If you’ve ever brought home a new cat and you already own one, then you know how complex the introduction of the two pets can be. Cats are finicky animals that are slow to warm up to new animals and situations, which can make it difficult to integrate a new cat into your household. If your cat spends time outdoors, then they are likely to run into other cats, which will likely take an adjustment period similar to that of introducing a new cat into your home.

Will your cat ever make friends with other cats? Cats are able to bond with other cats, forging what we might consider a “friendship” with each other. Not all cats want to form bonds with other cats, though!

Bonding Between Cats

Although some cats may warm up to each other within a matter of days or weeks, it typically takes between 8 and 12 months for two cats to form a bond close enough that they could be considered to be friends. In some cases, though, the two cats may never bond. While this situation usually results in two cats that simply stay out of each other’s way, it sometimes requires one of the cats to be permanently rehomed for the safety and health of the animals.

Keep in mind that cats are naturally solitary animals. They can form bonds with other animals and people, but in the wild, cats usually live completely solitary lives. They may only interact with other cats when there is a territory dispute or breeding season is in full swing. If you’ve ever watched a feral cat colony, then you’ve likely noted that some cats do seem to stick together. In many cases, these cats have bonded from a young age. They may even be siblings.

Does My Cat Need a Cat Friend?

If you’re currently living in a one-cat household, you may have caught yourself wondering if your cat might be happier if you gave them a feline friend. If your cat spends a lot of time alone or seems excessively bored, even when you spend daily time with them playing and snuggling, then they may benefit from the addition of another cat in the home.

It’s important to remember, though, that most cats are perfectly content to live in a home with no other cats. In the wild, their territory would be relatively large, and cats are often not keen on sharing their territory with other felines. This is one of the main reasons that it’s so difficult to introduce two cats to each other.

Many cats can adjust to the addition of a new cat to the home. Even if your cat may not necessarily want a feline friend, it doesn’t mean that they won’t be able to adjust to a new cat, nor does it mean that they’ll never bond with the new addition.

In Conclusion

Cats may not form friendships in the traditional sense that humans do, but they can bond closely with other cats. Littermates that are raised together or kittens that are kept with their mother are most likely to be tightly bonded to their companion. Other cats can learn to accept other cats, sometimes even forming extremely close bonds. Cats are solitary animals, though, so many of them are very happy to live in their own territory without the intrusion of other animals.

Featured Image Credit: Xeniya Butenko, Shutterstock

The post Do Cats Make Friends With Other Cats? Feline Social Behavior Explained by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

When Is Vet Nurse Day in 2024?

This special day is celebrated on the second Friday in October every year. In 2024, this event will occur on Friday, October 11^th. Although this day is beginning to be celebrated in the United States, this day was established in Australia by the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia (VNCA).

What’s the Purpose of Vet Nurse Day?

The purpose of this special day is to celebrate veterinary nurses and technicians. These people are essential staff when it comes to keeping your vet’s clinic up and running. They are skilled people with lots of knowledge and training that allow them to provide care for animals. Vet nurses are often responsible for things like preparing procedures for the veterinarian, performing wound care and dressing changes, filling and administering medications, running tests, and assisting the vet during examinations.

Without vet nurses and techs, vet clinics simply wouldn’t have the staff needed to keep them running successfully while still caring for a large number of animals. They can be trained to care for many different types of pets, from cats and dogs to reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish, horses, and more.

How to Celebrate Vet Nurse Day

The best way to celebrate Vet Nurse Day is to simply thank the vet nurses and techs at your vet’s office. You can also provide them with a token of your gratitude, like a coffee gift card or buying lunch for the clinic staff. Even when it isn’t Vet Nurse Day, make sure to treat your veterinary nurses and techs with kindness and respect.

You can also raise awareness of Vet Nurse Day on your social media channels. Help others understand all of the tasks that vet nurses perform and all of the reasons that they’re essential employees at vet clinics.

In Conclusion

Vet Nurse Day may not be a widely known day, but it’s certainly one that should be growing in popularity. Veterinary nurses are incredible people who are full of empathy and knowledge. They spend time away from their own loved ones to provide care for your pets. Make sure to always show them gratitude and thankfulness. Being a veterinary nurse is a high-stress job that can be draining over time. There is a lot of negativity that is projected onto veterinary staff, and vet nurses are often the ones directly receiving the negativity. Gratitude and small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the day of a vet nurse who may be struggling.

