The Rescue Ranger

Why Do Cats Puff Their Tails? If you’ve seen your kitties running around acting crazy and all puffed up, then you might be wondering why your cat’s tail puffs up like that. Cats might puff their tails for a few reasons, but it’s usually because they are scared, spooked, or playful. Interactions with other cats or animals can result in a puffed-up tail! Most cats will poof their tails when they’re feeling threatened, startled, or spooked. A cat’s puffy tail is a way of making themselves look bigger and more intimidating if they are feeling scared or aggressive. So why do cats tails puff up when playing, then? Many cats even puff their tails when they’re feeling playful. This is usually accompanied by other playful behaviors, like chasing other cats or batting at toys while in attack mode. Cats use their tails to communicate a variety of things. If your cat puffs their tail and asks for attention, it might be in a cuddly and playful mood. If your cat puffs its tail and it twitches back and forth, it might be a sign that something has startled it. If you’re unsure why your cat is puffing their tail, try paying attention to its body language and behaviors. The cat’s body language can help you determine if the puffy tail is caused by fright or fun. How Does A Cat’s Tail Puff? The cat’s tail is made up of a series of vertebrae, which are connected by muscles and ligaments. When the cat is relaxed, these muscles are loose, and the tail hangs down. When the cat is scared or angry, the muscles contract, making the tail look bigger. This is known as piloerection, and it is a way for fearful cats to make themselves look larger and more intimidating to other animals. There are also other physical indicators of the cause of puffy tails. You’ll likely see the usual physical responses and body language as a frightened cat or playful cat, such as erect ears, whiskers pointed forward, constricted pupils, puffy fur, and a big tail. How Long Does A Cat’s Puffed Tail Last? A cat’s puffed tail usually lasts for a few seconds, although it can sometimes last longer if the kitty is feeling particularly aggressive, scared, or angry. Once the cat has calmed down, the muscles will relax, and the tail will return to its normal position. What Should You Do If Your Cat Puffs Its Tail? If your cat puffs its tail, it is important to try and understand why they are doing it. If you think they may be scared or angry, it is best to leave them alone for a little while until they have calmed down. They might be feeling aggressive, and you could get caught in the middle of a fight. If you think they are being playful, you can try playing with them using a toy or some string. If you are unsure why your cat is frequently puffing its tail, consider consulting a veterinarian or animal behaviorist, as there may be other factors involved. Should I Help De-Puff My Cat’s Tail? There is no need to help de-puff your cat’s tail, as it is a perfectly natural behavior. However, if your cat is playful, de-puffing its tail can be a fun bonding ritual for our feline friends! Conclusion Cats puff their tails for a variety of reasons, including when they are scared, angry, or playful. There’s no need to de-puff your cat’s tail, but it can’t be fun to do so if your cat is calm. It’s important to pay attention to your cat or kittens to find out why their tail is puffed, but it’s perfectly normal behavior.

Why Do Cats Loaf? When you catch a glimpse of your cat sitting in a perfectly symmetrical position, with its paws neatly tucked under its body and its tail elegantly wrapped around them, it’s hard not to let out an audible “aww.” This is the cat loaf position, commonly referred to as “loafing,” because it looks like a loaf of freshly baked bread. While it may seem like a common way for cats to sleep, there are several reasons why cats choose to loaf, and understanding your cat’s body language can help you understand them! When a cat is loafing, they are conserving body heat by minimizing its exposed surface area and covering its internal organs. By curling up, cats can retain their body temperature, especially in cooler environments or during cozy nap times. When a cat sits in a loaf, they feel safe, secure, and content in their surroundings. Even a cat curled into a partial loaf is a sign that your feline companion trusts and feels comfortable around you. Loafing is definitely also a sign of relaxation and contentment. After all, cats wouldn’t do something if it wasn’t comfortable, right? So if you see your cat loafing around, there’s a good chance they’re happy and feeling confident. Why is a cat loaf so famous? The phenomenon of cat loafing took off in 2010 across major social media platforms. Countless images and videos of the kitty loaf or a potato cat have gone viral, captivating the attention of millions of cat lovers. It’s hard to resist adorable snapshots and cat loafing videos of potato cats, bread loafs, turkey cats, kitty loafs, and meatloaf. Try featuring a cat loafing in your next adoption profile! Why Is It Called A Loaf? The cat body language term cat loaf comes from the visual resemblance of a loaf of bread. When cats loaf, they tuck their paws neatly under their body and often wrap their tail around themselves, creating a bread loaf shape. After all, cats and bread share some key characteristics: they’re soft, fluffy, and oftentimes round. Or it could be that “cat loaf” is simply a shorter, easier way to say “cat lying down with its paws tucked in.” Whatever the origin of the cat’s behavior, one thing is for sure, “cat loaf” is a better name than turkey cat or meatloaf cat! 6 Reasons Cats Loaf To sum it up, there are several reasons why cats sleep, and cats sit will tuck their paws into cute cat loaf positions. So there you have it! Those are some of the reasons your beautiful hover cat tucks their paws beneath them. Next time you spot your feline friend gracefully loafing, take a moment to bask in its warmth.

