10-22-2014
Is my cat normal?
That’s a good question. What exactly is “normal?” Chasing air? Hunting plastic bags? Hiding? Fetching? In many ways, “normal” is in the eye of the beholder, and the spectrum of cat behaviors is wide. So how do you know what’s normal and when to be concerned?
Getting to know your cat and paying attention to his behavior is the best way to tell when something’s not “normal.” For instance, take sleeping. Cats sleep a lot. But if your cat is sleeping more than usual for him, hiding in strange places to sleep, looks uncomfortable, or growls when you pick him up, he may not be feeling well. Never assume that your cat is sleeping all day just because he can. Illness or injury can strike suddenly, so be sure to check up on your cat several times a day.
Hairballs
What cat owner hasn’t stepped on a wet hairball? Hairballs once in a while are pretty normal for a cat. Some produce more than others, and they can be worse in the spring and fall. Regular brushing can help, or an over the counter hairball remedy (if your cat will eat it!).
Pay attention to what’s being thrown up, however. Food, plants, foamy or yellow liquid coming up three or more times in one day — or for longer than two days — indicates a trip to the vet is in order.
New environments
New environments can be challenging for cats. They may hide for a while until they feel safe and comfortable. Normal behaviors like playing or eating may decrease. But if your cat hides and does not want to interact with you, hisses, or freaks out if you try to pick him up, he may be feeling overwhelmed. Give him some time, or set him up in a small space until he feels safe.
Cats bond and interact with humans differently. It’s pretty much up to the cat. If you’ve got a new cat, and you’re not sure where you stand, pay attention to behaviors like rubbing on furniture (redirected affection), being in the same room with you (although not in your lap), eating in your presence, and seeming generally happy and relaxed. Beware of having too many expectations about what the relationship “should” look like. Be patient, relax, and enjoy the bond between you, however it appears.
Feline perspective
If you do need help, the more information you can give a vet or behaviorist, the better they’ll be able to help. Put yourself into your cat’s “paws” from time to time. Something that seems bizarre at first may make perfect sense when seeing it from their perspective.
And remember that every non-threatening incident of bizarre behavior makes a great story for your next dinner party. Oh, excuse me, I have to go now — Sophie has just captured another plastic bag in the kitchen…
Charity claiming a package as hers!
Thank you for the gifts from our Amazon wish list!
Amazon never gives us your contact info, they often do not give us packing slips. Please forgive us for not personally contacting you and thanking you. We are so grateful to you for your support!!
Thank you Frances Danna for the Amazon gift card!
Thank you Mandy Irons for the Amazon gift card!
Thank you Yvette Straka for the cat litter!
Thank you Mandy Irons for the Amazon gift card!
Thank you Yvette Straka for the cat litter!
Garfield having fun with all the toys!
Thank you David Caskey for the cat litter!
Thank you Marcia Ewing-Current for the fel-o-vax!
Thank you Buddies and celie carpenter for the Amazon gift card!
Thank you Marcia Ewing-Current for the fel-o-vax!
Thank you Buddies and celie carpenter for the Amazon gift card!
Paul playing with new catnip banana toy!
Thank you so much to all of our wonderful ebay sellers that share so generously with the cats their auctions! You may find them at http://givingworks.ebay.com/charity-auctions/charity/blind-cat-rescue-sanctuary-inc/17471/
One vote every 24 hours.
Come and buy a raffle ticket today and you might win one of our many prizes!
Do you walk or run? The Droid app is finally ready. If you pick Blind Cat Rescue as your charity, every time you walk/run they will donate to the cats! (Just remember to hit start, I forgot this morning LOL)
Link: http://www.resqwalk.com/
Comments
Post a Comment