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The post Japanese Bobtail Longhair: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Click Below to Skip Ahead Characteristics Temperament Intelligence Food & Diet Exercise Health Training Grooming Fun Facts Japanese Bobtail Longhairs are a gorgeous longhaired version of the traditional Japanese Bobtail. These kitties have easy-to-maintain long, silky coats and the trademark “rabbit” tail that the breed is known for. This sweet and outgoing breed can make a fantastic companion for nearly every family. Read on to learn more about caring for the Japanese Bobtail and to learn if this kitty will be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Breed Overview Height:8–9 inches Weight:5–10 pounds Lifespan:9–15 years Colors:Tri-colors, bi-color, calico, white, black, brown, cream, etc Suitable for:Families, households with other pets, first-time cat owners Temperament:Outgoing, adaptable, friendly, intelligent, active The Japanese Bobtail Longhair is a beautiful cat breed with a distinct tail—or, rather, lack thereof—that sets it apart from most other cats. This short tail is a mutation caused by the expression of a dominant gene. The gene is fixed for this breed, so generally, all kittens born to even a single Japanese Bobtail parent will have a stubby tail, too. Japanese Bobtail Longhair Kittens Image Credit: Algorithm images, Shutterstock Despite numerous Japanese Bobtail Longhair breeders throughout North America, they remain a relatively rare breed. A Google search brings up several breeders, but potential adopters must do thorough research before choosing which breeder to use. Reputable breeders should have proof that veterinarian specialists evaluated their breeding pair before mating. They should also offer references and certifications if asked and allow potential adopters to meet the parents if required. Finally, all reputable breeders provide a guarantee and a breeder contract. Japanese Bobtail Longhair Origin & History Legend says that the Japanese Bobtail is an ancient cat breed that was initially given to Japan’s emperor over 1,000 years ago. However, its true origin story remains a mystery. The breed wasn’t seen outside of Japan until the 1960s when American breeders set their eyes on these beautiful kitties and took matters into their own hands. The short-haired variety earned Championship status from the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1976, but the longhair didn’t achieve the same status until 1993. Temperament & Intelligence of the Japanese Bobtail Longhair The Japanese Bobtail Longhair is a highly active and intelligent breed. They’re textbook extroverts and will happily spend their day “talking” to you with their expansive vocabularies of meows and chirps. These cats are very people-oriented and thrive in households with active families that prioritize playtime. Japanese Bobtails are so friendly and outgoing that they won’t have a problem greeting strangers like old friends. Because they genuinely love connection, they want to be involved in everything going on around the home. When they’re not busy playing or following their humans around the home, Japanese Bobtail Longhairs keep themselves occupied by exploring every nook and cranny. These clever kitties will find a way to climb on top of your kitchen cupboards to investigate and aren’t afraid to scale your bookshelves to get a better view of their home. Image Credit: slowmotiongli, Shutterstock Are These Cats Good for Families? The Japanese Bobtail Longhair can make an excellent companion for homes with children. They’re so easygoing that they can thrive in nearly any household, whether it’s a bustling home with five kids or a more relaxed environment. Because they’re so people-oriented and extroverted, Japanese Bobtail Longhair cats get along with pretty much anyone. They’ll happily play with your kids, but they’re also content with kicking back and relaxing for movie night. However, it may be better to wait to adopt a furry companion if your children are very young or don’t have the capacity to learn and respect boundaries just yet. As extroverted as Japanese Bobtail Longhair cats are, they still enjoy moments of independence and won’t enjoy living with someone who doesn’t respect their need for time alone. Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? Japanese Bobtail Longhairs aren’t only social toward their human family members, but they can get along swimmingly with other feline housemates, too. Their easygoing and adaptable temperament also means that these kitties can share their living space with canine family members. However, it’s essential to follow a proper introduction period when bringing a new animal into the home. Things to Know When Owning a Japanese Bobtail Longhair: Food & Diet Requirements Healthy Japanese Bobtail Longhair cats have the same food and diet requirements as any other cat breed. Cats should eat a commercially prepared diet that’s labeled as “complete and balanced” for their life stage. Growing kittens have different nutritional requirements than their adult counterparts, so make sure you’re feeding your kitty food labeled for “growth.” Once they’re 12 months old, they can slowly transition to an adult diet labeled for “maintenance.” As obligate carnivores, cats need a diet high in animal protein. A good rule of thumb is that any food you offer your kitty should have a real protein listed as the first ingredient. Exercise While cats’ exercise needs aren’t as high as their canine counterparts, they still require physical activity to be healthy and happy. Japanese Bobtail Longhair cats love to play and explore, so owners should capitalize on their kitty’s curiosity and knack for adventure. Their ideal environment includes window perches for surveying their territory outside the home, cat trees for watching over their indoor territory, and scratching posts for satisfying their innate desire to scratch. View