Providing helpful information regarding our feathered, feline, and canine friends while also sharing fun stories. And locally we provide pet sitting services.
Digital Art by Canva Creative Studio with photo of black and white dog and calico cat lying side by side on bed superimposed over digital art.
Even though we’re near the end of the year, the holidays aren’t quite over yet. We still have one more day to celebrate. Therefore, before getting out the firecrackers or toasting Champagne, here are tips on how to celebrate New Year’s Eve with pets.
Pet parents, especially those with multiple pets, may choose to celebrate New Year’s Eve with their fur babies, like we typically do. In which case, I’ve outlined NYE ideas for both cats and dogs.
Itty hiding in the covers of my bed.
How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Pets
Invite Your Pet’s BFF
Since NYE is a big and loud celebration that can make your pet anxious, just stick to your closest buds that your pet knows well. Plus, having a small party minimizes anxiety for pets and people alike. Additionally, you’ll get to spend quality time with your fur baby and keep an eye on them.
Take a Nap With Your Fur Baby
In order to prep for the long night, consider taking a cozy nap during the day with your pet. That way you’ll both be refreshed for your evening.
Moreover, provide a garbage can for people with disposables that your pets can’t get into. In addition, either make your own homemade pet treats or buy some. However, don’t allow your friends to pass out the people food to your pet. And don’t forget to provide plenty of water for your fur baby.
Play With Your Pet
Due to the likelihood of loud noise with parties and fireworks, including during daytime hours, spend plenty of time entertaining your pet. Some ideas include puzzle toys, interactive toys, teasers and wands, balls, chew toys and tunnels. So, whether you have a dog, a cat, or both, there are plenty of items to choose from.
Avoid noisemakers
Both cats and dogs have more sensitive hearing than our own. Plus, NYE is the holiday most pets are reported lost, 2nd only to the 4th of July in the US. If you have the time before the event, you can try desensitizing your pet to loud noises. You can find animal desensitization digital recordings on YouTube to play for your pet to aid in being less reactive to loud noises. Further, during the event you can play pet-specific music to help calm your fur baby down.
Spruce up the House With Pet Friendly Decor
When decorating for your pet-friendly NYE party, recall that things that look fun to cats and dogs could be a hazard to them. Therefore, avoid decorating with
streamers
tinsel
garland
string lights
candles
toxic holiday plants
and confetti
Rather, use safer decor, like banners, LED strip lights, artificial plants, and flameless candles. And you can still pull off a holiday style.
Pass Out Party Favors
Both people and pets like party favors. Fill bags with treats, catnip, and pet toys.
Make a Safe Space
Even with all the preparations to have a fun time, your pet or their bestie still might get scared with all the noise. So in the event you see any indication of anxiety, be sure to provide a safe space for your fur baby, like a bedroom. Whether you put a crate in it or not, it’s just a spot for them to feel safe. Also, cats like to go under beds when they’re scared. Or, in my cat’s case, they might hide under the covers. Thus, access under a bed in important. But you can also place a pet bed, blankets, and toys in the room as well.
Other Reminders
Don’t forget to have your pet collared and ID’d with contact information in case they run out while your door is open.
If you have furballs at home, you can have a great New Year’s Eve with them and your closest friends. Additionally, you can make it intimate and fun with all of the details featured above. But at the same time avoid all of the anxiety for your pet that comes with traditional NYE events. In the likelihood that you have both a cat and a dog, but they don’t get along, then I recommend keeping them separate so as to not distress one or the other. You know your own pets best.
Thank you for reading this. Let me know how your New Year’s went. And I hope all of you have a safe and happy New Year. Please like, share, and if you don’t already follow me, you can do so now.
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Most animals are curious to one degree or another. Although some animals, like dolphins and apes, are exceptionally curious. Of course you’ve likely witnessed your cat or dog being snoopy at times as well. Besides cats and curiosity go hand in hand. But why are they so nosy?
Well, for one, their senses of smell, hearing, and touch are superior to our own. Not only that, cats also see better than we do in the dark. So, that’s four out of five senses that outperform ours. All of this encourages cats to explore. They smell and scent (through their mouths) the floor, grass, chairs, and everything. And they prefer heights to ground level. Therefore, just expect them to climb. Plus, they can fit into tight spaces. However, other than their better senses, why are cats so curious?
Besides their senses, a major reason your cat is so nosy is due to instinct, inherited from their wild ancestors. In fact, wild cats today are just as curious. And curiosity helps wild cats for survival, not only to hunt, but also to watch out for predators.
Consequently, when your cat sits on the counter or a chest of drawers, you witness their inherited hunting reflexes. Cats prefer heights for protection and hunting.
Intelligence
In a previous post, I mentioned that a cat’s brain is 90% genetically similar to our brains. And according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, curiosity and intelligence are closely connected among higher animal species. Further, in order for a cat to be able to open a door, they have to have intelligence, which demonstrates problem solving and curiosity.
Age
Young cats, aka kittens, usually have more curiosity and energy than adult cats, since everything is brand new. Cats don’t necessarily lose their curiosity. It’s just that they could grow to be more wary as they age.
Attention
Just like with children, cats can get into things to get your attention. It may not start that way intentionally. However, it could develop into a fun activity for your cat.
Can Curiosity Kill a Cat
The old proverb originally said, “care or worry will kill a cat.” Although, both nature and science teach us that curiosity is good for humans. Therefore, it’s logical that it’s also beneficial for all animals, including cats. Be that as it may, your cat’s curiosity could still get them into trouble if steps haven’t been taken.
For instance, household cleaners, bleach, and disinfectants are obvious dangers your cat’s curiosity could get them into. However, the trash could contain small bones that are tempting to a small predator. And they can fracture and perforate the digestive tract or get caught in your cat’s stomach. Don’t forget chocolate is toxic to cats as are many plants. Medications, prescription or OTC, creams, lotions, sunscreen, and etc are all bad for your cat. Whatever chemicals you keep in your garage are harmful as well. Moreover, if you let your cat go outside, there are feral cats, dogs, and other predators to think of.
To keep your fur baby safe, make sure your cat can’t get into any cabinets that contain poisonous chemicals or medications. And keep a lid on the trash or empty it frequently. Further, if you let your cat out, don’t let them out unsupervised, in the event they’re like my cat. She’s kinda slow when it comes to climbing due to her weight and unused muscles. She can climb, just not as fast as the other two resident cats.
Itty climbed a telephone pole.
Cats and Curiosity
Since this past May, Itty has been getting me up at different hours of the night by scritching and scratching my side of the bed with her claws. (It’s no longer for food.) Because I’m no longer working outside of the house, I entertain her wishes. At first it was just once a night. Then it moved up to twice a night. Now I’m up at all hours. She has me follow her around, checking out the perimeter of the house, like a night guardsman or something. I guess she’s making sure everything is ok. But sometimes I think she’s hunting.
