Dream Of Two Cats Fighting? The 117 New Answer

Some cats just don’t give peace a chance. There are several reasons why cats may not get along. The most common is undersocialization – a lack of pleasant experiences with other cats at a young age. If your cat grew up as the only cat with little or no contact with other cats, she may react violently when finally introduced to another cat because she is afraid of the unknown, lacks the cat’s social skills, and has the disorder your cat does not like everyday life and environment. Cats tend to prefer consistency to change. This is especially true if the change involves a newcomer to your cat’s established territory. Cats are a territorial species. While some cats overlap their territories extensively, others prefer to keep a good distance from their neighbors. Two unrelated men or two unrelated women can have an especially difficult time sharing space. Another source of arguments can be a cat personality clash. Cats don’t usually get to choose their roommates, and sometimes we humans just don’t choose the right mate. In some cases, however, cats get along well until something frightening or uncomfortable (like fireworks or the smell of the vet clinic) is associated with the other cat. In other cases, relationships change as the cats mature. When a cat reaches one to three years of age and then begins to brew problems, social maturation can be a factor.

Any sudden change in your cat’s behavior could be an indication of an underlying medical condition. If you notice any unusual physical or behavioral symptoms, or if your cat stops eating, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Other types of aggression to consider

maternal aggression

A female cat with a litter of kittens may hiss at another cat, growl, chase, hit, or try to bite another cat that approaches, even one she used to be friends with. Maternal aggression usually subsides once the kittens are weaned. It’s a good idea to spay maternally aggressive cats to prevent future litters and future aggression problems.

play aggression

It’s common for kittens and kittens to engage in rough, active play because all cat play is mock aggression. Cats will stalk, chase, sneak, pounce, hit, kick, scratch, ambush, attack and bite each other – all for fun. When they play, it’s reciprocal. They often switch roles. Their ears are usually forward in game, their claws may be extended but they do not deal damage, and their bodies lean forward, not backward.

Suggestions for managing your cats

Never let the cats “fight it out”. Cats don’t solve their problems by fighting, and the fights usually only get worse. Discontinue the aggression with a loud hand clap or squirt from a water gun.

neuter cats. Intact males are particularly prone to aggressive behavior.

Separate their resources. Reduce competition between cats by providing multiple identical food bowls, beds and litter boxes in different areas of your home.

Provide extra perches. More hiding spots and perches allow your cats to spread out the way they prefer.

Don’t try to calm or soothe your aggressive cat, just leave her alone and give her space. If you approach, she might turn and redirect her aggression towards you.

Reward desired behavior. Praise or throw treats to reward your cats when you see them interacting in a friendly way.

Try pheromones. You can buy a product that mimics a natural cat scent (which humans can’t smell) that can reduce tension. Use a diffuser while solving the aggression problem.

When the aggression is mild or between two cats who used to get along

Separate your cats into separate rooms with separate beds, bowls, and litter boxes for several days or weeks. This way they can hear and smell each other but don’t have to interact.

Place the cats’ food bowls on opposite sides of a closed door. This will encourage them to be close while doing something that makes them feel good.

Have the cats move rooms each day so they both experience some variety and have access to each other’s scents. You may need a wizard to do this safely.

After a few days, if both of your cats seem relaxed, open the door an inch. If they remain calm, open the door a little more, then a little more. If the cats remain relaxed, they may be ready to be together again. However, if they respond with signs of aggressive behavior – such as growling, spitting, hissing, clapping, etc. – separate them again and follow the step-by-step reintroduction instructions below.

Some cat parents have had success rubbing a little tuna juice on their cat’s body and head. The cats are so engaged in grooming, which is a relaxing behavior, that they are less likely to be disturbed by the other cat. When things are going really well, the cats can actually groom each other because they can’t reach the juice on their own heads.

If the aggression is severe or between cats that have never gotten along

Separate your cats as above, but for a longer period of time, and reintroduce them at a much slower pace, e.g. B. several days to a few weeks.

Rather than simply opening the door to reintroduce the cats, offer daily reintroduction sessions where the cats gradually move closer and closer together under supervision.