How To Trim Cat Nails Trimming your cat’s nails can be a daunting task. But it’s important to keep your cat’s nails short, or they could accidentally scratch you, damage furniture, or even develop health issues. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to trim cat nails, including how often to do it, what clippers to use, and how to manage a wiggly cat. Why It’s Important To Trim A Cat’s Nails Your cat’s nails can grow quite long if left untrimmed. Cat owners should regularly trim their cat’s claws to prevent discomfort and potential health issues. Not only can this be uncomfortable for your cat, but it can also lead to health problems or poor scratching or nail-biting habits. Clipping your cat’s nails regularly will help avoid extra sharp and long nails and keep them healthy and happy. How Do You Trim Your Cat’s Nails? First, make sure your cat is calm and relaxed. Try clipping their nails when they are sleeping or lying in their favorite sunny spot. Keeping your cat comfortable during the process is helpful. Wiggly cats might be a bit different. You may need to have someone help you hold your cat while you trim its nails. Next, take a close look at your cat’s nails. You’ll see a pinkish part called the quick. Avoid trimming the quick, as this can be painful for your cat because that is where the blood vessels are. If you accidentally cut the pink part, your cat’s claws might bleed. Be sure to only clip the very tip of the clear nails. Clip the white part of the nail (called the shaft). Gently squeeze the cat’s paw so the cat’s nails pop out, and start by trimming a little bit at a time. Gradually trim more as you get comfortable. You may only get to clip one or two nails at a time, but keep at it over time, and you’ll have the entire paw. Finally, give your cat a treat and let them know they did a good job! Making nail-clipping a fun ritual and a positive experience will make it easier in the long run. How Often Should You Trim Your Cat’s Nails? Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to four weeks, but it may depend on their habits. Some cats bite their nails or use a scratching post or scratch boxes a lot, and you might not need to clip them at all. But if you notice that your cat’s nails are getting too long, trim them as soon as possible. When my cats are sleeping I try to do short sessions of stress free clipping with one nail at a time. Sometimes I get two or three nails before they become wiggly. Don’t Declaw Your Cat’s Claws! You may have heard that declawing cats is an option. Declawing should not be considered, and we advise against it for several reasons. Declawing is extremely painful for your cat and can lead to joint and muscle problems later in life. Instead of declawing, ensure your cat’s nails are trimmed regularly to prevent any issues. If you’re having trouble, consider taking them to a professional groomer to avoid putting yourself through a stressful experience. What Is The Quick In Cat Nails? The quick is the blood vessel that runs through your cat’s nails. It’s important not to trim the quick, as this can be painful for your cat and lead to bleeding. If you do accidentally cut the quick, don’t worry – use styptic powder or a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. What Clippers Should You Use To Trim Your Cat’s Nails? Use sharp, clean nail clippers designed for cats to ensure a smooth nail-trimming process. Avoid using human nail clippers, as they may not be the right shape and damage your cat’s nails. Using the wrong type of nail trimmers can cause the cat’s nails to splinter, which can cause them discomfort. Human nails are different so human nail trimmers are not ideal and can allow you to accidentally hit the quick or accidentally trim them incorrectly. Nail Clippers Vs. Nail Grinders You may wonder whether to use nail clippers or a nail grinder for your cat’s nail trims. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Nail clippers are typically easier to use, but they can be more difficult to control. Nail grinders, on the other hand, offer more control but take a bit longer. Ultimately, it’s probably up to your cat which one they prefer. How To Trim Black Cat Nails If you have a black cat, you may be wondering how to trim your cat’s nails without cutting the quick since its entire nail is black. The best way to do this is to use a nail grinder, as it will allow you to go more slowly. You can also trim your black cat’s nails in sunlight or under bright light, as this will make the quick easier to see the dark nails. Cat Scratchers And Preventative Nail Management An important part of trimming your cat’s nails is preventing them from getting too long in the first place. This is especially important for indoor cats, who may be less active and need assistance in keeping their nails worn down. One way to do this is by providing them with a scratching post or cat scratcher. This will help keep their claws short and healthy and give them an outlet for their natural scratching behavior. Conclusion Ultimately, trimming your cat’s nails doesn’t have to be difficult. Just take your time, be gentle, and trim a little bit at a time. If you’re ever unsure, ask your veterinarian for help. There are a few different types of cat nail clippers you can try to find the right fir for your cat’s claws and preferences. Giving your cat a nail trim can become a bonding experience for both you and your kitty, even if you do one