Featured Image Credit: Prostock-studio, Shutterstock

The post Vet Nurse Day 2024: Everything You Need to Know by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

If you have more than one cat, you may have noticed that cats have a tendency to bite each other on the neck. Sometimes these bites are on the scruff of the neck, while other times they happen in the throat area. There are actually a few reasons that your cats might be biting each other on the neck, so let’s jump into a few of the reasons for this feline behavior.

The 5 Reasons Why Cats Bite Each Other’s Necks

1. Dominance

In nature, cats are usually solitary animals, but domestic cats living in households often seek to develop a hierarchical structure within the home if there are multiple cats. In order to prove themselves at the top of the hierarchy, a cat has to prove its dominance. Biting other cats, particularly on the back of the neck, is part of this dominance assertion. This type of biting typically doesn’t break the skin.

2. Mating

If you’ve ever seen cats mating, then you know that it’s not something that appears gentle. Part of the mating ritual involves the male cat biting the female cat on the back of the neck. It’s likely that this is done to show dominance and to help keep the female in place. This biting is usually not done aggressively enough to break the skin.

3. Play

Some cats love to roughhouse, and biting and scratching are simply part of the game. You may see one of your cats pounce on the other’s back and bite them on the back of the neck, but during play, cats are more likely to bite the front part of the neck.

For cats, playing is a form of practicing their hunting skills, and cats may bite their prey on the throat to kill them. If done during play, this biting should not hurt the cat that is being bitten and shouldn’t break the skin, although an over-exuberant cat may unintentionally bite the other cat too hard.

4. Aggression

Biting the neck as a form of aggression is a step above using biting to assert dominance. If a cat is showing aggression, they are unlikely to only bite the neck, and there is a good chance that they’ll break the skin with both teeth and claws. If your cats are being rough with each other and either of them is hissing, yowling, or showing signs of fear, then it’s time to break things up so everyone can cool off.

5. Grooming

Mother cats bite the backs of their kittens’ necks to carry them, and you may also spot a queen biting the back of the neck of a kitten that isn’t cooperating for a grooming session. This is partly an assertion of dominance—almost an, “I’m your mother and you’ll listen to me,” kind of behavior. It also serves as a reminder like, “I’m trying to groom you, hold still!”  This behavior is not specific to mother cats, so you may spot two adult cats doing it to each other. This type of biting is typically very gentle.

In Conclusion

Cats naturally bite each other on the neck for multiple reasons, and most of them are benign. It’s important for you to keep an eye on your cats if you see biting occurring, though. Sometimes, games can get out of hand and turn aggressive. In some cases, you may need to help your cats as they establish a hierarchy if there’s a new cat in the home. This establishment of dominance can take time and should be monitored closely to make sure your cats aren’t hurting each other.

Featured Image Credit: Katho Menden, Shutterstock

The post Why Do Cats Bite Each Other’s Necks? The Interesting Reasons by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

There’s just something about the cute, curled ears of Scottish Fold cats that makes them irresistible. You might not realize that other breeds can have curled ears, including the American Curl. The American Curl’s ears are typically curled backward, unlike the forward-curling ears of the Scottish Fold. It’s easy to tell the difference between these two breeds, not just because of how the ears are curled, but also the more athletic body of the American Curl versus the Scottish Fold’s medium-sized, thick body.

However, outcrossing the Scottish Fold with the American Curl is not an acceptable breeding practice, according to the Cat Fancier’s Association.  Breeding two cats with curled ears can lead to severe health conditions, and Scottish Fold breeders are only allowed to use British Shorthairs and American Shorthairs as outcrosses.

Breed Overview

American Curl Scottish Fold Mix Kittens

American Curl Scottish Fold Mix Kittens

Folded ears are not a guarantee with either cat breed, and they regularly produce kittens that have normal ear pinnae since both breeds have ears that grow in opposite directions. These kittens exhibit the temperament characteristics and body type of their respective parent breeds but will develop a shining personality of their very own as they grow. Kittens with curled ears, which are usually the ones highly sought after, are much harder to find.

Temperament & Intelligence of the American Curl Scottish Fold Mix

Are These Cats Good for Families?

The American Curl Scottish Fold mix can be a wonderful cat. They combine the laidback and loving nature of the Scottish Fold with the energetic and affectionate temperament of the American Curl. Both parent breeds are often considered dog-like in their behaviors. They’re known for playing fetch and following their people from room to room. Thankfully, this is not typically done in an annoying way but just allows the cat to keep track of their favorite person and the goings-on in the home.

