The post How Many Legs Does a Cat Have? Vet Approved Facts &; FAQ by Kerry-Ann Kerr 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. It might seem like a strange question; you’re probably thinking‚ “Cats clearly have four legs‚” and you would be correct!” But this question has more to do with a cat’s anatomy‚ which is slightly different from ours. So‚ what we really want to know is do cats have arms or legs? Cats have four legs‚ but the anatomy of their forelegs is the same as our arms. Let’s take a closer look at this answer and why a cat’s anatomy might have us questioning how many legs a cat has. Do Cats Have Knees or Elbows? Yes and no. The anatomy of a cat’s front legs (or the front legs of any quadruped) is essentially the same as our arms. They have shoulders‚ elbows‚ wrists and fingers‚ but the morphology and arrangement of the limb means that we still refer to it as a leg. Confused? Wait until you hear about horse legs! Whether a limb is an arm or a leg comes down to semantics; in bipedal animals like ourselves‚ the front limbs are called arms‚ and in quadrupeds like cats‚ they are called forelegs. But the anatomy of the limbs remains the same‚ it is just the positioning that changes. Image Credit: Orhan Cam‚ Shutterstock A Cat’s Paws Are Pretty Interesting Of course‚ as a cat lover‚ you’ll agree that everything about cats is fascinating. You might have noticed that your cat doesn’t appreciate you touching their paws‚ and this is because they are one of the most sensitive parts of their body. Their paws are packed with nerve receptors‚ which help them to feel vibrations and also aid in keeping their balance. Additionally‚ they work as shock absorbers‚ which help when cats jump and leap from higher elevations. Cats also sweat through their paws‚ which is why you might have noticed damp paw marks left behind when it’s particularly warm. Cats Have More Toes on Their Front Paws Than Their Back Paws Cats have eighteen toes—four on each of their back paws and five on the front. Their inner toes are responsible for grasping things‚ but their lack of opposable thumbs means they can’t pick things up‚ which is another reason their front legs aren’t considered arms‚ and the paws aren’t called hands. Like dogs‚ cats are digitigrade‚ which means they walk on their toes. Digitigrade mammals tend to be scavengers or hunters. They must be agile‚ quiet‚ and quick to hunt down prey or steal someone else’s dinner! Image Credit: Nils Jacobi‚ Shutterstock Frequently Asked Questions Why Do Some Cats Have Extra Toes? Polydactyly cats have extra toes and can have between four and seven toes on their paws‚ resulting from a genetic mutation. Generally‚ it affects their front paws‚ but it can also occur on their hind paws‚ and it’s incredibly rare for it to affect all four paws. There are three types of polydactyl paws: Postaxial: The extra toes appear on the outside of the cat’s paw Preaxial: The extra toes appear on the inside of the cat’s paw Mesoaxial: The extra toes appear throughout the cat’s paw and will generally look like a combination of postaxial and preaxial Image Credit: Sel_Sanders‚ Shutterstock Do Cats Have Whiskers on Their Legs? Cats have something called carpal whiskers on the underside of the “wrist‚” which are helpful when they capture prey as they detect if there’s any movement. And‚ as they can’t see very well when close to something‚ the whiskers also help determine the position of prey. Are Cat Knees Different From Human Knees? Yes and no. The most significant difference is that the angle between a cat’s knee and the hip varies between cats and humans and between different cat breeds. This angle is steeper‚ for example‚ in breeds like the Maine Coon‚ which contributes to the increased risk they have of developing orthopedic issues. Image Credit: Piqsels Final Thoughts Cats have four legs‚ but the anatomy of their forelegs is the same as our arms. Cats don’t use their front legs the way we do our arms. They lack opposable thumbs‚ and are quadrupeds‚ meaning they walk on four legs. We hope this clears up the question of the arms and legs of cats. If you want to take a look at an even more interesting adaptation of the limbs‚ check out the anatomy of the horse – they run around on the toenail of a single digit! Sources https://www.petmd.com/cat/slideshows/8-unusual-genetic-anomalies-cats https://veteriankey.com/the-horse/#:~:text=the%20costal%20arch.-‚The%20appendicular%20skeleton‚Fig.%2016.6%20The%20equine%20hindlimb.