During sessions, you may find it easier to control your cats with harnesses and leashes, or by crating one or both of your cats.

During sessions, distract both cats with food or games. Start with them wide apart. Keep the sessions short. Make it easy for them to be successful.

Separate your cats between reintroduction sessions to avoid relapse.

Only when your cats can eat and play peacefully within a few feet should they be left together unsupervised. Only trust them together for short periods at first and gradually increase the time together.

Behavioral medication can be helpful in reducing a dominant cat’s aggression and a shy cat’s anxiety so that reintroduction is smoother and faster.

If your cats still don’t get along

Don’t hesitate to contact a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB or ACAAB) or Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist (Dip ACVB) for guidance. One of these qualified professionals can assess the issue and help you manage or resolve the conflict between your cats. To find a behaviorist in your area, please see our Find Professional Behavior Help article.

Some cats just can’t live together peacefully. Because chronic stress and tension is not healthy for humans and pets, it may be more humane to keep them separated indoors permanently, or find another home for one of them, rather than forcing them into years of stressful cohabitation.

Hello friend!

Thank you for visiting and reading! My name is Garth and I would like to welcome you to my personal birding space.

Whether you want to attract songbirds to your garden, enjoy birding hotspots, learn bird symbolism, or start bird photography, you’ve come to the right place.

What is this mysterious stigma surrounding black cats? Even in this day and age, as silly as it may sound, you still hear about black cats being associated with superstition, black magic, and pagan holidays like Halloween. In honor of National Black Cat Appreciation Day, which falls on August 17th every year, we’re trying to dispel this myth!

Types of black cats

According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, there are 22 cat breeds that have solid black as a possible coat color characteristic. The quintessential black cat has to be the Bombay, a breed originally developed to resemble a miniature black panther. Known for their black fur, black nose, and yellow eyes, they are considered intelligent, playful, and attention-grabbing. You might recognize a Bombay black cat (real or animated) from popular shows and movies like The Simpsons, Star Trek, Hocus Pocus, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Coraline. Let’s also remember one of the most notable black cats in the world – Homer the Blind Wonder Cat from the book Homer’s Odyssey.

Is that what black cats are?

Folklore varies from culture to culture and over time. In medieval Europe, black cats were believed to be the familiars (supernatural entities that aided in the practice of magic) of witches or even shape-shifting witches themselves.

Black cat superstition

Most people have heard of the superstition that a black cat crosses your path. This derives from European folklore, which claims that a black cat crossing paths in the moonlight often portends death by epidemic. Most likely, a black cat crossing your path simply means that the cat is going somewhere! Another superstition, quoted in various excerpts and of particular interest here in Las Vegas, is: “The gambling world believes that if a black cat crosses your street or path on your way to a casino, that person will not go to the casino.” should go ; Most players believe that black cats are bad luck.”

Black cats and luck, good or bad?

Many people don’t know that black cats have also been considered good luck charms throughout the centuries. Examples of vintage postcards from the early 1900s make it clear that black cats were very popular and considered good luck in America. Until the year 3000 BC Dating back to around 1000 BC, black cats were held in the highest regard and harming someone was considered a capital crime. Sailors throughout history have believed that a black cat on board their ship would bring good luck, and some fishermen’s wives kept black cats at home to influence the safe return of their husbands.

Black Cat Adoption Myths

How is all of this affecting current adoption rates and occupancy of black cat shelters? There is a common myth that black cats are the least likely to be adopted in shelters in the United States. However, the data does not confirm this. Black cats are found in shelters more often than any other color cat, and black cats are more likely to be adopted than any other color cat!

Myths aside, it’s clear that black cats are popular because they share the same needs for love, care, and a forever home as other cats, along with charisma and charm. Check out The Animal Foundation’s black cats (and other animals) available for adoption online, or visit one of our two adoption centers!

This post was originally written by guest blogger Ashlee D’Andrea. It has since been updated, revised and edited.

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Halloween pet safety tips

Cat behavior can be entertaining, confusing, and sometimes downright annoying, but one thing is for sure: they are always fascinating. If you take a closer look at typical cat behaviors, you’ll find that there’s a very good reason your pet is doing what it’s doing.