They tend to be good with children, but it’s important for children to learn to respect the space and boundaries of the cat, as well as understand how to handle them. This is especially important since Scottish Folds have delicate and sensitive tails and a tug on the tail can result in pain and difficulty walking, sometimes permanently. Mixes of Scottish Folds are also at risk for this sensitivity.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

When proper introductions are provided, this mix tends to be an excellent addition to a home with other pets. Obviously, special care should be taken with small pets that may be perceived as prey, like lizards, hamsters, and birds.

Both parent breeds are also known for being cats that get along well with dogs, which may be due to their dog-like personality. As long as everyone receives appropriate introductions, your American Curl Scottish Fold mix will likely get along well with dogs in the home and may even actively seek them out for play.

Things to Know When Owning an American Curl Scottish Fold Mix

Food & Diet Requirements

While the American Curl has a lean body, the Scottish Fold has a stocky body with a medium build. This breed is prone to obesity, although any cat breed can develop obesity or become overweight with overfeeding or inactivity. Aim to feed your cat a high-quality, protein-rich cat food to help support healthy growth and muscle development.

Cats are obligate carnivores, so they require a large amount of protein in their diet. Commercial cat food is the best option for ensuring your cat receives an appropriately balanced diet. Homemade and raw diets aren’t usually recommended due to the nuances of nutrition, but a veterinary nutritionist can also help you safely develop a nutritionally complete diet for your cat.

Exercise

As previously mentioned, you may have a higher risk of obesity with this mix due to the higher risk for Scottish Folds. Regular exercise and activity are essential parts of maintaining a healthy body weight and staving off obesity. The American Curl is an active, athletic cat, and this is likely to carry over into your American Curl Scottish Fold mix, so be prepared to spend an hour or more per day encouraging your cat to play.

Games, toys, and puzzles are all great ways to help your cat become more active, and the more directly involved in these activities you are, the more you and your cat will bond. Due to the high level of intelligence with both parent breeds, you may also be able to teach your cat how to participate in sports and activities, like feline agility and even games of fetch, which both breeds are known to enjoy.

Training

The essential parts of training any cat include litter box training and teaching the general rules of the home, including appropriate scratching spots and restricted areas. Having all of the members of the home stick to the same set of rules will expedite basic training for your cat.

If your cat seems bored or interested in activities they see others doing, then you may have success in training your cat to perform tricks, play games, or succeed at activities like agility courses. Since both parent breeds are intelligent and trainable, you are likely to find good outcomes by training your American Curl Scottish Fold mix.

Grooming

Both parent breeds can come in shorthair and longhair varieties, so your mixed kitten can develop just about any coat type. With shorthair cats, grooming is typically limited to regular brushing to remove loose fur and dander. Longhaired cats require more frequent brushing, and you will likely need to pick out a comb or brush that is made specifically for longhaired cats. This will help you get deeper into the long coat, removing tangles and reducing the risk of matting. If your cat becomes matted, a groomer may need to help get it out.

As with all cats, a nail trim when nails seem exceedingly long is a good idea. A groomer or vet can perform this if you aren’t comfortable with it. Your cat will keep their claws under control most of the time, but sometimes claw tips can become extremely long and sharp, which increases the risk of injuries like broken nails and foot injuries.

Health and Conditions

Male vs Female

There are no notable differences between males and females, but you may notice. Physically, males tend to be larger than females. This will be more noticeable if your kitten has more of the Scottish Fold appearance due to the stocky body of this breed. You are most likely to see this difference in size if your male wasn’t neutered until after reaching full physical and sexual maturity.

In general, male cats are more loving and will strongly bond with members of the household, including other pets. Females may be more independently minded, which doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll see your female cat less, but she may be less likely to seek you out for affection or reassurance.

3 Little-Known Facts About the American Curl Scottish Fold Mix

1. Scottish Folds Started as an Accident

The first Scottish Fold cat was a barn cat in Scotland. This cat, Susie, had unusually curled ears, but her owners did not attempt to breed her. However, Susie did have a litter of kittens, bringing forth two more cats with curled ears.

One of these kittens was spayed while still young, so only one kitten went on to produce offspring. Susie did not live long past the birth of her kittens, being killed by a car only 3 months later, so she did not produce more folded-ear kittens, but all Scottish Fold cats share common ancestry with Susie.

2. American Curls Also Started as an Accident

The American Curl’s origin story is eerily similar to that of Susie. In 1981, 15 years after the first Scottish Fold, a stray kitten with unusually curled ears was found. This kitten, Shulamith, went on to have a litter of kittens that produced two kittens with curled ears.

Word of these kittens spread quickly, rapidly garnering the interest of cat lovers. These kittens went on to be bred, successfully bringing forth the genetic mutation responsible for the ear curl. As they say, the rest is history from there.

