Lifestyle

Choosing the right kitty isn’t as simple as picking out the most adorable whisker face you can find. You need to consider how your lifestyle is able to meet the needs of your chosen feline pal. It’s not as much your age but your stage in life that plays a role in deciding what type

While in many parts of the world black cats are seen as bringing good luck, in the United States it’s no secret that black cat superstitions still abound and that black cats still have a PR problem. It’s said to be a bad omen if one crosses your path, and they’re the classic witch sidekick.

As I worked on my laptop, my cat leaped up and placed her furry black butt on my keyboard. She was hungry and, deadline be damned, wanted to be fed NOW. Immediately, my screen went black. I didn’t get a panicky feeling in my chest until after I’d removed her from the laptop and couldn’t

There are cats — and then there are famous cats. We’re talking about those instantly recognizable felines whose image and legacy define entire pop culture eras. In salute to these truly top kitties of the screen, the internet and the printed page, here’s a roll call of the world’s most iconic felines. Social media stars

There are differing opinions in the animal welfare world on what the cost of a pet adoption should be. Some believe that waiving or severely reducing adoption fees diminishes the value of the animal or worse. Big adoption events where adoption fees are low cost or zero have come under scrutiny. Data refutes that pets

Of all the cats in the world of felines, the gray tabby cat is arguably one of the best-dressed kitties around. Gray tabbies sport that striking “M” on their foreheads like crowns. Remember — tabby is not a breed of cat, it’s a reference to a most recognizable coat pattern. The striped tabby motif appears on

No matter where you live, catastrophe can strike without warning. Even if you’re not susceptible to hurricanes or floods, you could be at risk for unpredictable disasters like earthquakes, tornadoes, chemical spills or even a house fire. Alice Moon-Fanelli, Ph.D., a certified-applied animal behaviorist with Animal Behavior Consultations in Brooklyn, Connecticut, can attest firsthand that

There are few things in life as rewarding as cat adoption, but it’s a commitment of 10 to 15 years, and many factors come into play. Scores of cats end up in shelters every year because pet parents failed to consider issues such as money, moving and other family members. We’ve asked some experts to help devise

We all know that some cat breeds meow more than others (Siamese, anyone?), and some cats just enjoy making noises. But if your cat won’t stop meowing, a vet check might be in order. So, why do cats meow? Here are some reasons for that constant cat meowing: 1. All that cat meowing means your cat

Most cats don’t drink enough water. Because cats are so self-sufficient, we assume they know what’s best for their health, and many times they do. But I learned the importance of getting a cat to drink more water — with a medical scare that involved a dehydrated cat. So, is your cat not drinking water

Summer is in full swing, so we’re here to bring you three essential summer tips for cats! It’s essential to keep your cat comfortable, healthy and safe in the summer. Here’s how to make sure your cat is drinking enough water, staying groomed and avoiding heatstroke: 1. HYDRATE – Make sure your cat is drinking enough water. Make

There’s been a lot of buzz lately about hemp benefits, so it makes sense that we’re starting to see hemp cat products — and for good reason. This fantastic fiber’s characteristics are perfect for all kinds of things we need to keep our cats happy and healthy. Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa

What do fireworks and summer rain have in common? Noises, which often frighten animals. The Humane Society Naples recommends the following tips to help deal with cats and fireworks, or cats and thunder. By Ericka Basile Fireworks might frighten cats. Photography ©lopurice | iStock / Getty Images Plus. 1. “Accustom your pet to loud noises early

Many of us feel that a house isn’t a home without a cat so it’s no surprise that so many people want to permanently memorialize cats on their bodies with cat tattoos — or should we say “cattoos”! Are you thinking of getting a cat tattoo? Here are some tips for getting an awesome cat

If your cat spends most of the day sleeping, don’t you think he should do it in style? Check out these innovative, decorative and practical cat beds! One of them is sure to be a great fit for your kitty — and your home. 1. Whimsical Cat Beds Cat house Totoro cave felted pet bed,

