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Tag: Cats

  • Cats Are Playing a Whole Lot More Fetch Than They Get Credit For

    Cats Are Playing a Whole Lot More Fetch Than They Get Credit For

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    Fetching isn’t just for slobbery canines, new research reveals. Surveying thousands of pet owners, scientists have found that a large minority of cats do like to play fetch at least some of the time. That said, dogs are still much more likely to go and chase after a toy or stick.

    Scientists at Purdue University conducted the research, hoping to quantify our pets’ aptitude for fetching. While dogs are considered prolific fetchers, there hasn’t been much research on how common the behavior truly is in the canine world, according to the researchers. Similarly, while recent research has found that some cats will fetch to their heart’s content, it’s not clear how often this happens.

    To better understand this phenomenon, the researchers analyzed data from two long-running research projects involving cat and dog owners respectively: the Fe-BARQ and C-BARQ. As part of these projects, owners are given extensive surveys that delve into their pets’ behavior, including how they like to play.

    Based on data from over 8,000 cat owners, the scientists found that about 41% of cats exhibited classic fetching behavior. Some owners used the word “fetch” directly to describe their cat’s playing style in their responses, while others instead remarked that their cats like to “retrieve thrown objects or toys.” Dogs were still the champs at fetching, though. Based on responses from 78,000 dog owners, the researchers found 78% of dogs would play fetch regularly.

    “The data from these two surveys reveal that fetching behavior may be more common in cats than previously estimated and provides, to our knowledge, the first estimate of fetching behavior prevalence among dogs,” the researchers wrote in their paper, published Wednesday in the journal PLOS-One.

    Professional non-fetcher, Cheddar ‘Chiz’ Cara. © Ed Cara

    The researchers also found plenty of similarities and differences between fetching cats and dogs. Fetching tended to be more common among both cats and dogs if they were younger, male, and/or in generally good health, for instance. But whereas fetching was associated with better overall trainability in dogs (the better trained they could be, the more likely they fetched), cats were more likely to fetch if they were generally more playful and active, as well as if they lived indoors.

    Fetching was seen throughout all cat and dog breeds, but some stuck out. Burmese, Siamese, and Tonkinese cats were more common fetchers, for instance, and the researchers note that these cats originate from populations taken to and isolated to eastern Asia early on during cat domestication, suggesting that their love of fetching may be genetically influenced. Among dogs, retriever, labrador, and other breeds bred to hunt or move livestock were more likely to fetch.

    The authors hypothesize that, while fetching can resemble natural hunting behaviors in both animals, it’s more likely to be connected to their love of playing. Fetching might also be one way that both cats and dogs form and reinforce the bonds they make with their humans. Either way, there’s plenty more to be learned about our furry feline and canine friends.

    “We hope that the study draws more attention to fetching behavior in cats—who are often portrayed as independent or aloof! In fact, they can be very social and this is a nice example of one way they are interactive with humans,” said lead study researcher Mikel Delgado, in an interview with PLOS, publishers of the study.

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    Ed Cara

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  • Giving up pets to seek rehab can worsen trauma. A Colorado group intends to end that.

    Giving up pets to seek rehab can worsen trauma. A Colorado group intends to end that.

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    Simon Rubick had lost almost everything to decades of alcoholism and drug addiction.

    In 2022, he found himself without a vehicle and without a home, which forced his two teenage children to move in with friends. He had burned bridges with friends and family and it took a drug-induced stint in the hospital for him to realize his cocaine addiction was going to be a “death sentence.”

    Rubick, who lives in the Denver suburb of Arvada, Colorado, knew he needed help. But first he had to figure out what to do with one of the only sources of unconditional love and support he had left: his beloved German shepherd rescue, Tonks.

    Most residential rehab centers in the United States don’t allow patients to bring their pets along, said Rubick, 51. So when his brother could no longer help care for the dog, Rubick thought he would have to make the excruciating decision to give up Tonks.

    “It basically came down to being able to take care of my dog or being able to take care of myself,” he said.

    Rubick — who has been sober for more than two years and is now an addiction recovery coach — was connected to the group PAWsitive Recovery, which fosters animals while their owners receive treatment for drug and alcohol abuse, and for people dealing with domestic violence or mental health crises.

    “People that are trying to get into recovery sometimes have lost their families, their children, any kind of support system that they have had,” said Serena Saunders, the organization’s program manager. “You’re not going to compound trauma that you’ve already had by giving up the one thing that hasn’t given up on you, and that’s people’s animals.”

    Saunders founded PAWsitive Recovery in Denver three years ago. Since then, it’s helped more than 180 people and their pets, and Saunders said the group has looked to expand nationally after it became a part of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International. The organization, whose largest foster network is in Colorado but accepts applications nationwide, is one of just a few programs in the U.S. that cares for the pets of people seeking treatment for substance abuse.

    Saunders’ own experience with drug and alcohol addiction has helped her tailor the program. She said she had a “pretty broken childhood,” with her mother being schizophrenic and addicted to methamphetamine and her father also struggling with addiction. She sought comfort in alcohol when she was about 12 and was using hard drugs by the time she was 14.

    Ben Cochell, a volunteer for PAWsitive Recovery, lets his foster dog Dexter lick his face at his home in Denver on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Thomas Peipert)

    “Addiction just gave me trauma after trauma,” said Saunders, now 41.

    Saunders was seeing a therapist for her depression and PTSD when a fortuitous session planted the seed of PAWsitive Recovery. With a background in veterinary and shelter medicine, which focuses on caring for homeless animals, she told her therapist she wanted to incorporate her love of dogs in her recovery.

    “And that’s what we did,” said Saunders, who fostered Tonks for several months while Rubick was in treatment and facilitated visits between the two best friends.

    “To see a broken person when we’re meeting them in a parking lot, when they have nothing left to live for but their animal. And to see how broken and how desperate they are in that moment, and then to circle back around six months later and see them completely turn their lives around is just so special. It’s amazing,” said Saunders, who has been sober for 3 1/2 years.

    That sentiment is echoed by the organization’s volunteer foster families, some of whom are drawn to the program because of their own experiences with addiction.

    Denver resident Ben Cochell, 41, who has been sober from alcohol for more than seven years, has two dogs of his own and has fostered several more.

    “One of my favorite parts about fostering in this program is the ability to teach my kids some life lessons in how to help others and how to care for animals and be kind, be loving. And to just give of yourself,” he said. “That’s what you have. Your time and your energy. And you can give that away freely.”

    If not for PAWsitive Recovery, Rubick said he probably would have ended up living on the streets with his dog and trying to figure out recovery on his own. But as it turned out, by being able to keep his rescue dog, Tonks ended up rescuing Rubick, he said.

    “It’s that connection, caring for another creature and having something else care for you the way that animals do,” Rubick said. “It’s just unconditional, and sometimes that’s one of the things that people in recovery really need to be able to feel.”

    Associated Press writer Colleen Slevin contributed to this report.

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    Originally Published:

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    Thomas Peipert

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  • Canada lynx confirmed in Vermont for 1st time since 2018 – The Boston Globe

    Canada lynx confirmed in Vermont for 1st time since 2018 – The Boston Globe

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    SHREWSBURY, Vt. (AP) — A Canada lynx, an endangered species in Vermont, has been confirmed in the state for the first time since 2018, and farther south than the last confirmed sighting.

    A Shrewsbury man was driving home on Saturday evening when he saw the large cat walking along the side of a rural road. He went home to get his cell phone, returned and took video of the animal, he said on Wednesday.

    “This newest sighting is especially exciting because the cat was spotted in Rutland County, far south of most confirmed lynx reports in Vermont,” said Brehan Furfey, wildlife biologist and furbearer project leader with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.

    Canada lynx are endangered in Vermont and threatened nationally, she said in a statement Wednesday. “That makes any verifiable lynx sighting in our state important.”

    There are resident breeding populations in northern Maine and northern New Hampshire, northeastern Minnesota, northwestern Montana and northern Idaho, north-central Washington and western Colorado, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They are similar looking to bobcats but have long black ear tufts and short, black-tipped tails, the service said. They also have large paws and long hind legs making them highly adapted to hunting snowshoe hare in snow, the service said.

    Vermont is on the southernmost edge of the Canada lynx’s range and most confirmed sightings are in northeastern Vermont, which has the best climate, habitat and food sources for lynx in the state, the department said. Canada lynx are adapted to hunt snowshoe hares and “both species need young forest habitats and reliable snowpack to thrive,” Furfey said.

    Furfey suspects this was a male lynx moving through the region looking to establish its own territory, the department said. The behavior is called “dispersing” in which lynx can move quickly over long distances, according to the department.

    The department has received more than 160 reports of lynx since 2016 with only seven of those confirmed. It said the most credible one was from Jericho in 2018.

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  • This Safe, Sturdy Cat Decor Won’t Shed in Your Living Room

    This Safe, Sturdy Cat Decor Won’t Shed in Your Living Room

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    Catit assured me all the Vesper furniture is made with toxin-free materials, and it follows the formaldehyde emission standards (TSCA Title VI compliant) for composite wood products put forth by the EPA.

    Runner-Up

    The Mau Cento Tree got the most compliments of any furniture I’ve owned. Beyond being pretty, my cats loved it. I often found two of them fast asleep in each basket, or my little girl Eely slumbered in the fuzzy cave. They leap on and off, scratch the designated scratchers, and play with the pom poms. It’s very expensive, though parts are replaceable.