3. Folded Ears aren’t Present at Birth

Neither Scottish Folds nor American Curls are born with folded ears at birth, so it’s a mystery for a few weeks after birth as to which kittens will have this trait and which won’t.

In American Curls, the ears begin to fold around a week of age, but they will not show their full curl and may even curl and uncurl up until around 16 weeks. For the Scottish Fold, the ears may begin to fold around 3–4 weeks of age, but it is typically not entirely evident until 11–12 weeks when the breeder is able to determine if a kitten will show quality or not.

Final Thoughts

The American Curl Scottish Fold mix can be a charming cat, taking on many of the positive qualities of their parents. They are likely to be affectionate and attentive, as well as intelligent, trainable, and dog-like in their behaviors.

However, they are also at risk for developing some of the debilitating conditions that their parent breeds are prone to, including osteochondrodysplasia, which is a painful and debilitating condition. American Curls and Scottish Folds with curled ears should not be crossed due to the danger of the offspring inheriting serious health conditions.

It’s important to ensure that your breeder performs all the necessary tests on the parents before breeding, including cardiac scans and joint assessments by specialized veterinarians. If your breeder did not take these precautions, it’s best to get a kitten from a different breeder. Otherwise, you may end up with a kitten that experiences lifelong medical issues and painful, progressive conditions.

See also:

• Skinderlop (Sphynx & Scottish Fold Mix) Pictures, Info, Temperament & Traits
• Scottish Fold Siamese Mix: Pictures, Info, Temperament & Traits

Featured Image Credit: (L) janekub, Shutterstock | (R) Andrey Tairov, Shutterstock

The post American Curl Scottish Fold Mix: Pictures, Info, Temperament & Traits by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

It’s no secret that cats love treats, although the preference for taste and texture varies between individual cats. Is there a reason that cats love treats so much, though? Why do they love treats more than their food? In the US alone, cat parents spend around $3 million per year on treats, so clearly there’s something to it!

Why Do Cats Like Treats?

1. Taste

We all know that “treats” often taste much better than the foods we eat all the time, and it’s fair to assume that it’s the same for cat treats. However, it isn’t just the flavors in the treats that make them more appealing to your cat than their regular food.

Commercial cat treats are often packed with flavor enhancers. They also often have a strong smell, which increases their appeal to many cats.

Treats are also nutritionally different from cat food. They’re often made with more fat and calories than cat food, making them extra tasty and appealing to your cat’s instinctual desire to consume nutrient-dense foods. Much like cookies, cakes, chips, and sodas for people, cat treats are formulated specifically to appeal to your cat’s palate.

2. Texture

Some cats may be picky about food textures, which is why some cats will only eat kibble or wet food while others will eat just about anything you give to them. The texture of treats can vary from liquids and mousses to crunchy or chewy. There’s definitely a treat texture to appeal to every cat! It may take a few tries to find the treats that your cat prefers, especially if they’re a picky eater, but once you find the right treat, your cat will be begging for more.

3. Relationships

Many cats love to bring dead animals or toys they’ve “hunted” to their owners. One reason they do this may be to replicate mother-kitten instincts, as a mother cat would teach their young how to hunt and eat food by bringing prey for them. Cats also bring home what they have hunted to an area they feel safe and comfortable in.

Whatever the reasons for the ‘gifts’ your cat brings you, the ritual of giving food to others is important for cats and people. When you give treats to your cat, you’re strengthening the bond between the two of you by not just giving your cat food but giving them food that is designed to appeal to their senses.

Are Treats Good for Cats?

How “good” a treat is for your cat can vary significantly between treats. Nutrient profiles and flavor profiles differ, making it difficult to overtly say that all treats are “good” or “bad.” What can be said, though, is that treats are exactly that—treats. They are not intended to be a major part of your cat’s diet. In fact, treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake, and keeping that level closer to 5% is ideal.

Although highly appealing to cats, treats are not formulated to meet the nutritional needs of any cat. They simply do not contain the correct levels of vital nutrients to keep a cat healthy on their own. When fed in moderation, most treats can be considered safe for your cat.

Cats with special food needs may need special treats, so make sure to talk to your vet about treats before offering any to your cat if they’re on a special diet or have any medical conditions. Any treat can be bad for any cat if not fed to them properly. Overfeeding treats, even to healthy cats, can lead to serious medical problems, especially in the long run. Obesity can be detrimental to the health of your cat, and it often goes hand in hand with other conditions, like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

Can Cats on Diets Eat Treats?