‚-Pelvis Featured Image Credit: Khatuna lapachi‚ Shutterstock The post How Many Legs Does a Cat Have? Vet Approved Facts &; FAQ by Kerry-Ann Kerr 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 How Much Cat Litter Per Month Should You Use? Facts &; FAQ by Jordyn Alger 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. There are many pleasant aspects of cat ownership‚ but litterbox duty isn’t among them. Still‚ it is essential to caring for your cat‚ so ensuring that you provide the cleanest litter box possible for your pet is paramount. While litter box maintenance can seem pretty straightforward‚ some aspects are a little less clear. For example‚ how much cat litter per month should you use? The amount you use per month will be determined by several variables‚ but on average‚ you can expect to use approximately 28-40 pounds of cat litter per month. In this article‚ we will look at the variables and help you calculate how much litter you should use each month. How Much Cat Litter Does the Average Cat Go Through in One Month? Every cat is different‚ and their litter usage will vary. Small cats typically need around 28 pounds of litter each month‚ but larger cats may need as much as 40 pounds per month. However‚ cats experiencing medical issues that impact their urination or defecation rates may need an even greater amount. While these averages can serve as a helpful baseline‚ they do not account for the variables that can impact how much litter you should use. Below‚ we will discuss those variables in depth. Image Credit: Africa Studio‚ Shutterstock The 3 Variables to How Much Cat Litter Per Month You Should Use In addition to the size of your cat‚ other factors may influence how much kitty litter your cat goes through in a month. These factors are the size of your litter box‚ the number of cats in your household‚ and the type of cat litter you use. 1. Size of the Litter Box It is recommended that you fill your cat’s litter box with around 2–3 inches of cat litter. Depending on the size of your cat’s litter box‚ reaching the 2–3 inch mark can take a lot of litter or only a little bit. 2. Number of Cats in Your Household Cats need their own litter box‚ or they may begin doing their business outside the box. By having multiple cats‚ you will regularly fill multiple litter boxes. Therefore‚ the number of cats you have in your home will determine how much cat litter you use monthly. It’s best to have one litter box per cat plus one extra. Image Credit: Nils Jacobi‚ Shutterstock 3. Type of Cat Litter Used There are plenty of cat litters on the market‚ but most can be grouped into one of three categories: biodegradable‚ clay-based‚ and silica-based. When comparing clay-based and silica-based cat litter‚ clay-based litter needs to be changed more often. You will run through clay-based litter faster than silica-based litter‚ thus impacting how much is used per month. Biodegradable litter can be made of several materials‚ but it typically doesn’t last as long as silica or clay. Determining How Much Cat Litter You Should Use Per Month To determine how much cat litter you should use each month‚ consider the averages listed above and the variables you should factor in. This should help you come to a decent estimate. You can verify if your estimate is accurate by keeping track of how much litter you go through in a month. Diligently clean and replace your cat’s litter regularly so you can accurately calculate how much litter you use in a month. By the end of the month‚ you can total up the amount of litter used to have a specific number that suits you rather than a generalized average. During this time‚ it is also a good idea to monitor your cat’s litter box behavior for any signs that you are using too much or too little cat litter. Image Credit: Pexels Signs That You Are Using Too Much Cat Litter One of the most notable signs you are using too much cat litter is if your cat flings litter outside the box. When you clean out the litter box‚ do you accidentally step into a mini mountain of litter? That clearly indicates that your cat needs less litter in their box. If you notice your cat only partially enters the litter box before doing their business‚ that’s another sign of too much litter in the box. Signs That You Are Not Using Enough Cat Litter The most notable sign you are not using enough cat litter is if your cat avoids using the litter box. Cats like to bury the evidence of their waste‚ so if there is not enough litter to bury their feces or urine‚ they may avoid the box altogether. How Much Does Cat Litter Cost Per Month? The monthly cost of litter can vary depending on several variables‚ such as the brand you purchase and how much your cat goes through in a month. On average‚ you can expect to pay $20–$40 per month for cat litter. This adds up to around $250–$500 per year‚ so it’s not exactly a small expense. Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock Final Thoughts Replacing cat litter is an unpleasant aspect of cat ownership‚ but it is an important one. On average‚ you can expect to go through 28–40 pounds of cat litter each month‚ but that amount can vary depending on your cat’s size‚ their health‚ and many other factors. For more personalized advice on how to meet your cat’s litter box needs‚ reach out to your vet for a detailed consultation. Sources https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/litter-box-training-why-setup-and-placement-matters https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/evr_ct_what_is_in_cat_litter https://animalpath.org/how-much-cat-litter-per-month/ https://www.hshv.org/cost-of-owning-a-cat/ Featured Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock The post How Much Cat Litter Per Month Should You Use? Facts &; FAQ by Jordyn Alger 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 Is It Safe to Vacuum Cat Litter? Facts &; Cleaning Tips by Elizabeth Gray 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. Ask any cat owner what the least fun part of living with their pet is‚ and most will probably say dealing with the litter box. Spilled litter always seems to land outside the box‚ but is it safe to vacuum it up? In certain circumstances‚ it’s okay to vacuum cat litter‚ but you risk clogging the machine without proper precautions. In this article‚ we’ll tell you how and when it’s safe to vacuum cat litter‚ plus some tips on keeping your litter box clean and why it’s so important. Top 3 Tips on How to Vacuum Cat Litter Safely 1. Vacuum Dry Litter Only The most crucial tip for vacuuming cat litter safely is to clean up only dry‚ unsoiled litter. Wet‚ soiled litter is most likely to clog the filter and hoses of your vacuum cleaner. If you have a canister vacuum‚ the wet litter will stick to the sides and be tricky to empty. Don’t try to suck up clumps even if they look dry. Image Credit: Tanya Plotnikova‚ Shutterstock 2. Choose the Right Vacuum Many vacuum brands offer a special pet model designed to clean up hair‚ litter‚ and animal messes more effectively. They are easier to clean and contain special attachments to make vacuuming litter quicker. Anti-allergy vacuums often contain special seals or filters that can keep cat litter dust better contained‚ too. Handheld or wet-dry vacuums are also good choices for cleaning up cat litter. Wet-dry or shop vacuums are designed to clean up more intense messes than a household machine. They should be able to handle even wet litter. 3. Consider the Type of Litter You Use Clay and silica cat litter are generally the easiest and safest to clean up with a vacuum. Other types of litter‚ such as pine‚ wheat‚ or walnut‚ have larger particles that are more likely to cause problems with your vacuum. It’s safer to sweep up these types of litter. Image Credit: Mari Piman‚ Shutterstock Can You Reduce the Amount of Spilled Litter? Here are a few steps you can take to limit the amount of spilled litter you’ll need to vacuum up. First‚ choose a low-tracking litter. Despite your cat’s best efforts to track them around the house‚ they are designed to stay in the box. Low-tracking litters are available in many materials. Covered or high-side litter boxes are more effective at keeping litter contained‚ especially for cats who are aggressive diggers and throw litter everywhere. You can also place litter mats around the box to catch any litter that escapes. Keeping Your Litter Box Clean Keeping your litter box clean is an essential step to prevent your cat from avoiding the box and peeing or pooping in inappropriate locations. Scoop the box at least once a day‚ twice if possible. Change the litter completely as recommended by the manufacturer. When you change the litter‚ thoroughly clean the empty litter box with soap and water. Dry the box completely before adding new litter. Along with sweeping or vacuuming spilled litter each day‚ help minimize odors by wiping the outside of the litter box. You can also use a pet odor-neutralizing spray or cleaner on the box or floors. Image Credit: Zoran Photographer‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Depending on the type of cat litter you use‚ it may be safe to vacuum with the right attachments. Remember‚ it’s never safe to vacuum wet litter unless you use a shop or wet-dry vacuum. You can reduce the amount of spilled litter by following our easy tips to help protect your vacuum even further. Sources “Solving Cat Litter Box Problems” “How to Clean a Litter Box: Tips for a Fresher Home and a Happier Cat” Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot‚ Shutterstock The post Is It Safe to Vacuum Cat Litter? Facts &; Cleaning Tips by Elizabeth Gray 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 Fall Over in a Harness? Facts &; Outdoor Tips by Elizabeth Gray 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. Training your cat to walk with a harness and leash is an excellent option if you want your kitty to enjoy outdoor adventures. However‚ the first time many cats wear a harness‚ they simply fall over on their side. But why does this happen? Generally‚ cats fall over because the harness feels like being grabbed by a predator. Falling over and freezing is an instinctive survival response. If you want your cat to learn to walk on a leash‚ you must help them overcome this instant reaction. In this article‚ you’ll learn why wearing a harness can cause your cat to fall over. Plus‚ we’ll give you tips on teaching your cat to wear a harness and how to prepare them for spending time outside. Getting to the Root of the Harness Response Take a look at where your cat’s harness places pressure on their body. Most of the time‚ much of the pressure falls between the shoulder blades and around the chest. For adult cats‚ being grabbed or held in this area can be a traumatic experience. Mother cats regularly carry their babies by the scruff of their necks. At that age‚ being scruffed triggers the kitten to relax. However‚ adult cats lose this instinct as they grow. Adult cats are typically only grabbed by the scruff during mating or by a predator‚ which can be a stressful experience. With this knowledge‚ it makes sense why a cat might react to a harness by freezing and falling over. Image Credit: Kolomenskaya Kseniya‚ Shutterstock Teaching Your Cat to Wear a Harness So‚ how do you help your cat overcome their natural fear and learn to wear a harness? The answer is usually A) slowly and B) with a lot of treats! First‚ make sure you buy the right size harness for your cat. It’s best to follow the sizing and measuring directions for the harness you’re considering. Try to purchase an adjustable harness to make the fit as close and comfortable as possible. Introduce the harness indoors where your cat is safe and comfortable. Start by allowing them to sniff and interact with the harness. Try using catnip or a cat pheromone spray on the harness to hold your kitty’s attention and keep them calm. Once your cat is familiar with the sight of the harness‚ start getting them used to it touching their body. Hold the harness against them and reward your cat with treats or praise if they stay calm. Slowly practice placing the harness over their head or beneath their body. Work your way up to placing the entire harness on the cat‚ rewarding them generously for staying calm. Your cat should be able to wear the harness indoors with no fuss before you move on to leash training. Adjust the harness as needed to ensure it fits snugly and won’t slip off. Every cat will progress through the stages of harness training at their own pace. If your cat shows signs of fear or discomfort‚ including falling over‚ repeat the previous step in the training process. Preparing Your Cat to Spend Time Outside Training your cat to wear a harness is only one step in the process of preparing your cat to spend time outside. The first thing you should do is make sure your pet is current on their vaccinations and appropriate parasite prevention. Talk to your vet about whether your cat is healthy enough to handle outdoor exercise‚ especially if they’re older or overweight. For indoor cats‚ the world outside can be overwhelming at first. The sights‚ sounds‚ and smells outside are far more stimulating than those found in the safety of a house. Even the most well-adjusted cat may be frightened the first few times they venture outside. To help ease your cat into the outdoors‚ try letting them spend time on a screened porch or in a “catio.” These enclosed areas help your cat feel secure while introducing them to the stimulation of the outside world. Portable cat yards or tents are another option if more permanent structures aren’t available. By the time you take your cat outside wearing a harness and leash‚ they should be comfortable and confident with the stimulation they’ll encounter there. Image Credit: Simol1407‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Despite what you might think‚ cats don’t fall over in a harness simply to provide you with viral social media content. Instead‚ they react this way because