    Each piece is made from real wood (sourced ethically from trees that “no longer bear fruit,” according to the company), and the brand donates 5 percent of earnings to animal welfare and environmental conservation organizations and plants a tree for every order. Mau shared test results with us that showed no lead, cadmium, or formaldehyde was detected in the products tested—this included plush bedding, sisal ropes, metal frames, particle board, tree trunk, plywood, and other woods and fillings. We were happy to see this, though the brand did not explicitly state that the furniture was nontoxic.

    Cat Beds

    The Prettiest Cat Bed We’ve Tried

    It is unbelievably cute to see my little cat Eely-Rue poke her head out of the Happy Camper Cat Bed if I happen to disturb her slumber. The panels have wood veneer on one end and gray felt on the other. I set it up with the felt on the outside, but you can put it together the other way too. The top and bottom are completely open, and a super plush pillow acts as a nice bed. I’d crawl into this if I could fit. Like Catit above, Tuft and Paw is TSCA Title VI compliant.

    Tuft and Paw products are stunning and we recommend a few here. The prices are steep, however, and if you were to outfit your entire cat home with Tuft and Paw, you’d spend over a grand before blinking. The brand emphasizes its dedication to crafting high-quality products, working with cat behaviorists to help design each of its items. It starts with an idea, then designers conceptualize that into a few options. Behaviorists are consulted throughout the rest of the process. About the Happy Camper Bed, founder Jackson Cunningham told me, “Initially there was only one entrance hole, but after discussing with the behaviorist, we decided to add a second opening hole and make the top open, because cats feel safer with more visibility and extra ‘escape routes.’”

    On every product page, there’s a drop-down menu that explains some of the costs included in getting a product to market. That doesn’t include the salary of its employees and other costs, but it at least puts cost into perspective. For this bed, materials cost $87.15, labor and storage cost $24.90, duties (aka importing) cost $14.94, and transportation costs $37.35.

    The biggest bummer with Tuft and Paw is that it doesn’t offer returns for even slightly used products if your cat ends up hating it.

    A Soft Cave

    Catenary’s Moon Cave offers two soft bed options. If your cats like small spaces for napping, leave it as a cave. If they prefer some headroom, push down the top to turn it into a traditional pet bed. There are tons of two-in-one beds like this that you can find for cheap, but I appreciate that the neutral, soft design here blends into the corner of my living room instead of standing out like a brightly colored toy. Maybe I was influenced by photos on the website, but I’m imagining this looking perfectly cozy underneath a Christmas tree this winter. The bouclé—aka looped yarn—is also machine washable.

    Window Beds

    Cats love lounging in the sun, so beds that sit on the window make perfect sense. I’ve been using the K&H Pet Products Kitty Sill Fleece beds for years. It isn’t fancy, but the beige fleece blends in pretty well. If your windows don’t have sills for them to sit on, there are options with suction cups to stick right on the glass.

    Suction cup cat seats always make me nervous, especially because I have a couple hefty boys here. But Tuft and Paw’s Cloud Nine Window Hammock is secure, as long as you thoroughly clean your windows and give the cups time to really stick. I’ve also used the Kitty Cot ($45), which is more affordable though not as aesthetically pleasing. I’d recommend adding something soft to both—both offer blankets or pads for an extra cost, but I wish they could be attached even with snaps or velcro, so they don’t slip around if a cat leaps onto it.

    Scratchers

    The Best Scratcher

    Not every piece of nice cat furniture needs to cost several hundred bucks. I’ve used a few of PetFusions’s loungers and they held up really well under ferocious cat claws. They also look cool and are strong enough to support my weight (sometimes ya gotta reach something up high, you know). Cats can scratch one side to oblivion and then you just flip it to a perfectly clean side.

    Better Cardboard Slabs

    Corrugated cardboard scratchers are great because most cats love them, and they’re easy to replace. With the exception of the large PetFusion lounger above, most are just thin rectangles. They do their job but don’t look like anything special. Catenary’s Bloom scratchers, though, take it up a notch, using pet-safe dyes to create a beautiful, natural design mimicking flora and fauna. It has no impact on whether or not my cats will scratch them (they will), and they honestly look nice on my floor. For $60, you get a set of three, and each one is reversible.

    Don’t have that much space to spare? The Boots and Barkley Wave Scratcher ($15) from Target is not as cute, but my cats love it.

    A Beautiful Side Table Scratcher

    Sometimes you see a product on Kickstarter and count down the days until it’s available—that’s what I did with the Hilde & Phil Cat-e-Corner. It’s a real wood side table for you, a scratcher for your cats, and a protector for your furniture arms. The sisal scratch mats are replaceable and attach to the wood with sturdy velcro, so it’s a long-term investment for you and your pets.

    Depending on the height of your furniture, you may need to add a riser. The website has exact measurements, but if it’s taller than 25 inches, you’ll need a 2-inch riser. If it’s taller than 27 inches, get a 4-inch riser. The use of risers also means you can swap them in or out if you change furniture instead of having to get a new table altogether. I love that the brand is named after the founder’s cats—it’s my dream to open a business named after my beloved pals.

    A Couch With Scratch Pads or a Cushion

    The Work in Progress Cat Couch is adorable and can be used as a scratcher, a bed, or both. The base price includes a cardboard scratcher that can be flipped over and then replaced (then you can recycle the old one). Or you can get a really pretty cushion for an additional $110. One of my cats immediately scratched and lounged on it—cats often lounge directly on cardboard scratchers, so you don’t have to get the pillow right away.

    Like some of the other products on this list, I think it’s expensive given its simplicity. However, Work in Progress (WIP) is a small business. If you can afford it, it’s nice to support small businesses like this, rather than a major company like Petco or Walmart. The Cat Couch is manufactured from Baltic birch wood in Arizona. It’s finished and sealed, meeting the Greenguard low-emissions certification, so it should be safe for pets. The cushion is filled with polyester and the cover is a linen-cotton blend.

    An Upscale Carrier/Bed Combo

    I’ve tried quite a few carriers across the price spectrum, and I was impressed by Tuft and Paw’s Porto Cat Carrier (8/10, WIRED Recommends). It’s soft but sturdy, and doesn’t collapse under the weight of a cat. It has transported my cats to vet visits and kept them comfortable in the car during a cross-country move. Some cats will sleep in any carrier if you leave it out, but I like that this one can be transformed into a little bed by unzipping one side and unfolding the faux shearling pad. The entire thing is framed in zippers, so it can go from a structured carrier to completely flat. That gives you more options for getting fussy cats in or out.

    Litter Boxes and Enclosures

    A Great Basic Litter Box

    My cats are perfectly fine using plain old litter boxes, and yours probably are too. You can class it up a bit with boxes disguised as plants or hidden inside side tables, but Tuft and Paw’s Cove litter box takes a simple litter pan and elevates it.

    It’s hefty, so it won’t move around if your cats like to kick. Speaking of kicking, the detachable shelter keeps litter and pee inside—just in case your cat has a high stream. The box has a dedicated space for the included scoop and dustpan. However, I wish you could purchase the shelter separately. Weirdly, this box doesn’t fit into the brand’s litter box enclosure, but the brand released a new Cubby version ($69) that does work with its modern Haven Enclosure ($699)—we haven’t tried the Haven, but we’ve been coveting it from afar.

    The Best Litter Box Enclosure

    Putting a litter box inside a piece of furniture meant to conceal it can give your cats some privacy, conceal odors, and hide little turds from your guests.

    Tuft and Paw’s litter box enclosure is one of the most beautiful pieces of furniture I’ve seen, but it’s pricier than a lot of us can afford. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe has tried this Rena Litter Box Enclosure from Wayfair though, and you can often find it for around $120ish (and usually even less). It simply isn’t as pretty as Tuft and Paw, but it doesn’t look like a poop receptacle either, and there’s ample space on top for some decorations to further blend it in with your house.

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    Medea Giordano

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  • At these locations around the world, cats are the star – WTOP News

    At these locations around the world, cats are the star – WTOP News

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    It’s a tail as old as time. You’re in the right place at the right moment and the next thing you know, you’re living in the White House.

