Search Results

(Updated August 5th, 2024)   How did the Siberian cat, and other cats get here? One is by air, two is by sea!  Cats have been “employed” and accompanied sailors on ships for hundreds of years. The first records of feline sailors dates back to ancient times.  Cats have been aboard ships for a few reasons, but their most important job was rodent control.  Rats and mice could wreck havoc to the ships’ stores, the crews’ foodstuff, food cargo and destroy grains. They would chew through ropes, ruin wood work, and in modern times chew electrical wiring.  Economic damage from rodents would be something that could not be recouped. Vermin are also a source of disease.  Rat fleas were the carriers of plague, and this could have been devastating to the crew on their journeys.   Most cats readily adapt to their new homes, even at sea. The fact that they kill rodents made them a welcomed and cherished crew member aboard ships.  The crew not only enjoyed their service, but their warm companionship and playfulness as well. The ship's cat front and center.   Analysis of DNA of found cat specimens show that ancient Egyptian cats started to spread along routes in the Mediterranean area in the 8th century BCE.  Through these analysis, they reached a Baltic sea Viking port in the 7th century. The study suggests that Vikings took cats with them on their voyages. This union of sailors, ships, and cats was the norm from the 15th through the 18th  century, during the Age of Discovery throughout the world. 2 Kitties in training for "ship's cat" position.   Cats have a long history associated with the belief they hold magical powers. Myths and superstitions have surfaced through the ages in the seafaring community with cats.  They were considered intelligent and also a lucky charm. The sailors took pride in caring for them and were devoted  to keeping the cats happy and comfortable. They believed that a polydactyl cat was better at catching rats, and had better balance at sea. They were highly prized and eventually became known as the “ship’s cats”. A captain and his cat. Among some of their believed powers, one was that they could protect a ship from dangerous weather.  Some fishermens' wives kept black cats at home, believing they had the power to protect their husbands at sea.  If a cat approached a sailor on deck, luck would be with you. But if it came halfway and retreated, bad luck would follow. Another belief was in the cats’ tail. The cat could start storms with the power within the tail.  If a cat fell or was thrown overboard, the sailors believed the cat to have the power to conjure up a horrific storm to sink the ship.  If the ship survived, a curse of bad luck would follow for 9 years. Watch for a cat licking its fur against the grain, a hail storm is soon to follow. A sneeze would bring rain, and if they were in a frisky mood, the winds would soon kick up. Ship's cat Peebles.   Some beliefs actually have some truth behind them. They are sensitive enough in their inner ears to feel the slightest changes in weather. This also is what allows them to land upright when falling. When the atmospheric pressure drops, this means a storm is brewing. Cats will feel this and become a bit nervous and restless. If you watch and observe your cats’ behavior closely, you will see that they are able to predict a falling barometric pressure and an incoming storm.  This helped to make the tradition that every ship needs its’ cat, and the sailors welcomed them with open arms. Sailors admiring their feline friend. With the outbreak of the WWII, and a much larger participation of the world’s navies involved, better records were being kept in regards to all of the ship’s cats. Some were legends in their own right.  Some had books written on them, and some were written about in the newspapers and periodicals.  A few were honored with metals and ribbons, others had ill-fated endings.  Some retired with celebrity status, while others retired quietly in a comfortable home after their active duties.   Aussie  Among the crew on the RMS Niagara , was a cat named Aussie. He was a gray and white long-haired cat.  Aussie’s mother was once the cat of the Niagara, and Aussie was born at Suva in Fiji.  His father was a Persian cat from Vancouver, BC.  At the time when Aussie was 5 years old, the Niagara was off the coast of New Zealand in 1940 when it was mined. Some of the crew put Aussie in a life boat, but he decided to jump off, and back on board the Niagara.  In Horahora, Whangarei, days later, a few people from the area claimed to have seen a cat fitting his description coming ashore on a piece of driftwood.  One person took him in, but he got out and no one has seen him since.   Blackie  The HMS Prince of Wales’s ship’s cat was a mostly black cat, with white paws and chest; a  male tom named Blackie. His claim to fame came during the Second World War when Prime Minister Winston Churchill was on board traveling across the Atlantic on his way to Newfoundland in August 1941, to meet privately with President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  When Churchill was getting ready to step off the ship, Blackie walked up to him.  Churchill stopped, and stooped down to say his goodbyes to him.  This was photographed and made world news.  Later, in honor of the successful visit, Blackie’s name was changed to Churchill. A well deserved pat for the ship's cat. Chibley  The Picton Castle , was a tall ship originally built as a fishing trawler in Wales, before being requisitioned in August 1939, by the Royal Navy as a minesweeper. Later in years, The Picton Castle became an educational training vessel and had its’ own ship’s cat named Chibley. She came from an animal shelter, and records indicate that she sailed around the world five times!  When the ship became a training vessel, Chibley got accustomed to seeing quite a few visitors, and became very well known. Chibley died November 10, 2011 in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and had sailed on board that ship for a total of 180,000 miles.   Convoy   Convoy belonged to the ship, HMS Hermoine . His name came about because of the many times he was on board for convoy escort duties.  He came on board with a full kit that even included a cat sized hammock for his sleeping quarters, and was registered in the ships’ book. Unfortunately, 87 men perished, along with Convoy, when they were hit by a German submarine torpedo and sunk on June 16, 1942 in the Mediterranean Sea. A well deserved cat nap.   Emmy  The ship’s cat on RMS Empress of Ireland , was a female orange tabby named Emmy.  She was noted to have never missed a voyage. One day, while the ship was in port in Quebec City, she jumped ship. That was May, 28, 1914.  She was found by the crew and returned to the ship. She had a litter of kittens at the time, and decided to leave again, and leave her kittens behind.  This was thought by the crew to be a terrible omen, but the ship sailed out of port leaving her behind. The crew was right.  The next morning, in dense fog, The Empress was struck by a steam cargo ship, the Storstad, near the mouth of the St. Lawrence River.  The Empress sank rapidly, and more than 1000 people lost their lives.   