And then she’ll have me take her outside when it’s dark. That’s definitely to hunt. Her curiosity is certainly hitting full peak. She’s started going over to the chicken side, so I have to chaperone her. I don’t want her getting loose to the front, and then getting killed by a dog. She goes through everything, and I mean everything of those chickens’. If they had a lingerie drawer, she would be going through that. Highly nose cat.
Do you have a curious cat? How do you allow them to safely engage their curiosity? Thanks for reading my blog! Please like and share, and if you don’t do so already, you can follow me now.
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A couple weeks ago, my daughter Hannah told me that she heard calico cats tend to have spicy personalities. Not all, mind you. Apparently, there’s a spicy scale. So, that got me thinking whether there were different cat personalities based on color. Like coat color.
Human personality tests have been studied since at least the late 18th century. And according to the BBC, there are around 2500 personality tests in the US alone. Plus, there are even some personality tests for pets. However, our pets can’t answer for themselves. So, it isn’t quite the same. I guess the given personality would depend on the person answering for the pet, wouldn’t it? More on that later. First, let’s take a look at some of these stereotypes. And then see what science has to say.
Even though there are ~ 73 recognized cat breeds internationally, with a variety of patterns and colors, there are actually only 2 base coat colors: black and orange. Naturally I was skeptical when I too found that out. Therefore, I examined my two indoor cats and discovered that Pickles has black skin under her pelt, while Itty is orange. So, according to Nature’s Advantage, all the different coat colors result from genes that basically dilute the OC colors. Further, as reported by Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital, cat coat colors are connected to their sex chromosomes.
White cats tend to be the exception. There are albino white cats that have a disorder preventing their bodies from producing pigment. Thus, these cats can literally be any color combo or pattern. But, due to this disorder, nothing gets printed. Then there are non-albino white cats. These cats have white fur due to masking genes, that I won’t get into right now. However, the main way to tell the 2 types apart is that true albinos will have pink eyes and pink skin. Also, if a white cat has any type of spot on them, no matter how minuscule, even if on a toe bean, then they’re simply a white cat.
Now that you have an idea about coat colors, we’ll move onto stereotypical personalities.
What are the Different Cat Personalities Based on Color
When I was ~18/19 years old I had a black male cat named Mr Kitty. And he was a very good boy. The only thing I could say negatively is that he had genetic urinary issues since he was ~ 2 or 3 years old. I don’t know about having any good luck because of him. But I didn’t have any bad luck.
Orange cats
thought to be more affectionate and riskier
easy going and gentle temperament
some stereotypes I’ve seen indicate that orange cats are crazy, like they do crazy things. Maybe the risky behavior?
Ok, I never had an orange cat. However, Mr Kitty had a sister named Cinnamon, who, just by her name, you can tell she was a ginger. And she lived in the same house with us. As a result, I was pretty familiar with her and her personality. She definitely was easy going and affectionate to her family.
On the other hand, I’ve seen videos of crazy orange cats. I don’t know if those are male cats or what. Consequently, maybe it’s just a case by case basis. And we shouldn’t take stereotypes so seriously.
Grey cats
said to be calm
shy
and soft-spoken
Cake is our grey furred cat. Although she tends to be calm, she isn’t shy at all.
White cats
aloof
shy
and lazy
I can’t say anything about white cats, because I have no personal experience with them.
Tabby cats
playful
and outgoing
When I was a young mother, we had a male tabby. He was a rescue, and I don’t know how old he was when we got him. Even though he wasn’t playful, he was outgoing, at least to me.
Tuxedo cats
friendly
playful
and very affectionate
We currently have a tuxedo kitten, and she certainly fits the description well.
Tortoiseshell cats
supposed to be divas
and can get cattitude with owners
The only tortoiseshell cat I’m familiar with is Meow Meow. She was a middle-aged cat when we took her in. Hence, I’m not sure if that did or didn’t have anything to do with her attitude or lack thereof. She was a happy and loving cat; she even let us pet her belly.
It makes me sad to think that her original family let her go because they couldn’t handle a little bit of cattitude. Clearly some people aren’t meant to be cat people.
Calico cats
considered to be divas like torties
also, said to be more intolerant compared to other cat colors
I don’t know what people are talking about. Itty is a princess; I’ve told her since she began living with us. Of course she’s going to act the part. And I don’t think there’s anything wrong with her attitude. She doesn’t treat me bad or anything. In fact, she loves me. And maybe only me. But I’m fine with that.
Due to these stereotypical personalities, science stepped in to find out whether they were true. Because, just like human stereotypes, pet and animal stereotypes are harmful. Since potential owners have weird ideas about them, it prevents black cats from getting adopted. Therefore, how did science figure out if the stereotypes were true or not? Well, by asking cat owners, of course.
One study looked at cat surveys only from Mexico, while 2 others were from the University of California, Berkeley and the University of California, Davis, respectively. Further, the first 2 studies were relatively small samples; less than 211 in each. But the third sample involved almost 1300 surveys.
According to the first study, gray cats had the highest scores for timidity, independence, and intolerance. Orange cats were found to be more trainable, friendly, and calm, whereas tabbies were bolder and more active. Tricolor cats, like calicos, were more stubborn. And bicolor cats, such as tortoiseshell and tuxedo cats, were more tolerant.
Since the second study was reexamined by the University of California, Davis at a later date and by more participants, that’s the one we’ll concentrate on. In that study, the respondents were asked to rate their cats’ level of aggression at home, while being handled, and at the vet.
In those 3 backgrounds, the most aggressive cats were mostly female gray and white, black and white, orange, and calico cats. Also, gray and white cats were most aggressive during vet visits. And black and white cats were most likely to react negatively when handled, whereas calico cats were more likely to become discontented. Moreover, black, white, gray, and tabby cats had the lowest level of aggression.
Is Your Cat’s Personality Based on Coat Color
Itty’s hanging on the back of the chair, chillin’.
Remember when I hypothesized above that cat personalities would depend on which person was taking the test for the cat? Everyone in my house thinks my cat Itty is a bit of a prima donna, except me, of course. I readily admit, however, that she detests being handled. And, as such, I respect her boundaries, whereas no one else does. Thus, they feel her wrath on occasion. But I don’t. That doesn’t mean I don’t pet her; I certainly do. Although, as soon as I sense her irritation, I back off, while the rest of my family persists with the petting and picking her up, etc.