this post on Instagram A post shared by りんとあんとてん (@yumiino) Training Because they’re so people-oriented, Japanese Bobtail Longhairs are very eager to please their owners. For this reason, they can be taught to walk on a leash and perform tricks. Just make sure you have some yummy, high-value treats on hand to reward them for a job well done. Grooming As with all cats, the Japanese Bobtail Longhair tackles much of their grooming themselves. They’re very fastidious, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require some help from you. Owners should expect to do some coat maintenance a few times per week for optimal coat health. Insight into this breed’s grooming regimen is evident right there in its name—Japanese Bobtail Longhair. These cats have long coats that require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. You’ll want to invest in a few grooming tools, such as a metal comb for detangling and a bladed brush for removing mats. Thankfully, their silky textured coat doesn’t mat or tangle too easily. Since Japanese Bobtails don’t have undercoats, they don’t shed much other than during seasonal coat changes. Nail care is another essential aspect of cat ownership that you can’t skimp out on. Though your kitty will sharpen their claws on their cat tree (or your favorite furniture if you don’t provide them with places to scratch), you may need to step in and trim their nails if they get too long. Dental hygiene is an often skipped-over part of the grooming regimen, but it can reduce your pet’s likelihood of developing dental disease, so it’s worth learning how to do it. Health and Conditions While the Japanese Bobtail Longhair is a relatively healthy cat breed, these kitties may be prone to developing many of the same health conditions that affect other breeds. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most commonly diagnosed heart disease in cats. It causes the walls in a cat’s heart to thicken, ultimately decreasing its efficiency. Like other cats, Japanese Bobtail Longhairs are likely to develop some form of dental disease. However, proper dental hygiene can largely prevent these issues. Ensuring your kitty is fed the right diet in proper portions and has plenty of opportunities for exercise and play can help prevent obesity, another extremely common (and preventable) condition in cats. Minor Conditions Dental issues Serious Conditions Obesity Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Male vs Female The most noticeable difference between male and female Japanese Bobtail Longhair cats is their size. Males tend to be a bit stockier, taller, and heavier, while females are lankier and daintier. The weight difference is generally anywhere between three and five pounds. Personality differences between genders are purely anecdotal. However, some traits can be linked to hormones. For example, neutered males may be more pleasant household companions than their intact counterparts. Unneutered males may mark their territory by spraying, but neutering reduces or eliminates spraying in around 85% of male cats. 3 Little-Known Facts About the Japanese Bobtail Longhair 1. Japanese Bobtails are said to bring good luck. Most people are familiar with maneki-neko statues. These beckoning cat figurines are believed to bring good luck to the owner and are actually modeled after a calico Japanese Bobtail. 2. Japanese Bobtails are unlike other stubby-tailed cat breeds. Manx cats also have short tails. While a genetic mutation causes both the Manx and Japanese Bobtails’ stubby tails, the latter isn’t plagued by many of the same issues the former faces due to the mutation. For example, Manx cats often develop problems like spina bifida or pelvic abnormalities, while the Japanese Bobtail isn’t believed to develop genetic health issues as a result of the mutation. 3. The hind legs of a Japanese Bobtail are longer than the forelegs. It’s not just the stubby tail that sets the Japanese Bobtail apart from other cats. Their back legs are longer than their front legs and have a distinct “Z” shape. These back legs are very muscular and help the cats jump further and higher. Image Credit: dien, Shutterstock Final Thoughts The Japanese Bobtail Longhair is a beautiful cat breed with a silky, low-shedding coat. These cats aren’t just pretty faces, though, as their personalities are extraordinary, too. This breed is known for its friendly, loyal, and affectionate temperament. These little extroverts have a genuine love for everyone in their family, whether it’s the adults, young kids, other furry housemates, or the neighbor popping by for a visit. Japanese Bobtail Longhairs are indeed unparalleled companions, but if you’re considering adding one to your family, take the time to choose the right breeder. Not all cat breeders are in the business for the right reasons, so do your research and ask lots of questions before committing to adopting. Featured Image Credit: Ekaterina Krivtsova, Shutterstock The post Japanese Bobtail Longhair: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post Why Do Cats Show You Their Butt? 6 Vet-Reviewed Reasons by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Although cats have lived with humans for millennia, they still do many things that leave us feeling puzzled or confused. One behavior that can surprise or shock new cat owners is a cat’s tendency to show their butt when they start to feel comfortable around them. While this behavior may be strange to us, it’s quite normal in cats. We can only guess why they do this based on what we already know about feline behavior. Here are six possible reasons your cat may show you their butt. The 6 Reasons Why Cats Show You Their Butt 1.  Greeting Similar to dogs, cats can show each other their butts when they’re greeting each other. They have glands near their butt that contain scent information. Cats also tend to have their tails pointing straight up to show that they’re friendly. A relaxed loose body with attentive ears is the body language of a cat giving a greeting. Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock 2. Affection While it may not be the most desirable action, cats can show their butt as a sign of affection. Cats often show affection to each other by rubbing their bodies against each other. They start with their head and end with their tail. Your cat will also rub against you if they like you. Since they start from head to tail, you’ll usually end up with their butt facing you. 3. Nonthreatening Behavior Another reason why cats will show their butts is to communicate that they’re not a threat. They’re letting you know that they mean no harm and have no intention of attacking you. In contrast, agitated or aggressive cats won’t turn their backs towards you. They’ll have a stiff posture, and their hair will be raised to make themselves look bigger. Some cats may crouch and flatten their ears. Cats can also vocalize their agitation by growling or yowling. Image Credit: savitskaya iryna, Shutterstock 4. Trust Cats are observant and watchful. They won’t turn their backs on people they’re wary of or don’t trust. Therefore, if your cat has their butt facing you while they’re lounging or sleeping, it’s a sign that they really trust you. Cats often show other signs that they trust you, but you won’t really catch them unless you understand cat behavior. Some other strange but normal ways that cats show trust are if they start to follow you around everywhere, expose their bellies, or headbutt you. 5. Wanting Attention Cats are experts at knowing how to get our attention. Most cats like a good scratch above the tail so this could be what your cat is after when they show their butt.  Alsoo, if you give a particularly strong response whenever your cat shows you their butt, they’ll learn that it’s an effective way to get your attention. Laughing, showing surprise, or even showing disgust are all ways you may be reinforcing this behavior. Therefore, if you want to see a decrease in this behavior, it’s best not to make a big deal out of it or reward with a scratch. Image Credit: Kseniya Lokon, Shutterstock 6. Females in Heat Female cats that are in heat may raise their butts to attract a mate. They can also flick their tails to signal to male cats that they’re ready to mate. Other signs that a female cat is in heat are increased loud vocalizations, rolling around the floor, and showing increased affection. Cats that are ready to mate are more susceptible to roaming. Therefore, it’s important to keep a close eye on them and ensure all doors and windows are shut securely to prevent them from leaving their home. Is It Okay if My Cat Shows Her Butt? For the most part, your cat will be engaging in normal behavior if they show you their butt. Exposing their rear end isn’t really a sign or symptom of a medical issue. However, if you’re worried the best course of action is to discuss the behavior with a vet. Since showing their butt is often a sign of affection and trust, you don’t really have to be concerned. However, if it’s becoming too much, you can do some things to train your cat to engage in this behavior less frequently. For example, it’s important to minimize your reaction so that your cat starts to learn that this behavior doesn’t garner your attention. You can also redirect them to doing something else whenever they start to expose their rear end or sit on you. Some ways you can redirect them are to walk away or distract them with a toy. Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock Conclusion When a cat shows you their butt, they’re usually letting you know that they like and trust you. They may also do this when they want to receive attention. In most cases, cats won’t show their butt so frequently that it becomes bothersome, and it’s something that cat owners get used to eventually. However, if it does become too disruptive, you can work on retraining and redirecting your cat to do something else to reduce the frequency of this behavior. Sources https://www.ovrs.com/blog/why-does-a-cat-raise-butt-when-petted/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/why-cats-sniff-butts https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/understanding-cats/cat-body-language Featured Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock The post Why Do Cats Show You Their Butt? 6 Vet-Reviewed Reasons by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post Can Cats Have PTSD? Our Vet Explains Trauma Facts & How to Help by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Click to Skip Ahead Cats & PTSD Signs To Look Out For General Causes Diagnosis Care Tips FAQ You adopted your kitty from the shelter and can’t help but wonder at some of her behaviors. Certain noises trigger her flight from the room. Certain objects cause her to hiss. Could your cat have PTSD? Can Cats Have PTSD? While we don’t commonly refer to cats as having PTSD, the truth is they certainly can have behaviors that are triggered by sights, sounds, smells, and actions. Stressful triggers could range from a storm outside to being taken to a family member’s house for pet sitting while you’re out of town. Cats that have gone through traumatic events may show fear-related behaviors or even aggressive behaviors in response to certain stimuli. Image Credit: Anna Kraynova, Shutterstock What Are the Signs of PTSD in Cats? Signs of stress or PTSD can be challenging to identify in some pets, while other cases are pretty clear-cut. It can take time to become attuned to the behaviors of our furry family members. Here are some signs you should be keeping an eye out for: Avoidance behaviors Making attempts to flee the situation Avoiding eye contact Hiding or climbing to an out-of-reach area Pacing Crouching to make the body as low and least visible as possible Easily startled Hyper-focused on what is going on around them Decreased appetite Panting Increased vocalizing Destructive behaviors Aggression, especially