How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine It can be difficult to give a cat liquid medication, but with a few tips, you can make it easier. We’ll help you prepare the medicine, find the right location, and offer cat control tips to make it go more smoothly. Having two people might make it easier, but we have tips for handling wiggly cats solo as well. Here are the main steps for giving liquid medicine to a cat. First, it’s important to have the right supplies on hand. You’ll need the medicine, of course, but you’ll also need a syringe or dropper. Draw up the correct amount of medicine into the medicine filled syringe or dropper before you capture the cat. Once you have the supplies, you’ll need to prepare the cat. Gather them into your arms and hold them close. You may want to wrap them in a towel to help keep them still or confine them in a small room. Have someone else help you if possible. With the cat prepared, it’s time to give the medicine. Gently place the tip of the syringe or dropper into the side of the cat’s mouth and squeeze the medicine into its mouth. If everything goes well, you can give the cat a treat as a reward. If it didn’t go well, don’t worry. Just clean up any spills and try again once the kitty has calmed down. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at giving liquid medicine to your cat. Hide It In Wet Cat Food If you’re having trouble getting your cat to take their cat’s medicine, there are a few things you can try. Some medications can be flavored to make them more palatable to cats. You can also mix the medicine into a small amount of wet food or give it with a treat. If you go this route, make sure that the food is something your cat loves and that they will eat it all so they get the full dose of medicine. You may need to experiment to find what works best for your cat. Be sure the cat eats everything and gets its entire dose of medication. How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine By Yourself If you’re giving liquid medicine to a cat by yourself, it’s important to be prepared. Have everything ready before you capture the cat so the process is quick and easy for the kitty. Be calm and encourage them with positivity to keep their guard down. The main challenge in providing medicine to a cat by yourself is holding a wiggly cat while also administering the medicine. You need to hold the cat’s body and cat’s head still while plunging the medicine accurately into an unhappy kitty’s cat’s mouth. It’s not easy! Hold the cat close to your body to help contain them. Wrap the cat in a towel with only its head exposed to minimize movement. You can also wrap them in a towel or blanket to help keep them still. Gently insert the syringe at the side of the cat’s mouth and administer the medication slowly. Another helpful solution is a cat-bag product, which is more durable and allows the cat to pop its head out. If your cat is difficult, the reality is you will likely get lots of scratches and waste a lot of medicine. It’s important to remember that your cat needs their medicine, and it’s up to you to get it to them, but you are in it together and can take steps to make it a positive and calm interaction. How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine With Two People Having two people to give a cat liquid medicine can definitely make it easier. One person can hold the cat while the other person gives your cat liquid medicine. The benefit of two people is that one person can hold the cat’s body and head while the other person administers the medicine. This can be very helpful if the cat is wiggly or resistant to taking medicine. You may still need to use a towel or cat bag to contain the cat, and confining them in a small room is also helpful to ensure the cat swallows the medicine. Things That Can Go Wrong When Giving Your Cat Liquid Medicine Conclusion Liquid medicine can be challenging to give to cats, but with a little preparation and patience, you can get the job done. Having two people might help, but you can also give liquid medicine to a cat by yourself. Be prepared, go slowly, and remain calm. It’s important to remember that your cat needs their medicine, and you are in this together. If things go wrong, don’t worry. You’ll get the hang of it with a little practice. And if all else fails, ask your veterinarian for help. Looking for additional tips on administering meds to cats? Check out How To Give A Cat A Pill for more ideas.

