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.  

     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 Cats 1.1 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 Habits 2.1 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 Cats 3.1 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 Technology 4.1 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 Knowledge 5.1 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.  

     As a person who has always been fascinated by felines, it’s not surprising that I associate myself with cats. For me, cats are more than just adorable creatures; they represent my personality, behaviors and attitude towards life. In many ways, cats reflect who I am as a person. From their insatiable curiosity, two-sided personality traits, to their independence, there are a few reasons why cats represent me best as a person.      One of the characteristics that I share with cats is curiosity. Cats are known for their inquisitive nature; they explore, observe and investigate their surroundings. They are naturally curious beings, and I can relate to them in this aspect. As a person, I am also interested in unraveling the mysteries of life. I love exploring the unknown, trying out new things, and learning about different aspects of life. Like cats, I am not afraid of taking risks, and I often venture into uncharted territories with curiosity being my guiding light.     Another reason why cats represent me best as a person is their two-sided personality traits. Cats have a reputation for being both loving and aloof. They can be affectionate and cuddly at one moment, and then turn into fierce hunters the next. Similarly, I, too, have my fair share of contradictory personality traits. I can be outgoing and social, but at the same time, I also cherish my quiet and introspective moments. Like cats, I am a complex creature, and my personality tends to shift and change depending on the situation.     Finally, cats’ independence is yet another reason why these felines represent me best as a person. Cats are self-sufficient animals; they can groom themselves, hunt their food, and keep themselves entertained. They are independent creatures who thrive on their own. As a person, I value my independence and appreciate the ability to take care of myself. Like cats, I enjoy being self-sufficient, and I am not afraid of facing the world on my own.     In conclusion, there are numerous reasons why cats represent me best as a person. From their curiosity, two-sided personality traits, to their independence, these felines resonate with my personality, behaviors, and attitude towards life. As a proud cat person, I can confidently say that my little feline friends offer glimpses of myself, and I am grateful for their companionship.

     Appearance, Personality, History, Care, & Helpful Information for Pet Owners      There is no particular breed of cat that is calico. In reality, they belong to domestic cat breeds with distinctive calico (tri-color) coats. One calico might have the typical pattern of bright orange, black, and white, while another might have a softer blue-and-cream color scheme. The latter is referred as in feline genetics as a "dilute calico."      Two calico cats will never look precisely the same. They are renowned for their wit and spunk, but they are also devoted and caring friends to individuals of all ages. Their personalities are equally intriguing. It's interesting to note that nearly all of the exceedingly rare male calicoes—one out of every 3,000—are infertile, meaning they are unable to procreate. It contributes to their reputation as fortunate people.    Find out more about the unique qualities of calico cats.   Breed Overview Personality: Sassy, spunky, bold, affectionate, independent, loyal Weight: Up to 12 pounds Length: About 18 inches Coat Length: Short hair and long hair Coat Colors: Orange, black, blue, lilac, and cream Coat Patterns: Tri-color (calico) Eye Color: Yellow, green, or blue Lifespan: 15 years, depending on breed Hypoallergenic: No Origin: Possibly Egypt and the Mediterranean coast Calico Cat Characteristics      The calico is a medium-sized domestic cat renowned for their spunky, assertive personality. While this is a generally independent cat who doesn't require constant attention, the calico is also sweet, loving, and loyal.     They will readily bond with a single person but enjoy the company of an entire family, too. However, a study on cat coat colors and behavior found that calicos tend to be more aggressive.    Calicoes differ from tortoiseshell cats, whose colors (red and black) are interwoven throughout the coat instead of appearing in distinct patches of solid color. History of the Calico Cat     No one is sure where the calico originated, though the cats likely emerged from Egypt and were traded along the Mediterranean.     Calico cats are believed to bring good luck in the folklore of many cultures. In Japan, Maneki Neko are good luck figures—the waving cat—that sometimes depict calico cats. In the United States, these are sometimes referred to as "money cats."     Researchers began seriously studying calico cats and their appearance in the late 1940s. Murray Barr and his graduate student E.G. Bertram noticed masses inside the nuclei of nerve cells of female cats. They were absent in male cats. These dark masses eventually were called Barr bodies and determined to be inactive X chromosomes. Mary Lyon proposed the concept of X-inactivation in 1961. It occurs when one of the two X chromosomes inside a female mammal shuts off. She observed this in the coat color patterns in mice, similar to the patterns of calico cats.      In calico cats, the fur-color gene occupies the X chromosome. If that chromosome deactivates, a different fur color will appear. The inactive chromosomes are random, which is why each calico cat has a unique pattern. Calico Cat Care      A calico cat's breed will determine a lot of its maintenance requirements. For example, the coats of shorthaired calicoes will require less brushing than the coats of longhaired varieties.      All cats, regardless of breed, require stimulation and activity. It is imperative that you ensure your cat has regular veterinary care and has all of its vaccinations up to date. Remember the importance of giving your cat regular tooth brushing. Common Health Problems      The lifespan of a calico cat can be influenced by their breed. Male calico cats tend to have more health issues than female calicoes.      Regardless of the breed, a male calico cat is prone to a genetic health condition called Klinefelter Syndrome. In addition to being sterile, these cats experience cognitive and developmental issues, behavioral problems, reduced bone mineral content, and obesity.      Female calico cats do not have health problems that correlate with their color patterns, but they may have issues specific to their respective breeds. That's why it's important to schedule regular visits with your vet. Appearance      Calico cats are some of the most strikingly patterned cats, wearing bold patches of colors—mostly orange, black, and white.      According to the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) show standards for calico Persians, the cat should be a tri-color cat of black, red, and white with white feet, legs, belly, chest, and muzzle. The cat should also have a colored tail and one or more colored patches on the head and body.      Calicoes' eye colors include copper, blue, green, or odd-eyed. In show-quality Persians, odd-eyed bi-colors should have one blue and one copper eye with equal color depth. Diet and Nutrition      A complete and balanced cat food, whether dried or canned, is generally a great option for calicoes of any breed. However, research your specific breed of cat to find out if they have any unique dietary requirements. Ask your veterinarian for feeding advice, too. Where to Adopt or Buy a Calico Cat      Calicoes are generally not breed specific. You may find one at your local shelter or pet rescue for under $100. Calico-patterned breeds are more expensive.      Calico cats are not rare, but finding one at a local shelter can be difficult. Check with breeders of cats who tend to have calico coloration in your area to see if any specialize in calico patterns, or search online adoption sites to locate a kitten or cat in your area.