in response to specific triggers Eliminations outside of the litter box Image Credit: Mantikorra, Shutterstock What Are the Causes of PTSD in Cats? Our cats can’t directly tell us what’s bothering them, so it can be challenging to identify things that stress your cat out or trigger an episode of panic or aggression. Things could also have happened when you weren’t in their life, such as being abandoned by a previous owner, which can lead to PTSD in your cat. Some cats experience physical abuse at the hands of humans in their lives. These cats are much more likely to develop PTSD. Physical abuse could include: Hitting or shaking the cat. Tossing him out of a moving vehicle. Shooting the animal. If your cat sees an action or object that reminds them of that event, they may become severely stressed. Even something as seemingly innocuous as going to the vet can be a painful trigger. Loud sounds can also trigger stressful responses in our cats. Storms, fireworks, trains, and more can all be scary noise sources that send our cats fleeing. While abandonment or neglect are more likely to be identified as a PTSD-inciting event, lack of attention can also foster PTSD in your cat. These cats would lack vital interactions and socialization that help make for a happy and healthy feline. You might not think of illness as causing PTSD, but it can be a significant factor in how your cat responds to stimuli. If your cat has arthritis pain, it could associate jumping on the couch with pain and start to avoid it. Did your cats get into a fight? One or both cats might start to avoid the other. This can also be a reason why cats start to avoid using the litter box. Image Credit: Burhan Alibas, Shutterstock Diagnosing PTSD in Your Cat If you notice abnormal behaviors in your cat, contact your veterinarian for an appointment. Your vet will start by taking a thorough history and performing a comprehensive physical exam, looking your cat over from nose to tail. The vet will look for physical changes that could account for these behaviors, like a painful hip. Your veterinarian might suggest diagnostics to assess your cat more in-depth. Blood work can look for metabolic changes, while a urinalysis might reveal a urinary tract infection. Radiographs (X-rays) are helpful to check for bladder stones or areas of arthritis. Some veterinarians, particularly behaviorists, may need to visit your home to watch how your cat reacts to different scenarios. Videos of your cat’s movements, interactions with other pets and family members, and where they hide can all provide vital information to your veterinary team. How Do I Care for a Cat With PTSD? The first step in caring for a cat with PTSD or anxiety is identifying that there is an issue. The extent of the anxiety will help determine what steps you need to take to help your cat. 1. Environmental Changes If something in the environment triggers your cat, can you remove it? Sometimes, rearranging the furniture and adding a cat tree can make a significant difference. A TV set or white noise machine may provide soothing background noise to help keep loud sounds from causing panic. If you have multiple cats or other animals, ensure everyone has a safe space to go. You should have at least one litter box for each cat plus an additional one, and they should be placed in different areas around the house. Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock 2. Behavioral Modification Counterconditioning your cat can be difficult, but it is a great way to help it develop more positive associations with certain stimuli. Working with an animal behaviorist is often the best way to utilize behavioral modification practices because what works for one pet may not work for another. 3. Medication Veterinarians use several medications to reduce anxiety. These medications are most effective when combined with behavioral modification. Commonly used prescription medications include: Fluoxetine (Prozac) Amitriptyline (Elavil) Gabapentin Some supplements, such as the Purina Calming Care Probiotic, are helpful. Pheromone products like Feliway are not traditional medications but can help reduce your cat’s stress and anxiety. Combine pheromones with a product like Cat Attract litter to encourage your cat to use the litter box. 4. Enrichment Enrichment activities are vital to your cat’s well-being. They often provide mental and physical interactions and can also build the human-animal bond between you and your cat. Puzzle toys and even building obstacles for your cat to investigate are both great ways to enrich your cat’s environment. Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions Do cats get traumatized after a cat fight? Cats can certainly be traumatized after a cat fight, especially if an aggressor constantly bullies one of your cats. The affected cat might become more withdrawn, fearful, and jumpy. They might eat less or start urinating outside of the litter box. Do cats remember traumatic events? Cats can remember the good and the bad that happen to them. Even if they happen once, adverse events can leave a lasting impression and affect your cat’s behavior for years if you don’t intervene. Conclusion Cats can have PTSD, but we don’t often call it that or describe it as such. Anxiety-inducing events should be addressed through positive methods like counterconditioning when possible. Your veterinarian might also suggest medication as a means of helping your cat. Sources https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/building-pets-confidence-traumatic-event Featured Image Credit: Rawpixel.com, Shutterstock The post Can Cats Have PTSD? Our Vet Explains Trauma Facts & How to Help by Dr. Samantha Devine DVM (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post Scottish Straight Longhair: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Click Below to Skip Ahead Characteristics Temperament Intelligence Food & Diet Exercise Health Training Grooming Fun Facts It seems