Therefore, if I were to take a cat personality test for Itty, she would not fit the standard profile. Though, if anyone else in my house took a cat personality test for her, they would answer based on how she treats them, and how they don’t respect her. And voila, you have a cat coat personality stereotype. I hope that makes sense.
As a result, it’s my opinion that it’s entirely how we view our cats that affects their personality. Consequently, if you know your cats very well, their likes and dislikes, you probably are very familiar with their personalities, regardless of any stereotypes. Kittens act like infants, while cats who’ve been hurt may act like a hurting human.
What do you think? Do you notice any cat coat color stereotypes in your cat or cats? Have you ever heard of these coat color stereotypes before? I hope they don’t discourage you from ever adopting a certain color cat in the future. Thank you for stopping by! Please like, share, and if you don’t already do so, you can follow me now.
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Watching cats be themselves can be relaxing, comical, and educational for pet parents. And though cats don’t appear as expressive as dogs, since their facial features don’t change much, in truth they really are. You just have to know what to look for. As with dogs, you can learn a lot about what’s going on with a cat just by observing their tail. Therefore, today we’ll look at why cats have a tail.
Reasons Why Cats Have a Tail
Pickles is fishing!
Yes, you probably realized already that one of the reasons cats have tails is for communication. One tail movement does not satisfy for all communication or for all cats. Thus, cats communicate with each other and us about how they feel.
But that isn’t the sole reason or even the main reason cats have tails. Tails act as a counterbalance for landing. And for cats, tails increase their agility. Plus, their tails help them jump, climb, and hunt.
Cats also use their tails as a sign for affection or irritation. Though, I suppose that would be a form of communication as well. When cats are feeling affectionate, they wrap their tails around their humans or other pets. But if they’re irritated, sometimes they use their tails to swat at their humans or other pets.
What about cats without tails? Or short-tailed cats?
Different Lengths of Tails
The length of a typical domestic cat tail is about 12 inches long. However, there are some cat breeds that are rumpy, stubby or stumpy. And those words are somewhat similar. While stubby and stumpy mean a cat with a stub for a tail, rumpy means tail-less.
Cats with the Shortest Tails
This is our neighbor’s cat, a Japanese bobtail. But you can’t see the tail, because the picture cut it off.
The Manx cat has a short tail. But it can be tailless as well. Moreover, all breeds of bob tails have the shortest tails. On the other hand, the cat with the longest tail is a Maine Coon from Michigan. Having a long tail doesn’t seem to cause cats any issues. Though having short or no tails can cause health problems. However, the cats don’t seem to have issues with their balance.
But what about lions, tigers, and the rest? Why do they have tails? Well, unsurprisingly, lions, tigers, and leopards, all have tails for the same reasons as domestic cats: balance and communication.
Conversely, cheetahs and cougars mainly use their tails for balance. I could only find one site that stated cheetahs might use their tails to communicate as well. And then cougars are solitary cats. So, I’m not sure if that means no one really knows or what.
Big cats and domestic cats have tails primarily for balance and agility. However, they also use their tails to communicate. But, for domestic cats at least, tails have a wide range of communication. Moreover, even though most cats have a typical 12 inch length tail, there are also tailless, stumpy, and long-tailed cats.
By the descriptions of tail communication above, what does your cat’s tail say about them? Or about what they’re communicating? All of our cats are mostly confident most of the time. However, when we go outside and Itty and Pickles play with each other, they can get bushy tails. But they’re still definitely playing with each other. And sometimes Itty will have her tail down, flicking while walking around and hunting bugs.
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Was there ever a time when you were holding your cat and suddenly noticed fur everywhere? That’s happened to me with Itty a few times. Therefore, at those specific times, I wanted to know, why is my cat suddenly shedding so much? I had a guess to Itty’s shedding. But there can be many causes.
Shedding is a normal process for cats, just as molting is for chickens and snakes. Plus, your cat will always leave behind errant hairs. However, at times, it can seem to be too much fur. Or, as I pointed out before, it seems like it comes out of nowhere. So, what’s considered a normal amount of shedding? In addition, what’s causing all the shedding? And should you be worried? We’ll answer those questions. Then go over tips to help you with your shedding cat.
What’s Considered a Normal Amount of Shedding
Cake is a free spirit.
We didn’t have cats till moving to Oklahoma, but we did have a dog. So I already knew about dogs shedding. However, when our last dog passed away, the fur was almost non-existent in the house. That is until we got a bunny. Then, not long after, we got Sophie, our Aussie. That’s not to say Itty won’t shed; she just doesn’t as much as Cake, who has a fluffy coat. And Pickles might not have as much fur, though she’s a kitten. Thus, she’s transitioning to her adult coat. Consequently, she seems to shed as much as Sophie.
Cats can shed twice annually. In the spring they shed their winter coat. And in the fall, they shed to replace their fur in order to get their winter coat. Although, if you have an indoor cat, like me, you might not notice the shedding as much all at once. On the other hand, if you have long-haired cats or cats who have a lot of fluff, they tend to shed more than short-haired breeds.
Why do Cats Shed
Pickles when she was a little younger.
Similar to us shedding hair, cats primarily shed their fur to make room for new fur. It’s based on a cycle and daylight exposure. And many things can influence this cycle, including whether your cat is inside or out. Though, usually indoor cats will shed some throughout the year. Other reasons cats will shed their fur include
allergies
If your cat is suffering with allergies, excessive or abnormal shedding is one of the signs.
parasites
Fleas, ticks, and mites cause itchiness and inflammation, which then spurs your cat to scratch and scratch. And a lot of scratching will lead to shedding.
ringworm
Rather than an actual worm, this is a fungal infection that affects the hair and hair follicles. In addition, one of the first symptoms can be a bald spot on your cat’s body.
pregnancy
Both pregnancy and lactation can deprive cats of calcium and minerals necessary for their coat. And that can lead to shedding.
metabolic disorders
Damage to the thyroid or hypothyroidism can bring about a decline in hair follicles. Plus, kidney failure leads to hair loss, while diabetes causes dandruff, flaking, and unkempt fur.
poor diet
Lack of sufficient protein or inadequate food can cause shedding. If you’re a first time cat owner, ask your veterinarian what brand they recommend you feed your fur baby.
age
When a kitten is reaching adolescence, ~ 6 to 12 months old, they start to shed their baby fur. Moreover, coat quality changes as animals and people age. Fur and hair get thinner. Thus, for cats, shedding is likely the culprit.
and lastly stress
When cats experience a sudden fear response, like going to the veterinarian, quick shedding is a normal biological response. On the other hand, longterm or chronic stress can cause behavioral issues, such as over-grooming. And that leads to hair loss, such as bald spots.
