Click to Skip Ahead Overview Size and Weight Chart When Do They Stop Growing? Factors Affecting Size Ideal Diet Measuring Tips The Snowshoe is definitely unique! With most cat breeds‚ you can expect a certain personality‚ but the Snowshoe can vary in temperament quite drastically. If you’ve been considering adding one of these beautiful cats to your family or if you already have‚ you should also know that part of keeping them in good health is keeping track of their weight. Preventing your cat from eating too much or too little is essential for them to maintain a healthy weight. So‚ let’s go through the average weights that you can expect your Snowshoe to be from kitten to adulthood. This should help guide you in maintaining their health over the course of their lifetime. Snowshoe Cat Overview The Snowshoe is not an old breed‚ with their developmental beginnings being in the early 1960s. In fact‚ they were technically an accident. A Siamese cat breeder by the name of Dorothy Hinds Daugherty noticed that three kittens in one of her Siamese cat’s litters all had white feet. She purposefully bred these cats to have kittens with white feet and pointed colors. Eventually‚ we ended up with the Snowshoe cat. These medium-sized cats are born with completely white fur that gradually darkens into point coloring‚ which is most commonly blue or seal point. What sets them apart from similar breeds are those white socks‚ and most Snowshoes also tend to have an upside-down white “V” between their blue eyes. The Snowshoe can be sweet or bossy and can be vocal or quiet. But all are friendly‚ playful‚ intelligent‚ and loyal. Image Credit: Anna Krivitskaya‚ Shutterstock Snowshoe Cat Size and Weight Chart Snowshoe cats are typically medium in size with a long frame. The males are larger than the females. An average healthy male can weigh 10 to 14 pounds and measure 8 to 13 inches‚ and females can weigh about 8 to 12 pounds and measure 7 to 11 inches. It can take the Snowshoe up to 3 years to reach their full adult size. The following chart contains the weights of male and female Snowshoe cats‚ starting at 3 months and ending at 3 years. Bear in mind that these weight ranges are averages and don’t necessarily reflect all Snowshoe cats. Age Male Weight Range Female Weight Range 3 Months 4-5 lbs./1.8–2.26 kg 3–4 lbs./1.36–1.8 kgs 6 Months 5–6 lbs./2.26–2.7 kgs 4–5 lbs./1.8–2.26 kgs 9 months 6–7 lbs./2.7–3.17 kgs 5–6 lbs./2.2–2.7 kgs 1 Year  8–9 lbs./3.6–4.08 kgs 6–8 lbs./2.7–3.6 kgs 3 Years 10–14 lbs./4.5–6.35 kgs 8–12 lbs./3.6–5.44 kgs When Does a Snowshoe Cat Stop Growing? Most other cat breeds tend to reach their full adult size when they are 12 to 18 months of age. But the Snowshoe can take 2 to 3 years to reach their full maturity. The fastest growth in all cat breeds occurs within the first year of life‚ though‚ so you’ll want to monitor their weight at this time to ensure that they maintain a healthy weight. Image Credit: EVasilieva‚ Shutterstock Factors Affecting the Size of a Snowshoe Cat Female Snowshoe cats are notably smaller than males‚ which average 10 to 14 pounds. Females average 8 to 12 pounds. Nutrition is another factor that will impact a cat’s size‚ and early nutrition for kittens is paramount. The rapid growth in the first year requires a healthy diet; poor nutrition can cause stunted growth. Furthermore‚ kittens will take after their parents when it comes to size‚ and if there’s an inherited health condition or other issue‚ this can also affect the cat’s size. Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight It should be noted that the Snowshoe is prone to obesity‚ so you must go easy on treats and ensure that they are eating high-quality and nutritionally balanced cat food. The food that you choose should be formulated for your cat’s current age and size and whether they are an indoor or outdoor cat. Your vet is an excellent person to discuss and recommend the right food for your cat. Image Credit: Yuliya Alekseeva‚ Shutterstock How to Measure Your Snowshoe Cat Measuring and weighing your Snowshoe might prove tricky because cats are not that cooperative in these situations. But here are a few tips. To measure your cat’s length‚ begin at the tip of the nose‚ and measure to the base of the tail. The tail itself isn’t included in this measurement. To measure your cat’s height‚ start at the top of the shoulder‚ and measure down to the feet. You can also have your cat weighed at the veterinarian’s clinic. You can try using a scale at home‚ but your cat won’t likely cooperate‚ unless you can have your cat sit still long enough to get an accurate reading. Another option is to weigh yourself and then weigh yourself again