    World Cats Cleo, a female cat who lives between El Convento Hotel and El Batey bar, sits on a table in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Thursday, March. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo)

    AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats FILE – Willow, the Biden family’s new pet cat, lies on a carpet in the White House in Washington on Jan. 27, 2022. (Erin Scott/The White House via AP, File)

    Erin Scott/The White House via AP, File

    World Cats A woman holds a cat that lives in the basement of the ‘State Hermitage Museum’ in St. Petersburg, Russia, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirill Zarubin)

    AP Photo/Kirill Zarubin

    World Cats FILE – Larry the cat, Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, poses for the cameras outside 10 Downing Street in London, on March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali, File)

    AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali, File

    World Cats Cats lie on Ernest Hemingway’s bed inside Hemingway House museum in Key West, Florida, March 22, 2024. (AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman)

    AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman

    World Cats A cat, that lives in a cafe, lies on a sofa in Pristina, Kosovo, March 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Florent Bajrami)

    AP Photo/Florent Bajrami

    World Cats FILE – Palmerston, the Foreign Office cat sits on a photographer’s ladder at Downing Street in London, on Feb. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File

    World Cats A poster promoting Hodge the cat, that lives at Southwark Cathedral, is pictured in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Hilary Fox)

    AP Photo/Hilary Fox

    World Cats A cat, that lives in a cafe, lies on a sofa in Pristina, Kosovo, March 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Florent Bajrami)

    AP Photo/Florent Bajrami

    World Cats Hodge the cat, that lives at Southwark Cathedral, looks trough a glass door in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Hilary Fox)

    AP Photo/Hilary Fox

    World Cats A cat lies on a showcase at the Hemingway House museum in Key West, Florida, March 22, 2024. (AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman)

    AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman

    World Cats A cat that lives in the basement of the ‘State Hermitage Museum’ in St. Petersburg, Russia, April 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirill Zarubin)

    AP Photo/Kirill Zarubin

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats Tuesday, a female cat who lives inside the ‘Cuartel de Ballaja’, sits on the floor in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Thursday, March. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo)

    AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo

    World Cats Tuesday, a female cat who lives inside the ‘Cuartel de Ballaja’, lies on a chair in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Thursday, March 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo)

    AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo

    World Cats Tuesday, a female cat who lives inside the ‘Cuartel de Ballaja’ in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Thursday, March. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo)

    AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo

    World Cats A cat, that lives in a cafe, sits under a chair in Pristina, Kosovo, March 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Florent Bajrami)

    AP Photo/Florent Bajrami

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats A cat lsits outside the Hemingway House museum in Key West, Florida, March 22, 2024. (AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman)

    AP Photo by Kaitlyn Braverman

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    World Cats Lilibet the cat, who is a Siberian Forest Cat and lives in the Lanesborough Hotel in London, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

    AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

    Pets-World-Cats This cover image released by Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing shows “Willow the White House Cat” by Jill Biden and illustrations by Kate Berube, (Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing via AP)

    Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing via AP

    It’s a tail as old as time. You’re in the right place at the right moment and the next thing you know, you’re living in the White House.

    That’s what happened to a stray, gray, green-eyed cat named Willow, who turned up at a Joe Biden rally in Pennsylvania in 2020, jumped onstage and left with soon-to-be first lady Jill, who later wrote a book about her.

    Plenty of other four-pawed wonders have landed on their padded feet in famous and fortuitous places.

    And it works both ways: Cats bring value to the venues they inhabit, whether it’s simply adding a cute factor or ratting on rodents. Sometimes, they even come to define the place.

    London’s feline royalty

    Take Lilibet, for example.

    She’s a Siberian Forest cat who spends one of her nine lives stretching her toe beans and snoozing by the fire at the five-star Lanesborough Hotel in London. Plenty of people check in just to check out the resident cat, who is named after Queen Elizabeth II, says managing director Stuart Geddes.

    And Lilibet, who has hypoallergenic fur, isn’t the only cat living in a grand British building.

    Hodge sits inside the sacristy at Southwark Cathedral, founded in 1106 on the south bank of the Thames River. He roams around delighting visitors and popping into the shop for treats, where fans can also buy their own plush version of him.

    Not far away, across the Thames, is Larry, the famous cat of 10 Downing St., where he has stayed longer than most prime ministers — Kier Starmer is his sixth.

    Employed as Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, Larry pays his way by keeping the official office and residence of the PM more cat than mouse. He outlasted his rival Palmerston, a previous Foreign Office puss who retired to the British countryside in 2020.

    Treasured by museums

    It’s a similar situation at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

    About 80 cats get to call Catherine the Great’s Baroque palace home in return for keeping the pest population down. They have their own press officer and staff of volunteers, who keep them publicized, fed and watered while they pad around Russia’s state museum.

    Another museum delighted to play host to a colony of cats is The Hemingway Homes and Museum, in Key West, Florida. Fifty-nine cats roam freely through the estate, half of them descendants of Hemingway’s own six-toed cat, Snow White.

    Visitors are kept away from the original furniture, but the animals lounge on the writer’s desk. A large “Cat Bible” helps track the lineage of the resident felines.

    Alexa Morgan of the Hemingway museum says they are an extra draw.

    “We have visitors that come here for Hemingway, and then once they see the cats and they love them, then it’s like they visit again so they can come back and see the cats,” she said.

    Meowing mascots

    And then there are those moggies without an impressive family tree or breed.

    In Puerto Rico ‘s Cuartel de Ballajá one Tuesday, a cat arrived at the Don Ruiz Coffee Shop in San Juan. She spent her time napping and permitting patrons to pet her (when in the mood ). They named her Tuesday, and she became a regular.

    In Venezuela, under a banner of Hugo Chavez, an unnamed cat has become well-known to the journalists of Caracas. Often found snaking between the tripods of TV crews at the National Electoral Council, this mysterious animal keeps reporters company as they wait for updates, playing with the occasional audio cable and generally strutting around like it runs the place.

    Meanwhile, Lule is so beloved at the Dit’ e Nat (Day and Night) bar in Pristina, Kosovo, that her feline face has become its symbol, even on the sugar sachets. Owner Genc Salihu says she’s part of the family, and people turn up just to see and pet Lule.

    “She is very much the soul of the place.”

    —-

    Adam Egan and Nicki Finlay in London, Kirill Zarubin in St Petersburg, Freida Frisaro in Florida, Florent Bajrami in Pristina, Alejandro Granadillo in San Juan and Juan Arraez in Caracas contributed to this report.

    Copyright
    © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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  • Why Is Yawning Contagious

    Why Is Yawning Contagious

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    Someone starts and it spreads…why is yawning contagious?

    Whether at work, school or a dinner, once someone yawns, it is over…more yawning, then someone gets up and the fun bubble has popped.  But what happens? Why is yawning contagious? In 400 B.C., Hippocrates thought yawning removed bad air from the lungs before a fever. In the 17th and 18th century, doctors believed yawning increased oxygen in the blood, blood pressure, heart rate and blood flow itself. So it made sense you would want to follow the example…but what makes the body do it involuntary?

    In the past, people have had many hypotheses. In the last century, consensus moved toward the idea that yawning cools down the brain, so when ambient conditions and temperature of the brain itself increase, yawning episodes increase.

    Typically a yawn lasts four to seven seconds and happens in fits of two or three. It involves the following steps:

    • A long inhale (breathing in) using your nose and then mouth.
    • A brief episode of powerful muscle stretching around your mouth and throat.
    • A rapid exhale (breathing out) using your mouth with muscle tension release.

    Yawning is mostly involuntary, meaning you don’t have control over it. And most scientists consider it a reflex.

    RELATED: Is It Really Okay To Eat Food That’s Fallen On The Floor

    And yawning occurs in just about every species. It happens when an animal is tired. It can be used as a threat display in some species. Yawning can occur during times of social conflict and stress, something researchers call a displacement behavior.  So it isn’t just a human reaction, it is the animal kingdom also….so why does it happen and why is so darn contagious?

    Yawning happens in many animal species – and seems to pass from one to another. Robert Gramner on Unsplash, CC BY

    Yawning is a common but perplexing human function. Scientists have several theories but nothing concrete. Common triggers of yawning include tiredness, boredom, waking up and stress.  A current theory about yawning is the arousal hypothesis states yawning activates your brain. This theory is tied to the fact tiredness and boredom tend to trigger yawning the most.

    Seeing or hearing other people yawn can also cause you to yawn. The wide-open mouth can be contagious, especially in social species such as humans, chimpanzees, bonobos, macaques and wolves. In addition, research on humans tell us people who are more empathetic tend to be more susceptible to contagious yawning. When you see someone else yawn, the networks in your brain responsible for empathy and social skills are activated.

    Is yawning contagious for dogs also. In U.K. biologists tested for contagious yawning between people and man’s best friend. Although 5 of the 19 dogs studied did yawn in response to an unfamiliar person’s yawn, the researchers couldn’t prove the yawns were contagious.  But, cognitive and behavioral scientists at the University of Tokyo once again tested contagious yawning in canines while controlling for stress. This time researchers found dogs were more likely to yawn in response to a familiar person. They concluded dogs can “catch” a yawn from humans and yawning is a social rather than an stress-based behavior.

    RELATED: Cool Ice Cream Cocktails

    University of Nebraska psychologists looked at contagious yawning in shelter dogs. They found some dogs yawned when exposed to human yawning and had elevated cortisol levels, a proxy for stress. Levels of the cortisol stress hormone did not rise in dogs who didn’t yawn in response to a human yawn. This finding suggests some dogs find human yawning stressful and others do not. More research is needed to evaluate this aspect of the human-dog relationship.The ConversationThe jury’s still out on the true why of yawning. But when it comes to inter-species yawning, collect your own anecdotal data. Try an experiment at home, yawn and see if your pet yawns back.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • Cat rescuers sound alarm as Animal Humane Society stops offering free sterilization

    Cat rescuers sound alarm as Animal Humane Society stops offering free sterilization

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    MINNEAPOLIS — By day, Brianne Tushaus works in chain supply. By night, she’s an independent cat trapper. 

    “Every free moment outside of my day job is dedicated to saving cats,” she said. 

    Tushaus, a south Minneapolis resident, says she trapped 150 to 200 cats within two miles of her home last year. After she traps them, she brings them in to get spayed or neutered, and later returned to live as a community cat. It’s a process called Trap-Neuter-Return, or TNR.

    “All of those cats were living outside and none of them were neutered,” Tushaus said. “Had there not been TNR those numbers would have exploded fivefold within just a year.” 