canines get all the attention when it comes to the various breeds. No one really talks that much about the different cat breeds. Sure, you might know what a Sphynx is, or have a pretty good idea about a Maine Coon due to its size and voluminous fur. But do you know what a Scottish Straight Longhair is? If you are familiar at all with the Scottish Fold, you’re not too far off from that. In fact, Scottish Folds and Scottish Longhairs can be born in the same litter! In this article, we aim to explain exactly what a Scottish Straight Longhair is all about. Breed Overview Height:7–10 inches Weight:6–13 pounds Lifespan:11–15 years Colors:White, blue, silver, red, silver, chocolate, lilac, fawn Suitable for:Virtually any cat-loving home Temperament:Playful, affectionate, interactive The Scottish Straight Longhair is exactly what it sounds like. It is a cat that is originally from Scotland that has straight ears and long hair. The Scottish Fold, on the other hand, could very well be a sibling of this cat, but instead their ears are folded over. When it comes to personality, these cats are very similar, but it’s their looks that are different. Scottish Straight Longhair Kittens Image Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock When you have one of these adorable kittens, they will be full of energy and ready to play! But don’t think it’s going to be overwhelming. These cats tend to have a very good balance between play and downtime. If you have a Scottish Straight Longhair, you’re going to have a very playful interactive kitten on your hands. These cats are very inquisitive, so even at a young age, they will be hyper aware of their surroundings. These cats will adore being on your lap, up in your business, and on the windowsill, checking out anything and everything around them. This curiosity doesn’t dwindle much as they age. These cats grow up with a very carefree, kitten-like essence, even as adults. They are no doubt purebred cats, so their price definitely reflects that. It’s very important to search for a reputable breeder that can provide health guarantees and answer all your questions, since these cats are related to Scottish Folds that are prone to health problems. You might get lucky and find a Scottish Straight Longhair cat at a rescue or shelter. If that’s the case, you might pay a much lower price and give a cat a second chance at a forever home. Scottish Short Longhair Origin & History The Scottish Straight Longhair is just one of the extensions of the Scottish fold. These cats can be traced back to one singular cat—a white, long-haired barn cat named Susie who had folded-over ears. Susie was discovered in Scotland in 1961. Breeders worked hard to develop the Scottish Fold breed to create more cats with folded ears. However, the only way to guarantee folded ears is to breed two cats that both have folded ears. This comes with health concerns and severe genetic disorders in the kittens, and is considered unethical. So, the only way to get Scottish Folds is through breeding a cat with folded ears with a cat with normal ears. This results in some cats in the litter having folded ears (Scottish Folds), and some having regular ears (Scottish Straights). Scottish Straight Longhairs are just Scottish Straights with long hair. Temperament & Intelligence of the Scottish Straight Longhair This particular breed is known for their award-winning personalities. These cats tend to be agreeable with just about anyone or anything. Their temperament serves them well, as it makes them amazing house cats that can acclimate to just about any lifestyle. If you have a cat-loving household, you will be impressed with the breed’s agreeable nature, willingness to learn, and affectionate qualities. Even though they tend to have a pretty relaxed nature, don’t let them fool you! These cats are incredibly intelligent and capable of learning a variety of training concepts. Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock Are These Cats Good for Families? This particular breed makes an amazing addition to many families. They tend to get along very well with children and seniors. These cats make great additions to smaller living spaces like high rises or apartments, and equally make great additions to larger family homes. If you want a loving house cat that will pal around with the entire family, this is definitely the right breed for you! These cats will form a bond with every member of the household and even warm up to strangers and other pets! These cats will make lovely playmates, emotional support buddies, and free forms of entertainment. They will amuse you daily with their antics and fill your lap full of fluff. Because of the nature of the cat, they are best left indoors. So if you plan on having an indoor-outdoor cat, this might not be the right breed to have. We highly recommend getting them spayed or neutered and letting them sleep on all of your favorite fabrics. Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? This particular breed will get along exceptionally well with other pets. They make wonderful additions to an existing feline pride, or they will make exceptional brothers and sisters to a newcomer on the opposite end. You’ll have far more luck with these kitties than some other, more independent breeds. They can integrate well into any situation, but the earlier you get them acclimated, the better! Things to Know When Owning a Scottish Straight Longhair: Food & Diet Requirements Your kitty will require a high-quality, protein-dense recipe to help them sustain. As kittens, you should purchase a very high-quality kitten formula to nourish their growing bodies. They will need the proper building blocks to ensure success in their adult years. Once they reach roughly a year of age, you can switch them to a high-quality dry kibble that will nourish their adult bodies, helping them maintain their health. You might have to switch the recipe a few times in their lifetime to accommodate