(DK) The Cat Encyclopedia: The Definitive Visual Guide

A HEALTHY CAT


DETECTING PROBLEMS
Cats are notorious for hiding any signs of ROUTINE CHECKS
pain, illness, or injury (see pp. 300–01). In
the wild, their survival would depend on not
showing weakness to avoid attracting the
attention of predators. This ruse also means,
however, that owners might not notice
problems until they have become severe.
If your cat seems more hungry or thirsty
than usual, refuses to eat, or loses weight,
you need to consult a vet. If your cat cries or
strains when passing urine or feces, or has
accidents in the home, it could signify an
internal disorder and may require the
immediate attention of a vet.
Changes in behavior could also indicate
problems. Your cat may be reluctant to
come to you or may hide himself away.
He may be less active or may sleep more
than usual. He may become abnormally Eyes
Check that the eyes are moist and clean. Gently pull the
timid or aggressive. Consult the vet
eyelids away from the eye; the conjunctiva (inner lining)
immediately if you notice any of these signs. should be pale pink.
ANNUAL CHECK-UPS
Your cat should have a regular health check
at least once a year. The vet will assess his
condition by checking the cat from head to
tail, feeling for any tenderness or lumps. A
booster vaccination may be given. The vet
will also inspect your cat for parasites and
give you advice on administering worming
and flea treatments. Your vet may clip your
cat’s claws, if necessary, especially if he is
a house cat or elderly.

Ears Teeth and gums
Look in the ears. The interior should be clean and pink, Gently lift the lips to check the teeth and gums, and
with no wounds, soreness, discharge, parasites, or dark look inside the mouth. The teeth should be intact
wax. There should be no bad smell. and the gums pale pink.





















Claws Weight
Press each paw gently to expose the claws; look for Assess your cat’s weight by gently running your hands
Cat being weighed any damaged or missing claws and then check the around his back, ribs, and belly. You should be able
It is important to keep accurate records of a cat’s weight, skin between the toes for any wounds. to feel your cat’s ribs easily but not see them.
since this is a good indicator of general health. Consult the
vet if your cat is overweight or loses weight suddenly.


299

CARING FOR YOUR CAT | SIGNS OF ILLNESS


Signs of illness




Cats instinctively hide signs of pain or illness because in the wild signs of
weakness attract the attention of predators. With domestic cats, however,
this behavior can make it hard for owners to recognize problems until
they are severe. Regularly monitor your cat for changes in appearance
or behavior so that you can spot health issues early on.



COMMON HEALTH PROBLEMS
Every cat will experience health problems RECOGNIZING HEALTH PROBLEMS
during his lifetime. Some complaints,
■ Lethargy, hiding away ■ Change in appetite—eating less, walking away
such as a one-time incident of vomiting or
■ Unusually fast, slow, or difficult breathing from food, voraciously hungry, or having
diarrhea, are not a major cause for concern
■ Sneezing or coughing difficulty eating
and do not require treatment by a vet. Other ■ Open wound, swelling, bleeding ■ Vomiting, or unexplained regurgitation
problems, such as intestinal worms or fleas, ■ Blood in feces, urine, or vomit of undigested food shortly after eating
can be treated easily enough at home, ■ Limping, stiffness, inability to jump ■ Increased thirst
following instructions from your vet. More on to furniture ■ Diarrhea, or difficulty passing a motion
serious disorders requiring urgent veterinary ■ Unintentional weight loss ■ Difficulty passing urine, crying
■ Unexpected weight gain, especially with ■ Itchiness
attention include: repeated vomiting or
a bloated abdomen ■ Abnormal discharge from any orifice
diarrhea—often a sign of an underlying
■ Coat changes, excessive loss of fur
disorder; urinary tract infections or
obstructions, which can cause painful
urination; eye problems, such as responsibilities as an owner is to be vigilant, or in pain. Lethargy is also often linked
conjunctivitis or a visible third eyelid; keeping an eye out for any changes in your to obesity, so it may disappear when a cat
abscesses from fights with other cats; cat’s routines and behavior that might loses his excess weight.
and dental problems that prevent eating. suggest he needs veterinary attention. Changes in appetite are usually a sign of
Lethargy is difficult to spot because cats an underlying condition. Loss of appetite
WARNING SIGNS generally spend much of their time sleeping may be due to mouth pain, such as toothache,
Cats tend to suffer in silence and do not or resting, but decreased levels of activity, or a more serious illness, such as kidney
draw attention to themselves when they including a reluctance to jump, and reduced failure. Weight loss despite an increased
are feeling vulnerable. One of your alertness are often signs that your cat is sick appetite, together with increased urination
and increased thirst, may be the result of an
overactive thyroid or diabetes mellitus.
Abnormal or labored breathing may
occur after a chest injury or as a result
of an obstruction in the airway, an upper
respiratory tract infection, or shock.
Wheezing may be due to asthma or
bronchitis. Breathing difficulties always
require an emergency trip to the vet.
Dehydration is life-threatening and
has various causes, including vomiting,
diarrhea, increased urination, and
heatstroke. You can perform a simple
test to check if your cat is dehydrated.
Gently lift up the skin on the back of


Not hungry
It is a cause for concern when a cat that normally
has a good appetite loses interest in food. He may
be in pain or have an illness requiring prompt
veterinary attention.


300

SIGNS OF ILLNESS
































Changes in behavior
Illness in a cat may not be immediately obvious, but you
can pick up clues from his behavior. If an active cat
becomes lethargic, or a lazy one is less responsive than
usual to attention, there may be a health problem.


his neck. If the skin springs back into
position, your cat is healthy, but if it
returns slowly this is a sign of dehydration.
Feel the gums with a finger—dry, tacky
gums also indicate dehydration. Emergency
rehydration involves a vet injecting fluids
under the skin or directly into a vein.
The color of a cat’s gums can indicate
good health or one of several serious
disorders. A healthy cat has pink gums.
Pale or white gums indicate shock, anemia,
or blood loss; yellow gums are a sign of
jaundice; red gums are caused by carbon- (see pp. 276–79). Neglect of self-grooming, Time for the vet
monoxide poisoning, fever, or bleeding changes in coat texture, fur loss, and a If you are worried about your cat’s health, do not hesitate
to get in touch with a vet. In the event of sudden severe
in the mouth; blue gums suggest poor refusal to use the litter box can also be illness or a serious injury, call the practice immediately so
oxygenation of the blood. signs that all is not well with your cat. that the staff can be ready when you bring the cat in.
Other indicators of poor health include
lumps on the skin, which you can check RECOGNIZING AN EMERGENCY ■ Seizures
for regularly during grooming sessions If you suspect your cat has a serious health ■ Rapid breathing, panting, or struggling
problem, acting quickly can mean the for breath
difference between life and death. Keep ■ Fast or weak pulse—feel the inner side
the telephone numbers for your vet and the of a back leg, near the groin area (a normal
emergency vet service where you can easily pulse is 110–180 beats per minute)
find them. Call a vet immediately if your ■ Hot or cold temperature—feel the ears
cat has any of the following signs: and pads of the paws
■ Loss of consciousness (always check to ■ Pale gums
make sure the airway is not obstructed) ■ Limping, difficulty in walking, or paralysis
■ Difficulty in standing, or collapse
■ Serious injuries—a cat that has had an
Checking gums
Changes in gum color indicate changes in health. Ask accident should be seen by a vet even if there
your vet to explain the correct way to examine a cat’s are no visible injuries, since there could be
gums and teeth, and make regular mouth checks part
of your pet’s normal care and hygiene routine. internal bleeding


301

CARING FOR YOUR CAT | HEALTH AND CARE


Health and care




Your greatest responsibility as a cat owner is the health of your pet. It is
up to you to ensure that your pet has regular vaccinations and check-ups
with a vet and recognize any changes in his body or behavior that may
require a trip to the vet. Educate yourself about common disorders and
learn how to care for your cat when he is ill, recovering from surgery,
or in the case of an emergency.



Every cat will experience health problems PARASITES AND DISEASES Some parasites live in a cat’s internal body
during his lifetime. However, cats tend to Some health issues—such as external tissues, usually in the intestines, but also in
suffer in silence and do not draw attention and internal parasites, infectious diseases, other areas, such as the lungs. Your vet will
to themselves when feeling vulnerable. and tooth and gum disorders—are easily prescribe medicine or suggest a treatment
Keep an eye out for any changes in your dealt with if caught early. for external or internal parasites, and may
cat’s routines and behavior, such as External parasites, also called also advise on preventative medication.
lethargy or changes in appetite, which ectoparasites, are tiny creatures—such Your cat may catch infectious diseases
might suggest he needs veterinary attention. as fleas, ticks, and a variety of mites— from the environment or from other cats.
Regular home checks (see pp. 300–01) will that infest a cat’s skin. Saliva from their Although these diseases can be serious,
help you spot common signs of illness or bites can irritate the skin, and some especially in older cats or kittens,
discomfort, but your cat will also need parasites, such as tapeworm, can also vaccinations will help to protect your pet.
annual check-ups from a vet, and some transmit infections. Ticks are sometimes Cats kept in large groups or those that come
conditions will require additional tests. carriers of Lyme disease. into contact with other cats can pick up
infections from fighting, mutual grooming,
or from sharing litter boxes and food bowls.
Cats use their mouths for eating and for
grooming themselves. The mouth usually
keeps itself healthy by producing saliva, but
regular checks and even brushing the teeth will
prevent problems such as a buildup of plaque.

DISORDERS AND INJURIES
If you notice any signs of injury or illness,
contact your vet. Only give your cat medicine
prescribed by a vet and follow instructions
carefully. Serious disorders that require
urgent veterinary attention include repeated
vomiting or diarrhea; urinary tract infections;
eye problems, such as conjunctivitis or a
visible third eyelid; skin abscesses; and dental
problems that prevent your cat from eating.
Disorders and injuries may affect the
structures of the eye or the eyelids, or both.
All eye problems in a cat need prompt
investigation by a vet, since even minor
disorders can become sight threatening
if left untreated.


Excessive scratching
If your cat excessively scratches or licks himself, it may
be an indication of a skin or coat disorder. Scratching
may further aggravate itchy skin, and bacteria on the
cat’s claws can infect the affected area.


302

HEALTH AND CARE



Parasites
Cats can easily pick
up parasites from their
environment or from
other cats. The four most
common external parasites
are shown here. FLEA TICK EAR MITE HARVEST MITE

A wide range of ear problems can affect CHECK-UPS AND TESTS
cats, from external injuries to disorders It is good practice to ensure
of the inner ear that can cause issues with that your cat has routine
balance. Cats can also suffer from deafness check-ups, possibly twice a
due to genetic disorders. year in his old age. The vet
Cats by nature keep their coat and skin will assess his condition by
healthy by grooming themselves. However, checking his ears, eyes, teeth,
skin disorders can still affect them. Symptoms gums, heartbeat, breathing,
such as flaky skin or greasy coat are usually and weight, and feel all over
easy to spot, and will need prompt attention for abnormalities. The vet may
from a vet. recommend additional tests
The digestive system of a cat breaks down to diagnose some disorders.
food, releasing nutrients to be converted into Inherited disorders (see
energy by the body’s cells. Any problem with pp. 296–97) may be
the cat’s eating, digestion, or waste elimination associated with certain
can have an overall impact on his health. breeds. Screening tests may be
Blood tests
Abnormal or labored breathing may available for some genetic disorders. The vet may take blood samples to detect an
occur after a chest injury or as a result of Disorders of the musculoskeletal system underlying illness for a range of symptoms—for
example, seizures as a result of epilepsy—or to
an obstruction in the airway, an upper include injuries such as fractures and torn diagnose diabetes.
respiratory tract infection, or shock. ligaments, but cats may also develop arthritis.
Wheezing may be due to asthma or If your vet suspects the presence of a Hormones are body chemicals that control
bronchitis. Breathing difficulties always musculoskeletal problem, your cat may particular functions. They are produced
require an emergency trip to the vet. be sent for a scan or an X-ray. by glands and carried in the bloodstream.
If your cat is injured, you may need to Problems with a cat’s heart, blood vessels, Any over- or underproduction of hormones
administer first aid (see pp. 304–05) as an or red blood cells can cause weakness or may cause disorders, such as diabetes
emergency measure before seeing the vet. even make the cat collapse. mellitus and hyperthyroidism.


