Providing helpful information regarding our feathered, feline, and canine friends while also sharing fun stories. And locally we provide pet sitting services.
This flavorful Christmas spiced mixed nuts recipe perfectly captures the season. Plus, it’s extremely easy to make with only 5 ingredients. But if you want to add more to it, you can. And there’s no oven involved. In addition, it makes a great gift in a tin. However, after you taste them, you just might want to keep them all to yourself.
Recipe for Christmas Spiced Mixed Nuts Instructions
First, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If using foil, spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Next, put all the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and stir before heating in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir again, and microwave 1 to 2 minutes more.
Then spread onto the cookie sheet and allow them to cool completely. It only took ~ 30 minutes in my kitchen.
Finally, pass around and enjoy!
These didn’t last long at my house. I didn’t get to pass any out, because we ate them all. They were just that delicious. Did you make any? What did you think?
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Holiday season and making sweets go hand in hand. There’s cookies and breads to be baked. And candies and trash to pass out. Wait, what? Trash? Well, that’s what this easy holiday Chex mix recipe was called when I lived in Texas. Plus, some people make them hot and spicy, while others, like me, make them sweet and salty.
Originally I used to add mini marshmallows to this. However, they would get stale in no time. Therefore, I cut them out. Moreover, you can swap out the almond bark for white chocolate if you want.
Just the Chex cereal layers here.
Ingredients for Easy Holiday Chex Mix
24 oz almond bark
7 – 7 1/2 c mini pretzel twists or pretzel sticks (I used pretzels twists)
and 5 c each of rice, wheat, and corn Chex cereals
Drizzle the chocolate on the cereals here prior to adding the pretzels.
Easy Holiday Chex Mix Instructions
First, line your counter space with either parchment paper or wax paper.
Next, with a measuring cup, pour out each of the 3 cereals evenly mixed over the paper.
Then melt some of the chocolate according to the package instructions. And, once melted, drip evenly over the cereal mix. (I used a spoon to do this.)
After the first chocolate layer, spread the pretzels evenly. And melt more chocolate to drip over the pretzels.
Allow to cool. Then store in an airtight container or enjoy immediately.
Add the pretzels and more chocolate.
Did you make this recipe? What did you think? Thanks for stopping by! Please like, share, and if you haven’t already done so, you can follow me 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.
Fall and winter are the perfect times to make soups and stews. They’re hearty with meats, vegetables, and grains. Plus, they warm you up when it’s chilly out. Recently I made this beef and barley soup in the Instant Pot. However, you can make it on the stove. Also, it only serves 4 people. So, if you want leftovers or you’re serving more people, just double the recipe.
Ingredients for Beef and Barley Soup in the Instant Pot
~ 12 oz beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 c water
1 of each, onion and celery, chopped
4 tsp beef bouillon
1 tbsp fresh minced garlic
1 c frozen mixed vegetables
14 1/2 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 medium potato, washed and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
and 1/2 c quick cooking barley
Beef and Barley Soup in the Instant Pot Instructions
First, add the oil to your Instant Pot, press the Sauté function, and add your garlic. After a couple of minutes add the beef, onion, and celery. And sauté for ~ 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, add the remaining ingredients. Then secure the lid, moving the valve to the sealing position. Further, hit Cancel and either hit Manual or Pressure Cook for 20 minutes. When it’s finished, allow Instant Pot a 15-minute natural release, (meaning you do nothing for 15 minutes) followed by a quick release.
And finally, serve immediately.
The original recipe came from Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook 12th edition, I think from 2002. But I’m not exactly sure on the date, since the copyright page is missing from my book. And it’s not online. Though, if you’re interested, you can get the cookbook on Amazon or another online bookstore.
I don’t use barley much. Truthfully I forget about it. However, I enjoy it in soup when I do remember it. What’s your favorite soup during winter?
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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.
After looking for a particular recipe online a few years ago, I started getting tons of recipe emails from Southern Living. Unfortunately I don’t have time to go through every recipe email I receive. But, because I’m always looking for something new, I still go through the holiday emails. Well, it was 2 years ago that I tried a recipe for cranberry fruit salad during Thanksgiving. And it was all thanks to Southern Living that it’s now part of our Thanksgiving meal.