    It’s a mission non-profits like Pet Project Rescue and Bitty Kitty Brigade share. Pet Project Rescue TNRs about 500 cats a year. 

    “We believe that TNR, we know that TNR is the way out of this problem. We always say we can’t adopt our way out of cat overpopulation, but we can TNR our way out of it,” TNR director at Bitty Kitty Brigade, Jacky Wilson said. 

    A mission with a means — before now. The Animal Humane Society started charging for its TNR program at the start of July. Now, it costs $75 per cat. 

    “As you can imagine, the financial burden is huge,” Tushaus said. “This is why we depend on free spay-neuter services. Access to this is vital.”

    tz-1b-cat-sterilization-wcco5qd7.jpg

    WCCO


    AHS is facing its own financial burden: a budget shortfall of $3.5 million. AHS CEO Janella Dixon says charging for TNR was one of several difficult decisions. 

    “We had to make some pretty significant changes to our budget. This was actually a smaller change compared to the things that we did,” Dixon said. 

    AHS started charging for TNR on July 1 — the start of its 2025 fiscal year. Dixon says the organization promise to remain committed to the TNR program and its mission of 1,000 surgeries a year.

    “We are just at a place where we can’t make it totally free anymore,” Dixon said. “We have to share the cost.”

    While it’s a difficult change, Dixon says it’s necessary to continue the work they’re doing. 

    “It’s one service in the huge scope of services we provide,” Dixon said. “We’re touching the lives and impacting the lives of nearly 100,000 animals every year in the services we provide. I don’t mean that to minimize the other but just try to keep a big picture view on how many animals we help and the choices we have to make on where we put those pieces of the pie, of resources, in order to do the most amount of good for the most amount of animals in the community.”

    In response, animal rescue advocates are urging for donors to step in and help the gap. Monday morning, leaders in the animal welfare industry came together to share the urgent need. 

    “Every city is affected. I’ve heard people say I don’t see feral cats in my city. Tell me your city. I will tell you where the pockets are because we have gotten calls and kittens surrendered from every city in the Twin Cities. So, there are feral cats in every neighborhood. You just don’t see them,” Wilson said. 

    Together, the Bitty Kitty Brigade, Pet Project Rescue and independent cat trappers are looking to raise $25,000 to keep their mission successful through the summer season, but they’re also looking towards long-term solutions — like grant funding and state programs. Pet Project Rescue is collecting donations on behalf of the group. If you’d like to help, click here. 

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    Beret Leone

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  • Denver Animal Shelter offers free microchips for cats through July

    Denver Animal Shelter offers free microchips for cats through July

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    Luna the cat is adoptable from the Denver Animal Shelter, for meow. Sept. 6, 2023.

    Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite

    Cats hate collars, like to escape and are notoriously good at hiding. So microchips matter when you realize, likely in a panic, that your furry friend is missing.

    All through July, the crowded Denver Animal Shelter is offering free cat-chipping so that people can track down their lost kitties.

    To get free chipping, all you have to do is put your cat in a carrier and bring it to the Denver Animal Shelter at 1241 W. Bayoud Ave. by the end of July. The shelter offers the service year round for $20.

    For cat owners, the stakes are high.

    One in three pets get lost in their lifetime.

    Only 2 percent of lost cats that end up in shelters without microchips wind up back with their families, according to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

    When cats do have chips, shelter staff can contact owners immediately.

    How does microchipping a cat work?

    The shelter will use a hypodermic needle to inject a microchip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin.

    Vets offices and shelters have scanners that can read the microchips, which include owners’ contact information. When a pet is stolen, the microchip also serves as proof of ownership.

    The free microchip offer isn’t the only deal at the Denver Animal Shelter this month.

    Want to adopt a pet? The Hot Dogs, Cool Cats special allows you to do so for just $50 for any dog or cat more than one year old.

    German shepards, pitpulls, labs and more are waiting for dog lovers.

    And a medley of domestic short, long and medium hairs and one Russian blue are looking for a cat owner, too.

    For more information, go to the Denver Animal Shelter website.

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  • Cat-Safe Houseplants: 20 Plants to Fill a Plant-Friendly Home

    Cat-Safe Houseplants: 20 Plants to Fill a Plant-Friendly Home

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    It’s safe to say those with cats love their pets! We’d do anything for them, including giving away all our peace lilies and jade plants in case our cats felt like munching away. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a home full of greenery! Here are 20 cat-safe houseplants to keep your feline friend safe all while satisfying your plant obsession. 

    When I brought in a stray, I had to ensure my house was kitty-proof. A big part of that was only including cat-safe houseplants throughout the home. We all know cats can be mischievous creatures and my cat Magic sure lives up to the expectations.

    From knocking over plants to playing in the dirt, he, of course, is known for nibbling on the occasional plant or two. If he isn’t munching the entire plant, the occasional bite or two of these cat-safe houseplants will do no harm.

    There are many many different houseplants you can include in the home, some more common than others. If you’re looking to add some greenery to your home (don’t we all!), here are some houseplants that are totally safe for kitties.

    cat standing next to house plantscat standing next to house plants
    My cat Magic!

    20 Cat-Safe Houseplants

    To keep cats from your houseplants, try covering the soil with thick and pointy rocks or other pokey surfaces. You can also try hanging plants if your feline friend can’t help but get up to no good. Otherwise, these houseplants should be A-okay to have around cats.

    1. Cast Iron Plant

    Let’s start things off with something a little indestructible, shall we? Just as the name suggests, the cast iron plant is pretty hardy and difficult to kill. Not only are they good for beginners, but they may even be able to handle a cat swat or two and easily make it onto this list of cat-safe houseplants.

    They look similar to peace lilies, a popular houseplant that is highly toxic to cats. Arching leaves over 2 feet long and 4 inches wide are the main attraction. Come summer, you can place them on the deck where they can grow slowly and get lots of shade.

    2. Spider Plant

    By far one of the easiest plants to grow, spider plants have slender leaves that can be green and white striped. They grow long stems with tiny flowers that turn into tiny plantlets. You will get a ton of little spider babies from one plant.

    This also makes them great hanging plants. To care for them, place them in indirect light and provide regular waterings.

    Read these tips on how to make your spider plant bushier.

    3. Staghorn Fern

    I adore my staghorn fern! Essentially the plant version of deer antlers, they are an artsy and trendy-looking plant that mounts on the wall. This is ideal for cat owners, keeping plants well out of reach. And even if they did somehow make it to the staghorn fern, they’re a cat-friendly houseplant.

    Long, flat leaves extend over a root ball that drinks up the water. I like to set mine in a bowl and then turn the shower on to give them a nice soak, similar to how I water air plants.

    Staghorn Fern in Ceramic PlanterStaghorn Fern in Ceramic Planter
    Such a unique plant, staghorn ferns can go right on the wall and out of the way of paws.

    4. Haworthia

    Succulent lovers, you can safely grow haworthia in a cat household. With lots of different species out there, most are small houseplants with thick, fleshy leaves. They can have white bands or wart-like but pretty markings.

    They enjoy bright light when inside and partial shade when outside because, yes, you can bring them out there for the summer! Don’t overwater these guys, but keep them moist during the summer.

    Learn how to do some basic winter fountain care tasks, then use the garden to decorate it up with greenery from the garden, lights, and ornaments.Learn how to do some basic winter fountain care tasks, then use the garden to decorate it up with greenery from the garden, lights, and ornaments.
    Haworthia pumila, also known as the Miniature Aloe

    5. Peperomia

    A compact houseplant, there are over 1500 species of peperomia. Most have round, thick, and beautiful leaves. They are slow-growing and relatively low-maintenance plants that enjoy indirect sunlight.

    cat safe plant in a terrariumcat safe plant in a terrarium
    Many peperomia have variegated leaves and cool markings.

    6. Bird Nest Fern

    A certified shade lover, bird nest fern has the cutest crinkly leaves. They can grow up to 3 feet long, with new leaves growing from the centre of the plant.

    In nature, they grow high on the tops of trees. They enjoy warmth, humidity, and moisture, making the bathroom a great spot for these houseplants.

    7. Rattlesnake Plant

    The rattlesnake plant has some of the most beautiful leaves, full of purplish tones, variegated patterns, and wavy edges. The leaves can grow up to 30 inches tall.

    Native to Brazil’s rainforests, they like partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They aren’t as easy to grow as some of the plants on this list, but they sure are worth the effort!

    8. Air Plants

    Another unique and fun plant, I’m so obsessed with air plants that I even wore them as living jewelry. These plants cling to trees in nature, getting moisture through the air rather than having roots.

    Since they don’t require soil, you can also place them on the wall or in a hanging terrarium or even make your own displays. Like a staghorn fern, you can soak them in water to hydrate them.

    9. Bamboo Palm

    If you’re looking for a big plant, the bamboo palm brings a tropical feel to any room. A type of palm (not bamboo), it can do well in varying lighting, ranging from medium to low light. As far as big houseplants go, this one is fairly low maintenance.

    10. Money Tree

    Money trees are a household favourite, known for bringing good luck to the home and a feng shui go-to. A fairly hardy tree, they can grow quickly and will happily take up a corner.

    When purchasing, most nurseries will have the stems braided. You can continue to braid them at home to maintain the shape if desired.

    11. Prayer Plant

    Prayer plants get their name because they actually move throughout the day. The leaves lay flat during the day and slowly lift up in prayer at night. Beautiful and decorative, prayer plants like greenhouse conditions, meaning warm, moist air and lots of fertilizer will make them happy

    As an added bonus, this plant thrives in the dark, too!