Giving ear drops
Ear drops may be prescribed to treat an infection.
To administer the drops, hold the cat’s head so that
the ear that is to be treated faces upward. Squeeze
in the drops, then massage the base of the ear.


Medicine for constipation
Laxatives, which relieve constipation, may be supplied
as a paste, gel, or liquid, which you feed to your cat on
your finger or by syringe. Only vet-prescribed medicine
should be given to the cat.






















303

CARING FOR YOUR CAT | HEALTH AND CARE


HANDLING AN INJURED CAT Overheating
Check the cat for broken bones and open A greenhouse, sun room, or a room with big windows can
get very hot in direct sunlight. A cat trapped in a room like
wounds or bleeding, but try not to move this will be at risk of heat stroke.
him. Take care—even the most loving pet
may bite or lash out if it is in severe pain. it in place for your vet to treat. For an eye
If the cat has a fracture or severe wound, wound, cover the eye with a gauze pad and
lay him on a blanket with the injury tape in place.
uppermost and wrap the wound up gently. If you find your cat unconscious, make
Do not try to splint broken bones yourself. sure his airway is not obstructed, listen
If your cat has a hemorrhage (severe and look for breathing, and feel for a pulse
bleeding), raise the bleeding area above the with a finger on one of the femoral arteries,
level of the cat’s heart, if possible, and apply which can be found on the inner side of
direct pressure with a pad of cloth to stem his hind legs, where they meet the groin.
the blood flow. If there is no breathing, attempt artificial
Lift the cat carefully, with one hand under To stop bleeding, apply pressure on the respiration by gently blowing air into your
the shoulders and the other under the hips, wound with a gauze pad or clean cloth cat’s lungs down the nostrils. If there is no
and place him in a carrier. soaked in clean, cold water. Do not use heartbeat, alternate two breaths of artificial
tissue because it will stick to the wound. respiration with 30 chest compressions at
FIRST AID If the bleeding does not stop after two two compressions per second. Keep this
If your cat is injured, you may need to minutes, cover the wound with a clean, up for 10 minutes, after which time it is
administer first aid before he has a chance to dry pad (or cloth) and bandage in place. unlikely to be successful.
be seen by a vet. Wounds that are bleeding For very heavy bleeding or a severe
profusely need prompt veterinary attention, wound, keep the material in place, even if MINOR WOUNDS
as do bites and scratches from other animals it becomes soaked with blood, until you see Small cuts and grazes can be treated at
(since these could become infected). the vet. Removing an object embedded in home. Look for bleeding, moist fur, or a
Remember to call the vet before leaving. a wound could cause more bleeding—leave scab, or the cat licking an area intensely.



Treating shock
A cat in shock may suffer
from heat loss. Wrap him
loosely in a blanket or fleece
until he is assessed by a vet.

HEALTH AND CARE



Bandaged leg
NORMAL VITAL SIGNS A leg wound should be bandaged by a vet.
Keep your cat inside if he has a bandaged
limb. If the dressing becomes dirty, wet,
Temperature 100.5–102.5°F (38–39°C) loose, or uncomfortable, take your cat
Pulse 110–180 beats per minute back to the vet for it to be changed.
Respirations 20–30 per minute
Capillary Less than two seconds becomes unsteady on his feet.
refill time* If your cat goes into shock,
*Time for gum to regain pink take him to the vet immediately.
color after being blanched by For a bee sting, bathe the
gentle pressure with finger
area in baking soda
mixed in warm water. A
Gently wipe away blood and dirt using wasp sting should be bathed problems in the intestines. A
a cotton ball moistened in saline solution— with vinegar diluted in water. choking cat will cough, drool,
a teaspoon of salt stirred into 2 cups Most cats will suffer only minor irritation and gag, and paw frantically at
(500ml) of clean, warm water. Cut from small biting insects, such as mosquitoes its mouth. If the airway is blocked, the cat
away hair around the wound using and gnats. However, some cats may suffer a will struggle to breathe and may pass out.
blunt-ended scissors. severe allergic reaction to mosquitoes. If Call the vet and take the cat in. Wrap the cat
Small skin wounds can sometimes occur your cat is hypersensitive to mosquito bites, in a towel. Holding the top of the head with
with more extensive internal damage. prevent exposure to these flying insects by one hand, open the lower jaw with the other.
Check for heat, swelling, or discolored keeping the cat indoors at dawn and dusk. Look inside the mouth. If the object is easy
skin around the wound, and watch for to dislodge, try to remove it with tweezers.
signs of pain or shock. Small wounds can VENOMOUS ANIMALS Cats may ingest poisons from prey animals,
also become infected, so look for signs of Cats may be bitten by other cats, but toxic plants, household chemicals, medicines,
abscess formation, such as swelling and pus. bites from venomous animals can be or even some human foods. If you think your
more serious. Dangers from snakes, cat has been poisoned, even if he is showing
BURNS toads, scorpions, and spiders vary between no signs, contact your vet. If you see any signs
Cats may suffer burns from fires, hot surfaces, countries. Venomous snakes found in the US of poisoning, take the cat to the vet, together
scalding liquids, electrical appliances, or include rattlesnakes, copperheads, water with a sample of what he has swallowed.
chemicals. These injuries can be very serious, moccasins, and coral snakes. Captive exotic
with damage to deep tissues, and they reptiles can also be a hazard.
require urgent veterinary attention. Snake bites can cause serious swelling, INJURIES AND SHOCK
For a burn or scald, remove the cat from nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, and are
A cat that has had an accident, such as being hit
the heat source without endangering yourself. potentially fatal; your cat may lick the area,
by a car, should be seen by a vet even if he has
Flood the affected area with clean, cold and you may see two puncture wounds in no visible injuries, since there could be internal
water for at least 10 minutes, then cover the skin. Some snake vaccines are available, bleeding, which can lead to shock. Shock is a
it with a moist sterile dressing. Keep the although even if your cat has been life-threatening condition in which there is
cat warm during the journey to the vet. vaccinated a snake bite is an emergency. reduced blood flow, and tissues become starved
of nutrients. Symptoms of shock include irregular
If your cat has been electrocuted (for Some toad species secrete toxins on to
breathing, anxiety, pale or blue gums, and a
example, by chewing through a power their skin, which can cause inflammation
lowered body temperature. A cat in shock
cord), turn off the power first, or use a in a cat’s mouth and perhaps retching. should be kept warm and the hindquarters
wooden broom handle to move the power If your cat has been affected, call the elevated to increase blood flow to the brain
source away from the cat. Perform first vet immediately and report what kind while you take him to a vet.
aid and take the cat to the vet immediately. of animal was involved (or take a photo
For chemical burns, call the vet at once if you can) so that the vet can obtain
and say which chemical is responsible. If the the correct antivenom. The cat should
vet advises rinsing, put on rubber gloves to be taken to the vet as soon as possible.
avoid contaminating yourself, and flush the
area carefully with water. CHOKING AND POISONING
Cats can choke on a variety of objects. Some
STINGS AND BITES objects, such as bird bones, may get wedged
If your cat has been stung, move him away in the mouth; others, such as pebbles, may
from any other bees or wasps to avoid further block the throat (airway). Items such as
stings. Call the vet for advice, and take the ribbon, string, or thread can get tangled X-RAY OF A CAT’S
HIND LIMB
cat in if he develops breathing difficulties or around the tongue or, if swallowed, cause


305

CARING FOR YOUR CAT | HEALTH AND CARE



CREATING A SICK ROOM while you insert the pill (see panel, opposite).
You will need to keep a sick or injured cat If you are on your own, immobilize your
indoors so that you can easily monitor him. cat by wrapping him in a towel, leaving
Keep your cat confined in a warm, quiet his head exposed.
room or even in a wire crate. Provide food Liquid medicines are also widely available
and water, and a litter box in an area away and should be instilled into the mouth,
from the food. Make up a warm bed on between the back teeth and cheek, using a
the floor for easy access; you can use a plastic medicine dropper or a plastic syringe
cardboard box, which can easily be replaced without a needle. Drops for the eyes or
if soiled. Cut one side away, line the bottom ears can be administered while gently
with newspaper, and add cozy blankets and immobilizing your cat’s head. Make sure
perhaps a hot-water bottle. that the dropper does not ever come into
Check on your cat regularly and change contact with his eyes or ears.
the bedding if it becomes soiled. If you have If your cat is completely resistant to
an outdoor cat, make sure he is kept indoors being given any kind of medicine at home,
during his recovery and has easy access to take him to your veterinarian each day
bowls of water and a litter box. or have him kept at the practice until the
Safe space course of treatment is over.
HANDLING YOUR CAT A wire crate should be large enough to let the cat walk
around. Line it with newspaper, and add food, a water
A sick or injured cat may want to hide himself bowl, a bed, and a litter box. FOOD AND CARE
away and try to avoid the extra stress of A cat may lose interest in food when sick
having medicine or other treatment. Handle likely not enjoy being handled in the early or if his sense of smell is impaired. Call a
your cat gently and in a calm, unhurried, stages of convalescence. Stroke or pet your vet if your cat has gone for more than
and confident way—any anxiety on your part cat only if he clearly wants the attention. a day without eating, especially if he is
could make him stressed and uncooperative. Provide him with a warm bed, where he overweight, since lack of food can harm the
Your cat may feel comforted if you spend can be left in peace to recuperate. liver. Let food come to room temperature,
time just talking quietly to him and petting or warm it slightly in the oven, to increase
him (if he will accept this), so that he does not ADMINISTERING MEDICINE its smell and make it more appetizing.
associate you solely with receiving medicine. Only give your cat medicine that has been In addition, offer small pieces of strong-
If your cat is ill or recovering from surgery prescribed by a vet. It is also essential smelling, tasty foods. If your cat is
or an accident, you must resist the temptation both to follow your vet’s directions on struggling to eat properly, you may
to stroke and cuddle him. He will most giving medication and to complete the full need to feed him by hand.
course, especially with antibiotics. If you are If your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea,
unsure, ask your vet to demonstrate how call your vet. To prevent your cat from
to administer eye or ear drops or dose the becoming dehydrated, offer a teaspoon
cat with a syringe (see p. 303). every hour of bland food such as poached
You can try hiding a pill in a ball of meat skinned chicken or an appropriate
or mold a sticky treat around it, but prescription diet. Once the gastric upset
only if your cat is allowed ceases, you can gradually increase portion
to take food with his size and keep your cat on this diet for three
medicine. If not, or if or four days, before weaning back to normal
he rejects or coughs meals. Provide your cat with cooled, boiled
up the pill, you will drinking water at all times.
need to place it in his Your cat may need help with grooming.
mouth. This is best In particular, wipe away discharge from
done with a helper the eyes, keep the nose and mouth clean
to hold your cat to help the cat breathe and smell food, and
clean under the tail if the cat has diarrhea.
Use a cotton wool ball moistened in clean,
Caring for a warm water. For itchy skin or minor wounds,
convalescing cat bathe the area with saline solution—a
Provide a cozy bed, in
a quiet location, with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in 2 cups (500ml)
microwavable heating of warm water. If the cat resists, wrap him
pad or a hot-water bottle
wrapped in a towel. in a towel, leaving the sore part exposed.