the harness triggers a survival response like they were grabbed by a predator. With patience and training‚ your cat can learn to overcome this reaction. Remember‚ not every cat will enjoy walking on a harness and leash. Consider your cat’s personality carefully before attempting to turn them into an adventurous kitty. Sources “How to Put a Cat Harness On” “Outdoor Cat Controversy: Is It Ever Okay to Let Them Roam?” “How to Leash Train a Cat” “Feline Kryptonite: Kitten’s Reaction to Harness Delights Internet” “Is Scruffing the Best Way to Handle an Upset Cat?” Featured Image Credit: Sari ONeal‚ Shutterstock The post Why Do Cats Fall Over in a Harness? Facts &; Outdoor Tips by Elizabeth Gray 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 How Much Do Snowshoe Cats Shed? Facts &; Grooming Tips 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 Snowshoe cat is a medium-to-large hybrid breed of the Siamese and American Shorthair cat breeds. They get their name from the four distinctive white paws‚ which is the signature breed trait. These cats are popular for their affectionate‚ playful‚ and sociable personality. If you’re considering a Snowshoe cat‚ you may be wondering how much they shed. Fortunately‚ these cats are short-haired and very clean‚ so Snowshoe cats don’t shed much. Snowshoe Cat Grooming Requirements The Snowshoe cat is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They have a short coat and keep themselves clean‚ including minimal shedding. You will need to brush your cat at least once a week to remove dead hairs and prevent mats and irritation‚ however. Because of the short coat and low shedding‚ a lot of people mistakenly believe the Snowshoe cat is hypoallergenic. While they may not shed enough to irritate cat allergies‚ they are not a hypoallergenic breed. Image Credit: VeronArt16‚ Shutterstock How to Reduce Shedding in Your Snowshoe Cat Shedding is natural and necessary for your cat’s health‚ but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating. Some shedding is normal‚ but excessive shedding can cause problems. So‚ how much is too much? The amount your cat sheds depends on their breed‚ fur type‚ and seasonal changes. It’s important to pay attention to your cat’s normal shedding pattern to identify a problem. The normal process of shedding old hair and growing new hair‚ as well as shedding hair as the weather changes. Some other common causes of shedding in cats include: Stress‚ fear‚ or anxiety Poor nutrition Medical conditions Medical conditions are the biggest cause for concern if your cat’s shedding patterns suddenly change. Typically‚ cats with normal shedding patterns will have a healthy coat and skin with plenty of shine‚ no odors‚ and no signs of skin irritation. If your cat is shedding more because of medical causes‚ they may have a dull or thin coat‚ bald patches‚ rashes‚ or other abnormalities. Many health problems can cause this‚ including allergies or skin infections. If your cat is older or experiencing pain that makes it more difficult to groom themselves‚ it may seem like they’re shedding more than normal. This is because they can’t groom the fur away on their own‚ but you still need to intervene to determine the cause and help your cat take care of themselves. Image Credit: Aleksandar Nalbantjan‚ Shutterstock Tips to Reduce Shedding in Your Snowshoe Cat Cats groom themselves and swallow hair in the process. This normally passes through the digestive system without issue‚ but excess shedding can cause them to get hairballs. It’s important to brush your cat regularly to remove loose hair and help your cat avoid ingesting too much of their hair. Here are some other tips to reduce shedding: If you suspect health conditions causing shedding‚ visit your vet. Feed a high-quality and balanced diet that’s suitable for cats. A special diet formulated for skin health may help if there are skin or coat issues. Minimize stress for your cat‚ including abrupt changes like moving to a new home or bringing home a new pet. Train your cat to sit quietly for grooming and get appropriate brushes for cats. Groom and bathe your cat regularly to remove loose hair. Give your cat their own bed‚ perches‚ and cat tower to make fur easier to clean up. Vacuum and wash your linens often to capture loose hair. Keep a lint roller around for your clothing and furniture. Conclusion Snowshoe cats have short hair and don’t shed a lot‚ but they will shed all year and more heavily during seasonal changes. Regular grooming and some lifestyle habits can help you keep the hair at bay‚ but if you notice excessive shedding‚ it’s important to talk to your vet and determine the cause. Featured Image Credit: Yuliya Alekseeva‚ Shutterstock The post How Much Do Snowshoe Cats Shed? Facts &; Grooming Tips 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 Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out While Sleeping? 