In Or Out?

Cats adapt quickly to circumstances, whether they're indoors or out. There's no question that the outdoor cat is at far greater risk than the housecat. Outside, a cat can fall victim to dogs, cars, wildlife and other hazards. Fights with other cats are a fact of life for the outside cat, and the chances of both pregnancy and infectious diseases are much higher.

To put things in perspective, think of it this way--the average indoor cat lives upwards of 15 years. The outdoor cat has a life expectancy of 4 to 5 years.

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Kneading Love

Snuggling with a happy cat is one of life's great pleasures, except for those kneading, pokey feet! Kneading is one of the more unusual cat behaviors. So why do they knead?

It starts in kittenhood, when the babies knead at their mother's teats to stimulate milk flow. Cats associate the act of kneading with the pleasure and safety of drinking their mother's milk. As cats age, some continue to knead when they're happy. And if you're cuddling them, they're usually very happy.

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Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease--meaning it can pass between cats and humans. It's an intestinal parasite that can be passed to humans through improper handling of cat feces.

Pregnant women should be especially careful where toxoplasmosis is concerned. If the infection occurs during pregnancy, the developing baby may suffer damage. It is therefore best for pregnant women to avoid the litter box altogether during pregnancy. If possible, get another household member to take care of litter replacement and cleaning during this time.

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Cyber Cat

You're on the road, and in a strange place. You let your attention slip for a moment, and what happens? The little fur ball makes a break for it. Now you have a problem, and without proper identification, there's a very real chance it could get worse.

While a collar and tags remain a good way to identify your cat, there are other high-tech options available. Tattoos and microchip implants will probably save your cat's life if he winds up at the humane society.

The Home Hunter

Cats are one of nature's most effective carnivores, which is something to keep in mind if you have other, smaller pets. While some cats won't bother other pets, many will actively plan just how to get into that birdcage.

Fish tanks are often irresistible to cats--especially those without tops. Even a cat with a healthy fear of water will try his paw at fishing. For everyone's safety, position your tank with care. If a cat falls into some of the more elongated fish tanks, there's a fair chance that she might drown before she can get out.

-- Anonymous, May 30, 2002