Tim Walz, the leftist Minnesota governor now campaigning as Kamala Harris pick to be No. 2 on the Democrat presidential ticket this year, has revealed some hidden depths already. For example, his repeated…

  From a Western perspective, Tibet is a land of mystery. It captures the imagination of a faraway and exotic place, a land filled with peaceful Buddhist monks and sparkling palaces. Today, Tibet is an autonomous region of China, whose history is also subject to much intrigue and controversy.   The reality, however, is very far from the truth. Breaking from common beliefs, Tibet is a complex place that begs deeper examination. Without a doubt, the history of this land is of great importance when understanding Tibet’s place in the world today.   And contrary to popular belief, Tibet’s history is extremely bloody and brutal.   Prehistoric and Ancient Tibet Yarlung River in Tibet. Source: Wikimedia Commons   As a cold, mountainous, and inhospitable world, it is surprising that the Tibetan Plateau has been inhabited since the Late Paleolithic Era (40,000 to 10,000 years ago). Due to the harsh environment and the high altitude, archeological research is difficult.   According to ancient Tibetan belief, the Tibetan people are the product of a union between a female demon and a monkey. The Chinese (at least from the perspective of the Tang Dynasty) hold the view that the Tibetans originate from the Qiang tribes that inhabited the steppe of northwest China, a place already known as being ethnically diverse. The intermingling of nomadic peoples at this time was prevalent, and it is plausible the Tibetans are a mix of various ethnic groups close to Tibet.   Within Tibet, intermingling as a result of conquest and alliances continued to diversify the population. A cultural split, however, was the work of geography as well as genetics. Those who lived in the valleys are thought to have derived from the Huang He (Yellow River) basin, while those who lived in the mountains are thought to have derived from the nomads to the north.   Very little is known about the ancient kingdoms; what is known is subject to debate and based on oral histories. According to local belief, the Zhang Zhung people were the first to establish a powerful kingdom in the west of Tibet. This kingdom lasted from around the 6th century BCE to 625 CE. The kingdom they created is considered the birthplace of the Bön religion, the indigenous religion that bears many similarities to Tibetan Buddhism.   The Yarlung Dynasty The Tibetan Empire, circa 700 CE. Source: Thomas Lessman/World History Maps   Before the rise of the Tibetan Empire, much of Tibet was ruled by a dynasty of kings known as the Yarlung Dynasty. They ruled from 95 BCE (according to legend) to the 7th century CE.   The city of Yarlung, 55 miles southeast of Lhasa, was the first seat of the kings of Tibet. From an almost mythical beginning, very little is known of this time. Nyatri Tsenpo is considered the first king, and the time of his rule is subject to debate. He is thought to have reigned at some point between the 5th and 2nd centuries BCE.   His existence and those of his successors, however, are clouded by myth. Nyatri Tsenpo was thought to be descended from a monopedal creature called the Theurang. The first kings were also believed to have been connected to heaven by a rope, and when they died, they simply ascended rather than leave a body behind.   For most of this time, Tibet was split into lesser kingdoms and polities that were united under the reigns of King Tagri Nyensig and King Namri Songtsen (570-620 CE). The latter would found the capital in the Kyichu Valley in which the city of Lhasa would slowly develop.   Tibetan script. Source: Wikimedia Commons   From around 618 CE to 650 CE, Tibet was under the powerful reign of Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd king of the Yarlung Dynasty. His reign was characterized by many important events in Tibetan history. Buddhism was officially introduced, as well as a written script for the Tibetan language. The Tibetan Empire also expanded, unifying kingdoms within Tibet and conquering adjacent lands.   Over the next century, the Tibetan Empire would reach its height. The territory it encompassed was diverse, but transport was a major issue due to the difficult terrain. Centralized authority was challenging to maintain, and the Empire began to fracture as competing religious and political power blocs became emboldened.   Political Collapse & Religious Revival Jambhala, the god of wealth in the Buddhist religion. Statuette from the 13th century. Source: Wikimedia Commons   According to contemporary Chinese accounts, the collapse of the Tibetan Empire was aided significantly by the animosity and conflict between Tibetan generals who commanded armies on the empire’s frontier. By the end of the ninth century, Tibet was a fractured place, hosting a myriad of small polities that jostled for power in the vacuum left by the collapse of centralized power. In modern academia, the collapse of the Tibetan Empire has also been attributed to climatic shifts, resulting in a shift to a colder, drier climate, which greatly affected agricultural production and trade.   