4 Possible Reasons 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. Cats stick their tongues out often‚ usually to the delight of their owners. You may see your cat stick their tongue out while sleeping‚ which can be alarming. There are many reasons a cat may stick their tongue out while sleeping‚ ranging from cute to causes for concern. Here are the four possible reasons your cat may sleep with their tongue out. The 4 Reasons Why Cats Stick Their Tongue Out While Sleeping 1. Your Cat Is Relaxed Many cats mainly stick their tongues out while sleeping for relaxation. There’s usually no cause for concern if your cat sleeps deeply and has their tongue sticking out a little bit. It’s just a sign that your cat is at ease. 2. It’s a Breed Trait Some cat breeds have tongues that extend a bit‚ such as the Burmese‚ Himalayan‚ and Persian. This often has to do with your cat’s face shape and misplaced bite‚ which causes tongue-tipping. It’s rarely a problem if your cat can still chew‚ eat‚ and shut their mouth normally while awake. Image Credit: Sergey Neanderthalec‚ Shutterstock 3. There May Be Dental Issues If your cat has dental issues‚ they may stick their tongue out while sleeping. It could be because something is preventing your cat from extending their tongue fully or shutting their mouth properly‚ which could affect eating. Something could also be trapped at the top of your cat’s mouth or throat. If you suspect this‚ you must make an appointment with your vet. 4. Your Cat Has a Large Tongue If your cat has only recently been sleeping with their tongue out‚ it could indicate that something has caused their tongue to swell‚ such as an insect bite or exposure to something toxic. You can check your cat’s tongue to see if it looks swollen or abnormal. Image Credit: Wirestock Creators‚ Shutterstock Are There Other Reasons Cats May Stick Their Tongues Out? Aside from sleeping‚ your cat may stick their tongue out for other reasons. The Flehmen response is one of those reasons. When your cat smells something in the air‚ sticks out their tongue‚ and scrunches their face up. This is to get more information about what they are smelling in their environment‚ which they do by transferring the scent to the Jacobson’s organ in the roof of their mouth. They’re essentially “tasting the air”. Cats may also stick out their tongues if they are experiencing nausea or motion sickness. This is often accompanied by flicking the tongue and licking the lips excessively‚ as well as other symptoms like inappetence or vomiting. Some health conditions‚ such as neurological diseases‚ can cause your cat to stick out their tongue. This will usually happen with abnormal tongue movements‚ odd movements‚ and excessive grooming. Respiratory infections and blockages can also cause your cat to stick their tongue out to breathe more easily‚ often accompanied by signs like gasping for air‚ labored breathing‚ and blue-tinged gums. Image Credit: Tanja Richter‚ Pixabay When to Call a Vet In most cases‚ your cat sticking their tongue out while sleeping is nothing to worry about—especially if they’ve been doing this as long as you’ve had them. Like other quirks‚ if you notice your cat suddenly sleeping with their tongue out or other abnormal behaviors like labored breathing‚ an abnormal gait‚ loss of appetite‚ or drooling‚ it’s best to make an appointment with your vet for a checkup. Conclusion When cats sleep‚ they often get so relaxed they stick their tongues out. This is usually not a cause for alarm‚ but there can be other reasons your cat is sticking their tongue out‚ such as health conditions. If you are worried about your cat’s behavior or notice other signs‚ scheduling an exam with your vet is best. Sources https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/behavior-appearance/why-do-cats-stick-out-their-tongue?lightboxfired=true# https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/cat-sneering-what-flehmen-response https://www.petmd.com/cat/symptoms/nausea Featured Image Credit: Soja Som‚ Shutterstock The post Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongue Out While Sleeping? 