Most cat treats can significantly impact the progress of your cat’s weight loss if they’re on a diet. If your cat is under veterinary care to lose weight, then you should talk to your vet about appropriate treats for them. Some vegetables that are high in fiber and low in calories, like green beans and broccoli, can be good treats for cats, and some cats will eat these foods.

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The best approach for feeding treats to a cat that needs to be losing weight is to have your vet help you calculate the appropriate calorie intake for your cat every day. This will allow you to know how many treats your cat can have per day. Just make sure to count the calories your cat consumes in treats as part of their daily intake.

In Conclusion

Check out the package of treats you get for your cat and determine how many calories are in every treat. A 3-calorie treat has the opportunity to be offered very differently from how you’d have to offer a treat that has 45 calories. Cats have a very low-calorie need per day compared to people, so it’s extremely important to lean on your veterinarian for guidance on feeding and treating your cat appropriately. Avoid table scraps and “people foods” that have not been approved by your veterinarian, as these foods may be dangerous for your cat.

See also:

• Short-Haired Cat vs. Long-Haired Cat: Differences Explained
• Pros & Cons of Having 3 or More Cats: Our In-Depth Review

Featured Image Credit: Piqsels

The post Why Do Cats Like Treats So Much? Vet-Reviewed Reasons by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Does your cat inch towards you when they hear the crinkle of a chip bag? Felines are nosy creatures that are often intrigued by what they can’t have. This may include salt and vinegar potato chips. While eating a couple of salt and vinegar chips will likely not hurt your cat, potato chips are not a healthy snack for them and should not be fed to cats intentionally. Plus, vinegar is commonly used as a natural cat repellent, so they aren’t likely to enjoy the taste anyway. Let’s learn more.

Why Salt and Vinegar Chips Are Bad for Cats

Salt and vinegar chips aren’t toxic to cats, so if they accidentally eat one or two occasionally, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. While not toxic, potato chips aren’t healthy for cats because they contain a lot of salt and fat, and the oil they are cooked in can upset their stomach.

Salt

Sodium is a vital component for life. Together with potassium, these electrolytes regulate your cat’s bodily fluid balance. Sodium is a dietary requirement that is often easily met by feeding cat food that meets AAFCO standards. AAFCO-certified cat foods are formulated to meet their basic nutritional requirements.

Since cats get all the sodium they need from their diet, they don’t require extra salt found in salt and vinegar chips. If a cat was to eat a lot of salt, salt toxicity can occur, a condition that can be fatal. Signs of salt toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Dehydrated pets are at the highest risk of salt toxicity, but it can also happen if they’re eating large amounts of heavily salted human food.

Fat

Potato chips are cooked in oil, which gives your cat excess fat that they don’t need in their diet.Eating more than a couple potato chips may lead to signs of digestive upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain due to the oil content. Most of the time, these signs will go away within a day or two, but be sure to consult your vet if signs become severe or aren’t cleared up within 48 hours.

Consuming excess fat can also lead to weight gain and obesity if fed regularly over time. Obesity can contribute to other issues, such as diabetes and joint problems.

 Is Vinegar Bad for Cats?

Vinegar isn’t toxic to cats. In fact, many pet parents use it to clean their home because it’s safer to use around felines than most commercial cleaning products and essential oils. However, cats generally dislike the taste and smell of vinegar—so much that it’s actually touted as a natural cat repellent.

Due to its antibacterial properties, you may read that it can be a good idea to add apple cider vinegar to your cat’s diet. However, before doing this, be sure to speak to your veterinarian as it may not be beneficial for every cat and the high acidity can upset their stomach.

Are Potatoes Healthy for Cats?

Plain, cooked potatoes aren’t toxic to cats, and may be found as an ingredient in commercially produced cat food. However, due to their high carbohydrate content, cats shouldn’t eat a lot of potatoes, especially those fried in oil as in potato chips. They also shouldn’t have any potatoes that are raw or served with butter, cream, or extra seasonings, such as garlic and onion, as these extra ingredients can upset their stomach or be potentially toxic in large enough amounts.

What Are Some Healthy Snacks for Cats?

The healthiest thing you can give your cat is their own food. If you need to provide treats for training purposes, consider using bits of their own kibble or small amounts of a healthy, commercial cat treat.

If your cat is at a healthy weight, you can feed their inner carnivore by giving them a little bit of plain, cooked meat such as chicken or fish. Just make sure to remove the bones and extra fat first to prevent possible digestive issues. Always talk to your veterinarian before adding anything to your cat’s diet.