As you can see, some of these causes of shedding are quite normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, some of them definitely merit a visit to the vet. Next, we’ll look at ways you can help your kitty when they’re shedding or to prevent it before it starts.
If the shedding is due to seasonal change (spring or fall) or their age, then try the following:
Get the appropriate tools
Short-haired cats need a fine-toothed flea comb, soft brush, grooming mittens, and a shedding tool. Long and medium-haired cats need a wide-toothed flea comb, longer brushes, and a shedding tool.
Use those tools regularly
Combing and brushing your cat several times per week and daily during seasonal changes will help in the long run. In fact, this is the #1 piece of advice anywhere. Also, this is best to start when cats are young. But, if you didn’t, it’s ok. Just offer positive reinforcement, and go slow. Also, definitely go slow when using the shedding tool. And don’t over-use!
Get your kitty professionally groomed
Some brave souls opt to bathe their own cats when shedding is at its worst. After a warm bath with cat-safe shampoo, comb and brush your fur baby till they’re dry. You’ll be surprised by all the fur!
Boost hydration
It’s not that your cat is to the point of dehydration. But cats are known to be picky when it comes to water and where it comes from. Thus, if you don’t change their water daily, have an automatic water dispenser, or a fountain, that could be contributing to their shedding.
Improve mealtime
Adding wet food containing seafood will do so much for your cat’s coat. I personally can vouch for that. When Itty came to us she had a dull, dry coat. However, it wasn’t until I started adding wet food to her diet that her coat got bright, shiny, and silky. Now that she’s an adult, she also spends the majority of her waking time grooming herself. And, as I mentioned, she rarely ever sheds, unless she’s stressed.
However, if shedding isn’t due to seasonal change or age, or if your cat is pregnant or has any bald spots, call your veterinarian. Your vet is better equipped to give you advice on what’s going on with your kitty. Anything from fleas and stress to age-related disorders or allergies can also cause shedding.
To Summarize
This is Itty.
Shedding is normal for cats, just as it is for dogs. However, parasites, ringworm, allergies, old-age, stress, and disease can also affect cats and ultimately their coats. Any time your cat is shedding excessively and you’re unsure of the reason, or if they have bald spots, it’s best to let their vet check them out.
Other than seasonal change, do you know why your cat sheds? How do you handle it? As I said, Itty is our only cat that doesn’t shed a lot, unless she’s stressed. And as far as stress, she’s been doing much better. Thank you for stopping by. Please share, and if you don’t already do so, you can follow me now.
When people consider animal intelligence, they probably imagine a dog, a chimpanzee, or a dolphin, but not usually cats. Cats are typically portrayed as uninterested, lazy, and snobby creatures. In medieval times they were even depicted as being associated with the devil. However they weren’t necessarily considered pea-brained. Though, who really knows, right? On the other hand, for fellow cat parents, you know something different. Your cat isn’t a dog, a chimp, or a dolphin, and certainly not demonic. Even if your cat is cunning, they’re still smart in your book. Join me as I attempt to answer the question, “How smart are domestic cats?”
Let’s look at the question for a minute. Who or what are we weighing cats against? Dogs? Humans? Stray cats or wild cats? It would be great to say definitively that domestic cats are smarter than dogs. Regardless, it’s just not that simple. Cats haven’t been studied as extensively as certain other species. At first, scientists spent all their time researching mice, rats, and pigeons. But then in the 1990s, dog cognition started to be studied. Some scientists attempted to study cats at the same time, though without much success. So it wasn’t until the past decade that any significant headway into feline research came about.
Before we can answer how smart cats are, it’s important to understand how intelligence is measured. Equally as relevant is how one defines cat intelligence. You’ll likely find different definitions. But basically they all amount to the same thing: Cat intelligence is a series of events that guide behavior, such as sensing, perceiving, recalling, and reasoning. Moreover, human intelligence can be measured by IQ tests, such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, whereas most animal cognition tests involve
gauging an animal’s problem solving potential
An animal’s problem solving ability would be whether they can work with groups, use tools, etc.
measuring the size of an animal’s brain and complexity
Encephalization quotient (EQ) predicts cognition via comparing one animal’s brain to an animal of similar size.
evaluating the animal’s sense of self awareness
This type of test is called a mirror test. For instance, a spot or mark, like a red dot, is placed on the animal’s forehead. If the animal recognizes its own reflection, by touching its face, then the animal passes the test.
studying an animal’s self control and capability to act on new info
The self control or pointing test instructs an animal to anticipate food in a specific place. Then the location changes and the human points to a new spot. Domestic animals, like dogs, excel at these tests. And human babies pass these tests around age 1 year.
When writing this post, it became obvious that analyzing animal intelligence is ongoing and not simple to answer. As a result of being measured by human standards, those very studies are questioned by some people.
Comparing Cats to Humans
Digital Art, Courtesy of Sarah Smith
Believe it or not, cats have similarities to humans. If you’re a cat parent, you already sense this. And I’m not talking about character traits here. But seriously, humans and cats share 90% of the same DNA. With that in mind, the human brain contains ~86 billion neurons while a cat’s brain has ~ 1.2 billion. Also, the surface area of a cat’s cerebral cortex is 83 cm2️⃣ compared to 2400 cm2️⃣ in humans. And their cerebral cortices contain ~250 million nerve cells in contrast to our 16 billion. Since cats are smaller, it makes sense, right, because their brains are smaller than ours? However, intelligence isn’t all about brain size. In reality, it’s about number, size, and complexity of nerve cells.
Not only are cats 90% genetically similar to us, their smaller brains are also nearly90% identical to our own. A cat’s brain has a cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem, 2 cerebral cortices, and surface folding, just like ours. Moreover, like a human brain, a cat’s is divided into areas. And each has a unique job to carry out. Plus, like ours, a cat’s brain is created to have good memory, both short-term and long-term. Though, a cat’s brain takes up only ~ 0.9% of their body mass in comparison to ~ 2% in the average human.
Traits of a Socially Smart Domestic Cat
Just a month ago before Itty and Pickles made friends.
Recently social intelligence has been the most common subgroup to be studied. Additionally, there are some basic features socially smart cats possess, including
Simply put, associative learning for animals is the process by which an animal connects (or associates) stimuli with certain behavior. For example, my cat, Itty, knows that if she scratches my mattress (the stimulus) every night, I’ll wake up to feed her (the behavior). She memorized her particular action produced my reaction of rewards. (And now I’m stuck waking up in the middle of the night each night.)
social referencing
Social referencing tests whether a cat will pick up on their owner’s emotional cues regarding certain things. Not long ago I wrote a post on Itty being stressed. However, now I believe she was reflecting what I was feeling about my new work schedule. Moreover, I think I contributed to her anxiety with Pickles, our new cat. And she doesn’t like being around certain people based on how I think she feels around them.
secure attachment style
Cats, like dogs and humans, have attachment styles. While humans have 4 attachment styles, cats only have 2, and dogs 3. Additionally, a cat will have either a secure or insecure attachment style. And a secure attachment style is associated with emotional intelligence. Plus, research has found that cats are more securely attached to their people than not.
staying responsive to human cues
These type of tests can involve pointing, following an owner’s gaze, and responding to their owner’s voice as well.