Cat kisses, grooming, tail fluffs, chirps and mews — these are a few of the sweet ways cats that cats show affection to the people they feel close to. Because some signs of cat affection are subtle, they are often misinterpreted and sometimes overlooked. So, how do cats show affection? Typically, kitties do not demonstrate

Looking for the purrrfect accessory for your kitty? Check out these whimsical, fashion-forward, playful and sometimes even practical cat accessories. Remember ­— don’t ever dress up or put accessories on your cat if she seems stressed by the clothing or accessories in question! 1. Shirts for cats Cat Clothes Pet Sun Protection Heathered Hoodie Long

We asked you to show us your favorite cat dads in honor of Father’s Day… and you answered! Whether they’re cleaning the litter box, providing playtime, or perfecting the art of cat naps, these cat dads are prime examples of fur fatherhood. Happy Father’s Day to all of the pet parents out there! “Marty and

Litter boxes can quickly become the bane of a cat parent’s existence when kitty decides to misuse them — or not use them at all. These are some of the most common litter box issues I have come across, both in my practice and with my own cats. 1. Avoidance Most of the reasons that

Over the years, I have seen many cats whose owners were worried about their noses. One of the more common concerns that leads cat owners to seek veterinary attention for their pets is a dry nose. Most people generally believe that cats’ noses should be cool and moist at all times. And, indeed, most cats

About a week into our kitten Norton’s life at our house, we noticed that he was suckling himself, using one of his own nipples. He’d go at it in a really focused way, and knead his paws at the same time, purring loudly. Having no experience with this, we took him to the vet, who

Every spring, Mother Nature reveals her regenerative power — and the remarkable fecundity of cats, in the form of millions of newborn kittens. Feral cats are the main source of this bounty. Most kittens born of feral mothers will make wonderful pets if they are properly socialized at an early age. Many of these kittens

Dogs and cats are particularly popular hosts for ticks, and because the nasty little buggers are renowned for spreading disease to people, you need the facts on the risks and what you can do to prevent your kitty from getting ticks. Let’s review some important things to know when it comes to ticks and cats:

Monthly topical treatments have been a godsend for those of us who remember trying to battle flea infestations with sprays, collars, powders and even nasty, toxic “flea dips.” But if you have a chronic health problem, chemical sensitivity, young children in your home or kittens with fleas — or even if you just want to

I’m a big advocate for spay/neuter. It’s a crucial part of the equation for reducing the number of cats killed in shelters, and having your cat spayed or neutered improves cat health, reducing the chances of injury and disease. But a lot of us encounter cat pregnancy at some point, whether through working at a clinic

Cat kisses, grooming, tail fluffs, chirps and mews — these are a few of the sweet ways cats that cats show affection to the people they feel close to. Because some signs of cat affection are subtle, they are often misinterpreted and sometimes overlooked. Typically, kitties do not demonstrate their warm feelings toward people in

When bringing home a new cat, the single most important thing you can do is properly prepare the environment to help her feel comfortable from the moment she steps out of the carrier. It’s critical to create a safe, comforting and stimulating setting, without forgetting your own desire to have a well-designed living space. Everyone

You don’t need to look far to find an adopted shelter pet. Reality stars to bona fide rock stars (and everyone in between) are adopting shelter pets — and bragging about it! Ask almost anyone what type of cat they have, and quite often the answer is “a rescue cat.” Maybe it’s the increased awareness about

There’s nothing like the thrill of knowing that you’ll soon be bringing a new cat home. Whether you’re getting your cat from a shelter or a breeder, the excitement is the same. You’re looking forward to spending lots of quality time with your feline friend and want to get her off to the right start.

Love cuddling with furry felines but curious about their naked counterparts? Prepare to have your appetite sated with this crash course on hairless cat breeds. A word of warning: by the end of this article you’re definitely going to want to add one of these cuties to your feline family! 1. Bambino A Bambino cat.