Conclusion

Salt and vinegar potato chips may be what we reach for when hunger (or boredom) strikes, but they’re not a good snack for your cat due to the high amount of salt and fat. However, if your cat happens to sneak a chip or two, they will likely be fine. Eating more than that may lead to an upset stomach complete with vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to see your vet if your kitty gobbles a large amount of salt and vinegar chips and are experiencing any severe signs.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

The post Can Cats Eat Salt & Vinegar Chips? Vet-Reviewed Risks & FAQ by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Traveling with pets is extremely important for many people, which usually means needing to find a pet-friendly hotel. If you’re planning to visit Las Vegas and you want to take your pet along, you have multiple options. It can be a little more difficult to find cat-friendly hotels in Las Vegas, or most places in general, than it is to find dog-friendly hotels. The good news for you is that you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot at any price point that allows pets in Las Vegas.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas

1. Four Seasons Hotel

Address:	3960 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 12 PM check out
Cost:	$75 per night plus tax
Off-Leash Area:	No

2. Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Address:	3000 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	non-refundable cleaning fee of $150, plus a refundable pet deposit of $150
Off-Leash Area:	No

3. Vdara Hotel and Spa

Address:	2600 W Harmon Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89158
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$150 per night, per dog plus tax, or $200 for suites
Off-Leash Area:	No

4. NoMad Las Vegas

Address:	3772 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$100 per pet per night
Off-Leash Area:	No

5. My Place Hotel North Las Vegas

Address:	1440 E Craig Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89081
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$30 per pet per night
Off-Leash Area:	No

6. Sonesta Select Las Vegas Summerlin

Address:	1901 N Rainbow Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89108
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$75
Off-Leash Area:	No

7. The Retreat on Charleston Peak

Address:	2755 Kyle Canyon Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89124
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$25 per pet per night
Off-Leash Area:	No

8. La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Nellis

Address:	4288 N Nellis Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89115
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	First pet is free, second is $25 per night
Off-Leash Area:	No

9. Best Western Plus Las Vegas West

Address:	8669 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89117
Star Rating:
Open Times:	3 PM check in, 11 AM check out
Cost:	$10 per pet per night
Off-Leash Area:	No

10. Residence Inn by Marriott Las Vegas Convention Center

Address:	3225 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Star Rating:
Open Times:	4 PM check in, 12 PM check out
Cost:	$100
Off-Leash Area:	No

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re traveling with cats or dogs, you won’t have any trouble finding a pet-friendly hotel in Las Vegas. Always remember to verify the pet policy with the hotel at the time of booking, though, as pet policies may change without notice. Familiarize yourself with the rules of the hotel regarding pets as well, as these rules often tell you where your pet legally can and cannot go on the hotel grounds with you.

See Also:

• Pet Friendly Hotels in Savannah, GA
• 6 Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Laughlin, Nevada

Featured Image Credit: Prystai, Shutterstock

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Having a cool fort for your cat can bring a fun look to your living room while providing your cat with an excellent hiding spot to help them feel safe and comfortable. Unfortunately, commercially produced cat houses and forts can be prohibitively expensive for many people. The good news is that there are lots of great options for building a DIY cat fort in the comfort of your own home!

Regardless of your DIY skill level and available tools, there’s something on this list that you’ll be able to make at home for your kitty.

The 13 DIY Cat Fort Plans

1. Cardboard Cat Castle

This Cardboard Cat Castle guide makes it easy for just about anyone to build a customized fort or castle for their cat. The plans call for minimal materials and tools, and depending on the fort size you decide on, you can build this simple fort in under an hour. While any type of glue will work for this project, it’s ideal to use sturdy glue, like hot glue or craft glue, to ensure the fort is stable and safe for your cat.

2. Amazing Pet House

The most difficult part of building this Amazing Pet House is going to be handling the hot glue. This simple design will allow you to build a multi-level fort for your cat in the span of an hour or two. You may need to have something heavy on hand, like plate weights or a stack of books. This will allow you to put weight on the top level of the fort, ensuring the glue creates a tight seal between the cardboard layers.

3. DIY Box Fort

This DIY Box Fort plan will walk you through building a large fort for your cat. This fort isn’t the prettiest thing in the world, so it might not be an ideal centerpiece for your living room, but the options for customizing this fort are endless, allowing you to design it to meet the size and aesthetic needs of your home. Although this is extremely easy to make, ensure children have assistance when handling box cutters or scissors.

4. Cat Castle

Although this Cat Castle plan is made from the same simple materials and tools as the previous plans, this one is definitely more complex to make. Lots of precise measurements need to be made, and it’s important that you piece things together properly to ensure they’ll be safe for your cat and able to bear their weight. You can experiment and customize this fort to meet your cat’s needs, though!