     😸People want happy cats, and as worried "cat parents," they frequently wonder if their cat is content. There are several fairly general joyful cat cues, even though each cat is unique and, like people, may express contentment in different ways. Numerous indicators let you know whether your cat is happy. Vocal Clues      🔊In fact, cats can "say" they're glad. Talkative cats engage in lengthy and detailed talks with you. Higher-pitched noises are typically associated with happiness, but lower-pitched sounds may be more demanding and show signs of impatience. Cats that are quiet may use quietness to convey happiness and vocalize more to convey sadness. Yes, it is confusing! But that's precisely why people adore their mysterious cats! Purrs are generally a sign of feline happiness or even bliss, though they aren't always pleased. The "prrrrupttt!" sound that many cats make when they chuckle or trill is a highly reliable indicator of their contentment. Body Language      🤟Numerous eye, ear, fur, and body positions can be used to read if a cat is agitated or content. A happy, satisfied cat, for instance, would lie with its front paws tucked under, ears forward, and possibly its eyelids "sleepy" at half mast. The way she blinks her eyes in response to your glance across the room is a sign of happiness. Eye dilation that occurs suddenly might be interpreted as either arousal-distress or arousal-happiness, for example, in reaction to a full food bowl. Happier cats have smooth fur, relaxed tails, and slightly forward-pointing whiskers. The tail of a happy, engaged cat is held straight up, with only the tip cocked in a "howdy" salutation to humans and other animals the cat regards as pals. Engaged and Confident      🤗A content cat expresses curiosity about its surroundings. Perhaps it is the "supervisor cat" that likes to have his paws into everything new in the house. Or it might just stand back and observe quietly. A happy cat responds cautiously rather than fearfully, even though many cats have an innate mistrust of strangers. Cats with confidence have the highest happiness factor. Play      🐱Kittens that are healthy and socialized play endlessly, as they just don't know any different than to be joyful. Playing is a great way to show that you're happy. Play activity in cats naturally decreases as they become older, but it frequently persists to some extent. Play can take many forms, from merrimentous racing and cat wrestling matches to calm paw-patting of features (or your leg or face for attention) to show that your cat is happy. Cats play with animals (and people) that they enjoy and feel comfortable around. Sleep      😴Although cats tend to sleep more when they're sick or melancholy, their preferred sleeping spots can also be signs of contentment. Cozy relationships with selected nap partners are indicated by sleeping with other cats, and particularly by actively seeking them out. Celebrate if your cat decides to share your bed with you! That implies that your cat has faith in you—doubt, after all, leads to discontent. Grooming      😼Feeling cats maintain a neat appearance. An untidy cat is a signal of disease, injury, or dissatisfaction; however, a well-groomed cat is a sign that it is in good health. Along with shared napping, grooming other cats or licking the owner demonstrates strong relationships and trust. Cats that get along well may even groom one another. But since cats are unique, not all of them have the need to groom other cats. Eating      🐟Cats that are happy eat well. Yes, they might use deception to trick owners into giving them extra food or treats. However, in many respects, this kind of manipulation merely serves as an indicator of how dedicated many cats are to making their owners happy.