for any sensitivities or preferences, or as your cat ages. The type of cat food you select will depend on your preferences and budget. Some families choose dry kibble, others turn to wet canned food, some people opt for fresh food subscriptions, and others make their own recipes from the comfort of their kitchen. Always speak with your veterinarian before you make any final decisions on diet. Exercise The wonderful thing about kitties, for both themselves and for their owners, is that they are extremely low maintenance when it comes to exercise. On average, a house cat will need roughly two 15-minute intervals of exercise to stay perfectly healthy. These cats don’t have an exceptionally high prey drive or desire for physical activity. For this reason, they tend to be pretty easy to exercise. You can get a series of toys to see which ones your cat likes the best. It won’t be any secret. You will soon find out exactly what they love to play with you. Image Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock Training When it comes to simple concepts, such as training your cat to go to the litter box, these kitties will impress you with their natural capabilities. You should really only have to show them the litter box once before they have it down pat. However, when it comes to advanced training, the sky’s the limit. These cats are capable of learning a variety of concepts, but they need a patient enough person who is willing to teach them. You can easily train your young cat to walk with a leash and harness so you can take them on daily walks or go on traveling adventures! Grooming Because of the Scottish Straight Longhair’s coat length, grooming is going to be essential. Don’t get us wrong. This cat can most certainly take care of itself, as they are master groomers, like most other breeds. However, they will definitely get mats and tangles if their hair isn’t appropriately brushed. This is especially true along their underside, as this is where they lay, flop around, and get tangled up. While baths are generally unnecessary on a regular basis for cats, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have one. You could bathe your cat up to once every 6 weeks, if they needed it. Scottish Folds are notorious for getting ear infections due to the shape of their ear canals. The Scottish Straight Longhair doesn’t have the same genetic complication. Still, it is important to make sure their ears are dry and free of any moisture, as it could still contribute to infection. Health and Conditions The Scottish Fold has a very bad reputation. Because of poor breeding practices, many kittens and litters have been highly unhealthy and lacking in the lifespan department. However, thanks to responsible breeders, these cats have really recovered over a course of time and Scottish Straights don’t have the same complications. Still, things like appropriate vetting are crucial to your cat’s overall health. It is imperative to take your cat to the vet quite frequently when they are kittens, and annually thereafter. If any health issues develop in the meantime, always get your cat to the vet to ensure that they are taken care of. Your vet can get ahead of any developing health issues and develop the treatment plan as needed. If you bought your Scottish Straight from a licensed breeder, the parents have already likely been genetically tested. However, that doesn’t mean some environmental factors wouldn’t flare up an unknown illness. If you think that your cat has changed in temperament, always mention notable differences to your vet. Minor Conditions Obesity Serious Conditions Osteochondrodysplasia Polycystic kidney disease Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Arthritis Male vs Female It seems that across the board, canines and felines are a little bit different in terms of sex. Most female cats, for example, are terrific hunters. That means that they will make an incredible mouser if you need to get rid of a couple rodents around the property. They also tend to be a little bit more independent than their male counterparts. Males, on the other hand, tend to be more relaxed and lackadaisical, especially after they are neutered. That is not to say that any Scottish Straight Longhair will fit into this box. You might have a female that’s overly lovable while you have a male that’s very aloof and prefers to go alone. It’s very hard to pinpoint actual personality traits based on sex alone. However, when it comes to other factors relating to sex, there are things to consider. For example, every female will go into heat cycles, but they do not bleed like canines. When they go into heat, their behavior might change tremendously, causing them to become overly lovable, excessively vocal, and even erratic sometimes. Males that reach sexual maturity, often start to become slightly more aloof and might even try to escape every time you open your door to seek a mate. Both males and females can spray, but they do so for different reasons. A male might mark his territory to ward off other males who are potentially encroaching on his space. They also use their urine to let females know they are around. Females will spray to attract a mate to her, using all of the pheromones she possesses. Either way, this behavior can quickly become problematic. Most vets recommend that you fix your cat as soon as possible, generally before sexual maturity at 4 months of age. 3 Little-Known Facts About the Scottish Straight Longhair 1. These cats are under the Scottish Fold umbrella. Essentially, the Scottish Fold and the Scottish Straight Longhair are the same exact breed. The only difference is the coat length and shape of the ears. However, their overall care and personality qualities remain the same. 2. The Scottish Straight Longhair sits like a person. If you’ve ever seen pictures of a Scottish Fold, you will take note of how they sit sometimes. The Scottish Straight is known to sit the same way. Often, the back