ReportWire

Tag: happy cat

  • Benefits of dogs and cats for seniors | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    More and more people are discovering how powerful the bond between animals and seniors can be. As we age, it’s common to face health challenges and a shrinking social circle — factors that often lead to loneliness. In fact, the National Institute on Aging states that older adults are especially vulnerable to social isolation.

    The companionship of a dog or cat, however, can significantly enrich a senior’s life, offering comfort, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    One of the benefits of dogs and cats for seniors is the sense of purpose they provide. Dr. Erin Ray, a clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M, says companion animals give older adults renewed responsibility.

    “Pet owners tend to be more physically active, have a reduced risk of heart disease, and engage in more social interactions with others,” says Dr. Ray. “Consequently, they often experience less loneliness and stress compared to people without animals.”

    Having a dog or cat provides structure to an older adult’s days. It keeps them busier as they establish and maintain their animal’s daily routine, including regular meals, walks, and play time. This daily routine boosts physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction for both seniors and their animals.

    In addition, dogs and cats help fulfill the emotional and caregiving instincts many people have, especially for those whose children no longer rely on them.

    “Getting out of bed, getting dressed, and caring for the house and yard tend to be more important when another living creature is relying on you,” says Dr. Ray. Additionally, most dogs and cats show affection and listen attentively. They often become trusted confidantes for their humans.

    Dogs and cats also help seniors connect with others in their community. “Older people with pets are often more sociable,” says Dr. Ray. “Pets often encourage people to step outside for walks or visit public places like dog parks…where they can interact with other people.” 

    A furry friend can bring immense joy and companionship to a senior, as long as they can provide proper care. “Ultimately, it can help an isolated person feel loved and appreciated.”


    Post Views: 46


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    [ad_2]

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • Why orange cats are usually male | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Have you ever wondered why orange cats are usually male? And why calicos and tortoiseshells are female? For decades, scientists at leading universities have explored why cat fur color is linked to sex. 

    Now, building on past work, researchers at Stanford University and Kyushu University have each conducted independent studies and found a definitive answer. 

    It all has to do with a long-posited but elusive genetic mutation – a DNA deletion near a gene called ARHGAP36. This mutation causes pigment cells to produce a ginger hue. At the same time, it suppresses the cells that create brown or black coloring. 

    The X sex chromosome contains the genetic instructions for orange fur. Most fully ginger cats are male because they typically have only one of these chromosomes.

    Female cats, on the other hand, normally have two X chromosomes. For a female kitty to have a fully orange coat, both X chromosomes must activate the genetic instructions for that color. More usually, only one of her X chromosomes carries the ginger trait. The result is a calico or tortoiseshell cat, with a mottled or patchy coat of orange, black and gray. 

    Other mammals – such as tigers, golden retrievers, or red-haired people — often have ginger coloring. But in their case, pigmentation isn’t linked to sex chromosomes. This means individuals of both sexes will display this coloration. Domestic cats appear to be the only species where orange coloration is linked to sex.


    Post Views: 32


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    [ad_2]

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • How to find a holistic cat groomer | Animal Wellness Magazine

    [ad_1]

    Find a holistic cat groomer who values your kitty’s comfort and well-being. Get tips on what to look for, questions to ask, and how to ensure a stress-free grooming experience.

    Cats groom themselves well, but professional grooming can still help in some situations. This is particularly true for cats with long coats or older cats that struggle to reach certain areas.

    You might envision cat grooming as a howling kitty covered in shampoo and hesitate to visit a groomer. However, this is rarely the case. A holistic cat groomer can provide a low-stress option for your feline by creating a positive experience for her. Read on for tips on how to find a holistic cat groomer.

    4 steps to the right holistic groomer for your cat 

          1. Check their website for green flags

    Look for a bio or blog on the groomer’s website that emphasizes comfort and safety over “perfect” results, even if the word “holistic” isn’t mentioned. Here are some further details to look for:

    • A statement that explains they halt grooming if a cat becomes frightened or defensive. Many holistic groomers will let you return for another session after the cat calms down and then use a different strategy to build trust and show the salon is safe. 
    • A statement that the groomer avoids over-restraining cats, such as scruffing, pinning, or using restrictive devices by default.
    • The phrase “humanity over vanity” or something similar. A holistic groomer will value your cat’s tolerance and autonomy over a photo-ready finish.
    • Transparency and clarity when mentioning what products they use. 
    • A list of cat comforts in the salon, like blankets, toys, and happy hoodies. Even low-pressure dryers can make all the difference to your cat’s mood.

         2. Watch a grooming process

    If your potential cat groomer is active on social media, they may post videos and images from their salon. Watching them groom a cat can give you great insight into exactly how they work.

    • Observe if the groomer takes time to get to know a new cat or demonstrates rapport with returning clients.
    • Watch for the cat to relax and become happier as the grooming session progresses. In the case of nervous or defensive cats, the groomer adjusts and explains their approach. 
    • Notice if the groomer uses minimal restraint. Holistic groomers do not immediately turn to force, such as scruffing a cat or using a “trouble bubble” (the plastic hamster ball helmet many groomers use). 
    • See if the groomer adjusts the grooming location to wherever the cat feels most comfortable, even if that means moving to the floor.

         3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

    Most groomers are happy to explain their process and clear up misconceptions about cat grooming. For example, ask:

    • “What happens if my cat is scared or defensive?” This is common at first-time grooms. A good groomer will describe their strategy and have a plan that avoids pinning the cat down. 
    • “Do you use restraint tools?” This gives a groomer the opportunity to explain what tools they have and when they would use them, if ever. 
    • “Can you give my cat the look I want?” A responsible groomer will be honest when assessing your cat. For example, a cat that needs to be constantly on the move may be a better candidate for a hygiene trim and comb-out rather than a time-consuming and perfectly neat lion cut.
    • “What do you recommend for my cat?” Your groomer will be able to suggest a maintenance plan that will suit both you and your feline.

        4. Be prepared for the groomer to ask you questions too

    When the groomer asks you questions, it demonstrates they tailor their approach to suit your individual cat. A good starting point is for your groomer to know if your kitty has ever been professionally groomed before.

    Many holistic groomers will also want to know your cat’s medical history, favorite treats, best petting spots, and any “don’t touch me” areas to be aware of. 

    You may already groom your cat at home, and that’s a great option too. But knowing how to find a holistic cat groomer is another step to keeping her fur healthy and looking great, no matter her age or coat type. 

    What does a holistic cat groomer do?

    A holistic groomer treats each cat as an individual. They adapt their grooming techniques to make each cat as comfortable as possible, without the use of heavy restraints. 

    Some cats are content to sit still for an Instagram-worthy groom, while others prefer a quick spruce-up. Holistic groomers focus on the cat’s comfort and well-being over perfection and work to build trust over time.


    Post Views: 616


    [ad_2]

    Faith Roswell

    Source link