Do Cats Kill Their Kittens?

It's an unnerving question for cat lovers, but unfortunately, yes, cats can indeed kill their own kittens. While this behavior is rare and goes against the norm of mother cats caring for their kittens, it is a phenomenon that happens. This act is typically seen when a mother cat feels threatened and thinks she cannot protect her kittens from the threat.

Mother cats, or queens, have very powerful maternal instincts, and they will do almost anything to protect their kittens. However, if the mother cat is young, inexperienced, anxious, or feeling extreme stress, she may perceive even normal situations as threatening to her kittens. In these cases, the mother may unfortunately choose to kill her kittens to protect them from what she perceives as a danger. Furthermore, male cats, or toms, might kill kittens that they don't perceive as their own. This act, known as infanticide, happens among many animal species. The motive behind this behavior is to bring the female back into heat so the male cat can mate with her and father her next litter of kittens. These scenarios, while possible, are rare, particularly in domesticated cats that live in safe, loving homes. By ensuring your cat has a calm and stress-free environment to raise her kittens in, and by neutering any male cats in the home, the likelihood of infanticide occurring is greatly reduced.

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Signs of your Cat Has Imprinted On You

Cats, despite their reputation for being aloof and independent, are capable of developing deep bonds with their humans. The process of this bonding can be called imprinting, similar to what happens between mother and offspring in the wild. However, how do we know if our cat has imprinted on us? Here are some signs to watch for: 1. Constant Purring : Cats purr for a number of reasons - when they are content, feel secure or when they want to bond with their human. A cat who frequently purrs when they are around you may have imprinted on you. 2. Sleeping on You or Next to You : Cats are at their most vulnerable when they are asleep. If your cat consistently chooses to sleep next to you, on your lap or curled against your side, it can indicate that they feel safe and secure around you. 3. Seeking Physical Contact : Cats who are imprinted on a person will often seek physical contact. This could include brushing against your legs, sitting on your lap, or wanting to be held or ...

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As a cat lover, the health and wellbeing of your feline friend is undoubtedly paramount. Today, let's talk about an important aspect of feline health: hyperthyroidism in cats. Hyperthyroidism is a common condition in older cats, usually those aged over ten. This ailment involves an overactive thyroid, leading to excessive production of thyroid hormones. It's the most common glandular disorder in cats, and if left untreated, can have severe health impacts. Understanding the Signs To ensure early detection, it’s crucial to know the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Some common signs to look out for include: 1. Weight loss despite an increased appetite. 2. Increased thirst and urination. 3. Hyperactivity or restlessness. 4. Vomiting or diarrhea. 5. A fast or irregular heartbeat. 6. Dull, matted or greasy coat. If your cat is displaying any of these signs, schedule a visit with your vet right away. Treatment Options Thankfully, hyperthyroidism in cats can be effectively ...

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