while holding your cat‚ and just subtract the difference. This is not a completely accurate reading‚ but it should still give you an idea of your cat’s weight. Conclusion Snowshoe cats are medium-sized cats that can weigh up to 14 pounds and don’t reach their full adult size until they are 2 to 3 years of age. From the time that they are kittens until they reach their full adult size‚ they will grow and gain weight steadily‚ but keep an eye out for signs that your cat might be under or overweight. Feeling your cat’s ribs is a good test for a healthy weight. You should be able to feel their ribs‚ but they should have a covering of a slight layer of fat. If your cat’s ribs are quite pronounced‚ your cat needs to gain weight‚ or if you can’t feel the ribs at all‚ they are overweight. Speak to your vet to help you sort out your cat’s weight if necessary. Featured Image Credit: Yuliya Alekseeva‚ Shutterstock The post How Big Will My Snowshoe Cat Get? Vet-Verified Average Size &; Weight appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead Why Do They Masturbate? Neutered Males When to Be Concerned? FAQ It’s a topic that might have many owners blushing or feeling uncomfortable thinking about‚ but yes‚ cats do masturbate. Generally‚ it’s associated with male cats that either haven’t been neutered‚ or were neutered a bit later in life‚ and they will pleasure themselves for the same reason humans do—because they like the feeling. However‚ occasionally masturbation is a sign of hyper-sexuality‚ which can result from stress or even a health problem. So‚ it’s crucial to take your cat to the vet if they masturbate frequently. Why Do Cats Masturbate? Sometimes‚ cats masturbate because they did it once and enjoyed it‚ so they’ll repeat the behavior. Other times‚ they masturbate because they’re stressed or bored. Most of the time‚ it’ll be evident if your cat is masturbating. Other times‚ the signs might be subtler. The signs below indicate your cat is masturbating or is thinking about doing so: Drooling Dopey or dreamy look in their eyes Excessive licking of the genitals Excessive kneading Humping Overgrooming Purring Rubbing genitals on objects‚ such as blankets or bedding Generally‚ masturbation is associated with hormone-driven behavior‚ so it’s considered less of a problem with neutered males. Testosterone will drive most of your cat’s sexual behaviors‚ like masturbating‚ humping‚ spraying‚ and seeking out females. When a cat is neutered‚ testosterone production ceases‚ so within about 6 weeks‚ owners will notice these hormone-driven behaviors tend to disappear. Image Credit: Faroe‚ Shutterstock Why Neutered Males Might Still Masturbate Males that have been neutered might still exhibit sexually driven behaviors. They might still masturbate or roam for females‚ for example. If your cat was slightly older when they were neutered‚ it has become a learned behavior that neutering won’t take away. On the other hand‚ it could also mean something is wrong‚ such as your cat suffering from stress or feeling unwell. When Should You Be Concerned? Cats often hide their pain when something is wrong‚ so it will be up to you to determine if your cat’s behavior is a cause for concern. Occasional masturbation isn’t usually a problem‚ but sexual behavior can become compulsive in cats. Hyper-sexual behavior is when a cat displays obsessive or excessive sexual behaviors regularly. If that describes your cat‚ take them to the vet for a full examination. Image Credit: iwciagr‚ Shutterstock Stress Cats are much more sensitive than we sometimes give them credit for. They have a reputation for being aloof and cold‚ but that isn’t true at all. They can react to environmental changes‚ like a new pet‚ noisy guests‚ moving home‚ or a new baby. When a cat feels anxious and stressed‚ they’ll find ways to relieve it. This could result in masturbating multiple times a day. They might also show signs such as: Eating or drinking less Excessive meowing Crouching and looking tense Hesitating to use the litter box‚ sit with you‚ or use the cat flap Hissing or growling Less tolerant of people Licking their nose or exaggerated swallowing More withdrawn or hiding more often Overeating Scratching furniture Overgrooming If you suspect your cat is feeling stressed‚ it’s important to identify the source of that stress. If they are feeling upset about a change in your work schedule or a new addition to the family‚ you could make an effort to spend quality time together as they might miss you‚ or set up a room for them to escape to‚ away from the new baby or pet. The use of pheromone diffusers or calming sprays are a great way to help transition your cat through a stressful time‚ or provide long term relief to a sensitive feline. It’s essential to contact your veterinarian if you notice changes in your cat’s behavior‚ and this can apply to masturbation. If your neutered male cat suddenly starts masturbating frequently‚ when they never or rarely have before‚ it is worth getting them checked over by your vet.  