Blogs, Newsletter

November Newsletter

January 10, 2024
By Kaylib Jones

Is My Long Hair Cat a Maine Coon?

Many people often mistake their domestic long hair cats for Maine Coons due to their similar physical characteristics. Maine Coons are known for their large size, tufted ears, and bushy tails, which can also be found in some domestic long hair cats. Additionally, both breeds can have similar coat colors and patterns, further adding to the confusion.

One reason for this misconception is that Maine Coons are a popular and well-known breed, while domestic long hair cats are more common and can have a wide range of appearances. As a result, when people see a long-haired cat with some resemblance to a Maine Coon, they may assume it is one without considering other possibilities.

Another factor is the lack of knowledge about cat breeds and genetics. Many cat owners are not familiar with the intricacies of breed standards and may not be aware that there are various long-haired cat breeds besides Maine Coons. Without proper understanding, it is easy to misidentify a domestic long hair cat as a Maine Coon based solely on their appearance.

It is important to note that determining a cat’s breed based on looks alone can be challenging, even for experts. While certain physical traits may suggest a specific breed, it is impossible to definitively identify a cat’s breed without proper documentation or pedigree.

If you suspect that your domestic long hair cat might be a Maine Coon, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian or a cat breed expert. They can provide you with more accurate information based on physical examination, genetic testing, or other relevant factors. The most accurate way to determine your cat’s breed is to order a genetic testing kit.

The confusion between domestic long hair cats and Maine Coons arises from their similar physical characteristics and the lack of knowledge about cat breeds. To avoid misconceptions, it is essential to rely on expert opinions and proper documentation rather than solely on appearance.

How Do I Leash Train My Cat??

Start by getting your cat accustomed to wearing a harness. Introduce the harness gradually, allowing your cat to sniff and investigate it before attempting to put it on. Each step might take several attempts over several days in order to help your cat become comfortable with the harness. Once your cat is successfully wearing the harness, allow your cat to adapt to life wearing the harness. Let them eat, drink, and sleep in the harness until your cat is fully at ease in the harness.

Once your cat is comfortable with the harness, you can begin leash training indoors. Attach the leash to the harness and allow your cat to roam around while supervised. This will help them get used to the feeling of being on a leash.

Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise to reward your cat for walking calmly on the leash. Start with short walks around the house and gradually increase the duration of the walks.

When your cat is comfortable walking on a leash indoors, you can start taking them outside. Choose a quiet and safe area, preferably with no other animals around. Keep the leash loose and allow your cat to explore at their own pace.

Be patient and understanding throughout the leash training process. Some cats may take longer to adjust to walking on a leash than others. It’s important to go at your cat’s pace and not force them into uncomfortable situations.

Only progress to leash walking outdoors once you’re confident your cat is comfortable with their leash and unable to escape from their harness.

Remember to always prioritize your cat’s safety and well-being during the leash training process.

Check out our friends at Travel Cat to purchase leashes, backpacks, and more for your adventurous kitty! Or head to our Powell location to check out their amazing bubble backpacks in person!

Also head to their spotlight of feline forward businesses on their blog to see the best cat loving shops, cafes, and more around the world! (Including us, of course!)

Choosing the Perfect Scratching Post

Finding the right scratching post for your cat can be a daunting task, but with a little guidance, you can ensure that your feline friend will have a purrfect scratching experience.

Firstly, it’s important to understand your cat’s preferences. Some cats prefer horizontal scratching surfaces, while others prefer vertical ones. Observing your cat’s scratching behavior can give you a clue about their preferences.

Next, consider the material of the scratching post. Cats have different preferences when it comes to the texture they like to scratch. Some cats enjoy sisal rope, while others prefer carpet or cardboard. You may need to experiment with different materials to find the one that your cat loves the most.

Size is also an important factor to consider. The scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to fully stretch their body while scratching. It should also be sturdy and stable to prevent tipping over.

Placement of the scratching post is crucial. Cats often scratch to mark their territory, so it’s best to place the scratching post in an area where your cat spends a lot of time. This could be near their favorite sleeping spot or close to a window with a view.

Finally, don’t forget to encourage your cat to use the scratching post. You can do this by sprinkling some catnip on it or using treats to reward them when they scratch the post. Positive reinforcement will help them associate the scratching post with a positive experience.

