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     Although some people avoid cats because they fear or dislike them, there is some hope for those who avoid cats because of fear of allergic reactions. A lot will depend on the nature of your allergies. If yours are of the sneezing, watery eyes, and running nose variety, you may be able to slowly and gradually build up your tolerance to cats.     However, before getting a cat, you should undergo allergy testing first, particularly if you suffer from asthma. For example, about 30 percent of people with allergies are allergic to cats and dogs, but studies show the rate of cat allergies is actually far higher than that.     Here are tips to help you gain control over your cat allergy symptoms while enjoying the lifelong companionship of a feline.Cat Allergy Symptoms      It's tough to miss cat allergy symptoms. They tend to happen whenever there's a feline nearby or you've encountered some cat hair lingering on furniture. Your body's immune system is reacting to the proteins that are found in a cat's urine, saliva, or dander. Here is a list of typical cat allergy symptoms you may experience:SneezingCoughingWheezingSkin rashNasal congestionTrouble breathingRunny/stuffed noseItchy, red, watery eyes Rid Your Home of Other Allergens     If you're considering bringing a new pet into your home, first rid your home of as many other allergens as possible, including mites, dust, and mold. Most airborne allergens (including cat dander) cling to soft material such as curtains and drapes, upholstery, and floor coverings. Here are common ways to clear your home of allergens:Substitute blinds for window coverings. If you rent, and can't get permission to switch them, keep the curtains washed and frequently vacuum the drapes.If possible, replace overstuffed upholstered furniture with leather.Eliminate decorative scented candles, potpourri, and plug-in air fresheners, all of which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with wood or tile floors. Otherwise, thoroughly vacuum carpeting regularly.Consider Allergy Medication     Medication is often the first thing people consider when dealing with a cat allergy. Over-the-counter or prescription medication, natural remedies such as BioAllers, or a series of allergy shots (immunotherapy) are all worth investigating. Keep in mind that you should always check with your physician or allergist before embarking on a new treatment.Visit Friends With Cats     Choose to visit a friend with an outgoing cat to allow you to get up close and personal with a feline, but on a limited basis. Ask your friend to choose a time when the cat is fed, comfortable, and relaxed. Ask your friend permission to use an allergy relief spray or wipes on the cat if necessary while you're visiting.      Use your allergy medication half an hour before the arranged time. When you arrive, let the cat set the pace. You may be greeted by being sniffed at your feet and legs at first. You can dangle your hand to see if the cat rubs up against it, which can indicate petting is acceptable. If your allergies are still under control, you might allow the cat to jump onto your lap. Make your visit about 15 minutes at the most to keep both you and the cat comfortable.     In another week or two, visit again with the same cat, and stay longer, up to half an hour. Begin to branch out and visit other friends with cats. Consider Hypoallergenic Breeds     There are a few breeds of cats considered to be hypoallergenic, or at least helpful to those with allergies, including the following breeds:Sphynx: These cats have very fine, sparse hair.Rex: Certain rex breeds, like the Devon Rex have fine, wavy or curly hair that may not trap dander the way thicker coats do.Siberian: These cats lack the Fel d 1 protein in their saliva that becomes dander after grooming, a characteristic that may be good for those with allergies.     To find out more information about these specific breeds, see if there's a local cat show you can attend where you can observe them. Many cat breed clubs hold shows highlighting individual breeds.Visit Your Local Animal Shelter     Once you feel that your allergies are under control, consider adoption. Here's how to navigate a trip to your local animal shelter or a cat adoption event.Dress in comfortable, casual clothes.Remember to take any allergy medications beforehand.Prepare to spend an hour or so at the shelter or event.Take a few cats, one at a time, into a private room, if available, and spend some time with each one.     It's often been said that cats usually chose their humans, so let a cat's actions guide you in your choice. You may need to visit the shelter several times before you find the cat that fits your lifestyle.     Make sure your home is completely prepared for a new pet. Once you have made your choice, talk to the personnel, tell them about your allergies, and ask if the cat may be returned, as a last resort, if your allergies are aggravated once you bring the pet home. Try to restrict your new cat from going into your bedroom so you can sleep free of even the faintest of allergy symptoms.     Once you get your cat home, consider feeding a specific allergen-reducing cat food called Pro Plan LiveClear. This diet has been scientifically proven to decrease the Fel d 1 allergen in cat dander. Also, routine wiping of your cat's fur with baby wipes or damp cloths will also help decrease dander spreading.     Cats are amazing creatures and hopefully, with advancements in allergy medications, feline diet control and routine coat maintenance, you can enjoy a feline friend even with allergies. 