There are many examples of people who’ve trained their cats. Every cat has their own personality. While one may be a piece of cake to train, another might not be as easy.
Should We Compare Cat IQ
This was a few years ago, and they both wanted to be in the room with us.
When studying for this post, several websites claimed that many animal behaviorists thought cats had the same intelligence as a 2 year old human child. However, every single website failed to mention which study or animal behaviorist did the research substantiating those claims. On the contrary, the few verifiable sites and scientists who’ve actually studied cats never mentioned human ages. And very few compared cat intelligence to any other animal. In addition, it’s important not to compare a cat’s intelligence to that of really any other species, given that a cat is still a cat, rather than a dog, a human, or any other animal. Cats excel at hunting while dogs work great with groups. We all have our different strengths, what we were essentially built for. Thus, when evaluating a domestic cat’s intelligence, it should only be analyzed against another domestic cat.
At our house we have 3 different domestic cats: a 4 month old tuxedo kitten, an adult calico cat, and an adult Russian Blue cat. And they all have distinct levels of brainpower and energy. However, the cats with more energy appear smarter, at first glance, than the one with less energy. If we go by some of the tests found on the internet, the less energetic cat would hardly pass any of them. Though I’m hesitant to say the more relaxed cat is deficient in the brains category. She just might not care enough about that particular thing at any given moment. Or perhaps she’s not sufficiently motivated to give a crap.
Then take Sophie, our Aussie, who not only is known for her mega energy needs, but is also highly intelligent. Not every family or person out there is like us, I’m aware. Most people are in the great divide: dog people or cat people. Instead we have the benefit of observing several species of animals on our property. And I can tell you that both Sophie and Itty have my morning routine down to a T. While one of them is up my butt, barking to hurry me, the other one is quietly watching and anxiously waiting to see when I’ll be ready to take them outside. Both of them know just before I take them out, I put my shoes on, make my tea, and then I put my sunglasses on. Even though Itty and Sophie are completely different creatures, they share the same expectant look in their eyes.
How Smart are Domestic Cats: Through the Eyes of History
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If you Google how smart are domestic cats, your browser will inevitably display a contrast between dog and cat intelligence. Plus, ways dogs have joined humans in the workforce throughout history are usually listed as well. Conversely, the same cannot be said for felines. Alternatively, you just need to go about your search in a different manner. Despite people in the Middle Ages having both bad and very wrong associations about cats, the rest of history casts a favorable light on these cute furballs. Besides being excellent mousers, other jobs cats have held include
pest control for snakes, rats, mice, etc, and companions in Egypt thousands of years ago. And when cats died, their owners mummified their cats and dressed them in jewels to signify the owners’ status.
mascots and companions to Roman soldiers in 5th century BCE.
custodians of precious books and manuscripts in Buddhist temples starting around the mid 6th century CE. Then cats began to symbolize good luck and fortune dating back to the 17th century with the creation of Maneki-neko, “beckoning cat”.
war heroes, such as Crimean Tom during the Crimean War (1854). Plus, 500,000 cats were deployed during WWI (1914-1918). Also, Simon throughout the Chinese Civil War (1949).
and lastly therapists. Actually, it’s cat therapy, like pet therapy. So, whether for first responders, soldiers overseas, or patients, cats have proven to comfort those in need.
But How to Test Cat Smarts
Digital art, courtesy of Sarah Smith
If you have one or more cats, and you’re interested in assessing their brainpower, there are some simple tests you can try. However, you may have observed some giftedness in your pets before now. Some of the studies that Vitale and others have done with cats, I’ve observed with Itty. I’ve already mentioned Itty taking cues from my emotions (social referencing), memory, associative learning, pointing and following my gaze. But Itty also has distinct meows for different things she wants. And she makes sure I follow her to help her out with whatever she needs, like going outside or getting past the dog unmolested, which, to me, indicates problem solving. Although, I had no idea any of those things categorically had to do with smarts until researching cat intelligence.
I won’t include any cat intelligence tests on this post, because I feel there are too many factors involved. And the intelligence tests that I’ve seen aren’t really able to capture how intelligent one cat is. For instance, anything that has to do with toys, Itty isn’t interested in. Ever since she was spayed, her energy levels plummeted. So playtime isn’t her thing anymore. Also, she looks like she can’t imagine the toy being prey. She’ll look from the toy to the string up to the wand to my arm and hand. But, if we go outside, she’s a different cat. She’ll chase birds and bugs to her heart’s content. However I will post a link to a test. Don’t worry if your cat doesn’t do so well, especially if you’ve observed your cat being super brainy. Just remember, cats are really quite smart. It’s just tough to test them.
How Smart are Domestic Cats
Cake playing a board game.
The intelligence of domestic cats has been compared to dogs and human children countless times. But since intelligence for each species is unique, it isn’t something that really should be compared cross-species. Every species excels at something peculiar to them. Also, cats haven’t been studied as much, because they haven’t been bred for as long as dogs. That means they’ve retained their wild nature. Moreover, there are tests you can use to measure your pet’s intelligence. Though, observing their behavior is much easier, if you have the time. But no matter how their intelligence rates, remember to love your pets.
Do you have a super smart cat? How do you know they’re brainy? I’d love to hear your stories. Thank you for stopping by! Please like, share, and if you don’t already follow, please do so now.
Last summer we had a heat wave and triple digits to deal with. And this July 3rd marked the hottest recorded day on earth. When we’re outside having fun with our fur babies, things can quickly go downhill for them, if it’s hot. It doesn’t take Sophie long to tire out and start panting after chasing her tennis balls. I already explained about taking care of chickens in the heat last year. So, today I’ll cover keeping your other pets safe in the heat.
Because cats and dogs don’t sweat like us, their pet parents, they’re more sensitive to the heat than us. Thus, what’s warm to us may be hot to them. And what may be hot to us could be deadly to them. Both dogs and cats release heat through their paw pads and by panting. However, whereas dogs also use their noses, cats will fastidiously groom themselves. But what they’re in truth doing is evaporative cooling, much like sweating. Plus, if they can, both animals will move to a cooler area, like a stone or tile floor to cool off.