Understanding Cat Behavior Cats do a pretty good job of communicating with humans and their peers through a variety of meowing sounds. Even so, longtime cat owners will tell you that sometimes these pets can be hard to read. Luckily, you can solve some of the mystery by learning the motivations behind the most common body languages ​​and behaviors to understand what your cat is really trying to tell you. Related articles Behavioral traits of male cats

How do dying cats behave? Understanding their dying behavior

5 Common Reasons Cats Chatter

Why cats knead Kneading confuses many cat owners. Cats may seem to soften a spot to lie down, but they often don’t lie down. Instead, they just keep working with their paws as if kneading bread. According to Pet MD, kneading is a behavior cats inherit from kittenhood. When kittens knead their mother’s tummy while nursing, it stimulates the flow of milk, bringing comfort and contentment to kittens. This does not mean that adult cats knead because they are hungry or looking for milk. For weaned cats, it’s probably more of a comforting behavior that shows their contentment. Cats also have scent glands in their paws, so they can use kneading to mark people, areas, and objects to claim.

Why Cats Purr According to Doctors Foster and Smith, cats purr for three basic reasons: To show satisfaction

To show other cats that they are friendly

To relieve stress and calm down, especially when they are sick

Why Cats Rub Cats have scent glands on their faces, and they like to rub them on objects to mark them with their scent. According to VetStreet.com, this is territorial claiming behavior, and cats will tag just about anything, including humans, to claim as their property.

When cats scratch Cats have a lot of motivation to scratch. According to the San Francisco SPCA, the reasons are: Scratching helps shed the outer layers of your nails, keeping them fresh and sharp.

Cats scratch on defense.

When scratching, they also use the scent glands in their paws to mark their territory.

They also like to dig their nails into a surface to have a good stretch.

Understanding a cat’s tail movements The Humane Society notes that a cat uses its tail to communicate how it’s feeling at a given moment: when a cat wags or moves its tail back and forth, it’s saying it’s left alone would be. Bother your pet at this point and you could scratch yourself.

If the tail helps straight up, the cat is usually in a playful mood.

When relaxed, the cat’s tail is usually held down.

Understanding Cat Crouching The Humane Society also notes that crouching is part of stalking behavior and usually means your cat is preparing to pounce. In the wild, the cat prepares to pounce on prey, and domestic cats may do so in the yard when chasing birds or small animals. It’s also very normal for cats to do this indoors. They will be ready to pounce on their fellows, other pets in the house, or even a human leg when nothing else of interest presents itself.

Rolling onto its side or back when the cat is lying down According to Animal Planet at Pet Assure, a cat will stretch out and expose its underside. This puts the cat in a very vulnerable position, so you know she really feels safe and secure lying like this. In another situation, rolling onto your back may mean your cat feels threatened. Cats sometimes roll onto their side during a fight because this position frees all four paws to scratch. When your cat stretches out its paws with its claws outstretched, it’s ready to claw anyone who approaches it. In yet another situation, a cat may yield to another cat and lie down to signal submission and no longer wanting to fight or play.

Ear Positions in Cats According to certified animal behaviorist Amy Shojai, cats communicate through different ear positions. Ears held forward indicate that the cat is curious and alert to sounds.

Sideways or “airplane ears” mean a cat may feel threatened or uncomfortable.

Ears turned to the side mean a cat is experiencing increasing excitement, if it stops it may attack.

Flattened and/or twitching ears usually mean the cat is extremely scared or excited and may be ready to fight.

Cat Vocalizations In addition to purring and meowing, cats make many types of vocalizations to express their behavior. According to Healthy Pets, common feline vocalizations include: howling, which generally indicates some form of stress. This can be due to fear, loneliness, anxiety, or due to pain, illness, or old age.

Another form of howling is called “caterwauling,” and cats in heat make this sound to attract mates. Growling occurs when the cat is nervous, fearful, or aggressive.

Hissing is related to fear and defense; Cats make this sound when they feel threatened.

Chatter is a sound associated with excitement and robbery. It’s likely to be heard when your cat focuses on a bird or small animal.