4 Possible Reasons 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 My Cat Is Limping But Still Jumping and Running‚ What’s Wrong? Vet Approved Advice by Annaliese Morgan 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. Disclaimer: This article has been fact-checked and reviewed by a qualified veterinarian using information available at the time of review. However‚ the purpose of this article is not to replace a veterinary examination and advice but rather provide a general guide to medical and behavioral conditions. Cat owners are urged to seek tailored advice for their pet from a veterinary professional. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer. It is always a worrisome moment when we notice something wrong with our pets. We don’t like to think of our beloved feline friends being injured‚ hurt‚ or feeling unwell‚ especially as they can’t speak to us to inform us what may have happened or how they are feeling. Nor can they understand our offering of reassuring words to them in the same way a child or partner can. If your cat has started limping yet they are still jumping and running around‚ you may be wondering what could be wrong with them. In fact‚ you might think nothing is really wrong at all since they are still darting around. This is where different communication and understanding needs to come in. Your cat can’t tell you what is wrong‚ but limping is a sure sign that they need to get checked out by a vet‚ even if they are still running and jumping. Let’s look at some of the potential causes. Why Is My Cat Limping but Not Showing Signs of Pain? While cats are predatory animals and can often be considered to be quite ruthless creatures‚ they happily and fearlessly hunt mice‚ birds‚ and other small prey. However‚ despite this‚ they are also prey animals. Perhaps because of the danger of being another animal’s target‚ an instinct not to show or display pain (injury and illness) remains in cats‚ even though they are domesticated and not wild. Cats won’t obviously express pain unless absolutely vital or the pain or illness has reached a point where they no longer have the option but to demonstrate their pain or vulnerability. While there are many reasons for their limping‚ which we will look at next‚ do not assume your cat is not in pain or feeling stressed just because they are still jumping‚ running‚ etc. In general‚ your cat is shifting their weight because something is sore. Alternatively‚ there could be a nerve problem. There are subtle signs of pain you can watch out for‚ but any limp should be cause for concern. Image Credit: lagunabluemolly‚ Pixabay Causes of Cat Limping Cats do not limp for no reason‚ so if you see that they are lame either on their front leg or back leg‚ it needs investigating. The severity can range from a mild limp all the way to non-weight bearing. Commonly‚ it is just one limb‚ but not always. There are a multitude of causes behind the limping‚ and this will need to be looked at and diagnosed by your veterinarian. Some of the most common causes of limping in cats include: Fracture or dislocation Sprain or strain A foreign body‚ such as a thorn‚ stuck in the paw or paw pad Broken or torn nail Ingrown nail Infection Nerve damage Arthritis Tumor (anywhere on the affected limb‚ not just the paw) Cat bite or abscess Ligament or tendon injury Bruising Wound (cuts‚ lacerations‚ or grazes) Burns (heat‚ cold‚ or chemical) Image Credit: Phatara‚ Shutterstock Signs Your Cat Is in Pain As discussed‚ your cat will show more subtle signs of pain than obvious ones. These signs may become more apparent as the pain continues or increases‚ but learning how to read felines is a major benefit to their health. It means you can act quicker and your kitty receives help sooner instead of the problem worsening and their well-being declining. Limping itself is a sign of pain and not the actual problem or cause Reduced eating or not eating Sleeping more/ less activity Sleeping in a different area than normal Behavioral changes Aggression Retreating or hiding Being more vocal or louder Not happy when you touch or stroke them Pull the affected limb away from you if you try to touch or examine it Licking painful area Image Credit: Mantikorra‚ Shutterstock Should I Go to the Vet? Limping or any other sign of pain and discomfort is always worth a trip to your veterinarian or at least a phone call‚ especially if you can also see other signs of discomfort or if the lameness has continued for more than 12–24 hours. It’s better to err on the side of caution. While you are waiting for your consultation‚ keep your cat rested. Treatment for a Limping Cat To diagnose the cause of your cat’s limp‚ your vet will have to investigate the issue further. This can and likely will take a variety of routes and will be different for each cat. There are various examination tools