    Prayer plant with green leaves and red markingsPrayer plant with green leaves and red markings

    12. Ponytail Palm

    In the wild, ponytail palms grow to be a full-sized tree. In the home, however, they can grow up to 6 feet in their old age if taken care of. One of the easiest trees to grow indoors, they have a bulbous stem that thin, long leaves erupt from.

    13. Orchid

    Every housewarming party has at least one orchid. If they have a cat, it is perfect because they are a cat-friendly houseplant. Good for beginners, orchids have arching flowers that can last for weeks. With the right balance of humidity, light, and temperature, an orchid can thrive for a long time.

    14. Zebra Plant

    Zebra plants can sure be a challenge to grow indoors, but they are well worth it. Not only do they have dark, gorgeous leaves with white veins, but the bright yellow flowers are like no other. If happy, they will have 2-4 flowers a plant that lasts for six weeks.

    Houseplants to keep away from petsHouseplants to keep away from pets
    This zebra plant is next to a cyclamen (the one with the flowers), which IS poisonous to pets.

    15. African Violet

    Compact, African violets don’t mind sticking to a small container. Known most for their flowers, they can bloom up to three times a year with violet, white, blue, pink, red, or combo-coloured flowers.

    To take care of them, avoid getting water on their leaves, remove any dead flowers, give them good drainage, and place them in bright, indirect light.

    16. Lucky Bamboo

    From offices to the kitchen, you can find lucky bamboo everywhere. They are said to bring good luck and make for a good gift, often coming braided or twisted.

    Very hard to kill, lucky bamboo can live in pure water or soil, tolerating both drought and moist conditions. Chances are, they can also handle a munch from a curious cat and easily join this list of cat-safe houseplants.

    17. Christmas Cactus

    Since poinsettias are quite poisonous to cats, a Christmas cactus is the perfect alternative for the festive plant. They bloom right around the holiday season, adding a pop of colour when it’s cold outside.

    The blooms can be pink, red, purple, and orange. Native to rainforest, they need more water and less light than regular desert cacti.

    18. Lipstick Plant

    Here’s another flowering cat-safe houseplant for you! Lipstick plants have small, waxy, vine-like leaves. Easy to care for yet impressive looking, they grow red tubular flowers in clusters that almost resemble lipstick tubes.

    They tend to bloom most in the summer and fall, but you can get plenty of blooms throughout the year from one plant.

    19. Swedish Ivy

    If you want ivy that’s okay for cats, try Swedish ivy. The thick stems grow straight up before they cascade down. Also known as creeping Charlie, the round leaves have scalloped edges and are often variegated. Use them as a hanging plant or bring them outside on the deck during the summer.

    2o. Polka Dot Plant

    Polka dot plants make for another poinsettia alternative, with the most popular colouring being the pink leaves with white spots. An eye-catching plant, the spotted leaves also come in white, purple, and green varieties.

    Some people also plant them outside as an annual. If your cat likes to go outdoors, this polka dot plant may also be a good option for the garden.

    House Plants Poisonous to Cats

    A ton of popular houseplants are not ideal to have in homes with cats. Some of the most common houseplants poisonous to cats include poinsettias, aloe vera, peace lilies, English ivy, and a ton more. To learn all of the poisonous houseplants and some alternatives to try, check out my full list here.

    The essential guide to poinsettias.The essential guide to poinsettias.
    Poinsettias are a common Christmas plant that is poisonous to cats.

    More Posts About Houseplants:

    Pin image for 20 cat-safe houseplantsPin image for 20 cat-safe houseplants

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    Stephanie Rose

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  • WATCH: KPRC 2′s Oscar Chavez rescues kitten stranded on roof

    WATCH: KPRC 2′s Oscar Chavez rescues kitten stranded on roof

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    HOUSTON – KPRC 2 photojournalist Oscar Chavez is best known for his work behind the camera, but he accepted a different title Wednesday: kitten savior.

    Alongside reporter Gage Goulding, Chavez carried a ladder over to the side of a house where a small kitten had found itself stuck. He tried to call the young animal to safety, but the clearly scared kitten took some convincing.

    After a brief negotiation period, the kitten was finally corralled and pulled from the ledge. Chavez and Goulding immediately gave the cat food and water. Although it was clearly startled by the experience, the curious rascal seemed very happy to be rescued.

    Great work from Oscar and Gage!

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

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    Michael Horton

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  • The Iberian lynx is back from the brink of extinction, thanks to conservation efforts

    The Iberian lynx is back from the brink of extinction, thanks to conservation efforts

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    MADRID — Things are looking up for the Iberian lynx. Just over two decades ago, the pointy-eared wild cat was on the brink of extinction, but as of Thursday the International Union for Conservation of Nature says it’s no longer an endangered species.

    Successful conservation efforts mean that the animal, native to Spain and Portugal, is now barely a vulnerable species, according to the latest version of the IUCN Red List.

    In 2001, there were only 62 mature Iberian lynx — medium-sized, mottled brown cats with characteristic pointed ears and a pair of beard-like tufts of facial hair — on the Iberian Peninsula. The species’ disappearance was closely linked to that of its main prey, the European rabbit, as well as habitat degradation and human activity.

    Alarms went off and breeding, reintroduction and protection projects were started, as well as efforts to restore habitats like dense woodland, Mediterranean scrublands and pastures. More than two decades later, in 2022, nature reserves in southern Spain and Portugal contained 648 adult specimens. The latest census, from last year, shows that there are more than 2,000 adults and juveniles, the IUCN said.

    “It’s a really huge success, an exponential increase in the population size,” Craig Hilton-Taylor, head of the IUCN Red list unit, told The Associated Press.

    One of the keys to their recovery has been the attention given to the rabbit population, which had been affected by changes in agricultural production. Their recovery has led to a steady increase in the lynx population, Hilton-Taylor said.

    “The greatest recovery of a cat species ever achieved through conservation (…) is the result of committed collaboration between public bodies, scientific institutions, NGOs, private companies, and community members including local landowners, farmers, gamekeepers and hunters,” Francisco Javier Salcedo Ortiz, who coordinates the EU-funded LIFE Lynx-Connect project, said in a statement.

    IUCN has also worked with local communities to raise awareness of the importance of the Iberian lynx in the ecosystem, which helped reduce animal deaths due poaching and roadkill. In addition, farmers receive compensation if the cats kill any of their livestock, Hilton-Taylor said.

    Since 2010, more than 400 Iberian lynx have been reintroduced to parts of Portugal and Spain, and now they occupy at least 3,320 square kilometers, an increase from 449 square kilometers in 2005.

    “We have to consider every single thing before releasing a lynx, and every four years or so we revise the protocols,” said Ramón Pérez de Ayala, the World Wildlife Fund’s Spain species project manager. WWF is one of the NGOs involved in the project.

    While the latest Red List update offers hope for other species in the same situation, the lynx isn’t out of danger just yet, says Hilton-Taylor.

    The biggest uncertainty is what will happens to rabbits, an animal vulnerable to virus outbreaks, as well as other diseases that could be transmitted by domestic animals.

    “We also worried about issues with climate change, how the habitat will respond to climate change, especially the increasing impact of fires, as we’ve seen in the Mediterranean in the last year or two,” said Hilton-Taylor.

    ___

    Brooks reported from Copenhagen, Denmark.

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  • Double Cat Saturday is King! (31 Photos)

    Double Cat Saturday is King! (31 Photos)

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    Hendy

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  • Austin Pets Alive! | Take Off! — APA! Transport Hub’s Inaugural…

    Austin Pets Alive! | Take Off! — APA! Transport Hub’s Inaugural…

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    Transporting pets from Texas to shelters across the country, even as far as Canada, isn’t a new process for APA!.. We’ve done it hundreds of times at this point, with our Transport Program beginning out of desperation to save pets across Texas during Winter Storm Uri in January of 2021. Whether by air or by road, our team has worked with many partner shelters both in Texas and throughout the U.S. to save dogs and cats who otherwise wouldn’t have made it out of the shelter system alive.

    The latest milestone for APA! is the establishment of the APA! Transport Hub, a dedicated space tailored to our Transport Program’s needs. This hub, inaugurated recently, marks a significant step forward. While not every pet we assist needs to pass through Austin, many do for a brief ‘pit stop’ while awaiting transfer to their receiving shelter. Previously, we faced logistical challenges housing these animals at our main shelter, sometimes impacting the availability of space for local pets in need. Now, with the APA! Transport Hub, we have a dedicated facility ensuring the smoothest possible transit experience.

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  • Elevate Eating for Your Pet with This Discounted Feeder Bowl Set | Entrepreneur

    Elevate Eating for Your Pet with This Discounted Feeder Bowl Set | Entrepreneur

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    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Having a furry friend can be a great way to improve your life and relax after a long workday. Whether working from home or out of the office, a cat or dog can be a great boost for morale, a reminder to get out for some fresh air and exercise throughout the day—the benefits are plentiful. So you should make sure that you’re taking excellent care of them.

    One great way to add some convenience and elegance to your pet’s day-to-day life is to make it a little easier for them to reach their food and water. For a limited time only, you can get this Chow Down Elevated Feeder Bowl Set on sale for just $24.99 (reg. $49).