Screams can be heard from cats that are fighting or during the mating process. Every cat is different in terms of their regular vocalizations. Some breeds, such as Siamese, are known to be more “talkative” than others. If you notice a sudden change in the frequency or intensity of your cat’s vocalizations, this may indicate a medical or behavioral problem and a trip to the vet is warranted.

Perhaps you’ve heard your neighborhood cats howling into the night and wondered if those fights ever result in a cat’s death. Maybe your indoor cats have suddenly started fighting and you’re worried they might hurt each other.

You’ve probably noticed that your cat is armed with formidable weapons in the form of its teeth and claws. It’s true that they can do serious damage with it, but is fighting to the death a common problem in cats? Let’s find out!

Why do cats fight?

Cats usually try to avoid physical fights unless there is absolutely no other option. Because as a single hunter, their survivability is severely impacted when they are injured. Most cat fights involve more posture and vocalizations than physical contact.

There are several reasons why cats fight. Let’s take a closer look.

Territorial

Cats are solitary and territorial by nature. Living in unnaturally cramped quarters with other cats, whether in your neighborhood or in your home, can inevitably lead to fights. Cats will fight to defend what they believe to be “their” territory, but this often overlaps with what another cat believes to be “their” territory! Cats mark their territory with pheromones, and any overlapping areas will be challenged.

aggression

Some cats can be more aggressive than others, which can lead to an increase in fights. Male, unneutered cats can be aggressive towards other cats, especially if there are females who they feel are fighting.

play fight

Some cats love to fight, and occasionally it can turn into a real fight. If a cat doesn’t back down or the game de-escalates, playing with each other can turn into something more serious. During a play fight, cats will use the same tactics as in a real fight, but they will not use their claws or do any serious damage.

maternal aggression

Female cats will be protective of their kittens, so if other cats approach, the mother may feel like she has to defend her babies. If the other cat’s hissing, growling, and chasing doesn’t work, she may resort to fighting. This can even happen to cats she was previously friends with. The good news is that this type of aggression usually resolves on its own after their kittens are weaned.

How do cats fight?

Most cat fights will not be physical and will involve aggressive body language, growls, hisses, and a twitching tail. After a while, the least dominant cat will usually slowly back down and admit defeat. Sometimes, if a cat doesn’t back down, physical beatings will ensue between cats. This is usually for short periods of time before they break up and start posting again.

Even among feral cat colonies, fights involving sustained physical contact are rare. Because cats know that injuries can affect their chances of survival. It’s easier to learn to get along and survive than it is to fight and get hurt. Fights are usually the last resort.

Do cats fight to the death?

Cats are unlikely to kill another cat during a fight. This includes both domestic cats and wild cats. Cat fights are usually more about poses and vocalizations than actual physical contact.

When cats come into physical contact during a fight, it is the injuries sustained that, if left untreated, can ultimately lead to death. This is more of a problem for feral or stray cats who don’t have an owner to look after them.

Symptoms to look out for in your own cat include: Open sores

Open wounds puncture sites

Puncture sites Hot spots or pain

Hot spots or pain swelling

swelling fever

fever lethargy

lethargy loss of appetite

Cats’ mouths and claws contain bacteria that can cause infection of an untreated wound. Left untreated, this can cause ongoing problems for a cat and eventually lead to its death if its body cannot fight off the infection.

House cats rarely get to this point when they have loving owners who care about their health and welfare. Wounds can easily be treated by your veterinarian. They can clean and sew up a wound, lance an abscess, or prescribe antibiotics and other medications.

Cats fight in the house

If your indoor cats fight often, think about what you can do to reduce it. We recommend:

1. Interruption of the fight

Never allow your cats to keep fighting. Once started, this can easily escalate and a cat is more likely to injure itself. If you see your cats fighting, make a loud noise, like clapping, to startle them. You can also try to distract her by rattling a treat bag.

2. Separating and multiplying resources

When cats feel that there aren’t enough resources, they are more likely to fight over them. Make sure you always offer more resources than there are cats. So if you have three cats, you should have four food and water stations and four litter boxes. This means whenever a cat wants to eat, drink, or do her business, she doesn’t have to wait for another cat to finish or compete with her for the resource.