Just as with humans, there are a number of things you can learn by looking into your cat's eyes. A cat's pupils should normally be the same size. A change in the size of the pupil in one eye can indicate a number of conditions, ranging from mild to serious. These include:Inflammation of the eyeHorner's syndrome (a neurological disorder)FeLV (may cause pupillary spasms)TumorsCentral nervous system injuryThe "Third Eyelid"Cats have an inner third eyelid, called a nictitating membrane, which protects the eye from dryness and/or damage. When a cat is sick, the third eyelid will partially close over their eyes. This is a signal to get him to the vet immediately. Curiously enough, a very happy cat will also show that nictating membrane.Moody Eyes"Like many other physical characteristics of the cat, his moods are reflected by his eyes," writes the owner of "What Makes Cats Work." "Pupil size changes are the clue: an angry cat will have narrowed pupils, while an excited or frightened cat will have eyes wide open, with large pupils. A mellow, happy cat's eyes will sometimes appear a shade darker than normal. I can't explain this one; it's just an observation."Diseases and Conditions of the EyeCats are subject to a number of the same conditions we sometimes have, including cataracts, glaucoma, and conjunctivitis (pinkeye). The latter, if caused by the chlamydia bacteria, can be contagious to humans.Since cats' eyes are so important to their general welfare, it is crucial that you take your cat to a veterinarian at the first sign of trouble. Many conditions can be treated easily if caught in time but can lead to months of veterinary expense and possibly even blindness, if ignored.Cats' Night VisionCats' nocturnal vision is far superior to that of humans. While they can't see in total darkness, they can see with only one-sixth of the illumination we need to see. In the feline, the muscles of the iris surrounding the pupils are constructed in a way that allows the eye to narrow to a vertical slit in bright light and to open fully in very dim light to allow maximum illumination.In addition, a reflective layer behind the cat's retina, called the tapetum lucidum, reflects incoming light and bounces it back off the cones, making more use of the existing light. The tapetum is probably responsible for the shiny green orbs you see when a small amount of light hits a cat's eyes at night.These special feline features have probably developed for survival purposes, as wild cats are nocturnal and do much of their hunting at night.Testing Cats' Eyes to Help HumansIn 2000, a team of scientists at the University of California in Berkeley used cats to learn more about human vision. During the controversial experiment, the team, led by Yang Dan, assistant professor of molecular and cell biology, anesthetized the cats and then implanted electrodes into their brains and showed them images. They were able to record the cats' responses to light and dark and using a mathematical equation, they converted the signals into images.Since cats' eyes are so similar to humans, the team hoped to answer a number of questions about how the eye and the brain work together to capture, encode, and reassemble images.Cats Eye TriviaCats cannot see directly beneath their noses. You can test this by offering your kitty a treat. He can smell it, but if you drop it directly beneath his nose, he'll have to root around a bit before finding it.Rumors aside, cats are not color blind. Their ability to see color is not as enhanced as ours, but they can see some colors.If normal human vision is 20/20, then that of the cat is 20/100. It has keen vision for objects far away, but things up close may appear fuzzy or blurred. Perhaps this is why cats do the sniff test when greeting friends.Most white, blue-eyed cats are deaf. A white cat with odd eyes (one blue and one green or gold) will most often be deaf on the side with the blue eye.Cats "kiss" with their eyes. Of course, a nip on the nose is also their way of giving a kiss. If you want to show your cat you love him, give it a kitty kiss right back. Not on the nose. Just give it that long stare and slow blink and see what happens.If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.