and treatments available‚ but the ones your cat will receive will be dependent on the findings and the cause found. Here are a few common examples of investigations and treatments your vet may prescribe. They may use one of these‚ all of them‚ or order extra tests and treatments not mentioned here. Physical examination Blood tests Urine tests X-Rays Ultrasound scans or MRI Further and more detailed examination under sedation or anesthesia Surgery Wound flushing and care Bandage or dressing support Medication (oral or injectable)‚ such as antibiotics and painkillers Image Credit: Gorodenkoff‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Cats are complex and mysterious animals‚ and we love them for it. However‚ limping is a sure sign of pain and that something is wrong‚ even if they can still run around and jump onto the couch. The instinct not to appear vulnerable is as strong today in domesticated cats as it was with their wild ancestors and fellow big cat friends. Don’t ignore a limp thinking they are okay just because they are moving a lot. Instead‚ have them checked over by a vet to prevent the situation from worsening and so that your cat can receive the correct treatment rather than be uncomfortable longer than necessary. Sources https://www.petmd.com/cat/symptoms/why-my-cat-limping https://www.germantownah.com/site/blog-memphis-vet/2021/11/15/cat-limping https://www.msdvetmanual.com/cat-owners/bone‚-joint‚-and-muscle-disorders-of-cats/lameness-in cats https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4765852/ Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi‚ Shutterstock The post My Cat Is Limping But Still Jumping and Running‚ What’s Wrong? Vet Approved Advice by Annaliese Morgan 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.

Elemental Cores are a new resource introduced in Diablo 4 Season 3 that is used to activate Braziers in Arcane Tremors to summon a Herald of Malphas which is a great way to obtain Governing Stones and Tuning Stones. It all starts with Elemental Cores in Diablo 4‚ and here is how to get them. Diablo 4: How to get Elemental Cores Screenshot: PC Invasion The first thing you need to know is that Elemental Cores are only obtained in Arcane Tremors. Arcane Tremors are regions on the map that contain the Season of the Construct seasonal activity. Here‚ you’ll find the Arcane Tremors gameplay loop which consists of getting Elemental Cores and slaying Constructs. Related: All quality-of-life updates in Diablo 4 Season of the Construct The only way to get Elemental Cores in Diablo 4 is to loot Obelisks. Within Arcane Tremors‚ you’ll notice Igneous‚ Gelid‚ and Voltaic Obelisks. All Obelisks reward the same thing: one Elemental Core. The only di...

Nothing like a good place to farm seasonal items. Here is everything you need to know about the Arcane Tremors event in Diablo 4 Season of the Construct. How does the Arcane Tremors event work in Diablo 4 Season 3? The Arcane Tremors event is a new addition to Diablo 4 thanks to the Season of the Construct. It will only appear after finishing the first few steps of the questline and getting your Seneschal Companion. Once you appear again in the overworld‚ you will see some icons in the map for the Arcane Tremors event and for some structures called Voltaic Obelisks. Image: PC Invasion Each Voltaic Obelisk will initially be in an open state‚ emanating red waves of energy that will hurt you. On top of that‚ each Obelisk will be surrounded by Constructs‚ making your life more miserable than it usually is – sorry. What you need to do is time your movement right‚ get rid of the major Constructs‚ and dodge toward the Obelisks so that you can intera...

When you jump into Palword alone‚ it can be daunting and lonesome. Even with the critter roaming around‚ things may seem empty. However‚ Palworld has co-op‚ which makes everything better. Having friends join your server is one thing. But having them in your guild is another thing. To learn how to create or even join a guild in Palworld‚ you should read on. Palworld: How to create or join a guild Creating a guild is easy‚ but before you do that make sure the server itself has multiplayer enabled. This can be done from the server page before dropping into the game.  To set up a guild‚ head to the main menu while in a game and head to the Guild Tab. This is where you can name it as well. Afterward‚ go to the player you want to invite‚ and a prompt will come up asking if you want to invite them. If they accept‚ they’ll join you. If you look at your map‚ they’ll appear as another arrow. So you can easily find them now.  Screenshot: PC I...