Felix  The Mayflower II , was a replica of the original Mayflower that sailed to the New World in 1620. She was built in Devon, England, 1955-1956. When she set sail from Devon en route to Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1957, Felix was the cat on board. He even had his own life jacket.  Felix suffered an injury to his paw on the ship, which the ship’s doctor set.  Felix appeared in National Geographic, Life and Yankee magazines. With the arrival of the ship and crew, including Felix, they were given a parade and toured the East Coast.  He was adopted out to Ann Berry, and was at home in Waltham, Massachusetts.   There was a children’s book written about him called “Felix and his Mayflower II Adventures” by a former captain of the ship.  It was published during the ship’s fiftieth anniversary celebration at Plimoth Plantation, Massachusetts.   Jenny  Jenny was originally from the ship Olympic , which was the sister ship to the infamous Titanic , which she was transferred to.   A week before the Titanic was to sail her maiden voyage in 1912 from Southampton, she gave birth to a litter of kittens. Jenny and her kittens normally lived in the galley area, where the staff cared for them and fed them scraps from the kitchen.  Several accounts are noted and documented of her and her kittens by crew members lucky enough to survive the demise of the ship.   Ship's cat Jenny sunbathing on the Titanic. Kiddo  When the airship America left port in Atlantic City NJ in 1910, there appeared to be a stowed away cat on board.  Kiddo became the weather forecaster.  He was excellent at predicting the arrival of bad weather.  While en route, the engines failed the ship. The crew along with Kiddo abandoned for lifeboats, and spotted by the RMS Trent near Bermuda.  Saved, Kiddo retired to the home of Edith Wellman Ainsworth. Content kitty, Kiddo.   Mrs. Chippy, who was actually a tiger striped male, was the ship’s cat to the Endurance .  He was owned by Harry “Chippy” McNish who was a crew member on board the Endurance. The ship was used for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, which became lost and packed in ice in 1915.  Shackleton ordered the sled dogs on board, along with Mrs. Chippy shot. He believed they could not endure, or be kept for the journey ahead of them. Mrs. Chippy - Ship's cat on the Endurance. Nansen  The Belgica , a ship used for the Belgian Antarctic Expedition had its ship cat’s, a female named Nansen. Nansen was brought onboard by a cabin boy.  She passed away on June 22, 1898 and was buried in the Antarctic.   Pooli A big tabby named Pooli, served the US during the WWII aboard an attack transporter and earned herself 3 service ribbons, and four battle stars. She was born in Pearl Harbor on July 4, 1944, and served aboard the USS Fremont . During the many battles, including Iwo Jima, she would curl up in a mail sack until it was over. At one time she was thrown overboard in a sack so as not to be discovered.  However, she survived without being noticed when the ship got docked. She lived on after the war in peaceful retirement. Pooli, the ship's cat of the USS Fremont. Rinda   Rinda was the name given to the ship’s cat aboard the Norwegian ship by the same name.  Unfortunately, during WWII, the ship was hit by a torpedo and sunk. Some of the crew that survived and lucky enough to get into lifeboats, besides being upset about what had just happened, knew they had lost their ship’s cat too. They searched during the night rowing around and heard a distant “mewing”.  They found her, got her into the lifeboat and she survived to become the ship’s cat on another ship, the HMT Pict , a British armed naval trawler, and maintained her name Rinda.   Simon   Simon started out in a Hong King port. A seaman, George Hickinbottom found him, brought him on board the ship HMS Amethyst , and nursed him back to good health. The ship was bombarded in 1949, and the commanding officer, along with 25 crew were killed.  The ship’s cat, Simon, suffered injuries, but survived. When he was well enough, he resumed his killing spree on rats, whiling keeping company with the crew.  After the ship returned to Britain from the Yangtze Incident, Simon actually got appointed to the rank of “able seacat”.  He became somewhat of a celebrity, but unfortunately, while in port and having to be quarantined, he contracted an infection from his wounds and soon died. His obituary appeared in “the Times”, and tributes poured in.  Posthumously he was awarded the Dickin Metal, the only cat ever to earn this award, and buried with full naval honors. "Able Seacat" Simon, who served on the HMS Amethyst. Tiddles  A cat that had a long service was Tiddles.  He was born on the HMS Argus , and served on the HMS Victorius , as well as other ships of the Royal Navy.  During his years of service, he clocked in 30,000 miles at sea. Tiddles the "marathon" ship's cat with 30,000 sea miles! Tom The USS Maine navy ship, had its’ ship’s cat, a gray and black tabby named Tom in 1898. The ship sunk early that year in Havana Harbor, at the start to the Spanish-American War. A pug, 3 ship’s cats perished, along with 266 sailors. Tom survived with injuries and was featured in animal-rights material by the ASPCA, along with other organizations. Praise was given to the fine naval treatment and care of their ship’s cats. Trim Under the command of Matthew Flinders, Trim sailed along side him on numerous ships. Trim was there to see the mapping of the Australian coastline in 1801-1803, and was the first cat to circumnavigate Australia. Trim remained Flinders cat until his death, and became the subject of literature, as well as his own statue in his honor at the State Library of New South Wales in Sydney. A tribute to Trim, the Ship's cat to Commander Flinders. Unsinkable Sam This cat started out with the name of Oscar , a black and white male cat, and was the ship’s cat aboard the German battleship Bismark . The Bismark met her match, May 27, 1941 and sunk. Out of 2200 crew, only 116 survived - plus one cat; Oscar. He was saved by the destroyer HMS Cossack , a ship responsible for the sinking of the Bismark. Later that year, the HMS Cossack was attacked and it too sunk, killing over 100 of her crew. Among the few that survived, Oscar was one. Rescued again, he then became the ship’s cat of HMS Ark Royal , later that same year, this ship too met her final destiny and was hit with a torpedo and sunk. Unsinkable Sam survived 3 sinking ships! This was to be Oscar’s final time being rescued, and it was decided to keep him on dry land. By this point he earned the name Unsinkable Sam, by surviving 3 ships that sunk. On shore, he made his home in the governor general’s office in Gibraltar and given the title and job of mouse-catcher. Eventually he returned to the UK, and his last home was in Belfast, where he spent the rest of his life in a seamen's home. He passed away in 1955. A portrait of him hangs in the collections of the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. Looking for the next cat to take on board. Numerous books have been written about these ship’s cats and their journeys. One thing I’ve learned after doing my research, if I ever have a boat, and if I ever have a cat named Oscar, he will never be aboard my ship!

