The Purrfect Blog

  Here’s how to tackle the problem Scientists  say they have pinpointed strategies to save cushions, carpets, and sofas from pet  cats . Providing cats with safe hiding places and plenty of opportunities to play can help to reduce their stress, and save frustrated owners’ furniture from being scratched, new research suggests. While scratching is a normal feline behaviour, it could be managed by adapting play sessions and offering scratch posts in the right spots, according to the study. Researchers looked at what factors can influence undesirable scratching, and found that the presence of children at home, personality traits of cats, and their activity levels “significantly impact” the extent of scratching behaviour. Dr Yasemin Salgirli Demi̇rbas, a veterinary researcher at Ankara University,  Turkey , and first author of the study, said: “Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials , which could help foster a more harmonious living environ

Hey there fellow cat lovers! If you're anything like me, your furry feline friend isn't just a pet; they're a cherished member of the family. That's why I've put together this handy guide to help you create a cat-friendly home environment that your whiskered companion will adore. From cozy hideaways to interactive play spaces, let's dive into how you can make your home the ultimate haven for your purring pal. Safety First: Creating a Hazard-Free Zone First things first, let's talk safety. Cats are curious creatures, and it's essential to remove any potential hazards from their environment. Keep small objects like hair ties and rubber bands out of reach, secure dangling cords, and be mindful of toxic plants that could pose a danger to your curious kitty.   Comfort is Key: Designing Cozy Living Spaces Now that we've covered safety, let's focus on comfort. Cats love to lounge and nap in cozy spots, so it's essential to provide plenty of comforta

What Colors Can Cats See? Cats are often lauded for their keen senses, especially their ability to see in low light conditions. However, there’s a common misconception about their ability to perceive color. While it’s true that cats don’t see the world in the same vibrant hues that humans do, their vision is far from black and white. Let’s explore the fascinating world of feline color perception. Understanding Feline Vision The ability to see color is determined by the presence of photoreceptor cells called cones in the retina. Humans typically have three types of cones, which allow us to see a broad spectrum of colors. Cats, on the other hand, have only two types of cones. This difference significantly influences the range of colors they can perceive. The Feline Color Spectrum Cats are considered to be dichromatic, meaning they see colors in a limited spectrum. Here’s a closer look at how cats perceive various colors: Blues and Greens : Cats can distinguish between blues and greens qu

 If you’re a cat owner with a love for gardening, you may be wondering if your favorite blooms are safe for your furry friend. Peonies (Scientific Name:  Paeonis officinalis ), with their lush petals and vibrant colors, are a popular choice for many gardens. However, it's essential to know whether these beautiful flowers pose a risk to your cats. Understanding the Risks Peonies are indeed toxic to cats. The primary culprit is a toxin called paeonol , which is found in the bark of the peony plant. While peonies are not considered highly toxic, ingestion can still lead to uncomfortable symptoms and potential health issues for your cat. Signs of Peony Poisoning in Cats Recognising signs of plant poisoning in cats is imperative for timely intervention. The key symptoms to look out for include: Increased salivation Vomiting and diarrhoea Neurological signs like fitting Respiratory distress Subtle indicators might also appear, such as increased thirst or changes in behaviour. These signs

  The Perfect Pair: Coffee and Cats At iCatShop, we know that the love for cats and the enjoyment of coffee often go hand in hand. There's something truly special about sipping a hot cup of coffee while your furry friend who purrs contentedly beside you. Let's explore why coffee and cats are a match made in heaven and how you can create the perfect environment to enjoy both. Why Coffee and Cats are the Perfect Match Starting your day with coffee and your cat can set a positive tone for the rest of the day. I especially love the morning wake up call, purring, meowing and a touch on the head, like just get up now. This comical cartoon from Simons cat sums it up perfectly. Here are some reasons why this combination is so delightful: Stress Reduction : The act of drinking coffee can be a calming routine, and the presence of a purring cat has been proven to lower stress levels and promote relaxation. Enhanced Focus : Coffee is known for improving focus and cognitive function whil

As a devoted cat parent and owner, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make my feline friends happier and our home cleaner. No one wants guests to instantly know they have a cat the moment they step into their home, particularly if the cat is nowhere in sight. One of the challenges I’ve faced over the years is finding the perfect cat litter. Each type of litter I’ve tried has its merits, but none of them are perfect on their own. That’s when I came up with the idea of “litter mixology.” What is Litter Mixology? Litter mixology is the art of blending different types of cat litter to create the perfect mix that meets all of your cat’s needs. By combining various litters, you can take advantage of their individual strengths and create a litter box that is more effective at controlling odors, easier to clean, and more comfortable for your cat. Ultimately, the litter box becomes a much more pleasant place for you to clean. Why Mix Litters? Each type of cat litter has its unique benefits.