legs are far apart and out while the two front paws are held up like hands. These cats are very notorious for sitting like humans. We love them! 3. Many rumors lie around the Scottish Straight Longhair’s health. As we mentioned earlier in the article, these cats get a very bad rap in terms of health. If you have read at all about their potential health complications, it might deter you from choosing this particular breed. However, if you buy from a reputable breeder, the parents will be genetically tested to avoid any of the potential concerns that come along with them. Image Credit: Katrin Baidimirova, Shutterstock Final Thoughts Now you understand more about the Scottish Straight Longhair. These cats are Scottish Folds, but their ears remain straight instead of being folded over like the traditional look of the breed. These cats can be born into litters with Scottish Folds, and almost always are. However, they are still from the same lineage and are considered purebred cats. Featured Image Credit: Oleksandr Volchanskyi, Shutterstock The post Scottish Straight Longhair: Pictures, Care, Traits & Info by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post 12 Healing Crystals for Cats: A Holistic Guide by Ashley Bates appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Are you someone who believes in the healing power of crystals? Maybe you have a pocket full of charged gems or you place them around your house for Feng Shui. Regardless of your relationship with these metaphysical rocks, you might not have considered using them for your beloved pets—until now. If you love holistic healing, let us explain how certain well-known crystals can provide physical benefits to your cat. The 12 Healing Crystals for Cats 1. Amethyst Image Credit: Photography by Mali K, Shutterstock Properties: Promotes peace and calmness, relieves digestive issues, regulates hormones, improves immunity, boosts endocrine function The beautiful amethyst is traditionally a purple crystal that represents the month of February. But that isn’t all it’s for! It has many properties that make it so fabulous for energy work. If you have a particularly stressed cat on your hands, it can soothe their temperament. Also, it can improve blood circulation, creating better health overall for your furry pal. It can also help to soothe digestive troubles and even out hormonal issues. If it seems like you’re trying to treat your cat’s unwavering anxiety with amethyst and it just seems to make it worse, you may want to discontinue use. In some, it can actually heighten the effects of anxiety, which is certainly not the aim. 2. Aventurine Image Credit: manfredxy, Shutterstock Properties: Improves circulation, restores nervous system, anti-inflammatory, aids in healthy metabolism, boosts energy Aventurine is a quartz-based stone that is terrific spiritually, physically, and emotionally. It can aid humans in many different fashions, but it can also be an amazing choice for feline healing, too. This particular stone is notorious for improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and reducing skin issues. It can be an excellent option for kitties who have allergies—environmental or food-related. Aventurine is multi-faceted, touting different color hues. It is often referred to as the stone of opportunity. It can help your cat in many different aspects of life, but it primarily manages energy levels and nervous system malfunctions. 3. Black Tourmaline Image Credit: Yut chanthaburi, Shutterstock Properties: Aids in detoxification, improves circulation, provides pain relief, promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety Black tourmaline is a lovely stone that is almost lined or ridged, giving it definition and character. While a beautiful piece to have on display in your home it can also be an amazing tool to use for cats who need a little help in certain departments. Black tourmaline can help detoxify the body, improve circulation, or even provide slight pain relief in certain instances. These stone characteristics can help cats who are trying to recover from injury or illness. Plus, like many black stones, this crystal aids in protection. So, if you think your kitty could use an extra layer of warmth around them, a black tourmaline crystal could provide some spiritual conservation. 4. Carnelian Image Credit: Stojan Tasevski, Shutterstock Properties: Wards off insanity, enhances energy levels, improves circulation, stimulates a healthy metabolism So, you have a tubby kitty on your hands that could use a little motivation to burn some extra calories? Carnelian may be just the stone you need to get your kitty under control. It is known for enhancing energy levels, charging up your kitty for playtime. Carnelian would work wonders for seniors or lazier cats. This crystal can help enhance playfulness and adventurousness so your cat can live life in the fast lane. Of course, this crystal isn’t for zippy cats who can’t get enough action. Carnelian can also improve circulation and promote healthy metabolism. 5. Fluorite Image Credit: Berke, Shutterstock Properties: Boosts cellular healing, rejuvenates the body, improves skeletal system, aids in lung function There are many types of fluorite, but all are equally beneficially in their own right. No matter which type of fluorite catches your eye, all can be of use to cats who could use a little extra healing power. Fluorite is a major dispeller of bad juju. So, if your cat has recently undergone trauma, injury, or some other major event, it can help relieve stress and promote a positive balance. This stone is all about tranquility, calm, loving resilience. On top of these benefits, fluorite is also a master at accelerating healing physically, too. It is said to stimulate the third eye, both with people and pets! Will you have an enlightened kitty on your hands? Who could know for sure until you try it out. 6. Jasper Image Credit: ElyaPhoto, Shutterstock Properties: Relieves anxiety, rids inflammation, improves circulation and digestion, promotes strength and courage There are many kinds of jasper—each having something special to bring to the table. You can choose from red, fancy, or brecciated, to name a few. Each one has a slightly different meaning and a unique appearance. Jasper is a very protective stone, no matter the color or pattern. It can aid in relieving anxiety and getting rid of inflammation. Jasper is also known to be a very good grounding stone, bringing your cat back into reality. If you have had a Kitty come to you from a turbulent or homeless situation, jasper can be a great foundation stone! 