However, it can be part of really anymeal, or served as dessert. But, because it’s cranberry-themed, you might choose to just have it around the holidays. Plus, it tastes absolutely delicious. And I’m sure it will become one of your family’s favorites as well.
Ingredients for Cranberry Fruit Salad:
32 oz fresh cranberries
3/4 c Truvia
1 c fresh orange juice
1 c drained maraschino cherries
4 Bartlett pears, peeled and chopped
1 can each drained mandarin oranges and pineapple tidbits
Instructions for Cranberry Fruit Salad:
Bring the first 3 ingredients and 1 c water to a boil in a large pot over med-hi heat. And stir often. Then reduce heat to medium, and simmer.
Continue to stir occasionally, 20-25 minutes or until cranberries pop and mixture thickens.
Next, remove from heat, and allow mixture to stand for ~ 15 minutes. Then stir in the cherries and the rest of the ingredients. Transfer to a bowl. Finally, cover and chill 2-12 hours.
Regrettably, when I went back through my food emails, to link to the original recipe, I could no longer find said recipe on Southern Living. It literally says “page not found” on the Southern Living website. Regardless, it was published November 2020. However, I think the recipe was called Old School Cranberry Salad, since I found a similar recipe on this site. Moreover, here are more cranberry salad options to choose from.
What’s your favorite recipe for cranberry sauce? Thanks for stopping by! Please like and share, and if you don’t already follow, you can do so now.
My favorite type of sauce to make is a white sauce. You can add shrimp, chicken, or sausage to it. And you can mix in different types of vegetables and seasonings. The same is true for a red sauce. However, it just doesn’t come together the same, at least to me. Most pasta with spinach and white sauce recipes are made with penne pasta. Though, the recipe below is made with elbow macaroni. However, you can substitute any pasta you want.
Ingredients for Pasta with Spinach and White Sauce
1 1/2 lbs elbow macaroni
2 (12.5 oz) cans of canned chicken breast, drained
1 (6 0z) package of microwavable frozen spinach, cooked according to instructions
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup half n half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
2 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried basil
4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 tsp granulated garlic powder
and salt and pepper to taste
Pasta, Spinach and White Sauce Instructions
First, fill a pot with water, and follow package instructions for cooking elbow macaroni. Since the rest of the recipe doesn’t take long to cook, get the noodles started.
Next, in a medium saucepan, add whipping cream, chicken breast, and seasonings; stir over med-heat for a couple of minutes.
Then stir in tomatoes, spinach, and cheese, stirring occasionally. Check seasoning, and adjust if needed.
After ~ 5 minutes, adjust temperature to low, until pasta is finished.
When elbow macaroni is done, drain the water. And place noodles back into pot.
Further, pour all of the sauce over the pasta, gently combining them together.
Finally, serve immediately.
What is your favorite sauce for pasta? Did you make this sauce, and what did you think?
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Because we had another hot summer this year, I didn’t use my stove nearly as much. And I don’t think I used my oven at all. Thus, my favorite kitchen appliances are those that don’t put out as much heat. My electric pressure cooker, aka instant pot, is the first one that comes to mind. When we first received our instant pot from a neighbor, my husband was the only one who used it. But when I realized how efficient it was, gone were my days of sweating at the stove. Below is one of my family’s favorite side dishes. Originally this Southern Living recipe was meant for the stove. However, it easily converts to use in an electric pressure cooker. Plus, I’ve found that cooking new potatoes in the instant pot is much easier than on the stove. Especially the standard recipe.
Instant Pot New Potatoes Ingredients
2 1/2 lbs of new potatoes
7 tbsp butter
1 1/2 tbsp each of dried parsley and lemon juice
3/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp lemon rind
1/2 tsp pepper
and 1/8 tsp nutmeg
Instructions for New Potatoes in the Instant Pot
First, scrub and quarter the new potatoes.
Next, put the potatoes in the instant pot. Then add the remaining ingredients.
Cook on high pressure for 7 – 12 minutes.
And finally, serve with chicken or pork and a green vegetable.
Even though I have the original recipe, it’s in hardcover format. And unfortunately, I couldn’t find it online to share. In addition, it was printed ~ 20 years ago. Although, if you want the original, you can order the book on Amazon or elsewhere. The cookbook is Southern Living: 30 Years of Our Best Recipes. And the recipe is called “Lemon-Buttered New Potatoes”.