          The all-important first six weeks in a cat's life will do much in determining its personality and character for the rest of his life. This period is extremely important for the health of the developing kitten.     Very young kittens are susceptible to several serious threats, such as parasites and upper respiratory infections (URI), which when combined with other problems can lead to fading kitten syndrome (FKS), a serious and often fatal condition. FKS is more often found with litters of stray and feral cats, so if you are in a kitten foster situation, those kittens should be kept away from other cats in the home until they have all been checked clear of communicable diseases.     Kittens will probably never grow again at the remarkable rate they accomplish during this period, and seeing the changes in their development from week to week is an incredible experience.What to Do After Your Cat Gives BirthWeek 1In the first week, your newborn kitten is a tiny food processing factory. Here is what to expect:The kitten will be concentrating on feeding and growth. It will double its birth weight this week.Other physical changes are taking place which will become more apparent soon.Week 2Your kitten is continuing his growth at an astonishing rate, by at least 10 grams per day. These changes also occur:Its eyes will start to open and will be completely open at 9 to 14 days old. All kittens' eyes are blue and will remain so for several weeks. Vision will be blurred at first. As a kitten's pupils don't dilate and contract readily, protect your kitten from bright lights.The kitten's sense of smell is developing, and it will even hiss at unfamiliar odors.You may be able to determine the sex of the kittens by this time. Don't be too sure though; even veterinarians sometimes make mistakes this early.Week 3The kitten has many changes:Ear canals will be completely open.Kittens can voluntarily eliminate now, as the digestive system is developing.They will start to socialize now with each other and with people and will want to explore their surroundings a bit.Week 4Coming up on a month, the kitten shows these characteristics:Depth perception has developed.The sense of smell is fully developed.Baby teeth will start to show.Kittens are learning to walk without stumbling.They will interact more with their littermates, even to the point of forming "alliances" which may or may not be gender-based.Week 5After a month the kitten graduates to new experiences:Kittens may be introduced to canned kitten food at this time. Select a quality brand of canned kitten food with a named meat source as the first ingredient (chicken is good). Many breeders and rescuers will have been feeding this food to the mother cat, and the kittens will quickly accommodate to eating what mom eats.Kittens can also be trained in the litter box now. They need a smaller, separate box, one that will be easy to access and exit, with only an inch or two of litter.As human babies experiment by tasting everything, so will kittens. If your kitten is eating the litter during their training period, try changing the litter type and monitor closely to see if the behavior continues. If your kitten insists on eating any type of litter available, talk to your veterinarian to see if underlying health issues should be investigated.Week 6     Socializing a kitten at this age will make all the difference in the world to his personality and interaction with humans as adult cats. Here are important milestones in the sixth week:Kittens can run, pounce, leap, and entertain themselves and their human observers endlessly. Just as quickly they can fall asleep at the drop of a hat, (growing up is hard work), so let them get all the rest they need.Kittens will follow their mother cat's lead in socializing with humans. If she has a comfortable relationship with the humans in her life, so will her kittens. However, if kittens are not accustomed to human handling by six weeks, it will be a long, slow, process to train them later, and, as an adult, such a cat may never be a "lap cat."Feral cat rescuers may consider having the litter spend time with humans (separate from the mother) before 6 weeks of age for optimal results in socializing the kittens for new homes. Socializing Tip     Kittens should learn at this age that hands are not for playing—hands are for holding, petting, and feeding. One of the best "toys" for teaching this lesson is a plastic drinking straw. You can drag it across the floor and watch the kitten chase it, then wiggle it a bit and allow him to pounce on it and "capture" it. The baby may proudly strut with his prize before settling down to bite on it. The plastic is nice and crunchy and makes a good aid for teething, as well.     Well-socialized and completely weaned kittens may be ready for their new forever homes in just a couple of weeks. If you've been waiting for your kittens to be old enough to adopt, you'll probably be pretty excited by now.     Patience, though. Remember, "All good things come to those who wait." 

     The last thing we want is for our pets to be in danger during a fire when both smoke and flames can endanger them.     So what should you do in case your alarms go off and your furry (or fin-bearing) friends are also in harm's way?Have a Plan in Place     The best way to protect pets if your home catches fire is to include them in your family plan. Sarah Wooten, DVM and Pumpkin Pet Insurance veterinary expert, says leaving matters to firefighters is important, but making sure your pet is documented ensures they'll be prioritized and brought to safety.     A decal or sign on a window or door can let first responders know how many pets and humans are in the house, says Maja Drodz, a veterinarian at Goldsmith Veterinary Clinic in Denver.Don’t have a family plan for fires? Ready.gov has a great template. Microchip Cats and Dogs     Wooten says keeping identification tags or microchips updated in the event your cat or dog gets lost during a house fire will dramatically increase the likelihood they'll be found and returned to you.      