During this era, Buddhism slowly became the dominant religion, and many sects were formed, some competing for control.   In the first half of the 13th century, Tibet came into contact with the mighty Mongol Empire. This contact was not friendly. In 1240, the Mongols marched on Tibet with an army of 30,000 soldiers, attacking several monasteries. The invasion was relatively quick, and it is estimated that only a few hundred people died.   The Yuan Dynasty circa 1300. Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica   What happened next is unclear. Mongol rule over Tibet did not start directly after this invasion, so the purpose of the invasion is subject to debate. In the late 1240s, however, Mongol rule over Tibet was established when the Tibetan rulers submitted to Mongol control. Soon after, Tibet was divided into feudal estates and ruled over by Mongol nobles. It was later incorporated into the Yuan Dynasty as part of China, ruled by the Mongols.   During this time, Buddhism had grown to become a powerful force, and it became part of Mongol society, too. Kublai Khan was one of its first converts in the Mongol Empire.   Despite the change in overlords, sectarian rivalries continued to plague the land and led to political intrigues that shifted power back and forth between lamas of different Buddhist factions.   Collapse of the Yuan Dynasty & Rise of the Ming Dynasty Zhu Yuanzhang, better known as Emperor Tai-Tsu of the Ming Dynasty. Source: Wikimedia Commons   There are four major Buddhist schools in Tibet, and the Sakya school’s dominance characterized the time of Mongol control. The other three schools are Nyingma, Kagyu, and Gelug. Rule by the Yuan Dynasty and the Sakya lamas came to an end by 1358 after warlord Tai Situ Changchub Gyaltsen toppled the existing power structures. He established the Phagmodrupa Dynasty, supporting the Kagyu sect, and took the reins of power. What followed was eight decades of relative stability.   The change was also precipitated by the Red Turban Rebellion in China during the 1350s and 1360s. Zhu Yuanzhang led a revolt against Yuan control and overthrew the Mongol overlords, establishing the Ming Dynasty in China. Thus began a period whereby Tibet became the subject of Ming attention, as favorable relations were sought between the two states.   The Drepung Monastery, established in 1416. Source: Wikimedia Commons   However, the relationship between Tibet and the Ming Dynasty is not completely understood. It seems Tibet was technically part of Ming China. Scholars such as Turrell V. Wylie, Melvyn C. Goldstein, and Helmut Hoffman assert that the relationship was one of suzerainty. Tibet was obligated to pay tribute but exercised complete internal autonomy.   In 1391, Gedun Truppa was born. He became a principal disciple of the Great Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug Buddhist sect. Tsongkhapa entrusted Gedun Truppa with spreading the Gelug teachings throughout Tibet. As a powerful member of the Gelug sect, he oversaw the expansion of the belief system, and upon his death in 1475, he was named the First Dalai Lama.   In the early 15th century, the Gelug sect became increasingly powerful, and three great university monasteries were founded to spread Gelug teachings. Meanwhile, in 1435 (according to the traditional date), the Rinpunga Dynasty was established when its founder, Norzang, took advantage of a feud within the Phagmodrupa Dynasty to establish power, which was fully consolidated by 1564. The Phagmodrupa Dynasty survived into the 17th century, but their power was nominal as they became eclipsed by more powerful political factions. Meanwhile, the Rinpunga dynasty was short-lived.   In 1565, the ruling Rinpungpa Dynasty was overthrown, and the Tsangpa Dynasty came to power. The Tsangpa represented the last royal dynasty in Tibet to rule in their name.   The Mongol Khans, The Qing Dynasty, & Tibet Potala Palace. Source: Wikimedia Commons   In 1642, the power structure of Tibet was drastically changed. Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, the Fifth Dalai Lama, established the Ganden Phodrang government, in which supreme power was conferred to the position of Dalai Lama. He was able to do this with the help of Güshi Khan of the Khoshut Khanate, which would rule over Tibet until 1717.   The Fifth Dalai Lama implemented many building projects, including the famous Potala Palace, the seat of authority in Tibet. The palace would take 43 years to complete. He was also a great scholar and wrote many books during his lifetime.   