5. Epic DIY Castle

This plan will help you make an Epic DIY Castle for your cat. This plan is fully customizable and includes options for adding lots of decorative items to your build, allowing you to build and customize the ideal fort for your cat. It does require quite a few materials, but if you’re a crafter, then you likely already have these items at home.

When selecting decorative items, like garlands and pom-poms, make sure you select objects that will be safe for your cat or will be well-secured so that they can’t eat or get tangled in them.

6. Roger’s Castle

If you have a cat that would love a fort they can climb up high in, then the plan for Roger’s Castle from PetSmart will be a great option. This fort is easy to make, but it will take some time to ensure the levels are safe and secure for your cat. Like all of the previous plans, you’ll need to have plenty of cardboard boxes on hand to create this fort.

7. Blinged Out Cat Fort

We’ll be the first to admit that not all cardboard cat forts turn out very pretty, but this Blinged Out Cat Fort guide will help you create something attractive and unique for your cat. The plan calls for a laser printer and thin wood sheets to create wooden “bling” for the fort.

However, you can print off templates that you like with a normal printer and use them to trace designs onto cardboard, then cut them out with a box cutter. When it comes to this DIY project, use the materials that are available to you.

8. Cardboard Cat Fort

This Cardboard Cat Fort design plan will definitely take some patience to put together, but the end result will be well worth the time. Although time-consuming, this isn’t an overly difficult project, but you will need to carefully measure the cardboard before cutting it to ensure the fort turns out the correct shape. While you can use cardboard boxes for this project, it’s best to select thick, corrugated cardboard to ensure the fort is sturdy.

9. Cardboard Geodesic Dome

This Cardboard Geodesic Dome plan will leave your cat with the coolest fort on the block, but it’ll take you some time to put it together. Carefully measuring the pieces before cutting them and ensuring the pieces are placed together properly will give you success in making this dome. This is a relatively difficult project because of the level of complexity the measurements require, so may not suit kids.

10. Wood Look Cardboard Fort

This Wood Look Cardboard Fort provides the perfect cat fort that looks wooden without the difficulty of cutting wood. This DIY project does require some art skills to create the final look shown in the video, but you can also go rogue and make this fort look however you’d like. If you’re a crafter, then you likely have all of the materials and tools at home already, but if you don’t, they’re all easy to find and relatively inexpensive.

11. Ralph’s Fort

For someone with woodworking skills and leftover wood sheets at home, this project for Ralph’s Fort is a great DIY opportunity. Although the body of the fort is made from cardboard, it requires a wooden frame to be built for the internal support. Ideally, you should mount this build to a wall to ensure it doesn’t topple over when your cat uses it, but you may be able to find a more renter-friendly way to install it without putting anchors into your wall.

12. Bamboo Castle

Are you hoping for a highly attractive DIY fort for your cat? This Bamboo Castle build is aesthetically pleasing, as well as sturdy and fully customizable. Although the original build in the post is a castle, you can make this project look as fort-like as you’d like. This project does require some careful cuts, so be patient and check your measurements before cutting. Be prepared to allow plenty of time for the glue to cure before allowing your cat to climb on this fort.

13. Scratching Post Castle

For cats that love to scratch on a scratching pole, this Kitty Castle with Scratchpole plan is ideal. You can purchase a commercial scratching post for this project, or you can DIY it at home with jute and PVC pipe. Measure your cuts carefully to create this project, but you can customize the size and shape to any type of fort you can dream up. Because of the sturdy build, the sky’s the limit with this project.

Conclusion

When it comes to DIY forts for your cat, you can be as creative as you’d like, as long as you create something safe and sturdy for your cat to shelter in. Every cat is different, and every DIYer’s skill level is different, so start with a project you’re comfortable with. You can always build a new fort for your cat later when you’re more comfortable with your DIY skills!

• See Also: How to Make a DIY Cat Door Climber: 6 Easy & Practical Ideas

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The post 13 DIY Cat Fort Plans You Can Make Today (With Pictures) by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Peppermint is a common ingredient in many things, from food to skincare. It’s not unlikely that your cat will come into contact with peppermint at some point in their life, and if the item seems tasty enough, they might give it a taste. Should you be concerned if your cat eats peppermint, though? Is it safe for cats? Sadly, peppermint is not recommended for cats. Let’s look at the details.

Can Cats Eat Peppermint?