It is best to rely on these backup plans in case of separation, but there are also ways to transport the pets out safely when you have to evacuate your home.Have Appropriate Travel Preparations on Hand     Wooten advises keeping several cat and dog leashes around your home in case you ever need to escape a fire.     "Carry your cat or dog with a towel to make sure they don't inhale too much smoke," Drodz adds.     Along with carriers, pet owners should make an emergency kit for their dogs or cats with extra leashes, a first aid kit, a week's worth of food, litter and disposable trays, food and water bowls, copies of medical records, and toys.     Carriers also apply to smaller animals, Drodz says, as carrying rodents or lizards in a small transport kennel should be part of an evacuation emergency kit.     The kits should also include food, bottled water and a bowl, baby wipes for cleaning, paper towels, heat bulbs, spray bottles, and a blanket to deal with cold and stress.Make Firefighters' Jobs Easier     Wooten cautions against ever re-entering a burning home if your pet didn't come with you. That should be left to the firefighters, she says.     "If your pet didn’t make it out with you, as much as you might be tempted, you will endanger your own life [if you re-enter]," she says.     Instead, create an exit point by leaving doors and windows open, and continually call your pet’s name to help them navigate their way out, she says.How To Prioritize Fish Safety     Wooten suggests keeping two nets near your tank and several plastic bags that fit the size of your fish just in case.     "That way, in case of a fire, you can quickly scoop the fish up and into the bags," she says. "Turning the light off in the tank helps to confuse the fish so they are easier to catch."     Drodz agrees and says to have the fish-safe plastic bags ready filled with one-third water.     "If you have more time, a 5-gallon bucket with a lid and hole for air pump that can be plugged into car power adapter is also good to have on hand," she says.Reptiles Also Need Rescuing     Keep a small plastic transportation container near the enclosures of reptilian pets that you can use in case of an emergency for transportation, Wooten says. It is helpful to also have a store of food, medicine, and other supplies as well to store in the container.       "If you are exiting a home with small pets ... place the animal in a large pillow case or cardboard box and carry them out in a pillow case or box," she says. "Pillow cases can also be used to transport animals down from heights if you tie a knot in one end." Prevent Fires in the First Place     Wooten suggests fire-proofing your home to ensure curious and active pets don't knock over things in the first place.     She cautions against using open flames. If they are open, keep them supervised, out of reach, and extinguished before leaving the home.     Stoves accidentally turned on by a pet bumping into a knob are also a common way pets accidentally start home fires, so she suggests removing knobs or covering them.Wooten says this is the best way to protect your pet from fires.

     Feline communication is a complex system of sign language, some vocalization, and even scent cues people can’t detect. Signals help define and reinforce the cat’s social position and smooth cat-to-cat, cat-to-people, and cat-to-dog relationships.     Silent communication can be as subtle as a gently flicked tail. Misreading a cat’s clear signal may prompt a hissy fit or worse — injury to you, or your other pets.Cat Tail Positions     Friendly cat tails seek to decrease the distance between individuals. The high-held tail pointed straight up is the feline equivalent of a “howdy!” and means Kitty welcomes attention and interaction. However, dog tails held straight up with little movement mean the opposite — and in dog-cat households in which pets don’t speak the same language, a spat may ensue.     A relaxed cat's tail curves down and back up in a gentle U. The more interest he feels, the higher the tail. Confident cats also hold their tails high, and when the end barely tips over like a finger waving “hi there,” it means he’s interested in interaction.Wagging Cat Tails     Other cat tail signals warn you away with signs to increase the distance between individuals. A wagging tail tells you to “back off!” And when Kitty starts thumping the ground with her tail, she’s ready to attack. A moving tail in cats generally indicates arousal of some sort — excitement, fear, aggression — but your dog may mistake the tail-wagging cat as an invitation to approach. After all, doggy wags often mean, “come close, let’s be friends.”     The end of the tail flicking back and forth usually indicates frustration or heightened emotion. Tabby may do this when the bumbling puppy won’t back off. If this tail warning to back off is ignored, the tail escalates to lashing or thumping — and ultimately an attack.Bristled Cat Tails     Watch Kitty’s fur level, too. Fur standing straight off the body (piloerection) indicates great arousal. A bristled tail held upright or straight behind the cat indicates aggression — watch out! But the bottlebrush tail held in an inverted U shows fear or defensiveness, and if push comes to shove, the cat will shove back with all claws bared.     Tucking the tail between the legs signals ultimate fear. That doesn’t mean Kitty won’t resort to using claws and teeth, though, if she’s cornered. You’ll usually also hear lots of hissing, growling, and other vocalizations, and the terrified cat may crouch low to the floor with ears slicked back. Or she may turn onto her back — not in submission, but to get all four claw-filled paws ready for defense. Once again, this can confuse dogs (and owners), who misinterpret rolling over as a sign of submission. Cats don’t do submission.Cat Communication Matters     It’s important that cat owners recognize feline “tail talk” because many behavior problems are a result from miscommunication.1 Cats tell us how they feel and what they want, and they must think humans are incredibly dense not to understand.     If you are an equal opportunity pet lover who shares your home with both dogs and cats, you may need to act as an interpreter. It can take a while for dogs to understand what Kitty tells them (and vice versa). Becoming multilingual solves or prevents a host of potential pet problems. 