Meanwhile, the Qing/Manchu Dynasty in 1644 superseded the Ming Dynasty in China after a bloody power struggle in which Beijing was seized and a new dynasty was set in place. In 1697, the Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, was enthroned. Just 14 years old at the time, his rule was aided by a regent, and in 1706, conflict broke out between the regent and the Khoshut Khanate, and Lha-bzang Khan seized Lhasa, killed the regent and deposed the Dalai Lama.   In 1717, the Dzungar Khanate invaded and defeated the Khoshut Khanate in Tibet. For three years, the Dzungars ruled brutally until 1720, when they were defeated and ousted by the Qing Dynasty, which then took control of Tibet.   The Rule of the Qing Dynasty A thangka of Chaturbhuja Avalokiteshvara, Tibet, 18th-19th century. Source: MutualArt   In 1720, the Qing were seen as liberators in Tibet. This was not just because the Dzungars were driven off but also because the Qing brought with them Bskal-bzang-rgya-mtsho, the Seventh Dalai Lama. Throughout the rest of the 18th century, Tibet was a suzerain state but held much independence. The Qing Dynasty left Tibet to its own governance but aided in keeping order.   Imperial Qing troops put an end to a civil war in Tibet in 1728, restored order in 1750 after a senior political leader was assassinated, and stopped a Gurkha invasion in 1792. The reach of effective Qing control, however, could not aid Tibet much during the 19th century, and Tibet had to deal with conflicts on its own. In 1792, the Qing administration did, however, forbid foreigners from entering Tibet. This resulted in Christian missionaries not being able to proselytize and were forced to leave.   From May 1841 to August 1842, the Sikh Empire attempted to extend trade routes into the recently conquered territory of Ladakh (currently recognized as part of India). It pushed into Tibet, where it was defeated at Taklakot. The Tibetans followed up on their victory by marching into Ladakh but were, in turn, defeated at Chushul. The Dogra-Tibetan War ended with a treaty that preserved the status quo ante bellum.   In 1855, war would again come to Tibet as an invasion from Nepal. With the defeat of Nepal in 1792 by the Qing, Nepal was made into a tributary state. Decades later, and with the Qing government crippled by problems in the east, the Nepalese saw their opportunity to free themselves from the humiliation and take territory from Tibet.   The flag of Tibet adopted in 1916. Source: Wikimedia Commons   After military action, Nepal won concessions from Tibet in 1856, but they were a far cry from their original demands, and hope for territorial gains had to be abandoned. A year later, war would resume when Tibet refused to pay the annual subsidy that was agreed upon. The Qing court followed these events by attempting to gain more control over Tibet. One way the Qing did this was to introduce Qing coinage in Tibet and make Nepalese coinage illegal.   As the century wore on, Tibet also had to deal with British and Russian designs. Both empires were maneuvering to best each other in what was known as the “Great Game.” The British saw Tibet as a way to gain access to Chinese trade and control Russian ambitions regarding India. This would result in the British invading Afghanistan.   In 1904, the British launched an invasion of Tibet and claimed that China had suzerainty, not sovereignty, over the territory. China rejected this claim, and a treaty was signed in 1906 maintaining Chinese rights over Tibet without them being classified as either suzerainty or sovereignty. In early 1912, however, the Qing Dynasty fell, and the Chinese Republic was proclaimed.   The Chinese Republic The flag of the Republic of China (1912-1949) with the black bar representing the province of Tibet. Source: Wikimedia Commons   When the Chinese Republic was declared in 1912, Tibet was given equal status along with the other provinces of China. Despite this, Tibetan unrest occurred, and Chinese troops were attacked. When the Chinese tried to respond by sending military force, the move was blocked by British intervention.   The British and Chinese then held talks over the future of Tibet. The Shimla Conference, which took place from 1913 to 1914, sought to establish the status and territory of China and Tibet. The conference concluded with Inner Tibet (in the east) being handed to China, while Outer Tibet was to retain autonomy as an independent state. China refused to ratify the agreement, and over the subsequent years, several minor conflicts erupted between China and Tibet.   During this time, Tibet also became an object of fascination for Europeans, who saw it as a mystical place full of exotic secrets. Capturing the imaginations of the Europeans, expeditions were sent into the heart of Tibet from Britain and Nazi Germany.   The People’s Republic of China Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th and current Dalai Lama. Source: Wikimedia Commons   The change from a republic to a communist state in 1949 did not improve Tibetan fortunes. The very next year, Chinese troops entered and took control of Outer Tibet. Over the following years, Chinese immigration into Tibet created waves of anti-Chinese sentiment that boiled over into low-level conflict.   