3. castration and castration

Hormones can cause cats to become more aggressive, which is especially true in unneutered male cats. Talk to your vet about having your cats spayed or neutered.

4. Reward good behavior

If you see your cats interacting well with each other, reward them with verbal praise or a treat. Repeat this as many times as possible to reinforce the idea that this behavior is desirable.

5. Add enrichment

Make sure you provide plenty of enrichment opportunities such as perches, hide-and-seek boxes, shelves, scratching posts, and toys.

6. Use pheromones

Some cat owners have had good results using synthetic cat pheromones. You can buy diffusers or sprays that release calming pheromones into the air. These can make cats feel more secure and less anxious, which in turn can reduce aggression.

7. Give them space

Some cats resent having to share their home with another cat. This can sometimes be a problem for older cats when introduced to a new family kitten. Make sure each cat has an area in the house that it can go to without being disturbed. Cats can also become over-excited after a fight, so don’t try to pick up or calm your cat as she may redirect aggression toward you. Give them some time to calm down. They will come and see you when they are ready!

If you’re concerned that your pet cats are fighting enough to increase the risk of injury, it may be time to contact a registered feline behaviorist. They may be able to suggest strategies that will help your cats get along better and reduce the number of fights.

packaging

Cat fights may look (and sound!) spectacular, but they rarely involve physical contact. Most often, after a lot of aggressive body language and vocalizations, a cat will back off and admit defeat. Cats instinctively know that physical fights can result in injuries that can render them incapable of hunting. So physical fights are the last resort.

Cats rarely, if ever, kill themselves during physical combat. But the injuries sustained from bites or scratches can become infected and, if left untreated, can ultimately lead to a cat’s death.

If your own cats fight, rest assured that they are unlikely to hurt each other, but it’s worth a quick physical exam if you see them fighting. Talk to your vet if you notice any injuries and take steps to reduce the chances of your cats fighting again in the future.

Selected image source: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock

Stephanie Dube Dwilson

When your cats start hissing and scratching out of nowhere, even though they were once friends, you may be wondering, “Why are my cats suddenly fighting?” What was once a happy friendship has now turned into bullying and flying fur. Whether they fight because they smell different or are frightened, your cats are unlikely to remain enemies for long. Here are some reasons your cats may be breaking up and steps to help them reconnect.

A cat smells different

If one of your cats suddenly smells different, the other cat may react quite violently at first. This can happen, for example, if you have taken one of your cats to a vet or groomer.1 Cats recognize each other not only by sight, but also by smell and voice. A strange, unfamiliar smell signals an intruder, not a friend.

Eventually, the two cats will remember each other, but it can be quite disturbing to watch best friends fight until they find out. Some people schedule vet visits at the same time to avoid this.

If you can’t take them to appointments together, try rubbing down the returning cat with a blanket your cats sleep on before bringing them back inside. Another option is to lightly rub your hands with a pleasant scent, e.g. B. with stinky treats or water from canned tuna, and then gently stroking your kitten. The distracting but pleasant smell might drown out the vet’s smell.

fear takes over

Sometimes cats get scared, and this causes them to direct their fight-or-flight response to the wrong target. This can happen when two cats are sleeping peacefully next to each other and then hear a loud noise. Both cats become frightened, jumping and puffing up in defensive postures. They feel puffed up and fear that the other will attack. This could lead to unrest and fights until they find out they are still friends.

They are insecure about territories

Sometimes sudden outbursts are caused by uneasiness about territory in the house.2 Cats are naturally territorial, but friendly cats have learned to share their space peacefully. If you’ve recently moved to a new home, you may have to deal with these issues again.

Changes in your own life can also trigger territorial insecurity and stress in your cats. If you’ve recently gotten married, had a baby, or even changed your work schedule significantly, your cats may be feeling a bit agitated and insecure. They could easily take that stress out on each other. If a significant change occurs, try to stick to your cat’s routine as much as possible, including meal and bedtimes. Spend extra time playing with them so they don’t get jealous. Be patient; the adjustment may take a little time.

Your cat’s territorial instincts can also be triggered when stray cats are outside and your cats can see or smell them. In these cases, it may be good to close the blinds when feral cats roam, or even set up motion-activated sprinklers to encourage feral cats to visit another garden.