     How often should cats and kittens eat? There is no quick and easy answer, as the age and relative health of your cat, how many cats you have, your home environment, and the type of food you feed will all play a large part in how you handle feeding.     For example, a stay-at-home caregiver will be able to feed canned food to kittens or geriatric cats several times a day. On the other hand, a single, working owner or a two-income family will rely more on dry cat food, with early morning and late-night supplements of canned food.How Frequently Should You Feed Kittens Canned Food?     Kittens need roughly twice the nutrients of adult cats, for both growth and energy.1 Obviously, their tummies cannot handle large quantities of food. Therefore, much like human babies, they need frequent feedings at first, tapering off as they grow. It is important during this time to weigh the kittens regularly to ensure they are gaining regularly, but not becoming overly fat. Their hunger will usually be a pretty good guideline for determining if they are getting enough nutrition.     As a rule, it is best for kittens under 8 weeks old to remain with the mother cat.2 If this is impossible, a kitten may be fed by bottle as early as 2 weeks old. Alternatively, the kitten can at five weeks old, be gradually introduced to a good canned kitten food, mixed with equal parts of a "kitten formula" such as kitten milk replacer (KMR). Note: I do not advise giving kittens whole milk, as many cats are allergic to it. As the kitten approaches 6 weeks old, the amount of KMR can be gradually reduced, until the kitten is eating canned food alone.Please note that these guidelines refer to feedings of canned food:At 6 weeks old: Three or more small feedings, spaced regularly throughout the day. Be sure to weigh the kitten regularly, and record his or her weight in a dated chart to keep track of its development.At 12 weeks old: Increase the amount of each meal, and gradually space them out to three meals a day.Around 6 months old: You may gradually space out the meals to twice daily.How Often Should You Feed Adult Cats?     Unless a kitten is showing excessive weight gain, he is considered an adult at the age of 1 year, and for the next nine years or so, he may be fed adult "maintenance" food or canned cat food once or twice daily, with supplements of dry food when needed, as listed below.What About Dry Food?     Veterinarians say dry food given for the convenience of the caregiver will meet the nutritional needs of the cat as long it is complete and balanced.3 Cats have lived long and happy lives on an exclusive diet of dry foods, and for working caregivers, adult cats may be fed a meal of canned food morning and night, with dry food left out for "grazing." There are a variety of premium dry cat food options available to accommodate every type of cat.Geriatric and Special Needs Cats    Older cats can be on the same feeding schedule as adult cats as long as haven't developed conditions requiring specific dietary needs. It is best with these cats to follow your veterinarian's directions for feeding, including the schedule and type of food.

     Ever pondered whether cats are aware of their names? Cats are not known to respond to calls, in contrast to dogs. However, this does not always imply that your cat doesn't know its name if it doesn't twitch a whisker in response to your call.      A 2019 study that appeared in the journal Scientific Reports claims that cats are capable of self-recognition. Atsuko Saito, a behavioral scientist from Sophia University in Tokyo, is the study's principal author. Her earlier research has shown that cats can recognize their owners' voices.     Researchers saw cats in both regular homes and cat cafes for the purpose of the name recognition study. The café cats could tell their names apart from generic nouns, but they couldn't tell their names apart from the names of other cats that frequented the establishment. In contrast, the house cats could distinguish between their own names and those of other cats residing in the house, as well as between general nouns. Based on phonemic distinctions, the researchers deduced that cats are capable of distinguishing between the different parts of human language.Why Is My Cat Ignoring Me?     Why don't cats run to us when we call their names, given that we know they can recognize them? All it is, after all, is a cat being a cat. People often make comparisons between cats and dogs, but these two extremely distinct species shouldn't be expected to behave in the same ways. Compared to dogs, our feline companions are more distant and independent, and they don't always feel the need to react when you call their name.           When you call their name, some cats actually come running. Congratulations if you have a cat like this! Cats that readily engage with you and respond to your vocal utterances are lots of fun to live with. Such cats are often described as “dog-like” due to their extra devotion to their people.Be Patient If You Change Your Cat's Name     There are situations in which a cat may not even know its name; for example, you may acquire an adult cat and give it a new name, or you may have a kitten that has just received its first name. Depending on the situation, adopted adult cats may even be on their third or fourth name, so it's reasonable if they don't react to their new name straight away.          It's conceivable that your cat doesn't know its name yet if it doesn't react when you call it. The good news is that cats pick up new names with ease. There are methods to somewhat expedite the name-learning process, even though your cat will most likely pick up its new name given enough time. How to Teach Your Cat Its Name     You may be astonished to learn that you can teach cats to recognize their names. You can teach your cat its name (or refresh its memory) in the same way that you would teach a new habit. Follow these simple steps to teach your cat's name.      