Siberian Cat Merlin Siberian cats are not just known for their stunning looks and playful personalities; they are also steeped in myths and legends that have woven a mystical aura around them for centuries. Here we dive into the fascinating world of Siberian cat folklore and separate fact from fiction.   Myth: Siberian Cats Have Hypoallergenic Fur Reality:  While it is true that some people with cat allergies report fewer symptoms around Siberian cats, no cat breed is truly hypoallergenic.  The Siberian's reduced allergen levels are attributed to lower levels of the protein Fel d 1 in their saliva; which is the primary allergen in cats.  However, individual reactions can vary, and it is essential to spend time with a Siberian cat before assuming you will not react to the breed.   Myth: Siberian Cats Are Immune to Disease Reality:  Siberian cats are often praised for their sturdy health and resilience, leading to the misconception that they are immune to disease. While it is true that Siberians tend to be a robust breed with fewer genetic health issues compared to some others, they are not invulnerable to illness or disease. Like all cats, they are susceptible to various health conditions and require proper care to stay healthy throughout their lives. Siberian cats can develop common feline health issues such as dental disease, obesity, and heart conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a disease that affects the heart muscles and is found in many breeds. Additionally, they can suffer from infections, respiratory issues, and other ailments if not properly vaccinated and protected against parasites. Routine veterinary care is essential for maintaining a Siberian cat’s health. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention (including flea, tick, and worm control) are critical for preventing illness. Additionally, a balanced diet, exercise, and attention to their grooming needs help ensure that they remain in top shape. While Siberians are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in harsh climates, this doesn’t make them immune to diseases. They benefit from the same level of attention, care, and medical treatment as any other breed of cat. Early detection of potential health issues through regular vet visits can significantly improve their quality of life and longevity.   Myth: Siberian Cats Are Descendants of the Russian Blue   Reality:   Russian Blue cats and Siberian Cats are two distinct breeds with different origins, despite both being from Russia. Siberian cats are an ancient, natural breed native to the forests of Siberia, known for their long, dense coats and robust, sturdy build, adapted to survive harsh, cold environments. They are considered one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds in Russia. On the other hand, Russian Blue cats are a more recent breed, known for their short, dense, bluish-gray fur, slender build, and striking green eyes. Their origins are believed to be in the port city of Arkhangelsk in Russia, and they have a more refined, elegant appearance compared to the Siberians. While they both come from Russia, there is no known direct link between the two breeds in terms of descent. Siberian cats are highly educated! Myth: Siberian Cats Are Descendants of the Siberian Tiger Reality:  Despite their shared name and the majestic, wild appearance of Siberian cats, they are not descendants of the Siberian tiger. The confusion likely arises due to their robust physique, striking fur patterns, and their common geographic origin in Russia, where both species thrive in cold environments. Siberian cats are a distinct domestic breed whose lineage can be traced back for centuries in Russia.    Unlike the massive Siberian tiger, which is a member of the Panthera genus and belongs to the big cat family, Siberian cats are part of the Felis genus, which includes domestic cats. These two species diverged millions of years ago and do not share direct ancestry.   Myth: Siberian Cats Possess Magical Powers Reality:  While Siberian cats are cherished for their intelligence and companionship, they do not possess magical powers.  However, they have been revered in Russian folklore for their hunting skills and loyalty.  Some legends even suggest that they can bring good luck to their owners.   Myth: Siberian Cats Have Healing Powers Reality:  In Russian folklore, Siberian cats are sometimes believed to have healing powers.   It was thought that their purring could heal various ailments, including respiratory issues and joint pain.  While the soothing sound of a cat's purr can be comforting, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that it has actual healing properties.   Myth: Siberian Cats Are Guardians of the Home Reality:  In some cultures, Siberian cats are seen as protectors of the home.  They are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to their owners.  This myth likely stems from the Siberian cat's history as a mouser, helping to keep homes free of rodents.   Myth: Siberian Cats Are Sacred Creatures Reality:  In Russian folklore, cats, in general, are often revered as sacred animals.  Siberian cats, with their majestic appearance and mysterious demeanor, are no exception.  They are sometimes associated with folklore creatures like the Russian forest spirit, the "leshy," and are believed to possess a special connection to the spirit world. Fortune-telling feline Myth: Siberian Cats Are Rare and Exotic Reality:  While Siberian cats are less common than some other breeds, they are not considered rare.  Their popularity has been increasing in recent years, thanks to their gentle nature and hypoallergenic reputation.   Myth: Siberian Cats Have a Special Bond with Nature Reality:  Siberian cats are often portrayed as having a deep connection to nature in folklore. They are said to be able to communicate with other animals and possess an innate understanding of the natural world.  While Siberian cats are undoubtedly well-adapted to outdoor environments, they are happiest as indoor pets where they can be safe and comfortable.     Myth: Siberian Cats Can Survive Extreme Cold Temperatures Reality: Siberian cats are indeed well-adapted to cold climates, having evolved in the harsh, chilly environments of Russia. Their thick triple-layered coat, consisting of a water-resistant topcoat and a dense, insulating undercoat, helps protect them from cold weather.  Additionally, their muscular build, large paws, and bushy tails allow them to navigate snowy terrains and retain warmth.  However, while these traits make Siberian cats more resilient to cold than many other breeds, they are not invincible when faced with extreme temperatures.     Prolonged exposure to sub-zero weather, especially in severe conditions such as heavy snow, freezing rain, or high winds, can still pose a risk.  Frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related health issues are real dangers, even for a breed known for its cold tolerance.  To keep Siberian cats safe, it’s essential to bring them indoors during particularly harsh weather.  While they may enjoy exploring the outdoors in milder cold, providing a warm, sheltered space is vital to ensure their well-being in extreme conditions.   Myth: Siberian Cats Are Silent Reality:  While Siberian cats may not be as famously vocal as certain breeds like Siamese cats, they are far from silent. Siberians are known for their expressive and communicative nature, often using a variety of sounds to engage with their owners. Rather than constant loud meowing, they tend to use a mix of soft meows, chirps, trills, and purrs to express themselves.   Their vocalizations are often subtle and varied, allowing them to communicate their needs, emotions, or desires in a more gentile manner. For instance, a Siberian cat may trill or chirp in greeting when they see their owner or meow softly when they want attention or food. Their purring can be especially loud when they are content, making it another key element of their vocal communication. Though not "chatty" in the same sense as other more talkative breeds, Siberians are social cats who use these sounds to form close bonds with their human families. Owners of Siberian cats often find their pets very interactive, as the breed tends to respond when spoken to and enjoys being part of the household conversation. Water loving cat Myth: Siberian Cats Are Wild and Untamable Reality:  Siberian cats are domesticated pets and are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They can form strong bonds with their human companions and are generally good with children and other pets.     Siberians Are Lazy Lap Cats Reality: While Siberians are affectionate and enjoy bonding with their humans, they are not typically "lazy lap cats." They are as active, playful, and athletic as most other cats.  Though they may enjoy sitting with you or being near you, they like to have their active play time; exploring their environment, and interacting with toys or other pets.    Siberian Cats Are Aggressive Reality:   This myth may arise from their wild appearance and strong build, but Siberians are generally known for their gentle, friendly, and playful nature. They are usually great with children, other pets, and guests, making them ideal family cats. While any cat can show aggression if frightened or mistreated, Siberians are typically very even-tempered and social.  These myths often stem from assumptions about their wild heritage or physical appearance, but Siberians are far more adaptable, affectionate, and family-oriented than many realize!   Siberian Cats Do Not like Water Reality :  The idea that Siberian cats dislike water is largely a myth. In reality, many Siberians are fascinated by water and even enjoy playing with it. This can be traced back to their origins in the cold, forested regions of Siberia, where bodies of water like rivers and streams are common. These cats had to adapt to their environment, developing a dense, water-resistant triple coat that protects them from harsh weather conditions, including rain and snow. Because of this, water is less of a nuisance to Siberians than it might be for other breeds with less protective fur. Siberians are naturally curious and adventurous, and many owners report their cats actively engaging with water sources. It's not uncommon to see a Siberian pawing at running faucets, playing in shallow water, or even dipping their paws in water bowls. Some will sit on the edge of a bathtub or shower, observing with interest, and a few may even join their owners in the shower or bath. Their water-resistant coat helps them stay dry and comfortable, so they aren’t as deterred by wetness as other cats might be. While not every individual Siberian will love water, a significant number of them show an unusual tolerance, or even enjoyment of it compared to other breeds. This natural curiosity, combined with their physical adaptations, is why the idea that Siberians dislike water doesn't hold true across the breed. Instead, many Siberians have a natural affinity for water, making them one of the more water-friendly cat breeds. Siberian cat catching drops Siberians Don’t Shed Reality:  Although Siberians have a low-maintenance reputation, they still require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and to manage shedding. Outside of seasonal shedding periods, combing once or twice a week is usually sufficient to keep their coat free of tangles and to remove loose hair.  However, during the spring and fall shedding seasons, more frequent combing—often daily—is recommended to help control the shedding and prevent fur from matting or forming clumps. This regular grooming helps minimize the amount of loose fur in the home and can also help reduce hairballs, as cats may ingest less fur during grooming.   The Siberian Cat is Always Huge in Size Reality :  Another myth about Siberian cats is that they are always large and heavy .  While Siberians are known for being a sturdy, muscular breed, not all individuals grow to the same size. Siberians typically have a slow growth rate and may take up to five years to reach full maturity, which can lead to misconceptions about their final size.  Though many Siberians do end up being quite large, especially males, others remain medium-sized throughout their lives. Factors like diet, genetics, and overall health play a significant role in determining the size of an individual cat.  So, while Siberians are often expected to be large, there’s plenty of variation within the breed. IN CONCLUSION , the myths and legends surrounding Siberian cats offer a fascinating glimpse into how humans have long admired and respected these majestic felines. Over the centuries, stories of their mystical powers, connections to nature, and supposed abilities have added to their allure, casting them as more than just pets, but as creatures of folklore and wonder. These myths reflect the deep cultural significance that Siberian cats hold, especially in their native Russia, where they have been cherished for their beauty, intelligence, and resilience in harsh environments.   While many of these myths, such as their supposed healing powers, silent nature, or ties to the wild are grounded in observations of the Siberian cat’s unique traits, it is important to approach them with a balanced perspective. Siberian cats are undoubtedly remarkable, with their thick, water-repellent fur, strong builds, and loving temperaments. These qualities may have inspired tales of their supernatural abilities, but in reality, they are simply the result of the breed’s natural evolution in a challenging environment.