Normal body temperature for cats is around 100.5°F – 102.5° F, while normal temperature for dogs is 99.5°F to 102.5°F. Therefore, if your pet’s core temperature is higher than that, and they’re unable to cool themselves, they can suffer from heat-related illness or hyperthermia. Additionally, there are 3 different types, and they differ in degree of danger: heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat related illnesses are not as common in cats as they are in dogs, since cats aren’t as at risk of being locked in hot areas. However, that doesn’t suggest cats aren’t vulnerable to the heat. Below are some signs to look out for.
If you notice your cat or dog displaying any of the above symptoms, then simply move them to a cooler area. And offer them cool, fresh water. Both your cat and dog will most likely stop to rest until they feel better. Although, in the event your dog doesn’t realize they’re overheating, just keep them from any other activity until their symptoms improve. Cats don’t generally have an issue with resting; just be sure to get them into a cooler environment. And offer them fresh water.
and Dehydrated (Gently pinch skin between neck and shoulders. Does skin stay ‘tented’? Or is it slow to smooth down? If so, your cat is likely dehydrated.)
In the event your pet has any of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, move them to a shady spot or an air-conditioned space at once. Next, offer them small amounts of water, but don’t force them to drink. In addition, you can place your pet on a wet towel, and gently pour cool, NOT cold, water over your pet’s groin, armpits, and neck. Or you can immerse them in a tub of cool water. Don’t use cold water or ice, because that would over-cool your pet, causing them to shiver. Also, using cold water and ice causes vasoconstriction and reduces your pet’s ability to cool down.
If your fur baby isn’t treated for heat exhaustion, then in all likelihood, the symptoms will move on to heat stroke. Heat stroke can occur when a pet’s internal body temperature gets above 104°F -105°F. And it damages organs and cells in the body, and might also result in death. Moreover, heat stroke is an emergency in any animal. Contact your pet’s veterinarian immediately if you think your dog or cat is overheated.
Treating a pet with heat stroke is similar to heat exhaustion. You quickly remove your pet from the heat into a shady or air-conditioned area. If you can, check their temperature rectally: 104°F indicates an emergency for a cat, while 105°F for a dog. Also, if they’re alert, then offer COOL water to drink, but don’t force them. Again, place them on a wet towel, and pour COOL water on their groin, armpits, and neck. DON’T wrap them in wet towels, as that will trap the heat. And notify your veterinarian immediately. Or go to the closest open veterinary clinic at once. You want to keep checking their temperature, so it doesn’t fall too suddenly, or get below 103°F.
After starting the recommended first aid care for your pet, and seeking medical attention, your vet will observe your pet’s temperature and administer a number of assessments to diagnose your pet’s condition. And treatment may include
IV fluids
Mild sedation
O2 therapy
and Continued monitoring
Recovery depends on how quickly pets are treated. According to NIH, one of the main risk factors for heat strokes resulting in death for dogs was prolonged time-lag from heat insult to veterinarian visit.
Either keep your pet indoors and out of the sun during the hottest and most humid part of the day.
Or make sure they have access to cool, shady spots outside at all times.
Do NOT leave your pet in cars or hot rooms, like the garage.
Make sure your pet has access to plenty of water throughout the day, and add ice to keep it cool.
Plan exercise at cooler times of the day, morning and evening.
Groom your pet if it’s advised for their breed. And trim long hair, but never shave double coated breeds, like Shelties and Aussies, because it can have the opposite effect of cooling them off.
Ask your vet if your pet would benefit from sunscreen.
Bring extra water bottles on walks.
Hot pavements can burn paws! If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet to walk on.
If you don’t have A/C, leave ceiling fans on, and get your pet cooling mats.
Even with A/C on, if your pet stays inside, don’t set the temperature higher than 80°F.
and Buy or make frozen treats for your pet; and dispense them on the super yucky days.
Flat-faced, obese, large breed, and exercise, heat, and humidity deficient dogs are more at risk for having trouble with the heat. Likewise, cats that are flat-faced, very old or very young, or with pre-existing conditions have more difficulty with the heat. While, it’s been suggested that some dogs can be properly acclimated to the heat and humidity, nothing indicates the same for cats. Though cats aren’t as susceptible to heat stroke as dogs are, neither should ever be locked in a hot room or vehicle.
Signs to watch out for include drooling, disorientation, vomiting, diarrhea, panting, racing heart, respiratory distress, and seizures. And if you suspect your pet is overheating, immediately contact your veterinarian. The sooner they get treated, the better the outcome. Furthermore, when it’s 80°F out with high humidity, if you leave your pet outside, make sure they have plenty of water and shade. And save physical exertion for mornings and evenings.
When I was ~ 8 and 9, we lived in Tennessee, and we had an outside dog and 2 outside cats. One summer, one of the cats died from heat stroke. Back then, obviously I didn’t know why or what caused heat stroke. It’s more common for a dog to get heat stroke, but here was one of our cats that died from it. The cat wasn’t one of the flat faced breeds. And it was around 2 years old, so not old or young. However, I have no idea if it had an underlying condition. Have any of your pets overheated or almost overheated? If so, how did you treat them?
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Most cat parents know cats are obligate carnivores. That means cats depend on meat for survival. Although, you’ve probably witnessed your kitty munching on some grass at least once or twice. In fact, some places actually sell cat grass growing kits. But what does cat grass do for you cat? And what is it exactly?
First, What is Cat Grass
Cat grass is absolutely distinct from the grass on your lawn. Rather, it’s the sprouts from cereal grass seeds, commonly rye, barley, oat, or wheat. What’s more, it can be grown indoors or out. Though, wait to plant till after the threat of frost has passed.
Below is a list of vitamins and minerals in cat grass beneficial to your cat, including
folate
Vitamin B9, or folate, aids digestion and cell growth.
Studies suggest chlorophyll may be an antioxidant. And it’s touted to be a deodorizer and immune system booster.
vitamin A
Beta carotene is essential for good eyesight and a healthy coat.
vitamin C
This awesome vitamin is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and aids the immune system.
vitamin E
Labeled essentialfor optimal health, vitamin E can be used to treat mites, eczema, and allergic dermatitis. But it’s also an antioxidant, necessary for healthy circulation and immune systems.
vitamin K
This vitamin is necessary to prevent bleeding issues. In addition, it’s essential for liver function.
vitamin B5
Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, and some amino acids.
Lecithin is a group of fats that attract both water and fats. But usually water and oil don’t mix. That’s where lecithin comes in. Because lecithin is a fat emulsifier, it blends the fat binding hairballs, which allows your kitty to pass them.
Iron is responsible for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that allows red blood cells to carry oxygen.