First, try not to use your cat's name too much. Repeating your cat's name can cause your cat to tune it out as background noise. Use it only during training sessions, especially if you're trying to teach your cat a new name. Later, you can say the name more freely, and your cat should recognize it.      Next, create a positive association with your cat’s name by pairing the name with a tasty treat. Use something your cat really likes, such as tiny bits of plain chicken or a favorite treat broken up into small pieces.TIP     Keep the treats very tiny (pea-sized or smaller), so you can reward your cat many times in a training session without making it too full or upsetting the balance of its diet.       Say your cat's name and promptly give it a treat. Say your cat's name again, and give him another reward. Repeat this about ten times in a few minutes, then take a rest. As the training sessions proceed, make sure to incorporate your cat's name into other words and converse normally, but only reward with a treat when its name is said. This way, your cat will associate the treat with its name rather than simply hearing your voice. Every day, play the name game two to three times (morning, noon, and night is ideal), for as long as it takes your cat to recognize its name.     To test to see if your cat knows its name, say her name without holding a treat and see how it reacts. If it turns toward you (or comes running!), you have achieved success. 

    Trivia about kittens you didn't know: the world of kittens revealed!     For thousands of years, people have kept cats as an animal. Although cats are ubiquitous, little is known about them. By exploring the biology, habits, history and science of cats, we will try to reveal the biological characteristics of cats. We will try to reveal some unknown secrets about cats through the three dimensions of biology, habits, history and science.     Part I: General Knowledge about the Physiology of Cats1.1 The Unique Vision of Cats     Cats have a completely different vision from humans. Although cats do not see as well as humans in the daytime, their visual ability is six times that of humans. This is due to a special reflective tissue called “zona pellucida” that grows behind the cat's eyes. This fiber enhances light and allows them to see even at night. 1.2 Foot pad perception in cats     In addition to cushioning and protection, a cat's foot pads are also a very useful means of sensing. Cats' paws are covered with nerve endings that sense soil vibrations and temperature changes, helping them to be more flexible when hunting.1.3 The Role of Cat Whiskers     A cat's long whiskers (whisker jigglers) are both a measure of distance and an important means of sensing air movement. In this way, even at night, cats can accurately recognize the orientation and shape of obstacles. A cat's whiskers can also convey a cat's emotions: when a cat is nervous or agitated, the whiskers will stretch forward. Part 2: The Basics of Cat Habits2.1 Why do cats love to stay in tight places?     You may have noticed that kittens love to get into boxes, drawers, and even shoes. It's a cat's nature. In the wild, cats choose tight places to avoid predators and ambushes, and domestic cats do the same.2.2 Cat's Secret “Cat Talk”     Cats are not naturally meowing, they communicate with each other mostly by body and scent. Studies have shown that cats communicate with people mostly by “meowing”, and also, in order to better communicate their needs, cats can adjust their purr according to their owner's response.2.3 The role of cat licking of hairs     A cat doesn't lick its own fur just because it's clean; it does it for several reasons. First, the caressing can help the cat adjust its body temperature. Second, licking the fur can help reduce tension. Also, licking the saliva contained in the cat's fur helps heal wounds. Chapter III: History and Culture of Cats3.1 Ancient Egyptians' Worship of Cats     Ancient Egyptians believed that the cat was a holy creature, and they believed that the cat could drive away evil. The famous Egyptian cat god, Bast, was an idol with a cat's head and body and was the protector of family, love and reproduction. Ancient Egyptians also held funeral services for cats and would place statues of cats in their cemeteries.3.2 European Misconceptions of the Cat in the Middle Ages    In medieval Europe, the cat was regarded as a symbol of evil, especially when it was thought to be the embodiment of a witch. Because of this superstition, cats were often persecuted at this time. However, it was this misunderstanding that made cats fewer and fewer while rats became more and more common, eventually causing the plague to spread.3.3 Japanese see cats as a sign of happiness     In Japan, people regard cats as symbols of good luck, especially the “fortune cat” is the most famous. According to myths, cats bring wealth and luck to people. They often raise one leg and the sides of their front paws represent wealth or popularity.  