How To Give A Cat A Pill There are a few ways to get your cat to take their medication, but the most common way is by administering cat pills. Some cats won’t take a pill and will spit them out or hide from you, making it difficult to give them their meds. Hiding the tablet in a treat is the easiest way to give your cat oral medication. You can also check with your vet to see if you can crush the pill and place the pill in liquid cat treats. It’s not recommended to mix the medicine in with cat food in case your cat doesn’t eat everything. If you have to pill the cat manually, we have some tips for how to pill a cat solo as well as how to pill a cat with two people. We’ll also cover how to make it easier to pill difficult cats. How To Pill A Cat By Hand If your cat is cooperative, pilling them will be much easier. Start by gently petting them and talking to them in a soothing voice. This will help them relax. Next, open their mouth by placing your thumb on one side of their jaw and two fingers on the other. Tilt their head back and drop the pill as far back on their tongue as you can. Make sure to hold the cat’s head firmly and place the pill directly into the cat’s mouth. Close their mouth and massage their throat to help your cat swallow. The first step is to have the cat in a comfortable position. You can hold them in your lap or have them sit on a table in front of you. If they are sitting on a table, make sure they are facing away from you so they can’t see the pill. Next, open their mouth with your thumb and index finger. Gently grasp the cat’s head from above and gently put pressure on the lower lip and front teeth to open the mouth further. You’ll likely have several chances to pill your cat, so you can experiment with the overhead or under-the-jaw methods. Quickly and gently place the pill into their mouth as far back as you can. Ensure the cat’s jaw drops open slightly to make it easier to place the pill. Close their mouth and hold it shut for a few seconds so they don’t spit the pill out. If you are having trouble getting the pill into their mouth, you can try using a pill pusher. This is a small, soft-tipped device that helps push the pill into the back of their mouth. Once the pill is in their mouth, you can give them a treat to distract them and help them swallow the pill. Lastly, make sure they have plenty of water to drink because many medications make cats thirsty. Pilling A Cat Solo Pilling a cat solo can be difficult, so be patient. Try hiding the pill in different types of food or pill pockets. If your cats are too smart and evolve to find the pill, try adding another texture to the food, like a crumbled freeze-dried treat, to make the pill harder to find. If you have to go at it the hard way, try to get the cat into a small enclosed room, like a bathroom. That will give you multiple chances to give them their medicine while they fight you. It’s important to keep calm and not let the cat sense your fear. Sing songs and make it as fun as possible, and remember, you’re in it together. The saying “slow is smooth, and smooth is fast” also applies to pilling cats. Have the pill ready to go, get them on your lap, tilt their head back, and give them the pill. Ensure the cat’s nose points to the ceiling to help open their mouth. Getting them to swallow the pill is part of the challenge, so keep their mouth closed, rub under their neck, and blow lightly on their nose. You can also gently rub the cat’s throat to stimulate swallowing. The towel technique is a good one to try if you’re giving medicine to a wiggly cat. Wrap them in a towel with only their head exposed to make it easier to administer the pill. It may take a few tries to get it right because you have to hold the towel while you open their mouth and drop in a pill. The towel method works better with two people. An alternative to the towel method is a cat bag. If you can get the cat into a cat bag, it will block its claws and allow you to have free hands to work with the cat’s mouth. Be patient, and good luck! Pilling A Cat With Two People If your cat is naturally feral or difficult, pilling them will be more challenging. You may need someone to help you hold them while you give the cat a pill. Start by capturing the cat in a small space like a bathroom. If you can’t confine the cat, try to get them on a table, couch, bed, or on your lap. Try to make it a positive experience by petting them and talking to them in a soothing voice. If that doesn’t appeal to your moody cat, then try to make the process as quick and painless as possible. Next, have the person hold your cat still while you open its mouth. Place your thumb on one side of their jaw and two fingers on the other. Use your ring finger to gently put pressure on the lower lip and front teeth to open the mouth further. The process is the same as pilling with one person, but it’s easier to manage the cat with two people. Tilt their head back and drop the pill as far back on their tongue as you can. Close their mouth and massage their throat to help them swallow