Your Siberian cat and food. Understanding Cat Nutrition – Proteins, Fats and Carbohydrates   Just like humans, cats require a balanced diet that includes the three main macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Each of these macronutrients plays a vital role in ensuring the overall health and well-being of a cat.  Here’s a brief overview of each macronutrient and its importance in a cat’s diet:  Cat Nutrition Explained in Simple Terms #1. PROTEIN: Proteins are critical for a cat’s diet because they serve as the building blocks of tissues, enzymes and hormones. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet high in animal-based proteins. This macronutrient not only supports growth and development but also aids in the repair of muscles and tissues and the production of enzymes and hormones. Proteins are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting optimal organ function. Proteins provide the necessary amino acids that cats cannot synthesize on their own, making it crucial to include high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish and eggs in their meals.   #2. FATS: Fats are a concentrated source of energy for cats and are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Fats also play a role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and help to regulate body temperature. Good sources of fats for cats include animal fats and oils. #3. CARBOHYDRATES: Cats can digest carbohydrates and use them as a source of energy, though they require fewer carbohydrates compared to dogs or humans. Some carbohydrates can provide fibers that are beneficial for digestive health; aiding in the maintenance of bowel regularity and preventing issues such as hairballs or constipation. Although carbohydrates can be included in a cat’s diet, they should not be the primary component. While cats have a limited ability to digest carbohydrates, some sources of carbohydrates can provide fiber and energy. Carbohydrates are not considered essential in a cat’s diet, but they can be included in small amounts. Good sources of carbohydrates for cats include grains, vegetables, and fruits.   It is important to note that cats have specific dietary requirements that differ from other animals, so it is best to feed them a diet that is specifically formulated for cats. Siberian kitten preparing a feast LIFE STAGE NUTRITION: KITTENS TO SENIORS   Nutritional needs vary throughout a cat’s life stages, from kittens to seniors. Here’s a general overview of the key nutritional requirements at each stage. Kittens (0–12 Months): Nutritional Needs for Optimal Growth and Development Kittens are in a rapid growth phase during their first year, making their nutritional needs significantly different from those of adult cats. To ensure healthy development and long-term wellness, it’s crucial to provide a diet specifically tailored to these young cats. Here are the essential dietary requirements for kittens. High Protein Content:  A kitten’s diet should be rich in high-quality protein, necessary for muscle development and overall growth. Unlike adult cats, whose protein needs vary, kittens thrive on a diet where protein constitutes a large portion of their caloric intake. This protein must come from high-quality animal sources to ensure they receive all essential amino acids for their rapid growth. Increased Caloric Intake:  Kittens have much higher energy requirements than adult cats due to their active lifestyles and growth processes. A diet that provides more calories daily is crucial, supporting their development and encouraging playful activities that aid behavioral growth, such as exploring their environment and stimulating hunting instincts. Essential Fatty Acids:  DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid, is vital for a kitten’s healthy brain and vision development. DHA plays a key role in forming brain cell membranes and is particularly important during the early months of life when the kitten’s brain is rapidly developing. Research indicates that a diet rich in DHA can enhance cognitive function and improve visual acuity over time. Bone and Teeth Development:  Calcium and phosphorus are critical minerals for developing strong bones and teeth. The correct balance of these minerals is essential for skeletal development during a kitten’s growth phase. A deficiency can lead to skeletal deformities or dental issues. Typically, the recommended ratio should be around 1.2:1, with calcium slightly higher than phosphorus. Hydration:  While not always highlighted, hydration is crucial for kittens. They must have access to fresh water at all times, especially when consuming dry food. Adequate hydration supports bodily functions, aids digestion, and helps maintain energy levels. Vitamins and Minerals:  In addition to proteins, fats, calcium, and phosphorus, kittens require a variety of vitamins and trace minerals for healthy growth. Vitamins A, E, and certain B vitamins are necessary for proper immune function, skin health, and energy metabolism. A balanced commercial kitten food often provides these essential nutrients, but it’s important to select formulations specifically designed for kittens. Transitioning to Adult Food:  As kittens approach their first birthday, their nutritional needs begin to resemble those of adult cats. Monitoring their growth and consulting a veterinarian will help determine the right time to transition to adult cat food, which should be done gradually to insure their digestive systems adapt appropriately. CONCLUSION Providing a balanced diet to meet kittens’ unique nutritional demands is crucial for their healthy growth and development. Attention must be given to high protein content, sufficient calorie intake, essential fatty acids like DHA, and the correct balance of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Investing in quality kitten food tailored to their needs lays the foundation for a long, healthy life. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor their health and growth, ensuring they are on the path to becoming thriving adult cats. Kitten & broccoli - great combination THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER FOR CATS’ HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Water is an essential component of a cat’s overall health and well-being. Proper hydration is critical for various bodily functions and can greatly impact a cat’s quality of life. Here are key reasons to ensure your cat has adequate water intake. Prevents Dehydration:  Cats are evolutionarily adapted to obtain moisture primarily from prey rather than drinking large volumes of water. Therefore, it’s crucial to provide consistent access to fresh, clean water. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including kidney problems, lethargy, and loss of appetite, sometimes necessitating veterinary intervention. Promotes Kidney Health:  The kidneys filter waste and toxins from the blood, making adequate water intake vital for optimal kidney function. Water dilutes substances that could form kidney stones and help flush out waste products. This is especially important for ageing cats, who are more susceptible to kidney diseases. Proper hydration can reduce the risk of developing such conditions. Aids in Digestion: Water plays a crucial role in digestion by dissolving nutrients, making absorption easier for the   intestines. It also softens food as it passes through the digestive system, preventing constipation and   diarrhea and contributing to a healthy gut. Regulates Body Temperature: Cats can be prone to overheating, particularly those with thick fur or in warmer climates. Sufficient   water intake supports thermoregulation, helping to maintain a stable internal temperature. Drinking   water helps cool cats down after exercise or exposure to heat, preventing heat-related illnesses such as   heatstroke, which can be fatal. Supports Urinary Health: Maintaining proper hydration is essential for urinary health. Drinking enough water dilutes urine,   reducing the concentration of minerals that can lead to urinary crystals and stones. A well-hydrated cat   is less likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTI) or experience issues like straining to urinate or   blood in the urine. Maintains Overall Health: Hydration contributes to a cat’s overall vitality and well-being. Adequate water intake supports healthy   skin and a lustrous coat; indicators of good health. It also bolsters the immune system, helping to ward   off illnesses and infections, while keeping your cat energetic, playful, and alert.   