Part 4: About Cats and Contemporary Technology4.1 Genomics of Cats     Through the study of genetics, scientists have discovered much about the genetic information of cats. Studies have shown that the gene sequences of domesticated cats are very similar to those of wild cats, so it can be well explained why domestic cats still maintain many wild characteristics, such as independence and hunting nature.4.2 Analysis of Cat Emotions     Modern technology has enabled us to have a deeper understanding of cat emotions. For example, by using AI technology to analyze the cat's facial expression, voice and behavior, researchers are able to accurately understand the cat's mood and guide them to take better care of the cat.4.3 Space Cat Experiments     Cats are not only popular animals on earth, they have also been sent to space for experimentation.In 1963, the French sent a kitten called Felicette into the universe in order to study the neural response in a gravity-free state. Part 5: Health and Maintenance of Cats Cold Knowledge5.1 Drinking Habits of Cats     The ancestors of cats lived in the desert, so they lived on food. Therefore, cats generally do not like to drink water. In order to ensure that the kitten has enough to drink, the owner should feed it wet food or clean water.5.2 Oral and Dental Hygiene for Cats     Many cats suffer from toothaches, but most cat owners don't realize it. Dental diseases that cats suffer from not only cause mouth pain, but can have a negative impact on the overall condition of the body. Frequent brushing and oral hygiene checks for kittens are essential.5.3 Handling of Cat Fur     Cats have different requirements for maintaining their fur. Long-haired cats have to put more effort in order to avoid growing small balls, while short-haired cats are better cared for. Frequent brushing of the cat not only ensures that it looks neat and tidy, but also lets its owner know what's wrong with it. 

     Because they are innate hunters, cats would prefer to consume meat on their own as their main food source. However, when you read this, you might be wondering, do cats actually eat corn? Although the solution is straightforward, there are a few things you should be aware of first.      Learn more about giving your cat corn without risk.Corn in Cat Food     When you go cat food shopping, you might discover that maize is a common ingredient in many commercial products. Although maize and other grains have been referred to as "fillers" by some media outlets, the corn that is included in cat food is processed to make it easier for your cat to digest and to give it with nutrients. It's a healthy way to get your fill of protein, important fatty acids like linoleic acid, and carbohydrates. Scientific data does not support the notion that grains, such as corn, in cat food are harmful to cats.      However, remember that your cat has to eat just meat. You should never feed a vegan diet to your cat. While maize might be a part of your cat's diet, it shouldn't be the primary component.     Since your cat is an obligate carnivore, it must consume meat in order to obtain its necessary nutrients. Actually, cats need certain nutrients that are only found in animal products, such as taurine. Your cat does not have to avoid grains just because it is an obligatory carnivore. It implies that the majority of your cat's diet should consist of meat because it is necessary.How to Feed Corn to Cats     Regularly giving your cat maize isn't the best treat you could give them because cats are obligate carnivores. As a matter of fact, commercial cat diet corn is far more likely to provide health benefits to a cat than home-cooked corn.      Your cat should only get a few kernels of cooked corn at a time if you wish to offer it to them as a treat. While corn is generally good when given infrequently, it should not be given to your cat as a regular treat. If your cat suffers from a chronic illness such as diabetes or has dietary sensitivities, you must obtain your veterinarian's approval before adding butter or spices to their food.     Cats should not eat corn cobs or corn husks. Both items can lead to a gastrointestinal blockage, which may necessitate emergency surgery.Potential Risks and Concerns     While most cats will be totally fine after eating a few kernels of corn, there are some risks to be aware of.      Vomiting and diarrhea: Because your cat's gastrointestinal tract is designed for meat eating, he or she may have difficulty digesting corn. If you feed your cat corn, it may pass whole kernels in its poo. Some cats experience vomiting and diarrhea. Corn cobs and husks can induce gastrointestinal blockages, which frequently necessitate surgical intervention.      Developing food allergies: Cats might grow allergic to corn over time. Cats' most common food allergies are to fish, poultry, dairy, and beef. Most cats' food allergies emerge as skin irritation and itching.     Obesity: Because corn contains starch, eating too much of it can increase your risk of becoming obese. With more than half of cats in the United States deemed fat, this is not a concern to be taken lightly! Obesity raises the likelihood of chronic health disorders such as diabetes and arthritis, as well as shortening a cat's lifespan.      Food poisoning: Cats who consume corn should only eat plain, unsalted, unbuttered maize. Added substances, such as garlic, might be harmful to cats. Butter and oils can cause gastrointestinal issues and contribute to obesity.Exacerbation of existing health conditions: If your cat has a chronic health condition, ensure that maize is approved before giving it to him.Alternatives to Corn for CatsIf you’d like to feed your cat human foods as a treat, consider these alternatives:Plain, cooked, lean meat like chicken or turkeyPlain, cooked fish like salmonCooked eggsBananasBlueberriesPumpkinStrawberriesSteamed broccoliCooked sweet potatoesCooked peas     Before feeding your cat human foods, consult with your veterinarian. Keep in mind that treats should not account for more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric consumption.      Instead of giving your cat corn as a treat, consider commercial cat treats, which are designed exclusively for cats.The Bottom Line on Corn for Cats     Corn is a safe ingredient in commercial cat foods, and it’s safe as a treat for most cats when given sparingly. The best way to ensure your cat’s nutrition needs are met, whether you’re giving corn as a treat or skipping it, is to provide a balanced meat-based diet formulated for cats. 