However, cats don’t need to eat cat grass, if they’re being fed a well balanced diet. Despite that, it doesn’t mean cat grass isn’t good for them in other ways. Especially if you notice your cat trying to nibble regular grass or plants, it’s better to provide them cat grass and be safe.
Anyone who’s ever had a cat has witnessed their curiosity. Plus, most animals examine things with their mouths, cats included. But why do cats like cat grass? And what is so appealing about it? Continue reading for the following theories.
It helps indigestion.
The most popular belief is that cats consume cat grass, because it helps upset tummies. Due to regurgitation that follows at times, it’s thought cats purposely eat grass to help them throw up. I’ve witnessed my own cat eat cat grass to try (to no avail) to vomit after I gave her medicine. Personally, I think she’s a medicine cat, and knew I drugged her. Thus, she wanted to get back to normal.
Cat grass is a laxative.
At times your cat may eat food that gets stuck in their GI tract. So, if they eat cat grass, they might be trying to loosen things up.
Great for hairballs.
Cats are meticulous in their grooming. In fact, bathing herself is Itty’s most favorite pastime. Additionally, some cats get terrible hairballs, particularly long-haired cats. Similar with the first two items, cat grass can ease the issue of hairballs.
Cat grass can prevent or expel internal parasites.
Scientists believe younger cats eat cat grass, because their immune systems aren’t as good at keeping parasites away. And researchers have speculated that house cats eat grass based on an instinct to expel intestinal parasites. Not that these cats actually have any parasites; it’s just in their genetic makeup to munch on grass to prevent the parasites.
Lastly, it provides mental stimulation.
This is one of the most important reasons to have cat grass available for your cat. Since foraging is instinctual, it’s a great way to develop your cat’s cognition. In addition, indoor cats tend to get bored. So, it provides that necessary means for their inquisitiveness.
Also, not every cat that partakes of cat grass is sick. Most of the time when Itty eats her greens, she doesn’t throw up afterward. She’s simply enjoying herself in her own little world.
How Safe is Cat Grass
Whether your cat shares a home with a dog or a bunny, cat grass is safe for all of them as well as chickens. However, wheatgrass seems to be preferred for pets other than cats. Additionally, you have control over it since you plant and take care of it. And so long as you keep it chemical-free, it will remain safe for your pets.
That said, the first time you offer your feline friend some cat grass, don’t overdo it. Even though it isn’t toxic, you might have a big mess to clean up. Moreover, keep the cat grass in a completely separate area from your other plants, given that many are toxic to cats. And cats don’t know the difference between what they can or can’t eat, especially when it comes to greens.
Signs to Watch for Regarding Cat Grass Dining
Whereas eating cat grass is safe, cats instinctively will puke to relieve digestion issues. But, if your cat eats cat grass and doesn’t vomit, that’s not a problem. However, if your cat vomitsevery time they eat cat grass, call your veterinarian. According to Chewy, it could be a GI issue. Or if they’re puking blood, it might signal they’ve ingested a toxin. Regardless, your vet needs to be contacted immediately.
When our daughter, Hannah, worked at a plant nursery, she brought us home some cat grass seeds. Though, it wasn’t till this Spring that my husband planted them.
First, he filled a pot with Miracle-gro potting soil. Next, he spread the seed. Then he covered it with an inch more of Miracle-gro potting soil. And after he watered it, he placed it in the greenhouse, in direct sunlight. Also, he watered it a few times a week. But he didn’t soak it. And it started sprouting within a couple of days.
Cat grass is ready for your cat to munch on 10-14 days after sprouting, or once it’s ~ 4 inches tall or higher. Furthermore, it will last about 3 weeks. Let your cat eat directly from the pot. And water with a spray bottle. When the grass begins to wilt, most sites recommend planting new seeds. And that’s usually around 3 weeks. Though, some places advise that with regular care and trimming, you can get more life out of your cat grass.
To Summarize
Cat grass is from cereal grass seeds, and can be grown both inside and outside. Even though house cats don’t need it, cat grass still contains vitamins and minerals essential to their diet. Theories about why cats eat grass abound: it’s an emetic, a laxative, and it provides mental stimulation for bored cats. Moreover, it’s safe for all your pets as long as you keep it chemical-free. And don’t forget to keep it away from other plants, so your cat won’t get confused. Further, if your cat eats it and pukes more than once a week, call your vet to make sure your cat doesn’t have a blockage or underlying health issue.
Does your cat eat cat grass? And if you have other pets, have they tried any?
As always, thank you for reading my posts. And I appreciate your comments. Please share, and if you don’t already follow me, please do so now.
Recently I wrote an article about dog attacks while walking. And in it, and several posts, I’ve mentioned the word socialization. Additionally, we hear that term a lot regarding animals like cats, dogs, and even people. But just what is socialization for dogs? We’ll explore the answer to that question and why it’s important. Plus, I’ll explain how to socialize your dog, including how to recognize poor socialization.
What is Socialization for Dogs
According to Wikipedia, socialization is the process of training animals, so they can be kept in close relationship to people and other animals. Similarly, socialization for dogs is teaching them to like contact and be easygoing with other people, animals, places, and situations.
Benefits of Socialization for Dogs and Pet Parents
Socialization for dogs is equally as important for dogs as it is for people. But the reasons of significance aren’t necessarily the same. Below you’ll find the advantages to socializing your dog, such as
fear and anxiety are greatly reduced
If your dog is well socialized, then they usually aren’t afraid of people, animals, situations and/or activities, making them a calmer and more confident dog.
better physical and mental health
Good socialization is better for overall health. Also, with proper socialization, dogs aren’t as prone to issues like Cushing’s disease, depression, upset tummies, skin problems, and diabetes that occur from continual fear and worry. In addition, if stress and anxiety are managed, then dogs will live longer, healthier lives.
traveling and grooming are easier
non-aggressive to people and other pets/animals
alleviates unacceptable behavior
When your dog is adequately socialized, they don’t use the bathroom in the house, chew on your clothes, walls, furniture, or baseboards. And they don’t bark non-stop. It’s almost like they’re a member of the household. I don’t know; maybe because we’re treating them like one.
and playful, positive, lifelong relationship between pet-parent and man’s best friend
Experts say the best time to socialize a dog is when they’re 3 to 14 weeks old. But the socialization process doesn’t end at 14 weeks. It’s ongoing and lifelong. So that means, if you rescued a dog from a shelter, you can still socialize them. However, just keep in mind, they possibly have trauma, and it may take longer. Therefore, go slowly and be patient with them and yourself.