Remember, finding the right scratching post may require some trial and error, but with patience and observation, you’ll be able to provide your cat with a scratching post they’ll love.

Happy scratching!

My darling rescue cat, Sweet Pea, is so sweet and affectionate but she BITES!!

I don’t know if it’s from affection or annoyance, but I can’t stop her. She’s even drawn blood!

She knows she shouldn’t do it so she bites-and-runs before I can reprimand her. Can you help me, please?

Desperately,

Sweet Pea’s Person

Dear Sweet Pea’s Person,

Cat bites can be quite unpleasant and painful. They can easily lead to infections due to the bacteria present in a cat’s mouth, such as the pasteurella multocida bacteria. This particular bacteria is highly effective in overcoming our immune system, which is why cat bites often result in localized swelling, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. In order to treat these infections, antibiotics like doxycycline and Amoxicillin are commonly prescribed.

Aside from the physical pain, cat bites can also have negative effects on our health. It’s important to be cautious and avoid situations that may lead to cat bites.

Cats may bite for various reasons, and aggression is just one of them. From your description, it doesn’t sound like Sweet Pea is being aggressive. Instead, she might be biting as a result of overstimulation. Cats have a limit to how much stimulation they can handle, similar to how cell phone plans used to have a maximum number of minutes. When a cat exceeds their limit, they may lash out by swatting, nipping, or biting as a way to communicate that they’ve had enough.

While physical communication is acceptable between cats, it’s not appropriate for them to communicate with humans in this manner. However, it is natural for cats to use the tools at their disposal to communicate, even if it means biting. Cats have relatively short attention spans and are prone to overstimulation. If you’re calmly petting Sweet Pea on the couch and she suddenly bites you and runs away, it’s likely due to overstimulation.

Sweet Pea may have a shorter tolerance for attention compared to your ability to give attention. She may prefer shorter petting sessions and simply enjoy being near you or on your lap, rather than prolonged petting. Just like my cat Peanut, who loved being on laps but didn’t enjoy sustained petting. Peanut would give warning signs by biting when she had enough. It may feel difficult to resist petting a cat on your lap, but that might be exactly what Sweet Pea wants.

Please send Sweet Pea our greetings!

Tabby

Breeders May Gloss Over Grooming Needs

Recently, we attended a Cat Expo where we had the opportunity to interact with breeders and cat owners. We were approached by several owners of purebred kittens who were curious about our presence at the event since they believed that cats are self-groomers. When we asked them what the breeder had told them about their Persian cat’s grooming needs, they mentioned that the breeder had stated the grooming needs would be minimal and that the cats are capable of self-grooming.

This misconception seems to be prevalent among cat owners and apparently the myth is perpetuated by breeders. My hunch is that breeders know that it doesn’t help to sell cats by telling prospective buyers that their cat will routinely require extensive grooming. While it is true that cats can groom themselves to a certain extent, routine grooming is necessary to manage common fur problems that can be troublesome for both cats and their people. These issues include matting and knotting, excessive shedding, messy behinds, dandruff, allergies, and hairballs. Most of these problems can be attributed to excess oil in the undercoat, which can be addressed and remedied through regular grooming and bathing.

Self-grooming can lead to unwanted consequences when cats consume what they clean. Cats use their tongue to groom themselves, and in doing so, they inadvertently ingest various contaminants, toxins, and parasites, as well as pollen, tree sap, and loose shed hair. Grooming and bathing play a vital role in preventing cats from consuming excess fur and contaminants.

It is important for cat owners to understand that their cats are not solely responsible for their grooming needs. Many longhair cats have been selectively bred to have more hair than they can effectively manage on their own. Therefore, regular grooming by a professional groomer is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of these cats.

As grooming service providers with extensive experience, we aim to educate cat owners about the importance of regular grooming and debunk the myth that cats are self-groomers. We understand that many cat owners may feel like they have failed when their cat requires grooming, but it is crucial to remember that grooming is an essential aspect of cat care. By providing professional grooming services, we help cat owners ensure that their furry companions are comfortable and healthy.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Answer Key From September Issue

Click the Word Search to PRINT and complete it. The Answer Key will Be included in the next issue. Purr for Puzzles!

Our Sellwood and NE Tabor boarding locations are just as complete, and even better than ever because they are now dedicated to cat boarding and vacations.