    The Chow Down is designed to last, with a stainless steel build that’s easy to clean and rust-resistant. Elevating your dog or cat’s bowls can foster better posture and digestion, helping promote a longer life and more time together. In a fitting manner, the elevated feeder set comes with a unique bone shape that’s both elegant and in line with one of the dogs’ favorite treats. Conveniently, this feeder bowl set is also dishwasher-safe.

    If your office dog is eating and drinking from a pair of bowls on the ground, step things up. Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to get half off this fantastic solution that could elevate your furry friend’s eating and drinking experience.

    For a limited time only, you can get this Chow Down Elevated Feeder Bowl Set on sale for just $24.99 (reg. $49).

    StackSocial prices subject to change.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • ‘Nowhere near a done deal.’ Will lingering distrust scuttle revived CATS Red Line plans?

    ‘Nowhere near a done deal.’ Will lingering distrust scuttle revived CATS Red Line plans?

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    Footage of proposed area for Red Line plans. … Click to Continue »

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  • Grumpy cat

    Grumpy cat

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    A “curious cat” that British firefighters had to rescue after it became stuck between two walls is now rising to internet fame for its reaction. Rather than looking relieved to be out of its precarious situation, the cat was photographed looking anything but. 

    Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service posted about the ordeal on Facebook, saying the calico feline was stuck “between a wall and a hard place.” 

    cat-rescue.png
    A “curious cat” had to be rescued in Lancashire, England, after getting stuck between two walls – but it looked anything but relieved once free.

    Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service/Facebook


    “Our crews from Preston safely rescued this curious cat from their tight squeeze earlier this week. They found themselves stuck between two walls and our firefighters carefully chiselled them out safe and sound,” the service wrote on Facebook. 

    They posted the information along with a photo of one of the animal rescuers cuddling the cat to his chest. But hundreds of commentators were quick to notice that “curious cat looks fuming.” 

    “He was the reigning hide’n’seek champion until you guys turned up,” one person quipped in the comments. “Now Fred from 2 alleys down in the newly crowned victor.” 

    “If gratitude had a face it wouldn’t be this kitty cat,” another person said, with yet another person adding, “The level of grump on this lil fluffy mcmurder mittens face is epic.” 

    Responders didn’t clarify how the cat ended up in such a tight spot or where it may have ended up afterwards, but one thing is for sure, they said: “Cats always keep us on our toes.” 

    Li Cohen


    li.jpg

    Li Cohen is a social media producer and trending content writer for CBS News.

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  • 102 cats removed from home in Crosby due to neglect, unsafe conditions

    102 cats removed from home in Crosby due to neglect, unsafe conditions

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    Animal Humane Society looking for foster volunteers


    Animal Humane Society looking for foster volunteers

    02:25

    CROSBY, Minn. — More than 100 cats were removed from a home in Crosby this week due to unsafe conditions, and now the humane society in the area is hoping they’ll be adopted and find their forever home.

    Law enforcement conducted a search of a home on Thursday after reports of animal cruelty and neglect. They found 102 cats, which were taken to the Tri-County Humane Society in St. Cloud.

    Staff members worked to vaccinate and treat the 94 cats that were taken to the shelter. The humane society said about a dozen staff members worked for hours to set them up in clean environments with food and water.

    MORE NEWS: Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store looks to become world’s largest

    One of the cats happened to be microchipped, and when staff members contacted the owner, the owner said the cat had gone missing seven years before. They were reunited on Thursday evening.

    The humane society is asking that anyone with a missing cat from the area email in a photo of their cat, along with contact information so they can hopefully reunite cats with their owners.

    cats-rescued-credit-tri-county-humane-society.jpg

    Tri-County Humane Society


    Every cage and kennel in the shelter is full, the humane society said, and they’ll need extra staffing. They’re asking the community to help donate funds, kibble, and cat litter.

    The cats will be available for adoption starting Wednesday.

    Note: The above video first aired on March 17, 2024.

    WCCO Staff


    512-appicon-minnesota.png

    The WCCO Staff is a group of experienced journalists who bring you the content on WCCO.com.

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    WCCO Staff

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  • Bering Select Announces Pet Food Solution for the Salmon Oil Shortage

    Bering Select Announces Pet Food Solution for the Salmon Oil Shortage

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    Press Release
    •

    Apr 11, 2024

    Healthy, Sustainable Alaskan Cod Liver Oil for Pet Food

    • Cod liver oil contains healthy omega-3 fats for dogs and cats
    • Alaskan cod liver oil is abundant and sustainable
    • Salmon oil supply is unstable and ingredients are often inauthentic 


    DUTCH HARBOR, Alaska, April 11, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Bering Select, manufacturers of wild-caught Alaskan cod liver and salmon-derived omega-3 ingredients, have announced the launch of cod liver oil designed to optimize the health benefits for dogs, cats and horses. This premium cod liver oil is Marine Stewardship Council Certified sustainable and Non-GMO Project Verified.

    In recent years, the supply of wild-caught Alaskan salmon has been very erratic. Company president Joel Watson stated, “I have been fishing the Bering Sea for many years, and the supply and price of salmon oil has become very unstable. Cod liver oil offers a much more reliable and sustainable option for pet products.”

    Bering Select has a direct relationship with the fishing operations that harvest cod in the Bering Sea. Cod liver oil manufacturing is conducted at their custom-built processing facility in Dutch Harbor, Alaska. According to Watson, “We have catch to product control of our supply chain, so we know exactly where our raw material comes from and how it is processed. Our omegas are also Orivo Species Certified; this is important because there is a significant amount of ingredients being sold that are of suspect origin.”

    Bering Select Alaskan cod liver oil is available as finished products or in bulk drums.

    Press Contact: Todd Parker

    Phone: 949-278-7733

    Email: tparker@beringselect.com 

    For additional information about Bering Select, please visit beringselect.com/BeringPET 

    Source: Bering Select

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  • Our Favorite Cat Toys, Litter Boxes, and Other Feline Supplies

    Our Favorite Cat Toys, Litter Boxes, and Other Feline Supplies

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    Cats are beautiful, interesting, weird creatures. If you’re lucky enough to be loved by one, it’s your God-given responsibility to give them a comfortable and fun home. Cats require a specific environment to play, scratch, and relax. Based on years of testing with our pets, these are our favorite cat toys, litter boxes, and other feline supplies. Even if our cats rejected a particular product, we still examined overall construction, design, and value to determine whether it may be useful for other kitties. They can be finicky, so you may have to consider a few to find the right fit.

    Check out our related guides like Our Favorite Fancy Cat Furniture. More of a dog person? We’ve got you covered! See our Best Accessories and Tech Essentials for Your Dog guide.

    Updated April 2024: We’ve added new favorites, including the Eufy 360 Pet Camera, Tuft and Paw Porto carrier, K&H Portable Car Seat Kennel, plus health recommendations like Chewy’s free telehealth service and soft cone collars.

    Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com, full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

    Table of Contents

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    Basic Cat Rules and Tips

    Don’t listen to the cat haters: Cats do form a connection to their human owners. While they may be more low-maintenance than dogs, they require thoughtful care. Here are some basic dos and don’ts when owning a cat.

    Do: Separate food and water. Use multiple litter boxes for multiple cats. Give them ways to hunt their food. Ensure they get exercise and playtime. Give them places to hide and feel safe. Regularly trim their nails. Give them love and affection!

    Don’t: Declaw them. Leave them unattended around these toxic plants. Accidentally harm them with common essential oils like eucalyptus. Feed them a vegan diet, milk (yes, really), or these other toxic foods.

    Best Litter Boxes

    A litter box is essential. What kind you get depends on your cat—not every cat likes enclosed boxes, and others need high sides to shield your walls from urine (sometimes they aim high!). A good rule of thumb is having one box per cat, and one on each floor if you live in a multilevel home. You’ll find cheap, standard litter boxes anywhere you can buy pet goods, but we have a few recommendations we’ve tested.

    Tuft and Paw’s products are modern and beautiful (and usually quite expensive). The Cove is simple but is elevated with detachable sides and a place to hold its scoop and small dustpan. If you forgo the sides, it costs $149. The newer Cubby ($69) is a simplified version for less than half the price. It doesn’t have the built-in holder for the scoop and duster but has the same elegant look.

    Any medium-size plastic storage bins (without the lid) are cheap and work well for litter boxes. I typically get these from Target instead of the multi-packs on Amazon. If you get a tall one, consider cutting out an entryway and sanding it down so your kitty can easily get in and out—I use a rotary cutter and sandpaper sheets to do this.

    More Litter Boxes We Like

    • Smart Paws Extra Large Litter Box for $59: So far this has been a great investment. It’s large but light, even with litter in it, and it dampens some of the sound from my cat who likes to scratch the sides all night.
    • Good Pet Stuff Hidden Litter Planter for $67: This box nicely blends into small spaces with a clever plant disguise. My only gripe is that it needs to be replaced more often than other boxes. It felt like it got grimy quickly, and no amount of washing could cut it. There’s a similarly designed planter from ExquisiCat we haven’t tried.
    • Kitty Poo Club Disposable Boxes for $16-$29: Can’t decide on a box? Kitty Poo Club delivers disposable, recyclable boxes to your door every month, with or without litter. The cardboard has a thin plastic coating inside, so it shouldn’t leak, as long as you’re replacing it. Standard-size boxes are $16 without litter and go up to $29 with litter, depending on which type you want. XL boxes are $18 on their own and $60 with litter.