In 1959, this tension escalated into a popular uprising in Lhasa, and the Dalai Lama fled the country while the Chinese restored order. The Chinese purged Tibet of its leaders and removed the Tibetan government. Throughout the 1960s, the Tibetan people resisted Chinese control, and from 1963 to 1971, no foreigner was allowed into Tibet by order of the Chinese government.   By the 1970s, the uprisings had died down, and China was able to exercise full control over Tibet. After Mao Zedong died in 1976, the Chinese government started making great strides in repairing its relationship with Tibet. Industrial and transport projects began in earnest, while mosques were even built in Muslim areas.   A bullet train in Lhasa. Source: CGTN   China has attempted to preserve Tibet’s cultural heritage and has encouraged tourism in recent decades. While the Dalai Lama still lives in exile and wishes for Tibetan independence, his relationship with the Chinese leadership has improved, and talks have generally been good-natured and positive.   Chinese rule over Tibet has been received with mixed reactions around the world. While some view Tibet as having the right to self-governance, many see Chinese influence as positive in that it ended a feudal system in which slavery was rife and people existed in hellish poverty. Chinese rule brought with it a vast improvement in the quality of life and uplifted the poverty-stricken lower classes of Tibet.   Monks at the Sakya Monastery in Tibet, 2006. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Tibet exists in a difficult geographical position in Asia. Its location has made it a crossroads between empires and has been the focus of much imperial attention from within and outside its borders.   Its history has been bloody, and the nature of its existence has been subject to great debate for centuries. It is plain to see that the last pages of the history of Tibet have yet to be written.

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump buried the hatchet with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp (R) this week after the two have repeatedly clashed at various points over the last few years. “We got to win. We got to win from the top of the ticket on down,” Kemp told Fox News host Sean Hannity this week. “I’ve been saying consistently for a long time, we cannot afford another four years of Joe Biden, Kamala Harris. And I think, you know, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz would be even worse. So we need to send Donald Trump back to the White House. We need to retake the Senate. We need to hold the House. We need to hold our legislative majorities that we have in the great state of Georgia, and it takes hard work, that’s what we’ve been doing.” Kemp said that his political operation has been hard at work in the ground game for nearly two months knocking on doors and focusing on getting high voter turnout. “I just want to urge everybody out there, we cannot take this for granted,” he said. “We have got to get the vote out. We gotta stay focused. We gotta stay focused on the future. We need to do like you just did … continue to hammer Kamala Harris’ record and the record of Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi and the other people that have been really for 12 of the last 16 years, punishing the American people.” Tickets for “Am I Racist?” are on sale NOW! Buy here for a theater near you. “I know the Democrats have been talking about joy at the convention all week, and I feel like the joy is subsiding, and when the sugar high of the convention subsides, people are going to really start thinking, ‘It’s not so joyful when I look at my bank account; it’s not joyful when I can’t make my car payment or my rent payment, or I have to decide whether I’m going to buy gas or buy groceries,'” he continued. “People have not forgotten the disaster at the border and the millions and millions of illegal people that are in our country that are getting better benefits than some of our hard-working Georgians and hardworking Americans out there.” pic.twitter.com/GNzvslrPms — Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) August 23, 2024 Trump responded to Kemp’s remarks by posting on X: “Thank you to @BrianKempGA for all of your help and support in Georgia, where a win is so important to the success of our Party and, most importantly, our Country. I look forward to working with you, your team, and all of my friends in Georgia to help MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Thank you to @BrianKempGA for all of your help and support in Georgia, where a win is so important to the success of our Party and, most importantly, our Country. I look forward to working with you, your team, and all of my friends in Georgia to help MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 23, 2024

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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.