306

HEALTH AND CARE





























































Elizabethan collar
After surgery your cat may have to wear an cone collar for GIVING A PILL Medication should always be given by a responsible adult. Give the pill
several days to prevent him from licking or chewing a wound by hand to make sure the cat swallows it and that other pets do not take it. It may help
that may have been stitched.
to crush the pill into a small amount of tasty food. Do not let your cat feel cornered during
AFTER AN OPERATION the process, and reward him with praise and a treat once he has taken the medication.
A cat that has had a general anesthetic may
be groggy for a while. Stay with him until
he is fully alert. Keep him indoors until any
surgical wound has healed and dressings or
stitches have been removed. Your vet may fit
a cone to prevent your cat from worrying at
a wound, and you may have to remove this
to let the cat eat. For small wounds on the
limbs, the vet may cover the area with
“anti-lick” strips impregnated with a taste
that cats dislike. Check a dressing or a plaster
cast several times a day to ensure it is clean Hold your cat’s head with Grip your cat’s head with Place the pill as far back
and dry. If the cat seems in pain, or if the 1 your forefinger and thumb 2 one hand, and with the other 3 as possible on his tongue
on either side of his mouth. hand keep his jaws open. If the to trigger swallowing. Give
wound looks sore or has a discharge when Gently tilt his head back and cat resists, get a helper to hold him gentle encouragement
you change the dressing, contact your vet. ease open his jaws. the head while you give the pill. while doing so.


307

CARING FOR YOUR CAT | THE AGING CAT


The aging cat




Most well-cared-for pet cats can live to age 14 or 15, with some
occasionally reaching 20. Life expectancy is increasing due to
advances in disease prevention, a better understanding of diet,
improved drugs and treatments, and more cats being kept
indoors away from traffic hazards.



SENIOR YEARS day. If he seems less interested in eating,
By about age 10, your cat may begin to try warmer or tastier foods to tempt him.
show signs of aging: weight loss (or gain), It is also helpful to weigh your cat every
deteriorating eyesight, dental disease, two weeks; older cats can gain excess
a decrease in mobility, less fastidious weight due to inactivity, or lose weight due
grooming, and a thinner, less shiny coat. to difficulty with eating or conditions such
His personality may change, too, with your as hyperthyroidism, a common hormonal
cat becoming easily irritated and noisier, disorder in seniors.
especially at night. As a senior, he may As your cat’s body becomes less supple, he
occasionally feel disorientated and relieve may need help with grooming hard-to-reach
himself outside the litter box. places. Gentle brushing a few times a week
The older cat will need more frequent will keep him clean and make him more
health checks. You may want to start comfortable. His claws can grow harder
increasing his routine visits to the vet to with age and become overgrown if he is not
twice a year. Many veterinary practices very active, so clip them regularly or ask
now offer clinics for older cats, to detect and your vet to do it for you.
deal with age-related problems. There are If your cat is not as agile as he used to be,
Catering for a smaller appetite
many treatments now available to help Many older cats lose the robust appetite of their youth. make sure he doesn’t have to jump up to
manage chronic conditions—even senility. To ensure that your senior maintains a healthy intake of reach his food and water bowls. Keep bowls
nutrients, you may have to tempt him to eat by offering
frequent small meals and a few extra tasty treats. and litter boxes on each floor of the house,
HOME CARE in quiet places where he won’t be disturbed.
You may need to make adaptations to your will supply the correct nutrients for the Use boxes or furniture to make “stepping-
cat’s diet and living conditions to maximize changes in your cat’s metabolism and stones,” so that he can still reach his favorite
his comfort and well-being as he ages. Your digestive processes. Your cat may prefer perches or windowsills.
vet may recommend a “senior” diet, which to eat smaller meals more often during the Have several warm, comfortable cat
beds around your home, in places where
your cat already enjoys sleeping, so that he
COMPARING LIFESPANS does not have to go far to find a cozy corner.
If your cat is having trouble with soiling, use
It is popularly said that one year of a cat’s life kittens, which is a far more advanced stage of washable beds or cardboard boxes lined
equates to seven years of a human’s. But this is maturity than that of a seven-year-old child. By
not a reliable comparison, particularly since life about three years of age, a cat is roughly equivalent with newspaper that can be thrown away.
expectancy for pet cats has risen in recent years. to a person in their early 40s. Each cat year from Even if your cat still prefers to urinate
It also does not take into account the very different then on corresponds to about three human years. and defecate outdoors, it is wise to have
rates at which cats and humans develop into Use the chart below to find an approximate litter boxes in the house. Older cats are
adulthood: a one-year-old cat can breed and raise “human age” for your cat.
often less willing to go outdoors, either
because they want to avoid confrontation
CAT YEARS
with other cats or because they no longer
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
have the urge to hunt and explore.
Even an old cat still likes to have fun, so
provide him with toys. Playing with your cat
0 24 36 42 45 48 51 54 57 60 63 66 69 72 75 78 81 84 87 90 93 helps to keep his mind active and lets him
HUMAN YEARS express his natural instincts, although you
will have to play more gently than before.


308

THE AGING CAT






Getting around
Going up and down stairs can be a big
effort for an elderly cat whose joints are
beginning to stiffen. Make sure your
senior pet has access to bowls, beds,
and keep litter boxes on all floors.





































WARNING SIGNS In contrast, if your cat is obviously hungry climb stairs. Elderly cats may also lose
You need to keep a closer eye on an older but turns away from certain foods vision, causing them to bump into things
cat to detect any alterations in his normal (especially hard foods), or paws at his or misjudge heights.
habits. In particular, let your vet know if mouth, he may have problems with loose A cat that is feeling very sick or showing
you notice any of the following changes. or painful teeth or difficulty swallowing. signs of dementia may become more
Watch for any increase in appetite, with Increased thirst may cause your cat to use withdrawn or aggressive, hide away,
your cat seeming ravenously hungry but the litter box more than usual and to start or meow more than usual.
losing weight even with regular meals. drinking from odd places such as ponds and
bathroom faucets. An elderly cat may also EUTHANASIA
become dehydrated. Check by grasping the For a very old or sick cat, sometimes the
scruff of the neck and letting go. The skin kindest thing to do is to give him a dignified,
should fall back instantly; if it does not, peaceful ending. Euthanasia is usually
the cat may not be getting enough liquid. carried out in a veterinary practice, but
Alert your vet promptly if your cat is it can be done at home (you will need to
straining or crying when he passes feces book in advance). The vet will give an
or urine, or if he starts having “accidents” injection of anesthetic—in effect, an
in the home. He may need investigations overdose—into a front leg vein. The
for bowel or bladder disorders. procedure is painless and the cat will
Many older cats develop stiff joints or become unconscious before passing away.
arthritis that cause difficulty with running There may be involuntary movements, and
and jumping, and your cat may struggle to the bladder or bowels may empty.
You can ask for your cat to be cremated,
or take the body home. Many owners wish
Unusual drinking habits
Let your vet know if your cat is drinking more water to bury their pet in the yard, perhaps in one
than usual, including from puddles or dripping faucets. of his favorite places, while others opt for
Excessive thirst may be due to any one of various
disorders commonly found in older cats. burial in a pet cemetery.


309

GLOSSARY


Glossary






Familiar shape Pinna (external CHOCOLATE—Pale to medium-brown
All cats have the same basic body design, part of ear) coat color.
although some natural variations do occur.
Selective breeding has further developed
some variations, such as short-legged Cheek CHROMOSOME—Threadlike structure
breeds and bobtails. within a cell nucleus, containing genes arranged
along a strand of DNA. Domestic cats have
Neck
Base of tail Back 38 chromosomes arranged in 19 corresponding
pairs (humans have 46, arranged in 23 pairs).

CLASSIC TABBY—see Tabby

COBBY—UK term to describe compact,
muscular, heavy-boned body type.

COLORPOINT—see Pointed

CROSSBREED—see Hybrid, also cross of
Whisker two different breeds.
pad
CURLED EARS—Ears that curve backward,
Chest as in the American Curl.

DILUTE/DILUTION—Paler version of a
Foreleg color caused by the dilution gene, for example,
Abdomen
when black becomes blue and red becomes cream.
Paw
DOMESTIC CAT—Any member of Felis
silvestris catus, pedigree or mixed breed. Also
commonly known as a housecat.

ALBINISM—Lack of the pigment that gives BREAK—see Stop DOMINANT—Describes a gene inherited from
color to skin, hair, and eyes. In cats, true one parent that overrides the effect of a recessive
albinism is very rare, but partial albinism gives BREECHES—In longhaired cats, extra-long gene inherited from the other parent. For example,
rise to pointed coat patterns, as in the Siamese, hair on the upper back part of the hind legs. the gene for a tabby coat is dominant.
and color variations such as silver tabby.
BREED STANDARD—Detailed description DOWN—Short, soft, fine hairs that form
ALMOND-SHAPED EYES—Oval eyes produced by a cat registry that defines the an undercoat in some breeds.
with flattened corners, seen in breeds such required standards for a pedigree cat’s
as the Abyssinian and Siamese. conformation, coat, and color. DOUBLE COAT—Fur consisting of a thick,
soft undercoat covered by a protective topcoat
AWN HAIRS—Slightly longer bristly hairs CALICO—Tortoiseshell with a high proportion of longer guard hairs.
that, together with the soft down hairs, of white fur; known as tortie and white in the UK.
constitute the undercoat. FAMILY—The taxonomic rank Family, as
CAMEO—Red, or its dilute form cream, where in Family Felidae, belongs to Order Carnivora
BICOLOR—Coat pattern combining white white covers two-thirds of the hair shaft. and Class Mammalia. All animals fit into a
with another color. taxonomic hierarchy that becomes more exclusive
CARNIVORE—Meat-eating animal. as you move from class to order, then family,
BLOTCHED TABBY—Alternative term for genus, and species level.
Classic Tabby. CAT FANCIER—Enthusiast for breeding
and showing pedigree cats. FEATHERING—Longer hair on areas such
BLUE—Light to medium-gray coat color, as legs, feet, and tail.
a dilute form of black. Blue-only cat CAT REGISTRY—Organization that sets breed
breeds include the Russian Blue, Korat, standards and registers the pedigrees of cats. FERAL—Describing a domesticated species
and Chartreux. that has reverted to a wild state.
CFA—The Cat Fanciers’ Association, the
BRACELETS—Dark horizontal bands on world’s largest registry of pedigree cats, FIFe—Fédération Internationale Féline, the
the legs of a tabby cat. based in North America. leading European federation of cat registries.