Medical problems play a role

If your cats aren’t fixed, sudden fights can be caused by puberty. If they are spayed or neutered, it could be another medical issue. Cats tend to hide health issues, but they may become withdrawn or aggressive if they are not feeling well. If the behavior persists, it may be time to take her to the vet for a check-up.

you can help them

A simple and effective solution is to place Comfort Zone Calming Diffusers in different rooms where your cats hang out. This drug-free solution mimics a cat’s pheromones, helping to communicate that the environment is safe and secure. You may also want to try the Comfort Zone Calming Collar, especially when your cats go outside. Featuring the BreakAway safety feature, this collar helps keep the calming pheromones with your cats whether they’re resting at home or on the go.

You can also try placing scratching posts, condos, and window bars around the house to give your kittens more territory to call their own. High ceilings can also boost confidence and help reduce fear-based struggles.

If the new behavior is intense, you may need to reintroduce your cats to each other. The process can take a few weeks. Start by keeping them in separate rooms and swapping out blankets and other items with their scents. Feed them on either side of a closed door. If they can eat quietly, try a closed gate where they can see each other. Then graduate to supervised visits with treats.

When cats who used to be good friends suddenly start fighting, it’s usually temporary. But sometimes they need a little help from you. A nudge in the right direction can help them remember why they love each other again.

1. Animal Planet. “5 tips to stop cats from fighting.” animalplanet.com, http://www.animalplanet.com/pets/5-tips-to-stop-cats-from-fighting/.

2. Humane society. “How to help a scared cat.” humanesociety.org, https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-help-frightened-cat.

The players

The best customers can least afford it

A close look at Orange and a computer analysis of the New Jersey lottery game by The New York Times paints a compelling picture of how important the people who live and work in cities like this are to the lottery business.

The Times analysis found that the poor and less educated were far more acquainted than previously and spend a larger percentage of their income on the lottery than wealthier New Jersey residents.

Using 1998 data from the New Jersey State Lottery, the analysis found that in the ZIP codes populated by the lowest-income people, the amount spent on lottery tickets was more than five times higher per $10,000 of income like the amount spent by people spent on tickets in more affluent countries postcodes. The analysis was calculated using information on 48,875 lottery winners and estimates based on census data.

It found that people living in the 100 lowest median income ZIP codes in New Jersey spend $53 for every $10,000 of their income to redeem an instant win scratch card. But in the 100 highest median income ZIP codes, spending on instant tickets was just $12 per $10,000.

And for the Pick 4 game, which can pay out up to $2,788 for a 50-cent bet on the right four numbers and is one of the state’s most popular games, people in the 100 ZIP Codes gave the lowest earners $29 per $10,000 of income from , compared to $5 per $10,000 of income in the top 100 income ZIP codes.

In New Jersey, too, less educated people spend far more money playing the lottery. In the ZIP codes with the lowest percentage of people with college education, people spent more than five times as much per $10,000 of income as in areas with the highest percentage of people with college education.

Because your cat needs you

Seeing a cat in a dream can have different meanings in Islam depending on the context in which it is seen. We explained it below.

1- According to Ibn Sirin رحمة الله عليه, the greatest interpreter of dreams in Islam, the cat in a dream is a corrupt thief.

2- Seeing a cat coming to your house means that a thief would come to your house.

3- Seeing a cat eating or taking or taking something from your house means that the thief would take something away.

4- Killing a cat in a dream means killing a thief.

5- According to Ibrahim Karmani رحمة الله عليه eating the meat of a cat in a dream shows that he would gain proportional wealth from the thief.

6- Fighting a cat in such a way that it scratches its body means it would get sick.

Win the battle = recover soon.

Losing the fight = prolonged illness.

What does it mean to get sick in a dream?

7- Milking a cat and then drinking its milk in a dream means that the dreamer will quarrel with someone.

8- According to Jafar Sadiq رحمة الله عليه, seeing a cat in a dream has the following reasons: thief, slanderer, servant, illness, kind woman, envious and fight.

