Q&A on Cats: Your Curious Cat Questions Answered

Cats are curious creatures, and as cat owners, it’s natural to have questions about your feline friend’s health and behavior. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from pet owners. Ready to let the cat out of the bag? Let’s dive in! 

1. Why Is My Cat Meowing So Much? 

Excessive meowing can be mysterious since it can be a sign of various things. If your cat is meowing more than usual, it could be due to hunger, attention-seeking behavior, stress, or discomfort. Senior cats may meow more frequently as a result of age-related conditions, such as cognitive dysfunction or discomfort secondary to arthritis. If the meowing is persistent or seems unusual, it’s a good idea to schedule a vet visit to rule out health issues like pain or thyroid problems. 

2. How Can I Tell if My Cat Is Sick? 

Cats are masters at hiding illness, but there are signs to be aware of that may indicate your cat isn’t feeling well. Look out for changes in appetite, drinking habits, litter box use, or behavior. Signs like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, excess drinking and urination, difficulty breathing, coughing, or sudden weight loss are red flags. If you notice any of these symptoms or major changes in your cat’s behavior, it’s important to bring your cat in for an evaluation. 

3. What Should I Feed My Cat? 

A balanced, high-quality diet is essential for any cat’s health. Cats are “obligate carnivores”, which means they require animal-based proteins for proper nutrition. Look for cat food that lists real meat (like chicken, turkey, or fish) as the first ingredient. Depending on your cat’s age and health, you may need to choose food tailored to kittens, adult cats, or senior cats. Dietary recommendations are always part of wellness checks, and we are always ready to give dietary recommendations specific to your cat’s needs.  

4. Why Do Cats Knead? 

If your cat is kneading you, consider it a compliment! Kneading is a natural behavior that stems from kittenhood, where kittens kneaded their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production. Adult cats continue this behavior as a sign of comfort, relaxation, and affection. It's their way of showing trust and contentment. 

5. How Old Is My Cat in Human Years? 

Cats age at a different rate than humans, and while there isn’t a reliable scientific way to calculate your cat’s age in human years, the general rule is: 

• The first two years of a cat’s life = 24 human years. 

• Each additional year = approximately 4 human years. 

So, a 5-year-old cat would be about 36 in human years. However, factors like breed, health, and lifestyle can impact how quickly your cat ages. Remember: Scheduling yearly wellness checkups for your cat will help your veterinarian manage any age-related health problems as soon as possible. 

6. How to Stop a Cat from Scratching Furniture? 

Unfortunately, scratching is a natural behavior for cats, but we know it’s a huge frustration for pet parents and their furniture. One thing you can do is redirect your cat’s scratching with these tips:  

• Provide scratching posts or pads in areas where your cat likes to scratch. (Be sure to praise your cat when they use them to reinforce the behavior!) 

• Use cat-safe deterrents, like double-sided tape, on the furniture, and trim your cat’s claws regularly to reduce damage. 

• Talk to your cat's care team about pheromone therapy that can decrease the urge to scratch. 

• Discuss with your veterinarian whether "Soft Paws" are right for your cat. These protective covers are placed over a cat's natural nails to prevent damage from scratching while still allowing them to extend and retract their claws normally. 

When trying to change your cat’s scratching habits, a little patience goes a long way! Our team is always happy to help you address behavioral issues to find solutions that work for you and your cat.  

7. Why Do Cats Purr? 

Cats purr for several reasons, and many clients are surprised to learn that it’s not always a sign of contentment. Cats often purr when they’re happy and relaxed, but they can also purr when they’re in pain, anxious, or even frightened. Some experts believe that the vibrations caused by purring help cats heal by promoting bone density and reducing pain. If your cat is purring and showing other signs of distress, it's worth checking in with a vet to ensure there’s no underlying issue. Signs of distress to watch out for are hiding, changes in appetite, aggression, vocalization changes, litter box issues, or pacing. 

8. What Are the Best Toys for Cats? 

As a cat owner, you probably know that cats love to play! Choosing the right toys for your cat will provide the mental and physical stimulation your pet requires. Staff favorite cat toys include: 

• Interactive toys like laser pointers or feather wands that mimic prey. 

• Puzzle toys that challenge your cat to think and solve problems. 

• Catnip toys for extra excitement (just make sure your cat enjoys catnip!). 

• Balls or crinkle toys that cats can bat around. 

Variety is key to keeping your cat entertained, so try offering different types of toys to see what sparks their interest. 

Do you have more questions about your kitty? We love educating pet owners and are always here to answer your most pressing (or just plain curious) questions about your fantastic feline! If you would like to schedule a wellness check-up for your cat or come in to address something specific, please contact us at (865) 690-1282.