310

GLOSSARY

FOLDED EARS—Ears that fold forward PATCHED TABBY—Tortoiseshell with STOP—Indentation between the muzzle and
and downward, seen in breeds such as the tabby markings. the top of the head; also known as a break.
Scottish Fold.
PEDIGREE—Purebred. TABBY—Genetically dominant coat pattern
GCCF—The Governing Council of the that comes in four types: Classic tabby has a
Cat Fancy, the leading organization for the POINTED—Coat pattern in which a cat has blotched or whorled pattern; Mackerel tabby
registration of cats in the UK. pale body fur with darker extremities (head, has “fishbone” stripes; Spotted tabby has spots
tail, and legs); typically seen in the Siamese. or rosettes; Ticked tabby has a faint pattern
GENE POOL—The complete collection of on a ticked coat.
genes within an interbreeding population. POLYDACTYLY—Extra toes produced
by a genetic mutation; polydactyly, or TEMPERAMENT—The character of a cat.
GHOST MARKINGS—Faint tabby markings polydactylism, is common in certain breeds,
on the coat of a self-colored cat that show up but only in the Pixiebob is the trait accepted in TICA—The International Cat Association,
in certain lights. the breed standard. a genetic registry for pedigree cats worldwide.

GROUND COLOR—Background RANDOM-BRED—Cat of mixed parentage. TICKED—Coat pattern in which each hair shaft
color in tabbies; there are many variants: has alternate bands of pale and darker colors;
brown, red, and silver are among the RECESSIVE—A gene that can produce an also known as agouti. See also Tabby.
most common. effect only when inherited from both parents.
If a recessive gene from one parent is paired with TIPPED—Coat pattern in which just the
GUARD HAIRS—Longer, tapering hairs that a dominant gene from the other parent, its effect tip of each hair is strongly colored.
form a cat’s topcoat and provide weatherproofing. will be overridden. The genes for certain eye
colors and long fur in cats are recessive. TOPCOAT—Outer coat of guard hairs.
HYBRID—Offspring of two different
species—for example, the Bengal, which RED—Reddish brown, used to describe TORTIE – Common abbreviation for tortoiseshell.
is a cross between the domestic cat (Felis a coat color in Abyssinian and Somali cats;
silvestris catus) and the Asian leopard cat also known as sorrel. TORTIE AND WHITE— Alternative term
(Felis bengalensis). used for calico in the UK.
REX COAT—Curly or wavy coat, as seen in
LEATHER—Hairless area at the end of the Devon and Cornish Rex cats. TORTIE-TABBY—Tortoiseshell with tabby
nose. Color varies according to coat color markings; term used in the UK.
and is defined in the breed standards for RUDDY—A color of Abyssinian cats—
pedigree cats. known as usual in the UK. TORTOISESHELL—Coat pattern in which
black and red hairs, or their dilute forms, are
LILAC—Warm pink-gray color, a dilute RUFF—Frill of longer hair around the neck mixed in patches.
form of brown. and chest.
TRICOLOR—Term sometimes used to
MACKEREL TABBY—see Tabby SELECTIVE BREEDING—Mating of animals describe a coat of two colors plus white.
that possess desired traits, such as a particular
“M” MARK—Typical “M”-shaped mark on coat color or pattern. TUFTS—Clusters of longer hairs that
the forehead of tabby cats; also known as a are seen, for example, between the toes or
“frown” mark. SEMI-LONGHAIR—Medium-long coat, on the ears.
usually with a minimal undercoat.
MARBLED—Variation of the Classic tabby, UNDERCOAT—Layer of hair beneath the
mostly seen in wildcat hybrids such as the Bengal. SEPIA—Dark brown ticking on a paler topcoat, usually short and often woolly.
ground color.
MASCARA LINES—Dark lines running from VAN PATTERN—Pointed coat pattern in
the outer corners of the eyes, or encircling the eyes. SHADED—Coat pattern in which the final which the color is restricted to the head and
quarter of each hair is colored. tail only, as in the Turkish Van.
MASK—Dark coloration on the face, usually
around the muzzle and eyes. SINGLE COAT—Coat with just one layer, WEDGE—Triangular facial conformation
usually the topcoat of guard hairs, seen in seen in most cats except the flat-faced Persian;
MITTED—Color pattern in which the paws such cats as the Balinese and Turkish Angora. the shape is elongated in breeds such as the
are white. Also called mittens or socks. Siamese and Orientals.
SMOKE—Coat pattern in which each hair
MUTATION—Change in a cell’s DNA, arising shaft is pale at the base and colored for about WHISKER PADS—Fleshy pads on either
by chance; effects of genetic mutations in cats half of its length. side of a cat’s muzzle where the whiskers
include hairlessness, folded or curled ears, are placed in rows.
curly coats, and short tails. SOLID—Coat in which a single color is
distributed evenly along the hair shaft; also WIREHAIR—Rare coat type, caused by a
PARTI-COLOR—General term for a coat known as self. genetic mutation, in which the hairs are twisted
pattern that has two or more colors; often or bent at the tips, giving a coarse, springy
one being white. SPOTTED TABBY—see Tabby texture; seen in the American Wirehair cat.


311

INDEX


Index






Main entries in bold American Burmese 88 Balinese 185, 206 Blake, Sir William 25
American Curl grooming 277 bleeding 300, 304
A longhair 238–39 inherited disorders 297 disorders 297
shorthair 159
Balinese-Javanese 207
heavy 304, 305
abscesses 300, 302, 304 American Ringtail 49, 167 ballet, cats in 39 internal 301
Abyssinian 49, 64, 66, 70, American Shorthair 71, 113 balls 285 blood 59
132–3, 185 American Wirehair 67, 181 Balthus 34–35 disorders 297, 303
inherited disorders 297 amino acids 270 Bambino 66, 154–55 loss 301
see also Somali Anatolian 128 bandages 305, 307 tests 303
accidents anatomy 42–63 barn cats 21 types 58
bowel/bladder 309 anemia 269, 297, 301 Bartolo, Domenico di 32 vessels 58, 59, 303
emergencies 301 anesthetics 307 Bastet 24, 37 blotched tabby 199
road traffic 21, 257, 260, 305 Angora 33, 65, 185, 229 bathing 277, 279 Blue Chinchilla 192
acclimatization 264–65 antiplaque solutions 278–79 hairless cats 170, 171 blue color 52, 116–17, 182,
activity centers 285 antibiotics 306 bay cat group 12 188, 192
activity levels, changes in 298, antibodies 62, 63 beds and bedding 262, 263, 264, boarding kennels 269
299, 300 antihistamines 63 265 bobcats 59, 64, 244
Adam 29 antioxidants 271 for elderly cats 308 Bobtail 19, 49, 185
adders 305 aorta 59 for pregnancy and birth 292–93 American 163, 247
adoption fees 67 appetite for sick or injured cats 306 Japanese 160, 241
adrenal gland 43 changes in 299, 300, 302, 309 bee stings 305 Kurilian 161, 242–43
adrenalin 62 in elderly cats 308 behavior Mekong 162
adult cats Arabian Mau 131 changes in 290, 298, 299, 300, body language 275, 280–81
diet and feeding 273 archeology 14–15 301, 302 body shapes 48–49, 49
and new kitten 283 Arctic Curl 65 healthy 298 Bombay 66, 82, 84–85
socialization 282–83 art, cats in 32–7 problems 257, 258, 259, 265, bones
versus kittens 67, 256 arteries 58 281, 282, 290–91 broken 303, 304
advertising 39 arthritis 301, 303 see also training eating 271
Aesop’s Fables 28 artificial respiration 304 bells 260, 263 skeleton 48–49
Africa, cat species in 12 Asia, cat species in 12 belly, presentation of 275 Bonnard, Pierre 34
African wildcat (Felis silvestris Asian Benedictine 65 boredom 258, 284, 290
lybica) 13, 14, 65, 145 Burmilla 78, 79, 80–81 Bengal 64, 65, 66, 67, 70, 142–43 Bosch, Hieronymus 32, 33
age inherited disorders 297 Beresford, Lady Marcus 187 bowels 60, 61, 309
and choice of cat 256 Longhair see Tiffanie Bering land bridge 11, 12 bowls, food and water 262, 263
elderly cats 308–09 Self and Tortie 82 bibs 53 hygiene 271, 272
aggression 282, 290, 299 Smoke 79 bicolors 53, 101, 188, 197, sharing 259, 262, 302
agility 26–27, 48, 57, 64 Tabby 83 big cats 8, 12, 59 brain 42–43, 59
reduced 308 Tortie 53 domesticating 15 breakages 257
agouti fur 51, 52 Asian Leopard Cat 9, 65, 70, 143 bile 61 breathing
airway, obstructed 30, 300, Assyrians 15 biofeedback loop 43 artificial respiration 304
301, 303, 305 asthma 62, 300 biology, feline 40–67 difficulties 300, 301, 303, 305
Akbar, Emperor 15 athleticism 258 bird feeders/tables 261 irregular 301, 305
albinism 70 Atlantic Ocean 19 birds respiratory system 58–59
alertness, reduced 300 Australia 19 catching 55 breed registry 67
Alice’s Adventures in Australian Mist 134–35 chasing 260–61 breeders
Wonderland (Carroll) 30, 39, autoimmune disorders 62, 63 endangered 21 choice of 67
123 automatic feeding stations 262 pet 258 and genetics 296
allergies awn hair 50, 51 Birman 67, 212–13 questions to ask 67
in cats 62–63, 305 inherited disorders 297 recommendation of vets by 268
food 273 B birth, giving 292 reputable 66, 67
to cats 256 bites, animal/insect 305 breeding
almond-shaped eyes 45 B-lymphocytes 62 biting 257, 258, 265, 275, 282, responsible 292–93, 296
aluminum foil 257, 291 babies, cats and 282–83 284, 290 selective 19
alveoli 58, 59 bacteria 272 “The Black Cat” (Poe) 31 see also reproduction
American Bobtail bad habits 290–91 black color 26, 52 breeds
longhair 247 balance 45 bladder 61, 309 characteristics 64
shorthair 163 problems with 303 stones 270 choice of 66–67