Any change should be investigated as it might be a sign of something more sinister‚ and it’s always better to get it checked out. Health Problems Cats might lick to pleasure themselves‚ but they will also do it if there are problems with the reproductive or urinary tracts or if they’re in pain. If you notice any of the following signs‚ contact your vet: Discharge from genitals Discolorations of the skin (rust or black colored) Increased urination Foul odor in urine Pimples or red bumps on the skin Scooting or rubbing the rectal area on the ground Straining to urinate Swollen or red anus‚ vulva‚ or penis Hyper-sexuality might also indicate epilepsy or brain tumors. There hasn’t been a lot of research on hyper-sexuality and everything it could indicate‚ but it’s essential to speak to your vet if you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior. Image Credit: Denys Kurbatov‚ Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions Do Female Cats Masturbate? Just like with male cats‚ female cats have been known to exhibit dominant behavior by humping‚ and they have also been known to masturbate‚ especially if unspayed. These heat behaviors are sometimes associated with being in estrus for the first time‚ which generally happens when they reach puberty or sexual maturity. Additionally‚ some cats feel sexually aroused by catnip‚ so you might see these sorts of behaviors in cats enjoying its effects. What Should You Do to Stop Your Cat Masturbating? If your cat has been given a clean bill of health‚ your vet might recommend neutering if it hasn’t been done already. Otherwise‚ it is better for us to adjust to this behavior than to cause stress to your cat by trying to stop it. Our pets don’t feel embarrassed the way that we do‚ so‚ sometimes you might just need to make peace with the fact that your cat enjoys pleasuring themselves occasionally. Final Thoughts Cats do masturbate. Although it is generally associated with males‚ females have also been known to pleasure themselves. In most cases‚ the behavior is nothing to worry about‚ and even cats that have been neutered and spayed might still exhibit sexual behaviors because they have become a habit. If this development is new‚ and happens more than just occasionally‚ it’s important to contact your vet as it might be a sign of a health problem. Your cat might also be exhibiting obsessive behavior because they’re anxious or stressed‚ so you’ll have to locate the source‚ comfort your cat‚ and offer them a solution to help soothe their stress. If your cat is fit and healthy‚ you may just have to accept that they will‚ from time to time‚ enjoy a bit of self pleasure‚ and that’s nothing to be ashamed of! Sources https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cat-behavior-and-training-cat-neutering-and-behavior https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/health/cat-stress https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/why-do-cats-lick-their-privates-in-public https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/estrus-cycles-in-cats Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi‚ Shutterstock The post Do Cats Masturbate? Vet-Verified Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

Every state has its favorite dog breeds. Since each state comes with unique living conditions and subcultures‚ it makes sense why the residents favor certain breeds over others. This post highlights 10 dog breeds most commonly seen in Kansas‚ so if you live in the area‚ this might be some fun and useful information! The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Kansas 1. Labrador Retrievers Image Credit: Angel Luciano‚ Unsplash Labrador Retrievers are beloved nationwide‚ not just in the Sunflower State. This breed held the reigning title for most popular dog breed in the US for 31 years. That is until the French Bulldog took the crown. Still‚ Kansans keep this loving family breed as number one in the state and in their hearts. 2. German Shepherds Image Credit: Osetrik‚ Shutterstock Take a stroll down any Kansas road and you’re likely to run into a German Shepherd. In Kansas‚ some people have more than one German Shepherd per household‚ and for good reason. They make excellent guard dogs and are loving and loyal to their families. Although cautious around strangers‚ German Shepherds are your best friend when they get to know you. 3. Bulldogs Image Credit: MVolodymyr‚ Shutterstock Kansans love bully breeds’ stout shapes and squished noses. It’s not just Kansas‚ either. America has made the Bulldog the number six most-owned breed in the country. They may be droopy and drooly‚ but they love everyone. 