Incorporating water-rich foods, such as wet cat food, or providing water fountains can encourage higher   water intake. Regularly monitoring your cat’s water consumption and insuring they stay well-hydrated   can lead to a happier, healthier life. Summer treat for a Siberian cat Adult Cats (1-7 Years): Nutritional Requirements for Maintenance and Health: Adult cats, typically aged 1 to 7 years, have specific nutritional requirements that differ from those of kittens and senior cats. During this life stage, the focus of their diet shifts towards maintenance, overall health, and the prevention of lifestyle-related health issues. Here’s a detailed overview of the critical nutritional components essential for optimal health in adult cats. Balanced Diet for Maintenance: Adult cats need a well-rounded diet that includes appropriate levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates,   vitamins, and minerals to sustain their health. Foods specially formulated for adult cats should provide   all essential nutrients while minimizing fillers and low-quality ingredients. High-quality commercial cat   food usually lists meat or meat meal as the main ingredient, contributing to a nutritious diet. Protein Needs: While protein is vital for an adult cat’s diet, the levels required are slightly lower than those needed   during kittenhood. Generally, adult cats need about 25-30% of their caloric intake from protein,   although this can vary based on their activity level and health status. High-quality protein sources from   animal-based ingredients are essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting metabolism, and   insuring overall bodily function by providing all necessary amino acids. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for adult cats, as obesity can lead to a range of health problems,   including diabetes, joint issues, and heart disease. An effective diet should meet their energy needs   without promoting excessive weight gain. This can be achieved through portion control, high-quality food, and monitoring daily caloric intake. Less active cats, especially indoor ones, may benefit from   specially formulated weight management diets that are lower in calories but remain nutritionally   complete. Diets high in protein and fiber can also enhance satiety and assist in weight management. Healthy Fats: Fats are a necessary component of an adult cat’s diet, providing concentrated energy and essential fatty   acids. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are especially important for skin and coat health, reducing   inflammation, and supporting cellular function. It’s critical that the fat content in adult cat food is   balanced—not excessively high to prevent weight gain, but sufficient to meet energy and nutritional   needs. Carbohydrate Considerations: Although cats are obligate carnivores, they can utilize carbohydrates to a limited extent. Some   commercial cat foods contain grains or other carbohydrate sources that provide energy; however,   carbohydrate levels should not be excessive. A moderate amount of easily digestible carbohydrates can   be beneficial, but the primary focus should remain on high protein and fat content. Fruit loving feline Vitamins and Minerals: Adult cats require various vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. Key vitamins such as A,   E, and several B vitamins, along with minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, are vital for   bodily functions, including immunity and metabolism. Choosing a complete and balanced diet that meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards insures that the food provides   adequate amounts of these essential nutrients. Hydration: Hydration is crucial throughout all life stages, but adult cats may be less inclined to drink water compared to younger ones. Feeding a combination of wet and dry food can enhance their overall water   intake. Wet food provides hydration while delivering essential nutrients. It is vital to ensure that fresh   water is always available. Dental Health: Diets that promote dental health can benefit adult cats. Certain dry foods are formulated to help reduce   plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to better oral hygiene. Regular veterinary dental check-ups and   cleanings are also essential, as dental disease can lead to other health complications. Vigilant Health Monitoring: As adult cats age, they become more susceptible to health issues like dental diseases, kidney disease,   and obesity. Regular veterinary check-ups are important for monitoring their health, weight, and making   necessary dietary adjustments. As cats approach their senior years, age-specific formulations may help   address their changing nutritional needs. CONCLUSION Adult cats require a carefully balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs for maintenance and health. The incorporation of high-quality protein, management of caloric intake for healthy weight, proper hydration, and essential vitamins and minerals plays a significant role in their overall well-being. Regular health monitoring and consultations with a veterinarian can help identify necessary dietary adjustments as they age, allowing them to thrive throughout this essential phase of their lives. By prioritizing a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, cat owners can support their adult cats in living active, fulfilling lives. Siberian kitten with sardine   Senior Cats (7+ Years): Nutritional Requirements for Longevity and Quality of Life As cats age—typically around 7 years and older—their nutritional needs evolve due to age-related physiological changes. Adapting their diet is essential to support their health, manage emerging issues, and enhance their quality of life. Here are the key nutritional aspects tailored for senior cats. Reduced Energy Needs: Senior cats usually experience a slower metabolism and reduced physical activity. This decline means   they require a lower-calorie diet to prevent weight gain and obesity, which can exacerbate health   problems. Specially formulated senior cat foods can provide the necessary caloric intake along with   essential nutrients. Digestibility of Protein: While protein remains vital, its quality and digestibility become increasingly important. Older cats may   have difficulty processing protein, so it’s essential to offer highly digestible protein sources, aiding   muscle maintenance and overall health. Enhanced Nutritional Profile: Diets enriched with antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, along with plant-based compounds like   cranberries and blueberries, can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation associated with aging.   These nutrients support immune health and may protect against age-related diseases. Siberian cats love meats! Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Increasing omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA, can greatly benefit   senior cats. These fats help maintain joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote cognitive function,   which can decline with age. Regular inclusion of omega-3 sources supports brain health and may lower   the risk of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). Kidney Health Considerations: The risk of kidney disease increases with age, making it vital to choose diets that support renal health.   