312

INDEX

creation of 64 cardiovascular disease 296, Ceylon 136 grooming 276–79
definition of 64 297, 303 CFA see Cat Fanciers Association health checks 298
development of 64 cardiovascular system 58–59 Chantilly/Tiffany 211 heat-sensitive enzyme and
guide to 68–253 carnassial teeth 61 Chartreux 64, 65, 66, 115 point coloration 53, 107
and health problems 296–97 carnivores 8, 10, 60, 64, 270 chasing 284 single 71
hybrid and future 65 carriers 263, 264, 268, 282 Chausie 49, 64, 65, 67, 149 types of 50–51
longhairs 184–253 Carroll, Lewis 30 check-ups undercoats 71, 185
outcrossing 65 carrying position 274 annual 268, 269, 299, 303 see also curly coats; longhairs;
shorthairs 70–183 cars, traveling in 263, 264 first vet 268–69 shorthairs
understanding 64–65 cartilage 48 cheetah 12, 15, 59 collars 260, 263
Britanica 220 cartoon cats 38–39 chemical burns 305 cone-shaped 307
British Angora see Oriental Casey, Paul 140 chemicals colonies, feral cat 20–21
Longhair The Cat Book Poems 100, 104 garden 260, 261 colonization 19
British Longhair 220 Cat Club of England 187 household 258, 259, 291 color 52–53
British Shorthair 66, 67, 71, cat clubs 19, 67 Cheshire Cat 30, 39, 123 Colorpoint Shorthair 110, 120
122–23 cat family 64–65 chewing 257, 259, 265, 285, 290 combs 276
Bicolor 121 cat fanciers 19, 64 children coming when called 288
body shape 49 Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) 64 involvement with cat 283 commercial foods 271, 272, 273
coat 53, 64, 123 cat flu 269 learning how to handle cat communication 280–81
Colorpointed 120 cat foods 271, 272, 273 265, 274, 283 companionship
inherited disorders 297 cat grass 258, 260 meeting new cat 264, 265, 283 human 256
Smoke 124 The Cat in the Hat (Seuss) 31 playtime 290 of other cats 258, 259, 283
Solid 118–19 “cat mysteries” 31 China 15, 19, 27 compass, directional 43
Tabby 125 cat registries 64, 65 chinchilla fur 52 condition, assessing 272
Tipped 126 cat repellent sprays 258 Chinchilla Shorthair see British congenital hypotrichosis 297
Tortie 53, 127 cat shelters 67 Shorthair, Tipped conjunctivitis 269, 300, 302
bronchi 58 cat shows 64, 67, 119 Chinese Li Hua 77 consciousness, loss of 301
bronchioles 58, 59 cat welfare organizations 20, 21 Chlamydophila felis 269 conservation, wildlife 140
brushes catching 284 chocolate, eating 271 constipation 303
grooming 276, 277 caterwauls 281 chocolate color 208 convalescence 306–07
tooth 278 catflaps 256, 259, 260, 261, 288, choking 257, 305 Cornish Rex 19, 66, 71, 168,
Buddhism 25 290 Choupette 213 176–77, 178, 180
Bulgakov, Mikhail 31 catnip 260, 284, 285, 291 Christianity 25 coat 51, 178, 277
Burmese 66, 71 cats Chulalongkorn (Rama V), King two types of 176
American 88 aggression to/from other 260, of Thailand 75 cortical folding 42, 43
European 87 261, 290 Cimolestes 10, 11 cortisol 43, 62
inherited disorders 297 ancestors of 10–12 cinnamon color 52, 95 cost, of cat ownership 262
Lilac 78 biology 40–67 circuses, cat 39 cougar 59
Burmilla see Asian Burmilla breeds 64–65, 68–253 classic tabby 53, 123 coughing 300
Burmoire 79 caring for 254–309 claws crates 306
burns 305 choice of 66–67, 256 checking 298, 299 cream, drinking 271
in culture 22–39 elderly cats 308 cremation 309
C domestication 14–15 retractable 8, 54, 64 creodonts 10, 11
Cretaceous period 10, 11
evolution 8, 10–12
showing 281
cabbits 165 feral 20–21 sinking in 275 crossbreeds 19, 65
Cadoc, St 27 genetics 64–65 trimming 278 culture, cats in 22–39
cages 263, 306 health 296–309 clay litter 262 cupboards 257, 258
calcium 270–71 legendary origin of 29 clicker training 288, 289 curiosity 257, 264
calico color 53, 127 longhairs 184–253 climate curled ears 185
calicoes 53, 182, 202–03 meeting other 265, 281, 283 and body shape 49 American Curl 159, 238–39
California Spangled 67, 140 neighborhood 257, 260, 261 and long coats 184, 185 Highlander 158
calories 273 shorthairs 70–183 climbing 55, 257, 284, 285, 288 Kinkalow 152
cameo color 52, 126, 189, 193 species around the world 8–9 clippers, nail 276, 278 see also folded ears
cancer 63 spread of domestic 18–19 clock, internal 43 curly coats 51, 71, 185
and neutering 269 understanding 280–81 cloning 214 American Wirehair 181
canine teeth 8 Cats (musical) 39 clouded leopard 8 Cornish Rex 176–77
capillaries 58, 59 catteries 269 coats Devon Rex 178–79
caracal 9, 12, 64 cave lions 12 changes to 300 German Rex 180
Caracat 64 cemeteries, pet 309 color and pattern 51, 52–53, 64 Kinkalow 152, 234
carbon dioxide 58, 59 central nervous system (CNS) 43 double-layered 71 LaPerm 173, 250–51
carbon monoxide poisoning 301 cerebellum 42 in elderly cats 308 Skookum 103
Carbonel (Sleigh) 31 cerebral cortex 43 foreign bodies in 298 Slekirk Rex 174–75, 248
cardiac muscle 54 cerebrum 42 genetics 64–65 Ural Rex 172, 249


313

INDEX

Cymric 165, 246 dryers 257, 258 exercise Felis species 10, 12
see also Manx dry food 271 for elderly cats 308 Felix the Cat 38
Cyprus 14–15 dry shampoos 279 for indoor cats 259 femoral arteries 304
dust baths 279 Exotic Shorthair 71, 72–73 feral cats 20–21, 247, 261
D dwarf cats inherited disorders 297 handling 275
Bambino 154–55
exploring 284, 285
Fertile Crescent 14, 15, 18
da Vinci, Leonardo 32 Kinkalow 152 external parasites 302, 303 fertility 147
dairy products 271 Lambkin Dwarf 153 extinction 11–12 fibre 271
dark, going out after 260 eyelids, visible third 298, 300, 302 fights 257, 280, 281, 290
dehydration 300–01, 306, 309 E eyes and infection 259, 261, 302
deafness 91, 303
checking 298, 299
injuries from 300
dementia 309 ear mites 278 cleaning 277, 278, 306 film, cats in 38–39, 168
dental care/problems 300, 301, 302 ears color and shape 45, 292 fireworks 39, 261
dermis 50 cleaning 277, 278 drops 306 first aid 30, 300, 302, 304
designer cats 67, 140, 152, 154–55 drops 303, 306 large 8, 44, 64 fish
destructive behavior 290–91 examining 298, 299 night vision 44 in diet 271
the Devil 25, 27 hearing 44–45 problems 269, 300, 302–03, 305 eating raw 271
Devon Rex 71, 168, 178–79, 185 independent rotation 45 signals from 280 garden 261
blood group 58 problems with 303 vision 44 flat faces 49
inherited disorders 297 shape 45, 67, 185 flats, living in 259
diabetes 300, 303 see also curled ears; folded ears F fleas 62, 63, 268, 292, 299, 300,
signals from 45, 280
diaphragm 58 302, 303
diarrhea 273, 300, 302, 306 Eastern colors 52 face flehman response 45
Dickens, Charles 31 eggs, raw 271 cleaning 278 flexibility 48–49, 54, 55
diet 270–73 Egypt, Ancient 14, 15, 18–19, 24, facial expressions 280 folded ears 185
balanced 272 32, 36–37, 130, 132, 168 shapes 49 Scottish Fold 156–57, 237
carnivorous 8, 270 Egyptian Mau 66, 67, 130 faeces see also curled ears
changes through life 272–73 elderly cats blood in 300 folklore 28–29
for elderly cats 308 caring for 308–09 burying 261 food
and lifestyle 273 diet for 273 digestive system 61 allergies 62–63, 273
for pregnant cats 292 from rescue centers 67 infected 269 commercial 271, 272, 273
special 273 grooming 276 normal passing of 298 in convalescence 306
and weight problems 272–73 vet’s check-ups 303 pain passing 299, 309 dangerous 271, 305
digestive system 60–61, 270, 303 electrical flexes 257, 258, 305 fairy tales 28–29 for elderly cats 273, 308
digging 257, 261 electrocution 305 falls 55 and feeding 270–73
disabled cats 67 Elf 19 farm cats 15, 21 fussy eaters 270, 272
discharges, abnormal 278, 300, Eliot, T.S. 31, 39 fat, dietary 273 and health problems 298, 299
307 Elizabethan collars 307 fatty acids 270 for kittens 272
disease see health; inherited emergencies, recognizing 301 fawn color 52, 95 and learning tricks 285
disorders endocrine system 42 feeding 270–73 as motivation 285
disks, ID 263 endorphins 62 automatic feeding stations 262 for pregnant cats 273, 292
dog food 272 energy 58 difficulties 300 refusing 300
dogs entertainment, cats in 38–39 kittens 293 regular mealtimes 256, 257, 272
contact with 29, 290 environmental problems 21 routine 256, 257, 265 for sick cats 306
meeting resident 265, 283 enzymes unwell cats 306 special diets 273
socialization 283 deficiencies 297 see also diet; food stealing 258
threat from 261 heat sensitive 56, 107 Felidae 8, 12, 64 and training 288
doll faces 49 Eocene epoch 10 Felinae 8, 11, 12 types 271
domestic cats 8, 65, 71 eosinophils 62 feline calcivirus (FCV) 63, 269 food bowls 263, 265, 271, 272,
crossing with wildcats 64–65 epidermis 50 feline coronavirus 269 291
evolution of 12 epilepsy 303 feline enteritis 63 Foreign 99
spread of 18–19 epinephrine 62 feline herpes virus (FHV) 63, 269 foreign bodies
domestication 14–15, 71 equipment feline immunodeficiency virus in skin or coats 298
dominant genes 64, 65 essential 262–63 (FIV) 63 in wounds 304
Donskoy (Don Sphynx) 170 grooming 276 feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) fossils 11, 12
doors, and safety 259 escape routes 257, 259, 260, 261 269 founder effect 64
down 50, 51 eumelanin 51 feline leukemia virus (FeLV) 63, foxes 257, 261
Dragon Li 77 Eurasian lynx 9 269 fractures 303, 304
dressings 305, 307 Europe, cat species in 12 feline panleukopenia 269 Fragonard, Jean-Honoré 33
drinking 271, 298 European Burmese 87 Felis attica 10, 12 freedom, limits to 260
increased 299, 300, 309 European Shorthair 114 Felis lunensis 10, 12 French Revolution 214
dropper feeding 293 euthanasia 309 Felis manul 10 Freud, Lucian 35
drops, eye and ear 303, 306 evolution 8, 10–12 Felis silvestris 9, 12, 14–15, 16–17 Freya 24–25


