Cat Information & Facts
Cat owners will often say that cats own people, and not the other way around.
Cats are complex creatures that are considered one of the most popular kinds of pets in the world because of their beauty and independent spirits. If you're considering bringing one of these furry pets into your home, there are several things you should know about them beforehand.
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History
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The ancient Egyptians had the first domesticated cats. They were used to control vermin, revered as hunters and worshiped as gods. Cat murderers were sentenced a death penalty, and cats were even mummified and buried with their owners. These domesticated felines were brought to Europe, Asia and North America during settlement periods. Modern cats have many characteristics of their ancestors, such as body shape, feeding habits and predatory instincts.
Breeds
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There are more than 100 recognized breeds of cats worldwide, with the Siamese cat as the most popular. The main distinguishing factors between breeds are body type, fur length, eye color and fur color. Some of the most well-known breeds include the American Bobtail, Bengal, Burmese, Himalayan, Maine Coon, Manx, Persian, Russian Blue, Siamese and Rag Doll. Each breed has specific characteristics and stereotypical personalities. For example, Siamese cats are infamous for their talkative natures, signature black/gray and white fur and intelligence. The American Bobtail breed is known for his frisky playfulness and ability to escape confined spaces.
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Nutrition
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Cats are carnivores, and they need high-protein diets. They also should have a balance of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. There are many types of cat foods available on the consumer market, including dried food, canned food, moist and fresh food, cat treats and freeze-dried specialties. Cats should be fed two meals a day, and many cat owners give their cats a mix of dry and wet food. Also, cats should not be given cow's milk, because many of them do not have sufficient amounts of the lactose enzyme, and milk can cause diarrhea.
Behavior
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Depending on your perspective, cats have many endearing or annoying behavior traits. Some of the more adorable behaviors include purring, constant grooming, kneading, curiosity, playfulness and vocalization. Normal cat behaviors that can wreak havoc on a home include scratching and biting. Cats have many non-verbal expressions, and you can usually tell a cat's mood by observing his ear positions and tail movements. Most cats can be trained to use a litter box and scratching post. Some cats' bad behavior can be deterred with water gun training and regular play sessions.
Health
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Cat lifespans range from 10 to 16 years of age. There are ways to keep your cat healthy and ensure he has a good quality of life. Cats should have regular exercise, a healthy diet and access to clean water. Litter boxes should be cleaned regularly to avoid urinary tract infections and stress. Most cats benefit from regular baths, as well as flea and tick control preventative products. Take your cat to annual veterinary visits for vaccinations and for early detection of any potential health conditions.
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References
- Photo Credit House Cat image by phizics from Fotolia.com