Do you have an instant pot? Did you made the most out of it this past summer as well? And what’s your favorite recipe to cook in it? Thank you for stopping by! Please share, post a comment, and if don’t already do so, you can follow me now.
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When it comes to our furry companions, keeping them well-groomed is not just about appearances; it’s about their health and happiness. Welcome to the ultimate guide to dog grooming, where we’ll delve deep into the art and science of pampering your pooch. From bath time to brushing, we’ve got you covered.
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of dog grooming, it’s essential to understand that not all dogs are the same. Different breeds have different coat types, and each requires a tailored grooming approach. Whether your furry friend sports a short, smooth coat or long, luxurious fur, knowing their specific needs is crucial.
1. Short Coats: Sleek and Low Maintenance
Dogs with short coats, like Dachshunds or Beagles, are relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department. A weekly brush to remove loose hair and an occasional bath are usually sufficient. This coat type is perfect for those who want a clean, fuss-free companion.
2. Medium Coats: Striking a Balance
Breeds like Bulldogs and Labradors have medium-length coats that require a bit more attention. Regular brushing helps keep their fur in good condition, and a monthly bath keeps them smelling fresh.
3. Long Coats: The Fluffiest of Them All
Long-coated breeds, such as the Maltese or Shih Tzu, are the epitome of elegance. However, they demand a higher level of care. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting, and regular trims are a must to keep their fur manageable.
Bathing your dog is a crucial aspect of grooming, but it’s not as simple as filling up the tub and tossing them in. Here are some tips to ensure a successful bath time:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need within arm’s reach. This includes dog-friendly shampoo, a towel, a brush, and treats for positive reinforcement.
2. Brush Before Bathing
Brushing your dog before the bath helps remove tangles and mats, making the bathing process more effective.
3. Use Lukewarm Water
Ensure the water temperature is comfortable for your pup, neither too hot nor too cold. Wet their fur thoroughly, avoiding their eyes and ears.
4. Shampoo Sparingly
Use a dog-specific shampoo, and lather it up gently. Be cautious around the face and ears, as dogs are sensitive in these areas.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse until the water runs clear, ensuring no shampoo residue remains. Incomplete rinsing can lead to skin irritation.
6. Dry and Reward
Use a towel to gently dry your dog. And if they tolerate it, you can finish with a low-heat blow dryer. Don’t forget to reward them for their patience and good behavior!
Depending on your dog’s breed, regular trimming might be necessary to keep them comfortable and healthy. While some breeds require professional grooming, you can tackle basic trims at home with the right tools and techniques.
1. Nail Care
Trimming your dog’s nails is crucial to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, consult your veterinarian or a professional groomer.
2. Ear Maintenance
Check your dog’s ears regularly for signs of infection. And gently clean them as needed with a veterinarian-recommended solution.
3. Professional Grooming
For breeds with complex grooming needs, seeking the services of a professional groomer is a wise choice. They have the expertise and equipment to ensure your dog looks their best.
Maintaining Dental Hygiene: Don’t Forget the Pearly Whites
Just like us, dogs need dental care too. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to dental disease, which can impact your dog’s overall health. Here’s how to keep those teeth in top shape:
1. Brushing Teeth
Yes, you can brush your dog’s teeth! Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and make it a part of your weekly routine.
2. Dental Chews and Toys
Provide dental chews and toys that promote teeth cleaning and gum health. They’re a tasty way to maintain oral hygiene.
3. Regular Vet Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups should include a dental examination. Your vet can advise on any necessary dental procedures.
Final Thoughts: A Happy, Healthy Dog
In this ultimate guide to dog grooming, we’ve covered the essentials of keeping your canine companion clean and healthy. Remember, grooming isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about your dog’s well-being and comfort. Tailor your grooming routine to your dog’s specific needs, and you’ll have a happy, healthy pup by your side for years to come.
Now, go ahead and put this knowledge to use. Treat your furry friend to a spa day they’ll wag their tails about!
Author Bio
Emma Anderson from Shernbao USA has been involved with dog grooming for the past 15 years and now wants to share her experience and knowledge with others.
I use affiliate links to support my content at no extra cost to you.
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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Chicken Girl 