314

INDEX

friends, looking after cat 282 gums Hinds-Daugherty, Dorothy 112 inherited disorders 91, 129, 203,
Fritz the Cat 39 blue 301, 305 Hinduism 25 292, 296–97, 303
fur see coats checking 278, 298, 299, 301 hissing 281 and outcrossing 65
fur balls 276, 277 disorders 302 Hockney, David 35 injuries 261, 300, 301, 302, 303
furniture 256, 257, 284, 290–91 pale or white 301, 305 Hodge 31 insect bites 305
fussy eaters 270, 272 red 301 Hogarth, William 33 interactive toys 284
yellow 301 home-cooked food 270, 271 internal parasites 302
G homes The International Cat
Association (TICA) 64, 150
cat-proofing 257, 258
gaits 54, 55 H establishing a routine 256–57 international cat registries 64
gall bladder 61 hair first days in 264–65 internet cats 35, 38, 39
garages 261 disorders 297 for kittens 292, 293 intestines 60, 61
garbage bags 261 follicles 51 preparing for cats 256–57, 258 Islam 25
gardens, cat-friendly 257, 260–61 loosening old 276 homing instinct 43 itchiness 300
garlic 271 shafts 51 hormones 42, 62
gastroenteritis 269 shedding 71, 185 disorders 303, 308 J
Gauguin, Paul 34 types of 50–51 Horner, Nikki 84
gender, and choice of cat 256 hair dryers 279 hot-water bottles 306 Jacobson’s organ 45
genealogy 10 hairless cats 67, 71 house-training 256 jaguar 8
genetic analysis 12 Bambino 154–55 Housecat Japan 26, 32, 33
genetic disorders see inherited Donskoy 170 Longhair 252–53 Japanese Bobtail
disorders grooming 277 Shorthair 182–83 longhair 241
genetic screening 296–97, 303 Peterbald 71, 171 household chemicals 258, 259, shorthair 160
genetics 64–65, 292 Sphynx 71, 168–69 291 jaws 8
Gérard, Marguerite 33 hammock-style beds 262 houseplants 258 jealousy 282, 283
German Rex 180 hand rearing 293 human age, equivalent 308 Johnson, Samuel 31
Gertrude, St. 25 handling 274–75, 282 hunting 8, 20, 43, 54, 55, 64, 71, joints
Gethers, Peter 156 feral cats 275 256, 259, 270, 284, 288 disorders 297
glands in pregnancy 292 hybrids 65, 67, 147 flexible 48–49, 55
hormone-producing 303 sick or injured cats 304, 306 hygiene stiff 309
scent-producing 50 Havana 66, 94, 95, 99, 102 food and water bowls 271, 272 Judaism 29
sebaceous 50, 51 Havana Brown 94, 102 grooming and 276–79 jumping 55, 284, 285, 288
sweat 50 hazards litter boxes 298 reluctance/inability 300
glucose, inability to metabolize home 256, 257, 258, 259, 285 hyoid bone 48, 59 jungle cat 65, 149
297 outdoor 260–61 hyperthyroidism 303, 308 Just So Stories (Kipling) 31
glycogenosis 297 head shapes 49 hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
The Gods and their Creators health 296–309 hypokalemic polymyopathy K
297
(Long) 36–37 caring for older cats 308–09
Golden Siamese 90 common problems 300, 302 297 Kallibunker 176
grain 15 feral cats 21 hypothalmus 42 Kanaani 144–45
grapes, eating 271 first aid 300 kangaroo cats 150
grass, eating 270, 272 giving medicine 306, 307 I Keats, John 31
Gray, Thomas 31 home checks 298–99 keratin 50, 51
grazes 304 inherited disorders 296–97 ice age 12 Khao Manee 74–75
Greeks, ancient 18 looking after sick/injured cats ID tags 256, 263 kidneys 60, 61
greenhouses 257, 261 306–07 immune system 50, 62–63, 269 disorders 296, 297, 300
greetings cards 35 recognizing an emergency 301 immunization see vaccinations Kinkalow
Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm 28 routine checks 298–99 immunodeficiency 63 longhair 234
grooming 276–79 signs of ill health 273, 299, Impressionism 34 shorthair 67, 152
change in habits 301 300–01 in season 61 Kipling, Rudyard 31
in elderly cats 308 weight problems 273 inbreeding 64 kitchens, hazards in 258
and flexibility 48, 55 hearing 8, 44–45, 47 Incas 25 kittening boxes 292–93
hairless cats 155 heart incisors 61 kittens
longhairs 185, 277 cardiovascular system 58–59 India 15 birth of 293
mutual 259, 302 disorders 296, 297, 303 Indian Desert Cats 16–17 breeding 292–93
regular time for 256, 257, 265 heatstroke 261, 300, 304 indoor cats choice of 67
self- 276, 279, 303 Hemingway, Ernest 31 choice of 256 feeding 272–73, 293, 295
shorthairs 71, 276 hemorrhage 304 going outdoors 258–59, 260–61 feral 20, 21
for sick/injured cats 306 hiding 285, 299 living indoors 258–59 finding homes for 256, 292, 293
time required for 67 Highlander stimulation and play 284 first weeks 293
ground rules, establishing 265 longhair 240 infectious diseases 62, 63, 259, 302 handling 274
growling 281 shorthair 49, 66, 158 and handling cats 275 health checks 268
guard hairs 50–51, 277 Himalayan 205 in heat 61 hunting 43


315

INDEX

kittens continued long tails 49 meat 270, 271 neighbors
immune system 62 longhairs medicine, giving 306, 307 attitude to cats 261
neutering 269 bathing 279 Mediterranean 18 feeding cats 273
and older cats 283 breeds 184–253 Mekong Bobtail 162 introducing cats to 282
playtime 284 and choice of cat 68 melanin 51 looking after cats 282
sleep 266 coats 51 meowing 59, 281 Neolithic Period 14
socialization 66, 282, 283 genetics 65 on cue 288 nerves 43, 50
sources of 67 grooming 185, 277 miacids 10 nervous system 42, 43
stages of development 292–93 origins of 185 miacines 11 neurons 42, 43
training 288 types of 185 mice, toy 285 neutering 261, 268–69
vaccinations 268, 269 lookout points 260 microchipping 256, 261, 263, and behavior and temperament
versus adult cats 67 Lowlander 220 268, 269 256
Klee, Paul 34 luck, good 26 Middle Ages 19, 25, 26, 32 and docility 290
Korat 76, 297 lumps 298, 299, 301 migrations 11, 12 of feral cats 21
Kuniyoshi, Utagawa 32 lungs 58–59 milk and health 269
Kurilian Bobtail Lyme disease 302 drinking 271 and playfulness 284
longhair 67, 242–43 lymphatic system 62, 63 immunity and mother’s 62 and spraying 268–69, 291
pom-pom tail 243 lynx 9, 12, 65 for kittens 292, 293 neutrophils 62
shorthair 161 Lynx Colorpoint 108 minerals 270 Neva Masquerade 232
lysosomal storage disease 297 Minskin 150, 155 New World 19
L Miocene epoch 10, 11 night vision 44
nimravids 10, 11
mites 268, 278, 302, 303
Lagerfeld, Karl 213 M mittens 53 nine lives 26–27
Lambkin Dwarf 66, 67, 153 Machairodontinae 11 Moche people 25 noises 281
LaPerm mackerel tabby 53, 199 molting 71, 185 Norse mythology 24–25
longhair 67, 185, 250–51 macrophages 62 Morland, George 33 North America, cat species in
shorthair 173 McSorley, Paul 155 mosquitoes 305 11, 12
whiskers and curls 251 “mad moments” 265, 284 mothers Norton 156
larynx 48, 59 magic 26–27 pregnancy and birth 292–93 Norwegian Forest Cat 24, 67,
laxatives 303 Maine Coon 19, 64, 66, 185, and socialization 282 184, 222–25
Lear, Edward 31 214–15 mousers see rodents inherited disorders 297
leopard cat 9, 12, 65, 70, 143 coat color and pattern 51, 52, mouth, checking 298, 299 nose
Leopardette see Bengal 53, 64 movement 54–55 checking 298
leopards 8, 140 grooming 277 mucus 278, 298 cleaning 278
lethargy 300, 302 inherited disorders 296, 297 Muhammed, the Prophet 25 and senses 45
leucocytes 62 Mandalay 89 mummification 15, 24, 27 nutrition 270–73
leukemia see feline leukemia Maneki Neko 26 Munchkin 64, 66, 67 feral cats 21
Li Hua 77 Manet, Edouard 34 longhair 49, 233
licking, excessive 298, 302, 304 Manx 29, 49, 64, 164–65, 246 shorthair 49, 150–51 O
lifespan 256, 308 inherited disorders 297 muscle fibres 54–5
feral cats 21 tail types 49, 64, 164, 165 muscles 48, 54–55, 57, 59 obesity 273, 299, 300
lifestyle 256 see also Cymric muscular disorders 296, 297 diet for 273
ligaments 48, 303 Manx syndrome 297 musculoskeletal problems 303 obstructions, urinary 300
lilac color 78 marbled cat 9 The Musicians of Bremen 28–29 ocelots 8, 12, 64, 140
limbs Marc, Franz 34 mutations 64, 156, 185, 239 Ocicat 137
back 49, 55 Marie Antoinette, Queen of myopathy, Devon Rex 297 Classic 138
front 48–9, 55 France 214 myths and legends 26, 27, 28, odd-colored eyes 45, 188
injured 305, 307 Mary, the Virgin 25 104, 165, 223 “Ode on the Death of a Favorite
limping 300, 301 The Master and Margarita Cat Drowned in a Tub of Gold
lions 8, 25, 29, 59 (Bulgakov) 31 N Fishes” (Gray) 31
literature, cats in 30–31 mating oils, body 277
litter material, choice of 262, choice of mate 292 nails, clipping 278 Ojos Azules 129
265, 291 noises made during 61, 281 names Old Possum’s Book of Practical
litter boxes 262, 263, 264, 265 reproduction 61 choosing 288 Cats (Eliot) 31, 39
accidents 308 matriarchal societies 20–21 recognizing 288 Oligocene epoch 11
problems with 258, 291 Mau Nanus Rex see Lambkin Dwarf onions, eating 271
regular cleaning 298 Arabian 131 Napoleon 236 operations 307
training 256 Egyptian 130 natural breeds 64 oral antiseptics 278
litters 61, 269 Mayans 25 natural mutations 239 Oriental
Little Nicky 214 Meadow, Hal 86 natural selection 64 Bicolor 101
liver 61 mealtimes navigation 45 Cinnamon and Fawn 95
Lloyd Webber, Andrew 39 number of 272 Nebelung 221 Foreign White 91, 99
Long, Edwin 36–37 regular 256, 257, 272 neck 48 inherited disorders 297


