usher them into separate rooms. Try distracting with a toy and leading cats away from each other - it helps if you have another person so you can work on both cats. If cats have engaged in a physical fight and you need to intervene, remain calm and don't try to separate them with your hands. Use a long-handled object such as a broom or throw a towel over them before handling. Keep offending cats separated until there's no visible tension. Confine cats indoors so you can monitor their behaviour and prevent aggression from extending beyond their domestic territory. The last thing you want is kitty getting into scraps with a neighbourhood rival and bringing more problems back to the home. Xemz Interactive Feather Cat Toy features a rotating feather that randomly pops out of the holes at different time intervals. The toy starts when cats pass the infrared sensor and has an auto shut-off time of 5 minutes. When my cats were going through their aggressive phase, there were many instances where I had to break up physical altercations. I never advise using hands, but I often did because it was all I could think of in the moment. Fights can break out at any time, and if you're reading this then it's probably happened to you too. While they've never lashed out at me, I noticed that Drax started glaring at my hands and giving some serious vocal warnings. I took this as a firm " Back off, b*tch! " and I sure as hell paid attention. Observation, recognition and understanding go a long way in communicating with your cats, especially where aggression is present. You wouldn't get between two humans beating each other to a pulp, the only difference with cats is that a giant human looming over them increases the fear they're already experiencing. Visit As a last resort, rather than grabbing cats with your hands, stepping between them or using a leg might be less intimidating. When doing this, I found that my cats naturally backed away from me so one could run off and I was able to prevent the other from chasing; but this really depends on the temperament of your cats. As far as standard practice goes, never use body parts! You can find more advice in this dedicated post: Feline Aggression: How to Stop Cats Fighting and Attacking Other Cats Separation and Reintroduction If the fighting persists, you may have to start the separation and reintroduction process. This is a proven strategy recommended by experts and used by animal behaviourists all over the world. There are several stages that cats must go through: Separation Cats are separated for a minimum of 24-48 hours with no visual contact. Cats are rotated around different rooms or areas of the home so they can swap scents and reacclimatise to each other in a neutral setting. Reintroduction Feed cats on either side of a door or baby gate covered with a blanket to maintain the no-visuals rule. Begin by leaving bowls several feet away from the door or barrier and gradually move them closer over the following days. Start allowing visual contact by opening the door a crack or raising the blanket by an inch. If cats display aggressive behaviour such as hissing or swatting, go back a step and continue the process until they're comfortable seeing and eating next to each other. Finally, remove the barrier and use toys, play or treats to distract the attention away from the other cat. This helps to build positive associations and aids the bonding process. For a more in-depth guide where I break down each stage and share my own personal experiences, head over to this post: How to Reintroduce Cats After a Fight in 6 Steps From my correspondence with other parents, the separation process lasts an average of two weeks. This is by no means a set timeframe and each situation will be unique to your cats. In my case, it was closer to six months before they could be left alone unsupervised. Other Tips Territory It's not unusual for cats to become more territorial as tension builds in the home. To reduce competition, you want to ensure there are enough resources for the number of cats you have: food and water bowls, litter trays, beds , toys , etc). They should be spread around the home, and you can add extra territory with cat trees, wall-mounted shelving, ramps and other kitty furniture. Related post: Where to Put a Cat's Food and Water Bowls, Litter Tray, Bedding and Other Essential Resources Shop Pet Furniture → Doing this will also ensure that you're prepared for any unexpected outbreaks, so you already have a space set up for each individual cat. For example, we know that Bonfire Night and New Year attract a lot of fireworks . Prepare a safe room in advance and invest in a calming diffuser or spray like Pet Remedy , which is suitable for most domestic pets. If your cats are extra skittish, you might consider separating them prior to a stressful event so that if one is triggered, they won't have any opportunities to fight. Related post: How to Keep Cats Safe and Calm During Fireworks Feliway Friends Plug-in Diffuser mimics the pheromones that a mother cat releases to her kittens to help reduce tension and conflict in multi-cat households. Calming Products There are lots of products on the market that claim to reduce aggression, many of which are discussed or reviewed on this blog. As touched on above, pheromone diffusers and calming prays replicate the chemicals that cats release during scent marking to create familiarity, reassurance and safety within their environment. They target most stress-related behaviours including scratching , urine spraying , overgrooming, conflict and tension. Calming supplements made from natural, drug-free ingredients are a good short-term option and have less undesirable side effects than traditional medications, but you should always consult with a vet for the most suitable treatment. Read my review of two well-known brands here: Calming Supplement Reviews: ZylKene and YuMOVE Calming Care for Cats (Tried and Tested) Herbal calming treats can be used as an alternative to supplements. You might also have seen collars and spot-ons that release essential oils, such as valerian which is known for its calming properties. Take caution when using