How Often Do You Take A Cat To The Vet? Most people know that they should take their cat to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations, but many don’t know how often those check-ups need to happen. Depending on your cat’s age, lifestyle, and health condition, you may need to take them in as often as every few months or as seldom as once a year. Here is a general guide to help you determine how often your cat needs to see the vet. Life-Stage Check-Ups From young kittens to a healthy adult cat, each life stage of the cat’s life requires a different frequency of wellness visits to keep your feline friend in top condition. Before we jump in, if you see any unusual symptoms, lethargy, or lack of appetite, don’t hesitate and contact your vet immediately. Pet insurance is a good way to reduce the long-term costs of unexpected visits or preventative care like dental cleaning, which helps prevent dental disease. While pet insurance doesn’t always cover the visit, over time, it can be beneficial and is something we do recommend. Kittens As a kitten, your kitty should have vet check-ups every three to four weeks until they are around six months old. These frequent visits will allow the vet to monitor their health with early detection and make sure they are developing properly, especially if they are rescue kittens. The vet will also give them their first round of vaccinations during these visits. Most kittens will receive their core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age. Adult Cats Once your cat reaches adulthood, they will need routine checkups with the vet once or twice a year for a wellness exam and possibly vaccinations. If your cat is healthy and has no underlying medical conditions, this may be all they need. However, if your cat is overweight, has a chronic illness, or has underlying health issues, they may need to see the vet more often. Senior Cats As your cat gets older, they will likely need to see the vet more frequently for regular checkups. Senior cats typically need to be seen every six months for a physical exam, but this may increase to once every three or four months if they have health problems. Even if your senior cat is in good health, cats can develop serious health issues within a few weeks or months. Dental Care Cats need regular dental care just like humans do. Depending on your cat’s oral health, they may need to see the vet for a professional dental checkup every one to two years. Depending on their oral condition, your feline practitioners may request dental cleanings every few years, even for otherwise healthy adult cats. Seasonal Care In addition to annual checkups, you should also consider a seasonal wellness check up. Cats are susceptible to seasonal illnesses, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms, even for indoor cats. Your vet can help you develop a flea and tick prevention plan to keep your cat healthy and parasite-free all year round. Spring As the weather starts to warm up, fleas and ticks become more active. Talk to your vet about using a monthly spot-on treatment or oral medication to protect your cat from these parasites. You should also start thinking about heartworm prevention if you live in an area where mosquitoes are common. Kitten Season (Springtime) If you live in an area with a lot of stray cats, you may see an influx of kittens during spring and summer. While it’s tempting to take one home, it’s important to remember that they will need frequent vet care. Kittens need to be seen by a vet every three to four weeks until they are six months old. They will also need to be vaccinated and spayed or neutered after they reach a few months of age. Summer During the summer, you’ll need to be extra vigilant about parasites. In addition to fleas and ticks, mosquitoes can also transmit heartworm to cats. Make sure your cat is up-to-date on their parasite prevention medication, and talk to your vet about any concerns you have. Fall As the weather starts to cool down, you’ll need to start thinking about heartworm prevention again. Mosquitoes are still active in many areas during the fall, so it’s important to keep your cat on a monthly preventative. You should also have your vet check your cat’s teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and free of tartar buildup. Winter Cats don’t typically need any special care during the winter, but it’s important to keep an eye on their health. If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance, make sure to take them to the vet for a physical examination. Regular vet visits will help ensure your cat stays healthy and happy all year round. Also, be sure to take extra precautions for your outdoor cats, such as insulated winter shelters. Signs Your Cat Should See A Vet Even if it’s not time for their regular vet visit, there are some signs that indicate your cat needs to see a vet right away. If your cat is showing any of the following signs, please call your vet or take them in for an appointment: If you are ever unsure whether or not your cat needs to see a vet, it is always better to err on the side of caution and make an appointment. Your vet will be able to tell you if your cat is just having a bad day or if they needs further care or medical attention. Annual Check-Ups For Every Cat Most people know that they should take their cat to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations, but many don’t know why. Cats need regular vet visits to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health problems early on. Some of the things that a vet can check for during a routine visit include: During a vet visit, your cat