316

INDEX

Longhair 209 Tabby Tricolor 199 prenatal care 292–93 Romans, ancient 19, 25
Shaded 97 Tortie and Calico 202–03 prey 256, 270, 305 rough play 275, 282, 290
Shorthair 71, 94, 95, 102 personality, and choice of cat 256 primary seborrhea 297 round eyes 45
Smoke 96 pet quality 67 Prionailurus bengalensis 9 rounded faces 49
Solid 94, 100 Peterbald 67, 71, 171 Proailurus 11 rounded-tip ears 45
Tabby 98–99 pets progressive retinal atrophy 297 Rousseau, Henri 34
Tortie 100 meeting other 265, 283 protein 270, 272, 273 routine
osteochondrodysplasia 297 small 258, 283 Pseudailuris 10, 11 changes to 282, 283, 300, 302
Our Cats (Weir) 119 petting 274–75 pulse 301, 304, 305 establishing a 256–57, 265
outcrossing 65 phaeomelanin 51 puma 8, 12 Russian Blue 67, 71, 116–17
outdoor cats 256, 258–59, pheromone treatment 259 puma gods 25 Russian Shorthair 117
260–61, 284 Phoenicians 18 punishment 288, 290
“The Owl and the Pussycat” phosphorus 270 pupils 44, 298 S
(Lear) 31 Picasso, Pablo 34 purring 8, 59, 281
owner responsibilities 256, 302 picking up 274, 275 puss 304 saber-toothed cats 10, 11–12
oxygen 58, 59 pigment/pigmentation 51–53, 65 Puss in Boots 28–29, 39 safety
pills, giving 306, 307 puzzle feeders 285 in the home 257, 258
PQ pineal glands 42 pyloric sphincter 61 outdoors 257, 260–61
pyruvate kinase deficiency 297
pinnae 45
road 260
Paleocene epoch 10 pituitary gland 42, 43 queens 269 saliva 60, 302
Panamanian land bridge 12 Pixie Cat see Devon Rex sandpits 261
pancreas 61 Pixiebob R Savannah 66, 146–47
Panthera spelaea 12 longhair 244–45 creation of 49, 65, 67
Pantherinae 8, 11, 12 shorthair 166 rabies 269, 275 scalds 305
paralysis 301 plants Ragamuffin 67, 217 scavenging 20, 270
parasites 268, 276, 279, 298, cats’ favorite 260 Ragdoll 67, 185, 216 scent marking 45, 281, 290, 291
302, 303 dangerous 258, 261, 305 body shape 49 scent-producing glands 50
Pardofelis marmorata 9 plaster casts 307 coat color 53 scoops, plastic 263
particolors 53 plastic bags 285 inherited disorders 296, 297 scorpions 305
patched tabby 53, 198 plastic sheeting 257 raisins 271 Scottish Fold
pathogens 50 platelets 59 Realism 34 ear shape 64, 65, 67
patterns 52–53 play stations 285 recessive genes 64, 65, 178 inherited disorders 65, 297
paws 43, 45, 278 playtime 265, 275, 287, 288 red blood cells 58, 59, 269, 303 longhair 237
pedigree cats 66, 67 biting and scratching during reflex, righting 55 shorthair 156–57
breeding 292 275, 282, 290 refuges 282 Scottish Straight 156
peke-faced cats 203 for elderly cats 308 registration fees 292 scratching
pelvis 49 importance of 284–85, 290 rehydration, emergency 301 during handling/play 265, 275,
pemphigus complex 63 kittens 293 religion 15, 24–25 282
penis 61 regular 256, 257, 258, 259 Renaissance art 32–33 in the home 256, 257, 259, 263,
peripheral nervous system (PNS) Pliocene period 12 Renoir, Pierre August 34 288, 290–91
43 Poe, Edgar Allan 31 reproduction 60, 61 of skin 302
Perrault, Charles 28 poetry 31 rescue centers 26, 67, 256, 268, scratching posts 257, 259, 263,
persecution, of cats 25, 26 pointed patterns 53, 104–05, 282 264, 285, 288, 290–91
Persian 64, 67, 185, 186–205, 197 107, 108, 109, 110, 120, 205 respiratory system 58 seafarers 26
Bicolor 205 pointed-tip ears 45 respiratory tract infections 269, sebaceous glands 50, 51
Blue- and Odd-Eyed Bicolor poisoning 305 300, 303 seizures 301, 303
and Tricolor 188 Pollatschek, Doris 145 retina 44 selective breeding 19
Cameo 189 polycystic kidney disease 296, 297 rewards 288, 289 selenium 270
Cameo Bicolor 193 polydactylism 19, 166, 245 rexed coats 67, 71, 178 Selkirk Rex 65
Chinchilla 190, 194 pom-pom tails 243 Cornish Rex 176–77 longhair 185, 248
coat color and pattern 52, 53 ponds 261 Devon Rex 178–79 shorthair 174–75
Colorpoint 53, 205 portraits 33, 34, 35 German Rex 180 senses 42, 43, 44–45, 47, 50
face shape 203 post-Impressionism 34 LaPerm 173, 250–51 sensory hairs 50, 51
Golden 191 posters 35 Selkirk Rex 174–75, 248 Serengeti 148
grooming 186 posture, signals from 280, 281 Ural Rex 172, 249 serval 64, 65, 147
inherited disorders 186, 296, 297 potatoes, green 271 rib cage 48, 272 Seuss, Dr. (Theodor Giesel) 31
Pewter 192 Potter, Beatrix 30 righting reflex 55 sexual maturity 269, 292
Shaded Silver 194 pouncing 284 Ringtail Sing-a-Ling see sexually transmitted
Silver Tabby 195 praise 282, 288 American Ringtail infections 269
Smoke 196 pre-Columbian civilzations 25 road traffic accidents 21, 257, Seychellois 111
Smoke Bicolor and Tricolor 197 pregnancy 61, 292–93 260, 305 shaded fur 51, 52
Solid 186–87 diet in 273 roaring 8, 59 Shakespeare, William 26
Tabby and Patched Tabby 198 unplanned 269 rodents 14, 15, 19, 118, 161, 214 shampoos 279


317

INDEX

shape dead 276 strangers, introduction to 282 cleaning 61, 276, 277, 278–79,
body 49 disorders 62, 63, 279, 297, 298, stress 302
ear 45 303, 306 in cats 62, 258, 259, 265, 284, disorders 302
eye 45 hairless cats 170, 171 290, 291 in elderly cats 309
face 49 lumps on 301 cats good for 274 toothache 300
head 49 structure 50 striated muscle see skeletal and weight loss 273
Shashthi 25 wounds 304–05 muscle temperaments, breeds and 66
sheds 257, 261 Skogkatt 223 stripes 53 temperature, body 301, 305
Shell Cameo 126 Skookum 67, 235 Stripey 19 tendons 54
shell fur 52 skull 48, 49 stroking 274–75 Tenniel, John 30
ship’s cats 19 deformities 129 Stubbs, George 33 territory
shock 304, 305 slanted eyes 45 studs 292 disputes over 261, 280, 281
short-legged cats sleep 43, 266 suffocation 285 home as 258, 283
Bambino 154–55 Sleigh, Barbara 31 sunburn 261 marking 45, 269, 281, 290, 291
Kinkalow 152 slicker brushes 276, 277 superstition 26–27 tests, medical 303
Lambkin Dwarf 153 smell, sense of 45, 47, 280 swallowing Thai 103
Minskin 155 Smilodon 11 difficulty in 309 theater cats 39
Munchkin 49, 150–51, 233 smoked coats 51, 52, 79, 96, 124, foreign bodies 257, 285 theft, cat 260
Napoleon 236 196, 197 sweat glands 50 thirst, increased 300, 309
Skookum 235 smooth muscle 54 swimming 55 Through the Looking-glass
short-tailed cats 49 snakes 257, 261, 305 swirling patterns 53 (Carroll) 30
American Bobtail 163, 247 sneezing 62, 300 Sylvester 38 thyroid problems 300
Japanese Bobtail 160, 241 Snow Bengal 70 systemic lupus erythematosus TICA see International Cat
Kurilian Bobtail 161, 242–43 snow leopards 8 (SLE) 63 Association
Mekong Bobtail 162 Snowshoe 112 tick removers 276
Pixiebob 166, 244–45 socialization 20, 256, 282–83, 290 T ticked fur 51, 52, 53
see also tailless cats sodium 270 ticks 302, 303
shorthairs Sokoke 67, 139 T-cells 62, 63 Tiffanie 210
bathing 279 solid coats 51, 52, 82, 94, tabby coats 25, 51, 53, 64, 83, tigers 8, 59
breeds 70–183 104–05, 118–19, 186–87 98–99, 108, 125, 182, 195, tipped fur 51, 52
and choice of cat 68 solid colors 52 198–99 toads 305
coats 51 solid-white coats 52 tags 21, 263 toes, polydactylism 166, 245
developing 71 solitary nature 282 tailless cats Tom and Jerry 38
grooming 71, 276, 277 Somali 185, 218–19 Cymric 246 tomatoes, green 271
maintenance 71 inherited disorders 297 Manx 49, 165 tongue 45
shoulder blades 48–49 see also Abyssinian see also short-tailed cats Tonkinese Shorthair 66, 90,
Siamese 19, 29, 64, 65, 66, 67, “Sonnet to a Cat” (Keats) 31 The Tailor of Gloucester 92–93
71, 104–09 South America, cat species in 12 (Potter) 30 toothpaste 278
blood group 58 species 8–9 tails torties 27, 53, 100, 109, 127,
body shape 49, 104 speed 48, 54, 55 and balance 49 202–03
coat pattern / color 52, 53, Sphynx 64, 67, 71, 168–69 bones 48 tortoiseshells see torties
107 grooming 168, 277 checking under 298 touch, sense of 45, 51
face shape 104 hairlessness 50, 51 cleaning under 279 Toyger 141
Golden 90 spiders 305 signals from 49, 280, 281 toys 284–85, 290
inherited disorders 296, 297 spinal cord 42, 43 types 49 for kittens 293
kittens 105, 106–07 spinal disorders 165, 297 talcum powder 277 and socialization 282
longhaired 206, 209 spinal muscular atrophy 297 The Tale of Samuel Whiskers and stimulation 259
seal points 104 spine 42, 48, 55 (Potter) 30 trachea 58, 59
Solid-Pointed 53, 104–05 spotting 53 The Tale of Tom Kitten (Potter) traffic accidents 21, 257, 260, 305
semi-longhair version 185 spraying 259, 268–69, 281, 30 training 288–89
Tabby-Pointed 108 291, 292 tangles 276, 277 length of sessions 285, 288, 289
Tortie-Pointed 109 stalking 55, 284 tape, double-sided 257, 291 tricks 285
Siberian 67, 230–31, 232 Steinlen, Theophile 35 tapetum lucidum 44 unacceptable behavior 281
signals, body 280–81 sterility 127 tapeworm 302 transportation 263, 264
silk production 27 sterilization see neutering taste, sense of 45 treats
Silk Road 18 stiches, surgical 269, 307 taurine 60, 270 as rewards 285, 288, 289
Simon’s Cat 39 stimulation Tchaikovsky, Pyotr 39 role of 273
Singapura 49, 66, 86 of elderly cats 308 tear overflow 278 and socialization 283
size 66 importance of 256, 284, 285, 288 Ted Nude-Gent 168 tricolors 53, 188, 197
skeletal muscle 54 stings 305 teddy bear cat 73 Troubetskoy, Natalie 130
skeleton 48–49, 54 stomach 60–61 teeth 61, 64 Turkish Angora 19, 128, 185,
skin upsets 272, 273, 306 carnivorous 60 229
color of 52–53 Straede, Dr. Truda 135 checking 298, 299 Turkish Shorthair 128


318

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Turkish Van 19, 53, 66, 128, verbal cues 288 W wildcats
226–67 Veronese, Paolo 33 coat length 71, 185
Turkish Vankedisi 228 vertebrae 48 wading pools 261 crossing domestic cats with
tylotrichs 51 veterinary surgeons Wain, Louis 35 64–65
administering medicines 306 Warhol, Andy 34 wildcat (Felis silvestris) 9, 12
U advice on breeders 67 washing machines 257, 258 domestication 14–15
waste, elimination of 59, 61, 303
kittens 16–17
advice on diet 273
unconsciousness 304, 305 annual check-ups 269, water, drinking 271, 306 windows
undercoats 71, 185, 277 299, 303 water bowls 262, 263, 271, 272 escaping through 259
unneutered cats 261, 268–69 and breeding 292 wavy coats see curly coats falling from 258, 259
Ural Rex check-ups for elderly cats 303, weaning 292, 293 screens 258
longhair 249 308 wedge faces 49 witchcraft 25, 26
shorthair 172 choice of 268 weight Wordsworth, William 31
urinary tract infections 300, emergencies 301, 305 assessing/checking 272–73, worming 67, 268, 292, 299
302 first check-ups 268–69 299 worms, intestinal 298, 300, 302
urine introducing kittens to 282 and body form 49 wounds 298, 300, 304
digestive system 60, 61 visiting 302–03 and diet 272, 273 checking 307
and neutering 261 vibrissae see whiskers gain 273, 300, 308 treatment of 304–05, 306
normal passing of 298 Vikings 214 loss 273, 299, 300, 308
pain passing 299, 300, viruses 269 in pregnancy 292 X Y Z
309 vision 43, 44 problems 299, 300, 308
increased amounts of 300 color 44 Weir, Harrison 119 X-rays 303
scent marking 281 loss of 309 Western colors 52 York Chocolate 208
night 44, 47 wet food 271 Zula 132
V sensitive to movement 44 wheezing 300
whiskers 44, 45, 47, 51
vital signs, normal 305
vaccinations 63, 67, 261, 269, vitamins and micronutrients 60, signals from 280
293, 302 270–71, 273 white blood cells 59, 62, 269
vagina 61 viverravines 10, 11 white coats 26, 91, 261
Vans 226–28 vocal cords 59 white spotting 53
vegetable matter 270 vocalizations 8, 59, 281 Whittington, Dick 29
venomous animals 305 vomeronasal organ 45 wild animals, encounters with
Venus 28 vomiting 300, 302, 306 260, 261