    Automatic Litter Boxes

    Robotic litter boxes are big and expensive, and experts warn that not cleaning out a box every day could mean missing potential signs of sickness. But we tried two that changed our minds. Both are still large and pricey, but they have connected apps to keep track of your cat’s bathroom habits. You’ll know if something is up, but you can still scoop less.

    Whisker’s Litter-Robot 4 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) is sleek and futuristic-looking, with a bigger drum that will likely appeal to larger cats. The cleaning cycle is quick and nearly silent. It does a great job of concealing odors too—the smell is shocking when you open that waste drawer. Read our review for more about our experience using it.

    The Casa Leo (formerly called Smarty Pear) was the first automatic litter box I tried and it convinced me they’re worth it. Leo’s Loo Too (8/10, WIRED Recommends) is a tad cheaper than the Litter-Robot and has the same powerful odor control. Both are loaded with safety features to stop cleaning cycles should a cat jump in, but this one is more sensitive if you have particularly curious cats. I love the pop of color, but the drum has a smaller opening that some cats may not like. As someone who dreams of owning a bar or coffee shop called Huxley’s House, I appreciate that it’s named after the owner’s late cat Leo.

    Litter Box Accessories

    Litter box placement is hard and most people don’t want to relinquish closet space or a bedroom to a litter box. I (Louryn) tested and love this litter box enclosure. It conceals my cat’s boxes from eyes and noses and it gives my kitties privacy. My cats took to it right away and seem to be as relieved as I am that we can’t see one another while they do their business. It looks like a small credenza or freestanding cupboard and the neutral colors work well in most rooms (you can also paint it). I don’t think you could guess it housed litter if you didn’t know. I sprinkle this deodorizer on the litter, but the enclosure does a good job of trapping odors on its own. This is my favorite piece of cat gear I’ve ever tested, and it’s often on sale.

    Automatic litter boxes now give you health insights, but you don’t have to spend $700 to know exactly what’s happening when Fluffy visits the commode. Purina’s Petivity (8/10, WIRED Recommends) sits underneath a standard litter box and, once connected to the app, tells you which cat visited the box at what time, how much they weigh, and if they went number one or two. This has made my life much less stressful because now I know exactly how much my cat Huxley, who has lower urinary tract disease, is urinating. If something is off, I know immediately and can get him to the vet.

    Litter Genies let you scoop the box every day without a trip to the garbage can. As with a Diaper Genie, you scoop clumps into the top compartment and open a hatch that drops it to a bottom compartment, where it holds in the odors for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to empty it, there’s a handy attachment that safely cuts the bag to tie it off and start a new one. You’ll have to commit to buying refills though. We tried the standard one but there are several size options, including a Plus, XL, and Easy Roll Genie, which says one refill pack can last six months and comes with perforated bags instead of the cutting mechanism. We’ll test that model soon.

    More Litter Accessories We Like

    • Don’t forget a litter mat. Whether you use low-tracking litter, a box with steps, or even an enclosure, litter somehow gets everywhere. A litter mat will help keep it under control and you can buy these anywhere they sell litter boxes. Just vacuum regularly and shake it out every so often.
    • Cat not taking to their litter box? Sprinkle a little bit of this litter attractant after cleaning the box. It’ll help them do their business in the designated spot. It’s also helpful for after a move.

    Food and Water Bowls

    Most vets and cat experts tell you to use stainless steel or glass bowls for your pet’s food and water. Plastic can get dingy and dirty fast, and it holds onto bacteria, which can result in cat acne. If your cat likes the sets of bowls that sit in a stand together, great, but some like their water to be separate from their dry kibble.

    It’s no secret that I (Medea) am obsessed with Owala. I drink from the brand’s FreeSip water bottle and my cats drink from this bowl, as do some WIRED dogs. It has a rubbery grip on the bottom to stop it from slipping around, and the coating has held up after many dishwasher runs. It also comes in 48 ounces. We like Yeti’s stainless steel pet bowl too but it costs more.

    My (Louryn’s) neighborhood has an affectionate real-life squishmallow of an outdoor cat named Stokely. He’s the sweetest, biggest gravy boat imaginable, but it’s tough not to feel like an enabler when he comes around asking for dinner. A slow feeder has helped curb his habits—maybe not his appetite—but the mat slows him down. We tried a few lick mats from Catflower, and there are dozens of similar options with suction cups to keep them in place. Some reviews mention that particularly toothsome cats might chew on the mats to the point of degrading them. While I have not experienced this, it’s always smart to supervise your pet while they’re eating.

    Elevated feeders are great for giving your cats a comfortable eating posture and can even help them to eat slower, hopefully stopping them from vomiting it right up on the carpet. These bowls have some height to them and come in various widths and sizes.

    Other Elevated Bowls and Stands We Like

    Water Fountains

    Cats don’t feel the need to drink water the way humans do. So if they’re unhappy with their water situation, it could lead to dehydration and other serious issues like bladder stones and urethral blockages—some cats don’t like their water right next to their food, which is why it’s recommended to keep them separate. Male cats are especially prone to these issues. Feeding them wet food helps with their water intake, but we wanted a more enticing way for our cats to drink water. Some cats prefer drinking from fountains (or, as many cat owners have experienced, from the bathroom faucet). You’ll need to change the filter about every month, and in some cases, it will need to be near a wall outlet, but it’s worth it if your cat uses it.

    We tried Catit’s plastic flower fountain and its stainless-steel-topped fountain. While stainless steel bowls are preferred, some cats may like the way the water flows out of the flower in streams. Just clean it regularly, and make sure to replace the filter when needed.

    Uah’s fountain uses a rechargeable pump so you don’t need to plug it in while using it and the battery lasts at least three months before needing a charge in our testing. It’s all stainless so it’s easy to clean—you can put it in the dishwasher. It’s also nearly silent and if you turn on motion activation, it starts to run when a cat is near it and turns off when they walk away.

    Catit’s Pixi series offers a smart fountain and feeder controlled via the Pixi app (available on iOS and Android). The fountain’s pump has a small LED that shines through the clear cat nose on the front, turning red when the water is low and blue if UV-C sterilization is on. It blinks blue when the filter needs to be changed, and the app will also alert you. For the feeder, you can use the app to either pour food remotely or on a daily schedule. You can also press the cat’s nose to pour or disable it if your pets figure it out. The app will tell you when the reservoir is ready for a refill. Plus, it includes a spot for backup batteries in case the power goes out while you’re away.

    The Felaqua Connect (7/10, WIRED Recommends) isn’t a fountain, but it automatically dispenses water into the bowl as your cat drinks. It connects to an app and, using your cat’s microchip number, keeps track of when and how much each cat drinks. You need the Sure Petcare hub for the app connection, which is included for $199. If you don’t care for app connectivity, you can forgo it for $115 and only get an automatic dispenser, but at that price, you should go with a cheaper fountain.

    Scratching Posts and Furniture

    Cats need to scratch, and if you want to prevent them from ripping up furniture, you need to provide them with ample scratching posts. Declawing is not the answer—it’s like removing your fingers at the last knuckles—and can lead to problems.

    Cats also like to jump and climb whatever they can, so a cat tree should help keep them occupied and off your mantle or breakable glassware. Cat trees are made from materials that can be scratched up, and some include separate scratching posts. If you aren’t worried about aesthetics, you’ll find plenty of good cat trees at pet stores, as well as places like Home Goods or the like.

    PetFusion lounges are a long-lasting, but pricey favorite. They’re sturdy and look nice, and once the top has been thoroughly destroyed, you can turn it over for a brand-new surface.

    Pet beds are often hit or miss with cats, but this cave has been a huge hit in my house. Even my 20-pounder, Donny, gets in here. There are a few designs to choose from and all are made from durable wool, which should keep them warm and cozy and last longer than faux fur.

    Catit’s Vesper line has a nice modern feel that’s hard to find in moderately priced cat furniture. The Small Vesper Box doesn’t take up too much space, but it’s the perfect height to get my cats right at window level. They can nap in the covered bottom level, scratch and play on the second level, and sit on the soft fluffy pillow on top for bird watching. It was easy to put together, and the cloth pillows and pads are machine washable. The Vesper High Base is a taller option, great for multi-cat homes or for pets that don’t necessarily like to lounge together. The Vesper line includes many other sizes and colors.

    When you live in a small apartment, everything you decorate with matters because it’s all on display—nothing gets hidden when you only have one to three rooms. Some of us want our cat’s furniture to match too. Mau’s Cat Tree is one of our favorites. If you can afford it, your cats will thank you.

    These window seats are a great way for cats to bask in the sun and keep a watchful eye on the neighborhood while safely indoors. They’re easy to install too, with sticky strips that attach to your window sill that can hold up to 40 pounds. You can also nail the base into the window frame, and there are even heated seats for super-spoiled kitties. The covers are removable and can be machine-washed. You’ll need a window sill at least 2 inches deep to properly support it. If you don’t have that, see the product below.

    I (Medea) was scared to try perches that attach with suction cups, out of fear they may suddenly fall, but after some searching, I found the Kitty Cot perches. They stick extremely well—Huxley’s 13-pound belly didn’t budge the thing. The seat is made of nylon that should outlast even the sharpest claws. The company used to have mats for the perches, but they’ve been unavailable for months, and your cat may prefer a blanket or bed that they already like anyway.