anything that changes the smell of your cat, as this could cause them to be more aggressive towards one another. Summary There are no guarantees that damage can be reversed, even if cats were bonded for many years before the aggression started. I understand and empathise with how crushing this is for parents, and I'm always here for a chat if you need it! Your vet is also a valuable source of advice and will be able to refer you to a qualified behaviourist, if you decide to go down that route. In the event that cats can no longer tolerate living together, rehoming may be considered as an option; but there are lots of practical steps you can take to avoid this. You know your situation - and your cats - better than anyone. Do's Don'ts ✓ Seek veterinary advice. ❌   Shout at or punish cats. ✓  Recognise signs of aggression. ❌   Grab or separate cats with hands. ✓  Leave cats to cool off in their own time. ❌   Attempt to soothe an angry cat. ✓  Establish the trigger or source of aggression and remove it (if possible). ❌   Force cats to interact with each other or share a space if they don't want to. ✓  Use distraction techniques with toys and reward positive behaviour. ✓  Provide hiding places and elevated surfaces. ✓  Separate cats if necessary. Mentioned Products Yaheetech Cat Tree Tower Bojafa Teaser Wand Venture Extra Tall Baby Gate Have you experienced redirected aggression towards yourself or another household cat? Get in touch or share your story 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 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. Related post: Small Cat Tree Stands and Towers for All Cats (Tried and Tested) 10 Best Types of Cat Beds: Bedsure Cat Sofa Bed Enjamoy Plush Donut Bed SUOXU Plush Cat Bed Pologmase Cat Igloo Furjoy Cat Cave D isdain Cute Cat Bed Bedsure Cat Basket MORA PETS Self-Heating Mat Petlicity Pet Radiator Bed GUUSII HOME Window Hammock ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bedsure Cat Sofa Bed This stylish pet sofa is crafted with soft faux fur and offers a cosy place to relax with the family. It provides optimal head and neck support and is filled with chopped foam and polyester fibre filling, offering a balance of comfort and support. It has a non-slip bottom and the cover is removable for easy machine washing. The Bedsure Sofa Bed is available in dark grey or brown 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 large breed cats. Unlike other pet sofas, it stays firm without sagging under your cat's weight, but some mention that the material could be softer. A few owners find the assembly a little tricky. Sizes: Small: 61cm (l) x 46cm (w) x 25cm (h) Medium: 76cm (l) x 51cm (w) x 25cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 200+ 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 (may vary): 50cm x 50cm x 20cm 60cm x 60cm x 20cm 70cm x 70cm x 20cm 80cm x 80cm x 20cm ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 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, beige 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 (may vary): 50cm (l) x 50cm (w) x 35cm (h) 65cm (l) x 65cm (w) x 40cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 2,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐ Pologmase Cat Igloo Igloos provide another comfortable, private hideaway for cats to rest and nap. This has a 2-in-1 feature that makes it easy to fold up and use as a second style of bed, with highly elastic sponge to help it bounce back into shape and warm plush velvet. 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 Pologmase 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: 36cm (w) x 36cm (d) x 38cm (h) ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5 Based on 500+ Amazon reviews. Shop pet supplies → 30% off orders over £39 with code: UKNEW30 →  Click to accept 100 coupon bundle →  Click to accept ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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 / 5 Based on 400+ 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 / 5 Based on 300+ 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 / 5 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 with a removable cover for machine washing and drying. It's available in light grey, dark grey and beige. 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 (may vary): Small: 61cm (l) x 45cm (w) Medium: 74cm (l) x 47cm (w) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 400+ Amazon reviews. Shop Pet Furniture → ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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 / 5 Based on 3,000+ Amazon reviews. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ GUUSII HOME Window Hammock The GUUSII HOME Window Hammock has a 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. It can be folded up when not in use (not on the plush side due to the higher sides) making it a great space-saving piece of furniture for indoor cats. The cover itself is double-sided for all seasons, with cushioned plush on one side and breathable mesh on the other. It features a zipper design so can easily be removed for washing, and it's available in white or grey. Owners say the hammock is easy to mount with great stability and doesn't budge, even with heavy cats. While it holds larger breeds, it might be a bit of a squeeze for two cats unless they like to cuddle! Dimensions: 53cm (l) x 30cm (w) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5 Based on 700+ 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.

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. 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? Visit 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 the carbohydrate/calorie contents of food - in fact, it's recommended for the most accurate 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. *Manual calculations are estimates only, since there are many other unknown variables. 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. Shop Premium Cat Food → Get 20% off your first order over £20 Code: CATMUMJOURNAL20 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 beneficial 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?