Acknowledgments





Dorling Kindersley would like to uk); Chrissy Russell, Ayshazen: 2-3 Getty Images: o-che / Vetta. com/: (br). 20 Alamy Images: Sorge /
thank the following people for Burmese and Khao Manee cats 4-5 Alamy Images: Vincenzo Caro (crb); Terry Harris (bl).
their assistance with this book: (www.ayshazencats.co.uk); Anthony Iacovoni. 6-7 Corbis: Mother Image / 21 Alamy Images: Larry Lefever /
Suparna Sengupta, Vibha Malhotra Nichols, Quincunx: LaPerm cats SuperStock. 8 Dreamstime.com: Grant Heilman Photography (tr);
for editorial assistance; Jacqui Swan, (www.quincunxcats.co.uk); Karen Nico Smit / Jeff Grabert (br). ZUMA Press, Inc. (cr). Photoshot:
Chhaya Sajwan, Ganesh Sharma, Toner: Munchkin Longhair and 9 Dreamstime.com: Mirekphoto (tl). NHPA (bl). 22-23 SuperStock:
Narender Kumar, Niyati Gosain, Shorthair, Kinkalow, and Pixibob FLPA: Terry Whittaker (cr). Getty Robert Harding Picture Library.
Rakesh Khundongbam, Cybermedia cats ([email protected]); Fiona Peek, Images: Daryl Balfour / Gallo Images 24 Dorling Kindersley: Christy
for design assistance; Saloni Talwar Nordligdrom: Norwegian Forest cats (ca). Science Photo Library: Art Graham / The Trustees of the British
for work on the Jacket; Photographer (www.nordligdrom.co.uk); Russell Wolfe (crb). 10 Science Photo Museum (r). 25 Alamy Images:
Tracy Morgan, Animal Photography, and Wendy Foskett, Bulgari Cats: Library: Natural History Museum, BonkersAboutAsia (br). The
and her assistants Susi Addiscot and Savannah cats (www.bulgaricats.co.uk); London (cr). 11 Dorling Kindersley: Bridgeman Art Library: Walker Art
Jemma Yates; Anthony Nichols, Maria Bunina, Musrafy Cats: Kurilian Jon Hughes and Russell Gooday (br); Gallery, National Museums Liverpool
Quincunx LaPerms, for help and Bobtail – Longhair and Shorthair, and Natural History Museum, London (tr). Dorling Kindersley: Museo
advice on some of the cat breeds. Siberian cats (www.musrafy.co.uk); (tc). 12 Science Photo Library: Mark Tumbas Reales de Sipan (c). 27 Alamy
Caroline Hunt for proofreading; Suzann Lloyd, Tansdale Pedigree Cats: Hallett Paleoart (tr). 13 FLPA: Images: Mary Evans Picture Library
and Helen Peters for the index. Turkish Van and Vankedisi cats Ariadne Van Zandbergen. 14 Corbis: (bl). Mary Evans Picture Library: (r).
(www.tansdale.co.uk). Brooklyn Museum (tr); The Gallery 28 Getty Images: Universal History
The publisher would like to thank Collection (b). 15 Alamy Images: Archive / Universal Images Group (bl).
the following owners for allowing PICTURE CREDITS World History Archive / Image Asset 29 123RF.com: Neftali77 (tc). Getty
us to photograph their cats: The publisher would like to thank the Management Ltd. (tr). Getty Images: Images: British Library / Robana /
Valerie and Rose King, Katsacute following for their kind permission Gustavo Di Mario / The Image Bank Hulton Fine Art Collection (br).
Burmese and Rose Valley: Australian to reproduce their photographs: (bl). 16-17 Corbis: Terry Whittaker / 30 Alamy Images: Mary Evans
Mist Cats (www.katsacute.co.uk); Frank Lane Picture Agency. Picture Library (tr); Pictorial Press
Liucija Januskeviciute, Sphynx Bastet: (Key: a-above; b-below/bottom; 19 Corbis: Hulton-Deutsch Ltd (bl). 31 Alamy Images: Mark
Bambino cats (www.sphynxbastet.co. c-center; f-far; l-left; r-right; t-top) Collection (cl). http://nocoatkitty. Lucas (br). Getty Images: Tore


319

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS


Johnson / TIME & LIFE Images (tr). Utekhina (c). 119 Image courtesy of Kindersley: Tracy Morgan. 184-185 Celso Diniz (b). SuperStock:
PENGUIN and the Penguin logo are Biodiversity Heritage Library. Dorling Kindersley: Tracy Biosphoto (tr). 261 Corbis: Michael
trademarks of Penguin Books Ltd: http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org: Morgan-Animal Photography. 184 Kern / Visuals Unlimited (fbr).
(bl). 32 Alamy Images: Collection Taken from Our Cats and All About Alamy Images: Top-Pet-Pics. 187 Dorling Kindersley: Rough Guides
Dagli Orti / The Art Archive (cr). Them by Harrison Weir (tc). Image courtesy of Biodiversity (bc/Fireworks); Jerry Young (br).
The Bridgeman Art Library: 122-123 Alamy Images: Juniors Heritage Library. http://www. Getty Images: Imagewerks /
Utagawa Kuniyoshi / School of Bildarchiv GmbH. 128 Alamy biodiversitylibrary.org: Taken from Imagewerks Japan (bc). 262 Dorling
Oriental & African Studies Library, Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH Cats and All About Them, by Frances Kindersley: Kitten courtesy Of Betty
Uni. of London (bl). Dorling (cra); Tierfotoagentur (tr, b). 129 Simpson (tc). 188 Chanan (tr). Dreamstime.com: Stuart Key (b).
Kindersley: (tr). 33 The Bridgeman Animal Photography: Tetsu Photography: (b, tr, cla). 193 Alamy 264 Alamy Images: Isobel Flynn (bl).
Art Library: Marguerite Gerard / Yamazaki (cra, tr, b). 131 Petra Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH (b). 265 Corbis: Image Source (tr).
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Corbis: (bl); Blue Lantern Studio (crb). SuperStock: Biosphoto. 136 195 Chanan Photography: (b, cla, a.collectionRF / amanaimages.
34 akg-images: Franz Marc / North SuperStock: Marka (b, cl, cra, tr). 137 tr). 197 Dreamstime.com: Isselee (cla, 268 Getty Images: Fuse (bl).
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Tierfotoagentur / R. Richter (ca). 159 Animal Photography: Tetsu com: Jagodka (cla). 235 Alamy 300 Fotolia: Callalloo Candcy (bl).
SuperStock: Biosphoto (cr). 85 Yamazaki (cl, tr, b). 160 Animal Images: Idamini (cra, tr, b). 236 301 Alamy Images: Graham Jepson
Dreamstime.com: Sheila Bottoms. Photography: Alan Robinson (cra). Animal Photography: Helmi Flick (tl). Fotolia: Kirill Kedrinski (tr).
88 Ardea: Jean-Michel Labat (cla, tr); 161 Animal Photography: Helmi (cra, tr, b). 239 Dreamstime.com: 302 Alamy Images: FB-StockPhoto
Jean Michel Labat (b). 89 Alamy Flick (cra, tr, b). 162 Dreamstime. Eugenesergeev (tr); Isselee (br). (bl). 303 Alamy Images: Nigel Cattlin
Images: Tierfotoagentur (cra, tr, b). com: Elena Platonova (tr, b); Nelli 240 Alamy Images: Idamini (cla, tr, (tc/Tick); R. Richter / Tierfotoagentur
92-93 SuperStock: imagebroker.net. Shuyskaya (cla). 163 Animal b). 241 Chanan Photography: (cla, (bl). Corbis: Bill Beatty / Visuals
97 Animal Photography: Alan Photography: Helmi Flick (cla, b, tr). tr, b). 245 www.ansonroad.co.uk: Unlimited (tc); Dennis Kunkel
Robinson (cra, tr, b). 98 Alamy 164 Animal Photography: Sally Anne (tr). 247 Animal Photography: Helmi Microscopy, Inc. / Visuals Unlimited
Images: Top-Pet-Pics. 99 Alamy Thompson. 165 Alamy Images: Flick (tr, b); Tetsu Yamazaki (cra). (tc/Ear Mite). Dreamstime.com:
Images: Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH (c). Creative Element Photos (ca). Taken 248 Animal Photography: Tetsu Tyler Olson (tr). 304 Alamy Images:
102 Animal Photography: Helmi from An Historical and Statistical Yamazaki (cla, tr, b). 249 Olga Brian Hoffman (tc). 306 Alamy
Flick (cl, tr, b). 103 Alamy Images: Account Of The Isle Of Man: (cl). Ivanova: (cla, tr, b). 251 Alamy Images: FLPA (tc). 307 Getty Images:
Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH (cla, b, tr). 167 Dave Woodward: (cla, b, tr). Images: Tierfotoagentur / L. West Danielle Donders - Mothership
104 Taken from The Book of the 168 Alamy Images: AF archive (bl). (ca). Corbis: Rachel McKenna / Photography / Flickr Open (t).
Cat by Frances Simpson (1903): (bl). 170 Fotolia: Artem Furman (cla, tr, cultura (cra). 252 Dreamstime.com: 308 Dreamstime.com: Brenda
106-107 Corbis: D. Sheldon / F1 b). 171 Fotolia: eSchmidt (cla, tr, b). Nataliya Kuznetsova (cr). 253 Carson (ca). 309 Fotolia: Urso
Online. 110 Chanan Photography: 172 Alamy Images: Tierfotoagentur Dreamstime.com: Ijansempoi. Antonio (bl). Getty Images: Akimasa
(cl, b, tr). 111 Animal Photography: (cla, tr, b). 173 FLPA: S. Schwerdtfeger / 254-255 Corbis: Silke Klewitz- Harada / Flickr (t). 310 Animal
Alan Robinson (cla, tr). Chanan Tierfotoagentur (b, cla, tr). 176 Seemann / / imagebroker. 256 Fotolia: Photography: Tetsu Yamazaki
Photography: (b). 113 Animal Animal Photography: Helmi Flick Tony Campbell (tr). 257 Alamy
Photography: Tetsu Yamazaki (b). (cl). Dreamstime.com: Oleg Kozlov Images: imagebroker (br). 258
Dreamstime.com: Vladyslav (cr). 177 Dreamstime.com: Sikth. 179 Dorling Kindersley: Kitten courtesy All other images © Dorling Kindersley
Starozhylov (cl, tr, cra). 115 Fotolia: Dreamstime.com: Jagodka (cla). 180 of The Mayhew Animal Home and For further information see:
Callalloo Candcy (b). 116 123RF. Alamy Images: Juniors Bildarchiv Humane Education Center (br). www.dkimages.com
com: Nailia Schwarz. 117 Animal GmbH (tr, b); Tierfotoagentur (cla). Dreamstime.com: Joyce Vincent (bl).
Photography: Sally Anne Thompson 181 Animal Photography: Tetsu 259 Getty Images: Marcel ter Bekke /
(cr). Dreamstime.com: Anna Yamazaki (cla, tr, b). 183 Dorling Flickr (b). 260 Dreamstime.com:


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