Peppermint is not recommended to be fed to cats. In fact, most types of mint plants aren’t recommended for cats, with the exception of catnip, which is a mint cousin. Although it is unlikely to cause issues in small quantities, peppermint leaves contain menthone and methyl salicylate, both of which can lead to digestive upset. Some cats are sensitive to mint and may have a skin reaction from coming into contact with the leaves.

Salicylate is toxic to cats in large quantities, so if your cat eats a couple of mint leaves or something containing peppermint, then there likely won’t be a major issue. However, if your cat makes a habit of snacking on a mint plant every day, they can suffer serious medical issues, including liver and kidney problems.

Peppermint oil is highly toxic to cats, so this essential oil should always be avoided in homes with cats. Don’t diffuse it or use it topically on or around your cat.

Should I Be Concerned if My Cat Eats Peppermint?

This depends entirely on what your cat ate and how much of it they ate. For example, peppermint chewing gum commonly contains xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. In cats, the “xylitol jury” is still out, but at present, it should be treated as toxic as well until proven otherwise. Many peppermint foods are also often paired with chocolate, which your cat should not eat.

If your cat consumes a non-food substance containing peppermint, like lotion, then you should contact a pet poison helpline with a list of the ingredients in the substance. If your cat consumes a couple of peppermint leaves, keep an eye out for digestive problems, skin irritation, and poor balance. Mild digestive upset and skin irritation aren’t much of a concern, but any moderate to severe signs of toxicity should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

As previously mentioned, peppermint oil is highly toxic to cats. Under no circumstances should your cat be allowed access to peppermint oil or peppermint extract. Both of these can be exceptionally dangerous for your cat, even leading to severe illness or death. If you diffuse peppermint oil in your home, it’s ideal to contact your vet to ensure your cat doesn’t need to be seen.

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In Conclusion

While peppermint plant leaves are not likely to cause issues for your cat in small quantities, there are concerns associated with peppermint. It contains compounds that are toxic to cats, especially in large quantities. Don’t allow your cat access to peppermint plants, oils, or extracts.

Some cats may not be attracted to the strong scent of mint, while others may seek it out because of the nepetalactone that it contains. This is the chemical that makes catnip so attractive to cats, and while peppermint only has a small amount of this chemical, all plants in the mint family contain some level of nepetalactone.

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The post Can Cats Eat Peppermint? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Precautions by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Morning sickness is a widely known issue for pregnant women. Hormonal and physical changes lead to nausea, especially during the morning throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. It can be a really miserable experience, especially if you can’t get the nausea under control. If you have a pregnant cat, you might be wondering if she could be experiencing these signs as well, and unfortunately, the answer is yes. Let’s dive into the details.

Do Cats Get Morning Sickness?

Unfortunately, yes. Cats can get morning sickness, and like in humans, it typically occurs in the earlier stages of pregnancy. Cats have a much shorter gestation time than humans, though, so you can expect to see signs of morning sickness in your cat prior to or around the fourth week of her pregnancy ¹. If you didn’t know your cat was bred, then you may not even realize she’s pregnant prior to the fourth week of her pregnancy.

The good news is that morning sickness in cats is considered an uncommon sign of pregnancy. In humans, morning sickness is extremely prevalent, with an estimated 70–80% of pregnant women experiencing it. For cats, the prevalence is far lower, and because of this, you should not rely on this sign to be the only indicator of pregnancy in your cat.

What Are the Signs of Morning Sickness in Cats?

In cats, the signs of morning sickness may differ slightly from those that humans experience. While humans typically experience nausea and vomiting during the morning hours, cats can feel sick and nauseous anytime throughout the day. This will not always translate into vomiting, though. Many cats, when feeling nauseous, will avoid eating and drinking to help soothe their stomach. After all, nobody wants to eat when they’re feeling nauseated.

If you notice a slight decline in how much your cat is eating and drinking but she is continuing to eat and drink, then it will likely be ok to just keep an eye on things. If your cat flat out stops eating and drinking, then she should be seen by your vet. Cats need extra calories throughout their pregnancy to grow kittens and maintain their own weight and strength. Not only that but if a cat stops eating, they can begin to experience liver issues within a matter of days, and refusing to eat can be indicative of another problem aside from the pregnancy.

Conclusion

If your cat stops eating or drinking, or if she is vomiting regularly, then she needs to be seen by a vet. Maintaining your cat’s hydration and nutrition intake through her pregnancy is essential to her health and well-being, as well as the health of her kittens. Your vet will be able to ensure there isn’t a problem, as well as provide your cat with supportive care and medications if needed to ensure her comfort.

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The post Do Cats Get Morning Sickness? Vet-Approved Signs & Facts by Brooke Billingsley appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.