7. Lepidolite Image Credit: Collective Arcana, Shutterstock Properties: Harmonizes mind, body, and soul, eases stress, alleviates tension in the body Lepidolite is a miracle stone with the patience of Job. It is often referred to as the grandmother stone because it facilitates the utmost grace and patience, giving it a grandmother-like vibe. This particular stone resonates with multiple chakras: the heart, crown, and third eye. So, it can help with these areas of health, even for our cats. These stones really help to put focus on relaxation and steady temperament. If your cat is known for having a very tense or rigid structure, this can be helpful, too. It will promote a sense of calm to your cat, allowing them to stop and smell the roses, so to speak. 8. Moonstone Image Credit: ElyaPhoto, Shutterstock Properties: Balances hormones, eliminates blood toxins, strengthens the lymphatic system, boosts immunity Moonstones are beautiful crystals that have a variety of intense properties. These stones can not only help people balance themselves in nearly every way, but they can do the same for your feline friends. The moonstone can be terrific for cats who have issues with hormones, lymphatic sluggishness, and decreased immunity. It will aid in mending the issues to create a better experience for your healing kitty. Moonstone also promotes healthy sleep patterns and reproductive health. So if you just so happen to be a cat breeder, your females might really benefit from the power of this particular crystal. 9. Rose Quartz Image Credit: Holly Mazour, Shutterstock Properties: Improves circulation, improves skin health, levels out moods Ah, rose quartz—the crystal that’s all about love and loving others. So, what can this pink form of quartz do for your cat? So much! This stone is really a mood booster, replacing any negative thoughts with happy ones. Also, this crystal can improve overall circulation, aid in skin health improvement, and totally level a frisky feline. It is a very chill stone, meaning it only promotes positivity—so you can’t go wrong when using it with your kitty. Rose quartz really tackles emotional issues. It might be perfect for a cat that feels threatened easily, has a superiority complex, or even lives life in constant fear. It can also reduce bodily tension if you have a particularly uptight pal on your hands. 10.Selenite Image Credit: pamela ranya, Shutterstock Properties: Reduces stress, promotes calmness, relieves pain, detoxifies the body If your cat needs a little moonlit power to save the day, let us recommend selenite for its powerful capabilities. This cleansing stone is highly powerful, protective, and cleansing for the body. For your cat, it can promote a sense of calmness to shield them from chaotic feelings. This can be a great stone for juvenile cats to provide a leveling effect. It also helps anxious cats curb their feelings of restlessness. On top of its emotional perks, it also helps to detoxify the body and cleanse surrounding negativity. So, if your living space is mucking up your cat’s energy, this stone can be a great clearing tool. 11.Smoky Quartz Image Credit: olpo, Shutterstock Properties: Relieves pain, reduces muscle tension, improves digestion, restores energy, protects from radiation Smoky quartz is a powerful crystal that has tons of beneficial qualities. It is very useful to people, but it can equally benefit cats if they need the extra boost. This stone isn’t just lovely, it’s healing. If your cat is depressed after just losing a friend or having trouble adjusting to a new home life, smoky quartz can help! This stone helps to overcome fear, anxiety, and depression—but that isn’t all! This stone also helps calm tense muscles, aid in digestion, and boost energy. The effects of smoky quartz might also help protect your cat from radiation, which can be useful if you have tons of Wi-Fi gadgets in the home. 12.Turquoise Image Credit: fullempty, Shutterstock Properties: Eases inflammation, assists depression and anxiety, supports a healthy immune system Turquoise is more than just a fabulous color—it’s an undeniably beautiful stone. This crystal is as powerful as it is unique, terrific for medicinal and spiritual healing. It is a stone of strength, making your kitty even more fierce than they were before. This stone also helps reduce inflammation. If your cat experiences some sort of infection or injury, turquoise can speed up the recovery process. It is also splendid for the immune system, giving it just the boost it needs. This is a stone of positivity and inner peace. So if your frisky feline could use a chill pill, turquoise can be a great stone to work with. Conclusion Now you understand a little bit more about the properties of these beautiful stones. They can be beautiful decorations, add functionality to your home, and also be beneficial to the health of all living things! Just be sure to do your research and choose the correct crystal that will give you the desired result. Sources https://www.aryaacupuncture.com/blog-veterinarian-care/a-holistic-guide-to-crystal-healing-for-dogs-and-cats Featured Image Credit: ju_see, Shutterstock The post 12 Healing Crystals for Cats: A Holistic Guide by Ashley Bates appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

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