Lower phosphorus levels in senior cat foods can help protect kidney function, while moist or wet foods   can enhance hydration; crucial for urinary tract health. Joint Health Support: Joint health often declines with age, leading to discomfort. Diets containing glucosamine and   chondroitin sulfate can aid joint function and mobility by maintaining cartilage health and alleviating   arthritis symptoms. Dental Health: Maintaining dental health is vital for older cats, who are more susceptible to dental disease. Dry kibble   formulated to promote oral health can help minimize plaque and tartar buildup. Regular dental check-ups are also essential. Cognitive Health: As cognitive function can decline with age, diets enriched with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and B   vitamins can support brain health. Providing mental stimulation through play and social interaction can   further benefit cognitive well-being. Content kitty INDIVIDUAL ASSESSMENT Every cat is unique, with varying nutritional needs based on health conditions, weight, activity level, and preferences. Consulting a veterinarian is crucial for tailoring a diet that meets each cat’s specific requirements. Routine check-ups allow for monitoring changes and adjusting their diet as needed. By addressing these nutritional considerations, cat owners can help insure that their senior companions enjoy a healthy, happy, and enriched life in their golden years. " Bon Appetit! " Siberian cat ready to dine! Suppertime for a Siberian cat

Vet bills and the cost for your Siberian cat This article was sent to me, and I thought it was extremely interesting. It is so interesting that I decided to post it in my blog section because many people have asked me this question over the past few years. Original written by Helaine Olen.    People like me have fueled the growth of what you might call Big Vet. As household pets have risen in status—from mere animals to bona fide family members—so, too, has owners’ willingness to spend money to ensure their well-being.  Big-money investors have noticed. According to data provided to me by PitchBook, private equity poured $51.6 billion into the veterinary sector from 2017 to 2023, and another $9.3 billion in the first four months of this year (2024), seemingly convinced that it had discovered a foolproof investment.  Industry cheerleaders pointed to surveys showing   that   people would go into debt to keep their four-legged friends healthy.  The field was viewed as “ low-risk, high-reward ,” as a 2022 report issued by Capstone Partners put it, singling out the industry for its higher-than-average rate of return on investment.   From the December 2022 issue: How much would you pay to save your pet’s life? In the United States, corporations and private-equity funds have been rolling up smaller chains and previously independent practices.  Mars Inc., of Skittles and Snickers fame, is, oddly, the largest owner of stand-alone veterinary clinics in the United States,   operating  more than 2,000 practices under the names Banfield, VCA, and BluePearl. JAB Holding Company, the owner of National Veterinary Associates’ 1,000-plus hospitals (not to mention Panera and Espresso House), also holds  multiple pet-insurance lines  in its portfolio. Shore Capital Partners, which owns several human health-care companies, controls Mission Veterinary Partners and Southern Veterinary Partners.   As a result, your local vet may well be directed by a multinational shop that views caring for your fur baby as a healthy component of a diversified revenue stream. Veterinary-industry insiders now estimate that 25 to 30 percent of practices in the United States are under large corporate umbrellas, up from  8 percent  a little more than a decade ago. For specialty clinics, the number is closer to  three out of four .   And as this happened, veterinary prices began to rise—a lot. Americans spent  an estimated $38 billion  on health care and related services for companion animals in 2023, up from about  $29 billion  in 2019. Even as overall inflation got back under control last year, the cost of veterinary care did not. In March 2024, the for urban consumers was up 3.5 percent year over year. The veterinary-services category was up 9.6 percent.  If you have ever wondered why keeping your pet healthy has gotten so out-of-control expensive, Big Vet just might be your answer. The price to raise your Siberian kitten To get a sense of what might happen when the profit-seeking dial gets turned up too high in veterinary medicine, we need look no further than human health care.  An extensive  body of research  shows that when private equity takes over a hospital or physician practice, prices and the number of expensive procedures tend to go up.  A study found  serious medical errors  occur more frequently after private equity buys the hospital.  Another  study  found that costs to patients rise too, sometimes substantially.  And that’s in a tougher regulatory environment.  In veterinary medicine, there is no giant entity like Medicare capable of pushing back on prices. There is no requirement, in fact, to provide care at all, no matter how dire the animal’s condition. Payment is due at the time of service or there is no service.   Whenever I told people I was working on this article, I was inundated with Big Vet complaints. Catherine Liu, a professor at UC Irvine, took her elderly pit-bull mix, Buster, to a local VCA when he became lethargic and began drooling excessively. More than $8,000 in charges later, there was still no diagnosis. “Sonograms, endoscopy—what about just a hypothesis of what the symptoms could be?  Nothing like that at all was forthcoming,” Liu told me.  Shortly before Buster died, a vet in private practice diagnosed him with cancer.  The disease, Liu said, had not once been mentioned by the vets at VCA. (Mars Petcare, VCA’s parent company, declined to comment on the episode.)   I don’t mean to single out VCA here. In fact, I should note that a VCA vet’s medical protocol was almost certainly responsible for my dog’s longer-than-expected life. One reason Mars-owned chains attract outsized attention for their high costs and customer service failures is that the company actually brands its acquisitions. That’s unusual. A study conducted by the Arizona consumer advocate Todd Nemet that fewer than 15 percent of corporate-owned practices in the state slap their own brand identity on their vets; most keep the original practice name, leaving customers with the illusion of local ownership. (When I asked Thrive Pet Healthcare, a chain majority-owned by TSG Consumer Partners, about why the company doesn’t brand its clinics, a spokesperson replied, “We realize the value of local hospital brands and are committed to preserving and supporting them.”) How much in medical bills for a Siberian cat? Indeed, some pet owners told me that they realized that ownership of their vet had changed only after what they thought was a routine visit resulted in recommendations for mounds of tests, which turned out to have shot up in price.  Paul Cerro, the CEO of Cedar Grove Capital, which invests in the pet industry, says this issue is frequent in online reviews. “People will say, ‘I’ve been coming here for four years, and all of a sudden I’m getting charged for things I’ve never been charged for,’ and they give it one star.”   Big Vet denies charging excessive prices. VCA Canada, for instance, recently told  The Globe and Mail  that prices can increase after an acquisition because “the quality of the care, the quality of everything we offer to them, goes up as well.” A spokesperson for Mars told me, “We invest heavily in our associates, hospitals, state-of-the-art equipment, technology, and other resources.” NVA, which is planning an initial public offering in 2025 or 2026, did not directly answer a question about why veterinary prices were rising so rapidly, instead sending me a statement saying, in part, “Our vision is to build a community of hospitals that pet owners trust, are easy to access, and provide the best possible value for care.”   Do rising prices really just reflect higher-quality care?  