4. Terriers Image Credit: Francesca Leslie‚ Shutterstock All terrier breeds can be found in Kansas‚ but the most notable is Dorothy’s dog from The Wizard of Oz‚ the Cairn Terrier. Terriers are notably stubborn dogs but have good problem-solving skills and a cheerful attitude. They make great family pets and require little to no brushing‚ depending on the terrier breed. No matter what terrier you see‚ they’re all welcomed in the Breadbasket state. 5. Golden Retrievers Image Credit: Hollysdogs‚ Shutterstock Not far behind the Labrador is the Golden Retrievers. Goldens are the poster dog for family pets. They’re intelligent‚ loving‚ and very devoted to their families. Need an eager-to-please dog who loves everyone? Goldens have you covered. Kansas is very much a family-centered state‚ making Golden Retrievers one of the ideal dog breeds. 6. Weimaraners Image Credit: Tosha174‚ Shutterstock Weimaraners are friendly hunting dogs with a sleek appearance and eager-to-please attitude. They love exercise (especially out in the field hunting) but love their families even more. Weimaraners aren’t as commonly owned in Kansas as other breeds on this list. Surprisingly‚ they were one of the most Googled dog breeds for Kansas in 2023. Maybe Kansas will see a spike in Weimaraners adoptions in 2024. 7. Chihuahuas Image Credit: Jairo Alzate‚ Unsplash At the Forefront of several Wichita homes are feisty Chihuahuas barking at the door. Wichita‚ the largest city in Kansas‚ named the Chihuahua the most adopted dog breed. Even shelters adopt out more Chihuahuas than most breeds. 8. Goldendoodles Image Credit: Jennifer McCallum‚ Shutterstock Kansas is known for a lot of things. Sunflowers‚ bread‚ farming—oh‚ and allergies. It’s no surprise that Kansas residents want a hypoallergenic dog. A mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle‚ Doodles are fun-loving dogs with adorable faces and personalities. Their quirkiness comes from both breeds‚ but their “hypoallergenic” fur comes from the Poodle. However‚ keep in mind that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. 9. Corgis Image Credit: Alvan Nee‚ Unsplash Adding to the pot of shepherding breeds is the Corgi‚ a gentle-natured and goofy family dog. Corgis are small athletic dogs who are affectionate without being clingy. As one of the world’s most popular herding breeds‚ they’ve won over Kansas with their little legs but big dog personalities. Corgis are high-energy dogs with an eagerness to please and do very well in the city or in the Kansas country. 10. Doberman Pinschers Image Credit: Michsa‚ Shutterstock Doberman Pinschers are confident guardians seen all over Kansas. Although born with naturally floppy ears‚ Doberman Pinschers are often seen with cropped ears and tails. Dobermans are high-energy working dogs who excel in sports and training. They can be a bit stubborn‚ but with proper training‚ they make great family dogs. What Is the State Dog of Kansas? What famous movie can you think of that mentions Kansas and a dog? Yup. It’s The Wizard of Oz. The movie made such an impact on the state that the Cairn Terrier was named the state dog thanks to the adorable Toto. What Is the Most Common Dog Name in Kansas? As of 2023‚ the most common female dog name in Kansas is Bella. The most common male dog name is Max. The name Charlie ties with Max but is considered a unisex name. Conclusion There you have it—10 popular dog breeds in Kansas. Is this a comprehensive list? Of course not. Everyone has preferences when it comes to dog breeds. But these dog breeds will grace you with their presence far more than other breeds. Sources https://www.rd.com/list/most-popular-dog-breeds-in-every-state/ https://www.newsweek.com/favorite-dog-breed-every-american-state-1741604 https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/most-popular-dog-breeds-2022/ https://www.casinos.com/news/us-favorite-dog-breeds https://www.marthastewart.com/8041177/popular-dog-breeds-by-state-us https://www.kansas.com/living/pets/article98039387.html https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/weimaraner/ https://www.wate.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/luna-is-the-most-popular-dog-name-in-35-states-according-to-a-new-study/ Featured Image Credit: Marina Plevako‚ Shutterstock The post Most Popular Dog Breeds in Kansas (Updated In 2024) appeared first on Pet Keen.