As I’ve pointed out elsewhere, we got Sophie from a couple nearly twice our age when she was 8 months old, way past the magical socialization period. And we’ve had to deal with her incessant barking, recent aggression, and chewing on clothes, etc. Though, it’s not a reflection on the previous owners. In some cases it can be, but not all the time.
Most situations where a dog or cat isn’t socialized, I believe it’s similar to this couple. They mean well and love their pet, but they’re busy and tired. Or they’re much older, so don’t socialize or go out as much themselves. Then again, they may not know they’re creating an issue for their pet and themselves, or any of a number of things.
That said, when adopting a puppy, ask for any pre and post-socialization plans. Then take the following steps.
First, without delay, gently handle your young charge.
As soon as you have them carefully start handling your puppy. And don’t forget to include other members of your nuclear family. There’s always an opportunity to teach your little fur baby what’s acceptable and what’s not, in a safe manner.
Further, utilize positive reinforcement.
Never scold or harm your pet if they don’t meet your expectations. They won’t understand why you’re yelling at them anyway. Plus, your negativity will further stress them out.
In addition, steadily introduce your promising pooch to new and diverse people, animals, places, and experiences.
Begin small, and work your way up in difficulty. For example, one of your first public outings with your pup should be to the vet, if they haven’t had any vaccinations yet. Depending on where you live, this should be just the right experience too. Avoid public parks and dogs that haven’t had their shots until your pooch is caught up on vaccines. Also, don’t forget to bring a treat!
But, don’t overdo it.
While you’re acquainting your fur baby with being a respectable member of your family, try not to overwhelm them. Moreover, be aware of any indications they’re afraid, anxious or stressed. If you see any clues your puppy is uncomfortable around other people or pets, back off and review the situation. Maybe revisit another time with more rewards. Although, don’t push your dog, if they’re clearly stressed out.
Also, sign your pup up for a class.
Dog socialization classes can be a huge help during this formative period.
And be dedicated.
Given that socialization is forever, don’t ever stop working on it. Like I said, there will always be an opportunity to teach your fur baby.
Lastly, get help when needed.
In the event you’re having trouble training your pooch, or there are specific behavior problems, reach out to a certified dog trainer.
Socializing adult dogs looks very similar to socializing puppies. However, adult dogs may not be as eager with the process, depending upon the particular dog’s history. As such, if you have an adult dog that requires some socialization, try the steps below.
First, go slow
Since you don’t want to distress your furry friend, take this step first. Just don’t rush the process.
Next, use a reward system
Like positive reinforcement, a reward system depends upon treats, praise, playtime, etc. And you reward your dog for good behavior.
Take your pooch for a walk
Walking is as good for socialization as it is for exercise. Although, if you get into a stressful encounter, just stop for the day. And go home. But don’t forget to bring the treats to reinforce the positive contacts for the day.
Then acquaint your dog with an adult dog
Get together with a friend and their dog for a walk. Make sure there’s abundant space between the dogs. And if your dog stays calm, reward them. Moreover, when the walk is finished and both dogs appear calm, let them approach each other, leashes on. Additionally, reward the positive interactions. In this instance, you both might be finished socializing for the day. Or, if you both feel good about the other dog, you could go to a fenced-off area and attempt allowing both dogs to get to know each other. Start from a distance and on leash to off leash, reinforcing good behavior. If your dog had a good time, continue meeting up with this dog for regular visits.
Time to meet another adult person
Some dogs do better with people than their own kind, and vice versa. Thus, if your dog has trouble with people skills, invite a friend to your house, sans any dogs. Ask your friend to ignore your dog, and if your fur baby is at ease, then give them a treat. Then allow your friend and dog to get more comfortable with each other, by allowing your friend to give your pooch a treat. Eventually invite more friends over to meet your dog, one at a time. And go through the same process, working your way up to a group.
Introduce your dog to pups and kids
Don’t forget to be certain the puppies you introduce are fully vaccinated. Also, be sure everyone (puppy, your dog, and child) is in a good mood and peaceful. I strongly advise against presenting hyper puppies and very hyper children to your dog if you know your dog suffered trauma. Since both puppies and kids can be impulsive, definitely do this only one at a time. And manage each move, and don’t permit any touching or contact until everyone is very familiar with each other.
Enroll your dog in an obedience class
With the aid of obedience classes, your pooch can go much further. Socialization prepares your dog for being & behaving like a dog with other pets and people. Though, obedience training offers help with basic commands. However, there are a number of other things that can be learned with obedience training.
Consistency is key
On par with socializing puppies, if you quit working on it, both you and your dog will suffer the consequences. Just remember to continue to take your dog on outings. And reward positive interactions.
and Finally, enlist professional assistance
If you have trouble with any of the steps, or you don’t feel equipped with something, consult an animal behaviorist.
Signs Your Dog Needs Socialization Training
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All puppies need socialization. So, if you adopt a puppy, begin training. And adult dogs still require consistency, no matter what training they had. But below you’ll find signs that indicate your dog needs socialization.
Fear
One of the major consequences of not socializing your dog is fear. It can be a generalized fear of anything and everything new, like meeting someone for the first time. Furthermore, it can look like shyness or skittishness around others, difficulty being handled at the groomer, reactivity, and/or sound intolerance. Plus, it leads us to the next issue.
Aggression
Fear and anxiety can cause aggression in dogs. In addition, raised hackles or growling are just 2 examples of aggression that could signal a dog lacks socialization.
Very spirited around other people and pets
Hyper-excitability can look like your dog is happy and having a good time. However, in truth, your dog can be stressed. Moreover, a dog that acts overly excited can get out of control. And if you’re around other dogs, your dog could invade another dog’s space, and the situation could deteriorate quickly.
So, What is Socialization for Dogs
Dog socialization is training puppies and dogs how to confidently navigate their world. Even though the optimal time for this is 3 to 14 weeks of age, it’s never too late to start. And remember, training needs to be consistent, lifelong, and rewarding. Also, there are many benefits to dog socialization, including improved health and behavior. Moreover, the biggest signs a dog lacks socialization are fear and aggression.
In my opinion, I believe pet socialization can be achieved much easier with other socialized animals of the same species. For example, when we lived in Dallas, Paul had a Sheltie named Kirby when we first married. Soon we got another Sheltie we named Roxy, who was the runt of her litter. She was skittish and clearly lacked socialization. But Kirby was perfectly socialized. He was 8 years old when we got Roxy, and taught her how to be a dog. We had very little to do with her actual training. She was potty trained and trained to wipe her feet off at the door in a matter of a couple of months, if that.
What do you think? Is it easier to socialize pets when you have a well socialized pet of the same species already, or not? As always, thank you for reading my post. I look forward to your comments. Please share, and if you don’t already do so, you can follow me now.
Chicken Girl 