There may be some truth to this, but there is also evidence to the contrary. A study published last year in the  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association , for example, found that vets working for large corporations reported more pressure to generate revenue, whereas veterinarians working for independent practices reported higher levels of satisfaction for such things as the “ability to acquire new large equipment” and the “ability to get new/different drugs.” Preliminary research by Emma Harris, the vice president of Vetster, a veterinary telehealth start-up, found significant differences in pricing between corporate and privately owned veterinary clinics in the same geographic region. Usually, she told me, the increases “occurred immediately after the sale to a private-equity-owned group.”   All of this doesn’t sit well with many in the sector. Vets tend to be idealistic, which makes sense given that many of them rack up six figures in student-loan debt to pursue a profession that pays significantly less than human medicine. One vet, who worked for an emergency services practice that, they said, raised prices by 20 percent in 2022, told me, “I almost got to the point where I was ashamed to tell people what the estimate was for things because it was so insanely high.” (The vet asked for anonymity because he feared legal repercussions.) Others described mounting pressure to upsell customers following acquisition by private equity. “You don’t always need to take X-rays on an animal that’s vomited just one time,”   Kathy Lewis, a veterinarian who formerly worked at a Tennessee practice purchased in 2021 by Mission Veterinary Partners, told me. “But there was more of that going on.” Prices increased rapidly as well, she said, leading to customer complaints.   (Mission Veterinary Partners did not respond to requests for comment.) Can you trust your vet with your Siberian's health? The combination of wheeling-and-dealing and price increases in the veterinary sector is beginning to attract the government’s attention. In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission required, in a 2022 consent decree, that JAB seek prior approval before purchasing any emergency or specialty clinic within 25 miles of one it already owns in California and Texas for the next decade. In her   written comments , FTC Chair Lina Khan said she feared these one-by-one purchases could lead to the development of a stealth monopoly. (JAB denied any wrongdoing.) And in the United Kingdom, where corporate ownership is higher than in the United States (even the practice originally owned by the author of the classic veterinary novel  All Creatures Great and Small  has been rolled up), government authorities are moving forward with an  investigation   into high prices and market concentration after an initial inquiry drew what regulators called an “unprecedented” response from the public.   Pet owners used to have an easier time accepting the short lives of domestic animals.  Few people were taking the barnyard cat or junkyard dog in for chemotherapy or ACL surgery, to say nothing of post-op aquatic physical therapy. “When we started out over 20 years ago, you had to live near a veterinary teaching hospital to have access to something like an MRI,” Karen Leslie, the executive director of the Pet Fund, a charity that aids people with vet bills, told me. “Now it’s the standard of care. It’s available basically everywhere, but that starts at $2,000.”   Big Vet, in Leslie’s view, helped fuel an increase in expensive services. The same medical progress that’s helped humans beat back once-fatal diseases is doing the same for cats and dogs, extending their life spans to record lengths. But only if you have the money to pay for it. Some pets—my late Katie, Liu’s late Buster—received one expensive test or treatment after another, sometimes helpful, sometimes not. Other equally loved pets may go without basic care altogether, or even fall victim to what the industry calls “economic euthanasia,” where they are put down because their owners can’t afford their medical bills. (Pet insurance, widely promoted by the industry, is unlikely to help much. Uptake rates are in the low single digits, a result of relatively high costs and often-limited benefits.)   The American Veterinary Medical Association’s  tracker  shows that vet visits and purchases of heartworm and flea-and-tick medications are down compared with this month last year, even as practice revenues are up, suggesting that some owners are having trouble affording routine, preventative care. The market researcher Packaged Facts   found that a full third of pet owners say that they would take their animal to the vet more often if it were less expensive. Shelter Animals Count, an animal-advocacy group,  reports  that the number of pets surrendered to shelters rose in the past two years. Carol Mithers, the author of the upcoming book  Rethinking Rescue , told me that some people give up pets because they believe the shelter system will provide them with necessary medical treatment—something that is, heartbreakingly, not true. The veterinary past is easy to romanticize. The truth is that pets have never received all the needed care, and that wealthy pet owners have always had access to more care. But the emergence of Big Vet and the injection of cutthroat incentives into a traditionally idealistic, local industry threaten to make these problems far worse. It portends a future in which some pet owners get shaken down, their love for their pets exploited financially, while others must forego even basic care for their pets.   Support for this project was provided by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. A Siberian cat getting a checkup I just did a bit of research and found out that there are a number of different ways that you can tell if your practice is owned by a corporate company. These include: Website information  - Check the information on your practice’s website. Usually at the bottom of the page they will have their contact information, along with the practice name followed by the organization that owns it.  Social media  - Look on your vets’ social media pages. They will usually detail what corporation they are part of; similar to the information found on their website. Written correspondence - On some types of correspondence from your veterinary practice, there is likely to be a header and footer (top and bottom of the document) where the practice details are listed. It is likely that the practice information and corporate company are listed here. Unsure? Just ask! - If you are unsure of who owns your veterinary practice, then just ask a member of the team. It’s not a closely guarded secret as to who owns a practice. Is an independent practice better than a corporately owned practice?   In theory, there should be no difference in the quality of care that is received from a corporate or an independent practice. Actions carried out by veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses should fall in line with government guidelines, no matter whether they are employed by a corporate company or an independent practice. Each team can differ between practices, so your experience may change depending on an individual’s qualifications, experience, and personality, instead of whether a practice is corporate or independently owned. You should base your preferred veterinary practice decision based on the best interest for you and your pet. It's important to note that each veterinary team can vary significantly between practices. This means that your experience may depend more on the specific qualifications, experience, and personalities of the individuals you encounter, rather than on whether the practice is corporately owned or independently operated. For this reason, it is advisable to choose your preferred veterinary practice based on what is best for you and your pet's needs, rather than the ownership structure of the practice. Ultimately, the most crucial factor is that your pet receives the highest quality care and attention. Therefore, consider visiting different practices, talking to the staff, and even seeking recommendations from other pet owners to make an informed decision that prioritizes your pet’s health and well-being. Keep your Siberian kitten healthy!