Delaware’s state dog breed is the Golden Retriever‚ but that doesn’t mean it’s the most popular dog in the state. Some of Delaware’s popular breeds follow the trends across the country‚ but there are a few unique picks you wouldn’t expect. Let’s dive into Delaware’s 10 most popular dog breeds in 2024. The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Delaware 1. Labrador Retriever Image Credit: Radomir Rezny‚ Shutterstock Origin Newfoundland‚ UK Height 21–25 inches Temperament Friendly‚ affectionate The Labrador Retriever has been one of the US’s most popular dog breeds for years‚ so it’s no wonder that this is the most popular in Delaware due to its friendly‚ outgoing‚ and high-spirited personality. These dogs were bred as gundogs‚ but they make amazing family pets and get along with children and other dogs well. 2. German Shepherd Image Credit: Osetrik‚ Shutterstock Origin Germany Height 22–26 inches Temperament Noble‚ loyal‚ hardworking The German Shepherd is one of the most beloved breeds in Delaware and across the country. This large‚ all-purpose working breed is loyal‚ confident‚ and brave‚ leading to their roles in everything from police work to military service to farm work. Though these dogs can make excellent companions and guardians‚ they do require a lot of training to ensure they’re well-adjusted. 3. Golden Retriever Image Credit: Angel Luciano‚ Unsplash Origin UK Height 21–24 inches Temperament Friendly‚ intelligent‚ trustworthy The Golden Retriever is a Scottish gundog breed and the state dog of Delaware. Always one of the most popular dog breeds‚ Goldens are avid hunters and excel in roles from search and rescue to obedience to service and therapy work. These dogs get along with other dogs and children‚ making them ideal family pets with a playful personality that lasts from puppyhood to adulthood. 4. Akita Image Credit: Kristina Chizhmar‚ Shutterstock Origin Japan Height 24–28 inches Temperament Quiet‚ aloof‚ independent The Akita is a muscular‚ large‚ double-coated Japanese dog that’s renowned for courage and loyalty. They’re often kept as family protectors and companions‚ though they tend to be wary of other animals and strangers. It’s important to socialize and train an Akita properly to ensure that they have boundaries and structure. 5. Poodle Image Credit: Raywoo‚ Shutterstock Origin Germany‚ France Height Over 15 inches Temperament Eager‚ friendly‚ smart The Poodle comes in Standard‚ Miniature‚ and Toy varieties‚ but they all share the same sharp intelligence‚ versatility‚ and athleticism. Bred as a water dog‚ the Poodle does best with a job‚ but they can adapt to family life with a lot of exercise and stimulation. 6. American Staffordshire Terrier Image Credit: Kalmar Peter‚ Shutterstock Origin US Height 17–19 inches Temperament Tenacious‚ friendly‚ loyal The American Staffordshire Terrier is a smart‚ confident‚ and good-natured dog that’s often kept as a family pet. With their grace and athleticism‚ the American Staffordshire Terrier makes a great canine competitor in obedience‚ rallies‚ and other sports. These dogs are highly trainable‚ but they require structure and plenty of stimulation. 7. Sloughi Image Credit: Bianca Grueneberg‚ Shutterstock Origin Africa Height 24–28 inches Temperament Sensitive‚ intelligent‚ alert The Sloughi is a North African sighthound that was bred to work on game like gazelle‚ jackal‚ and wild pigs. Like other sighthounds‚ the Sloughi is lean‚ graceful‚ and athletic. Though they’re a primitive hunting breed‚ the Sloughi is attentive‚ loyal‚ and desires a lot of time with their owner. 8. Norwegian Lundehund Image Credit: Makabas‚ Shutterstock Origin Vaeroy‚ Norway Height 12–15 inches Temperament Energetic‚ alert‚ loyal The Norwegian Lundehund is the only dog breed that was created to hunt puffins. Now that the bird is a protected species‚ Norwegian Lundehunds are kept as companions and canine athletes. Like other northern breeds‚ the Lundehund displays typical spitz features with some unique adaptations‚ including six full toes‚ extra paw pads‚ and an “elastic” neck that can crane back and touch the spine. They also have flexible shoulders and a rotary gait that is unique among dogs. 9. English Foxhound Image credit: Mary Swift‚ Shutterstock Origin England Height 21–25 inches Temperament Sociable‚ gentle‚ affectionate The English Foxhound is a solid hunting dog with plenty of stamina and a strong pack instinct. These scent dogs are gentle and sociable‚ but they’re not often kept as mere house pets. They thrive on hunting and pursuing prey‚ so it can be challenging to keep them occupied in a quiet home environment. 10. French Bulldog Image Credit: Irina Nedikova‚ Shutterstock Origin France Height 11–13 inches Temperament Bright‚ playful‚ sociable The French Bulldog has recently dethroned the Labrador as the most popular dog in the US. They’re also popular in Delaware‚ especially in the city. These alert‚ playful‚ and adorable dogs look like a miniature version of the popular Bulldog‚ except they have massive bat ears that give them a charming expression. One of the most versatile breeds‚ the French Bulldog can adapt to life with couples‚ families‚ singles‚ and other dogs and cats in the city or country. Conclusion While some of the state’s most popular dogs are classic choices‚ including the family-friendly Golden Retriever and the classic German Shepherd‚ there are some unique entries on the list. If you’re interested in bringing home one of these popular breeds in Delaware‚ be sure to do your research and determine if it’s the right breed for you. Sources https://www.marthastewart.com/8041177/popular-dog-breeds-by-state-us https://www.rd.com/list/most-popular-dog-breeds-in-every-state/ https://www.delawareonline.com/story/life/2021/08/26/delawares-most-popular-dog-breed-may-surprise-you/5602740001/ Featured Image Credit: Hollysdogs‚ Shutterstock The post 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Delaware (Updated in 2024) appeared first on Pet Keen.