Disclaimer: The material used for the Interpretation of Dreams was taken from the Ibn Sirin book on Interpretation of Dreams. You can read the book here.

Adding another cat to your household can be stressful or not stressful at all. Some cats seem to take months before they can even stand being in the same room, while others get used to each other in a matter of days.

Cats are individuals, so a lot depends on whether they get along with others. Socialization, temperament, and similar factors all play a role. Some cats just don’t like other cats. Others seem to get along with all other animals.

With so many factors involved, it’s interesting to consider whether sex might be one of them. Do male cats get along better than females or vice versa?

In all honesty, we don’t know. There aren’t many studies on unrelated feline relationships. Most studies are between littermates, which obviously does not apply to unrelated cats.

Instead of relying on sex, look at cats’ temperaments instead. A shy, laid-back cat will not usually get along well with an active cat. However, mating two very active, territorial cats will likely result in fights as well.

What if the cats are siblings?

While we don’t have much information about unrelated cats, we do know a few things about littermates. If you are considering buying two different kittens from a litter, gender will likely be a factor influencing your kitten choice.

However, there is no evidence that male kittens get along better than female kittens or vice versa. Sex doesn’t seem to matter much in the long run. If there is an effect, it’s too small to be noticeable. Most littermates get along well simply because they have been together their entire lives.

However, her personality plays a role. Active cats usually stress out relaxed cats. However, it can be difficult to determine a cat’s future temperament based on their actions as kittens. Ask the litter’s breeder to help you choose two cats with similar personalities, as this can help them get along better.

Based on this logic, it might not matter if you choose two males or two females. Instead, it may just be important that you choose two cats with the same personality. After all, these cats are more likely to get along with each other. However, there is no current scientific data to support this.

Are male cats more aggressive towards other males?

There is a misconception that male cats are more territorial and therefore can be more aggressive towards other males. However, this is not necessarily true. Some males are territorial, some are not. It’s more a matter of personality than gender.

Unlike some wildcat species, both male and female domestic cats establish their own “territory”. Some cats do well when other cats enter their territory. This is not determined by their gender, but by their temperament.

Therefore, some female couples may fight more than some male couples. Some males can be territorial and aggressive, but that’s not because they’re male.

Introducing your cats appropriately is important to avoid aggression. This often involves a long lead time before an actual meeting. You should keep your new cat in a closed area for at least a week. This allows the cats to explore “new” territory before they are introduced. Otherwise, they might fight over where they belong.

If you adopt two cats at the same time, this is less of a problem. No cat has established a territory yet, so they have nothing to defend.

Do male cats fight with female cats?

Yes, a cat’s sex has little to do with which cats it fights. Regardless of gender, a cat establishes its own “territory” in its home and does not like having other cats in it, even if they are of the opposite gender. A domestic cat’s territory can be small. It can include a single pillow on a bed or windowsill.

Your cats won’t share the whole house, but they will have their spaces. Your gender won’t change that.

In addition, some cats just don’t like other cats, even if they are of the opposite sex. This applies to both male and female cats. If they haven’t been socialized with other cats, they may be afraid of them or just not know how to act. A male can certainly fight a female cat.

Can two male cats live together?

Yes, it’s mostly about whether their temperaments match. If you have two laid-back guys, chances are they’ll get along just fine. However, two territorial males can drive each other insane. If one male is territorial and the other is relaxed, the territorial male may bother the relaxed male as well.

Neutering the cat can help. However, it usually won’t change a cat’s temperament too much. It may limit the attacker’s tagging and similar behaviors, but it probably won’t suddenly make your cats best friends.

Littermates tend to get along as unrelated cats. These cats are already bonded and know how to interact with each other. However, sudden changes in their relationship may occur after they reach sexual maturity.

Are female cats more territorial than male cats?

A cat’s territorial behavior depends more on its temperament than on its sex. You may come across a male who doesn’t seem to care about other cats at all, while a female may growl at any cat she sees out the window. Sex doesn’t matter outside of sexual behaviors like tagging. (But even then, some women tag.)

Females are not naturally more territorial than males.