    More Furniture and Scratchers We Like

    We have a full guide on the fanciest cat furniture we’ve tried, but be prepared to shell out some serious cash. These are two of our favorites:

    Pet Cameras

    The ability to sneak a peek at your cat when you’re out offers nervous pet owners (most of us) some peace of mind. Eufy’s camera is our favorite. It’s not cheap, but it pans around and allows you to toss treats while away. A huge plus is that you don’t need to subscribe monthly to get video history. Most other cameras require you to use an SD card if you don’t want to pay.

    You don’t need a pet-specific camera unless you want specific features like treat tossing or meow alerts. A simple security camera works just as well and they’re usually cheaper. This one from Wyze rotates 360 degrees and has a privacy mode where the lens faces down when you don’t want it watching.

    Cat Toys

    If you have a cat, you’ll know they typically want whatever piece of trash they find rather than a nice toy you’ve spent good money on. That said, these Cat Amazing puzzle toys have been well received. They keep my kitties sharp by activating their hunting skills and making them use their brains. They still get lots of treats, but they have to work a little harder for them.

    My cats also went nuts for this Ripple Rug. The bottom piece stays in place while the top can be configured into different shapes for playing (or hunting), and you can reshape it as often as you wish. The material feels like felt but is made from 24 post-consumer plastic bottles and can withstand sharp claws.

    If you can’t figure out which kind of toy your cats will like, or you just want them to be refreshed every so often, Meowbox is a great subscription. You can choose to get deliveries every one or two months, and they include incredibly cute toys following an equally cute theme, and treats. Plus, for every box sold, the company gives food to a shelter. You can see exactly where on its website.

    More Toys We Like

    • Cat Person Toys for $7: In addition to the Mesa Bowl we mentioned earlier, Cat Person makes other great products, like these cute catnip toys. Bonus: The packaging turns into cardboard cat houses.
    • Yeowww! Banana Catnip Toy for $9: I’m not sure a single toy has appealed more to my cats than this damn banana.
    • Friendsheep Wool Toys: These toys are cute and our cats love playing soccer with the wool balls or bees. If your cat doesn’t take to them, you can use essential oils to use them as air fresheners. (But don’t use oils on them if your cat does play with them! That could be toxic.)
    • Catnip Spray for $10: Most cats love catnip. Ours have responded well to Pet Craft Supply Co’s for $8 and Yeowww for $9, but I like this spray for days when I don’t want to get flakes all over.

    Cleaning Supplies

    Cats puke and cough up hairballs, usually on whatever carpeted surface they can find. They’ll also occasionally get a little piece of poop stuck to their fluffy butt hair and drag it across the room in a desperate attempt to flee its grips (maybe that’s just my cat). A good carpet cleaner will be a lifesaver. We have a guide with several options, but I particularly like the Bissell Pet Stain Erase PowerBrush. It’s small and light but powerful, cleaning even day-old stains, and there are no long hoses or tiny little parts for debris to get stuck in—any part that’s going to get grimy from what you’re cleaning can be rinsed out easily. It’s portable too, so as long as it’s charged you can walk around cleaning every surface imaginable without being tethered to an outlet. I don’t audibly groan when I spot a pile of puke anymore, and that’s a big deal.

    If you have a lot of carpets, you may want to get a large stand-up cleaner. Our favorite is the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro. It’s a little bit harder to find now, but it’s still available directly from Bissell.

    If your cats aren’t terrified of it, a robot vac might be a worthy investment. It will keep the hair and litter at bay with as minimal effort from you as possible. We have a list of favorites, and this X8 is our pick for pets because it utilizes twin turbines to suck up twice as much dirt in one pass. We didn’t love its maps feature, however. The X8 is pricey, so if you want something to just keep moving around the floor, get the iRobot Roomba 694. It’s often discounted to under $200.

    I also recommend investing in an air purifier or two, especially if you’re allergic to the cats you love so much (guilty). We have a few favorite options across varying budgets, but this one is good for rooms up to 930 square feet.

    More Cleaning Supplies We Like

    • Fur Zapper for $13: Unless your pet is hairless, their fur is likely everywhere all the time. The silicone Fur Zapper is naturally sticky, so hair clings to it in the laundry. Throw these in the washer and dryer, then just rinse ’em off and use them again.
    • Chom Chom Hair Remover for $28: Our cats are arguably too fluffy. This tool makes it easy to de-fur the sofa, ottoman, shoes, and any other surface that gets covered in their hair. We use them every single day. It doesn’t fill up too quickly, and emptying it takes all of three seconds. It works efficiently and doesn’t take too many passes to de-fur an entire couch.
    • Sprinkle & Sweep Messy Pet Accident Cleanup Aid for $45: This powder makes cleanups slightly less disgusting (as long as your cat is puking on hard surfaces). You need a bit more than the package suggests, but once the mess is covered, you can sweep it up. The fragrance can be a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t last, and it’s certainly better than the smell of throw-up.

    Cat Health

    I love Chewy for several reasons—what other company sends flowers if a pet passes away or randomly selects pets to have their portraits painted—but it notably offers a free telemedicine service (unless you live in Alaska, Hawaii, or Alabama). The licensed vets you talk to won’t be able to diagnose, but sometimes you just need a little peace of mind or have someone confirm that you should make a vet call. If you want to video chat instead, that will cost $20.

    It’s helpful to have a thermometer on hand in case you suspect your pet may be running a fever. I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I could bring myself to use a rectal thermometer on my fur babies. Mella’s thermometer, on the other hand, goes under their arm … er, leg … and connects to an app if you want to track and share results. It’s a good step, but if there are other symptoms you may want to go to the vet anyway.

    Louryn’s problem child, Luna, has skin issues and a tendency to over-groom. When a flare-up gets too bad, a soft Elizabethan-style collar can help give tender skin a chance to heal (or, in the case of Luna’s belly, a chance for the hair to grow back.) This adorable, strawberry-shaped collar stays put and is easy to clean. We also tried this bread-shaped collar, which has generally positive reviews, though Luna quickly figured out how to take it off. Your cat’s mileage may vary. Remember that you should always consult a vet if you notice any injuries or changes in your cat’s behavior.

    Basepaws is thorough. After swabbing our cats’ cheeks and sending the samples back in the included envelope, we received PDFs of nearly 70 pages detailing their breed percentages, several pages about all the cat breeds, and how our babies stacked up against around 115 feline health markers. The test tells you if your cat is clear, a carrier, at risk, or at high risk of numerous metabolic, cardiovascular, eye, blood, endocrine, renal, autoimmune, skin, musculoskeletal, and connective tissue disorders, as well as blood type, transfusion risk, and other traits. Any cat can develop a sickness or dental problems, but having a baseline can alleviate anxieties and can empower you to work with your vet to make the best life choices for your cat.

    Cat Carriers

    We love Tuft and Paw’s upscale design, but usually it’s out of our price range. The Porto cat carrier (8/10, WIRED Recommends), on the other hand, is reasonably priced given the competition. It looks fantastic, and you can unzip it in a variety of ways. Lay it flat, open one end, or open the entire side. There are seat-belt straps and a luggage pass-through.

    The Diggs Passenger Carrier elicits compliments every time we go to the vet. It’s durable and thoughtfully made, with safety features like seat belt clips and a buckle strap. There are also a million pockets, and the interior bed easily fits a pee pad over it if your pal is prone to accidents (one pad is included to try out). There’s just enough mesh to allow your cat to see outside but not be overwhelmed.

    I (Medea) recently made a cross-country move for the second time with my cats. I wanted them to be more comfortable than last time, so I bought this car seat cat kennel. The medium size fits both Huxley and Eely-Rue, plus the Friendsheep cave mentioned above with room to spare. It didn’t budge in the car, thanks to a strap on the back for the seatbelt to pass through and a top strap that buckles around the headrest. It folds flat when you aren’t using it.

    Roverlund’s carrier is the only one I’ve (Louryn) used that my cats will (sort of) tolerate. I feel better not cramming them against hard plastic or squinting through tiny holes to see them. They feel better with all-encompassing ventilation and a fully unzipping top instead of a claustrophobic cage opening. It’s a win-win situation that has drastically shortened the standoffs between me, my cats, and a looming vet appointment. (We also recommend this carrier in our dog gear buying guide; it’s a WIRED Gear team fave.)

    Cat Accessories

    Unfortunately, I (Louryn) can speak firsthand to the devastation that comes with a missing pet. There are a few things you can do to prevent it. Step one is to get your pets microchipped. Step two is to make sure they’re wearing a collar with identification. ID tags are widely available, but ideally, the one you buy will be reflective and legible. Whether to list your cat’s name is a personal choice, but the ID should include your phone number.

    I ordered this collar for my cat after her brother went on an extended vacation without my permission. The clasp breaks away so the collar won’t cause injury if it gets snagged. It has held up well over time, and it doesn’t bother my easily ruffled fur baby. If it bothers yours, there are plenty of others, some of them high-tech (which I’ve yet to try). No matter which option you choose, make sure that it’s from a trusted brand. The collar should be durable, highly visible, and lightweight, with a breakaway clasp.

    More Accessories We Like

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    Medea Giordano, Louryn Strampe

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  • Austin Pets Alive! | “Pawth of Totality” Adoption Special

    Austin Pets Alive! | “Pawth of Totality” Adoption Special

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    All pet adoption fees will be 50% off between April 5-8, 2024

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