     The adage "curiosity killed the cat" refers to a cat's inclination to investigate everything in its surroundings and to occasionally become ill-informed about what to avoid. Your cat probably wants you to share if you are eating something. As a veterinarian in practice, I get questions all the time about what human foods—including tomatoes—are okay to give to our cats.Cat Nutrition     Cats genuinely enjoy eating flesh. Unlike dogs and humans, cats must consume carnivorous foods. This implies that meat must make up at least 70% of their diet. Cats do not need fruits, vegetables, or grains, yet they will consume them. A cat cannot follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.     Many cat owners are unsure about whether or not to offer their pets "human" food. Generally speaking, a cat should get all of its calories from premium, well-balanced cat food. On the other hand, rewarding a cat with a treat can serve as a training aid and reinforce the human-animal link. You can offer commercial cat treats, but you can also use tiny morsels of food that is usually meant for people, provided that you are certain that it is safe for cats to eat.Can Cats Eat Tomatoes?     Since most cats dislike this ruby-red fruit, you might find that your cat isn't interested in tomatoes if you put them on your menu. What if, however, your cat insists on eating your tomato?      Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, tomatoes are a fruit that is good for human health. Vitamins A, C, and K, potassium, fiber, and lycopene—a chemical present in high concentrations in tomatoes that has been linked to numerous health benefits—are all found in abundance in tomatoes.      Despite everything mentioned above on tomatoes' health benefits for people, it is incorrect to believe that cats who eat tomatoes will also benefit from them. Since tomatoes are not meant for cats' digestive systems, eating excessive amounts of them might result in vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.      It is vital to note that green tomatoes that have not fully ripened, as well as their stems and leaves, are a greater risk to your cat. Unripe tomatoes, as well as all components of the tomato plant's stem and leaves, are harmful to cats. Solanine, the deadly substance found in these green plant portions, is toxic to cats and many other animals. If a cat consumes an unripe tomato or the leaves or stems of a tomato plant, it may develop gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, a dangerously slow heart rate (bradycardia), and severe vomiting.Green tomatoes that have been properly cooked are safer because they contain no active solanine; nonetheless, they might still induce stomach irritation if consumed in large numbers.How Much Tomato Can Cats Eat?     If your cat enjoys tomatoes, you can safely feed them small portions of the matured flesh on occasion. However, it is recommended that you take no more than one or two bits of tomato flesh. If your cat consumes a big amount of the fruit, keep an eye out for any signs of gastrointestinal trouble, including as vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea. If any adverse effects are observed, call your veterinarian immediately.Final Thoughts     When sharing tomatoes with your cat, a few little nibbles of mature tomato flesh are unlikely to cause problems. However, underripe tomatoes, stems, and leaves should be avoided. If your cat consumes any of the following, please contact your veterinarian immediately.     Cats are real carnivores who require at least 70% of their diet to be meat, hence it is vital to feed them a meat-based diet. Treats should not account for more than 10% of total daily calories. If the cat is given too many snacks or treats, it may get too full to eat enough of its regular food. This may result in nutritional deficits and catastrophic sickness.      Feed your kitty. Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine.As usual, if you have any questions or concerns regarding your pet's health or what to feed your cat, please contact your veterinarian.