Final Thoughts

When choosing two cats, choose them for their temperament, not their sex. Two male cats don’t necessarily get along any better than two female cats. A man and a woman may not get along any better than a same-sex couple. Sex just isn’t an accurate indicator of how well a feline couple will get along.

Instead, it is more important whether the cats have a similar temperament. Cats who behave alike are more likely to get along. The only time this isn’t the case is when you’re dealing with two active, territorial cats. In this case, they are more likely to fight because their temperaments are similar.

Related Read: Male Cat vs Female Cat: What’s the Difference? (With pictures)

Selected image credit: Sarah Fields Photography, Shutterstock

Cats are a mystery (part of what we love about them). This feline mystery is even more intriguing at night when they’re roaming the neighborhoods and our homes doing… whatever they’re doing.

Why cats are most active at night

It’s often said that cats are nocturnal, but that’s not entirely true. Cats are actually crepuscular, meaning they are most active just before sunrise and just after sunset.

You may have noticed that your cat seems restless at night, or will pounce on your chest to tell you it’s breakfast time hours before your alarm clock rings. That’s because it’s mealtime for them (and because they can’t miss an opportunity to deprive you of sleep ; )

Cats are natural hunters, evolved to capture their prey – mice and rats – during dawn and dusk. Just because they’re now living comfortably where their meals are brought to them, doesn’t take away their instinct to hunt for their favorite meal (consisting of about 50-60% protein, 30-40% fat, and 10% carbohydrates – (a A diet that strays too far from these proportions can put your cat at risk for obesity, diabetes, and more. See this article for help on reading cat food labels.)

Where cats go at night

It’s natural to wonder where the damn cats go at night. At home they usually sleep, play, cuddle, eat or sleep a little longer. But what do you do when you are traveling alone? It turns out it’s quite a lot.

University of Georgia researchers placed small cameras on 55 cats in the Atlanta area and then examined more than 37 hours of footage to look for trends. Here are some of the top takeaways.

44% of cats hunted wild animals. Their main prey were reptiles, small mammals, and invertebrates (things with no internal skeletons…think spiders and snails).

Hunting cats captured an average of 2 prey items during seven days of roaming.

85% of wildlife catches were observed during the warm season (March to November in the southern US).

Younger cats caught more prey per hunt than older cats.

Dangers for cats at night

The cats in the study also had the habit of putting themselves in danger during their nocturnal activities. Overall, 85% of the cats did at least one thing that the researchers considered dangerous behavior! The most dangerous behaviors of these cats were:

Cross streets (45%)

Encountering strange cats (25%)

Eating and drinking substances away from home (25%)

Exploration of stormwater systems (20%)

Entering crawlspaces where they could become trapped (20%).

If you’re curious about your cat’s migrations or want to keep track so you don’t lose them when they’re spending time outdoors, consider a GPS collar. In the video below you can get an idea of ​​what a cat did for about 12 hours during the day when its activity was tracked with a Pawtrack GPS collar.

Note: Preventive Vet recommends not allowing cats outside without direct supervision. This is for their own health and safety, as well as the health and safety of other animals in your neighborhood, and even you and the other members of your home (cats can catch zoonotic diseases that they can transmit to humans, or bring back fleas and other parasites). If that sounds like a good reason to transition your outdoor kitty to an indoor lifestyle, check out how to keep an indoor kitty entertained and happy.

The effect of cats on wildlife

Even if an outdoor cat manages to stay away from predators, their own hunt can be quite devastating to local wildlife. Researchers have found that just 25 cats in a national park can reduce the local bird population by half! That’s according to the National Park Service, which also notes that house cats can deplete the available food source for wildlife.

Animals like coyotes, foxes, skunks, raccoons, and hawks have a harder time finding food in an area where domestic cats have already hunted the available supply. As if that wasn’t worrying enough, the lack of available prey means an outdoor cat becomes much more attractive to other large predators.

Why cats fight at night

There are two main reasons that lead to cat fights. When cats roam neighborhoods and city streets, they will fight when it comes to food or a mate. In many places, these encounters are more likely because cats’ territories shrink as neighborhoods get denser.

according to dr Marci Koski, a certified cat behavior and training expert, studies have shown that cat home ranges and territories shrink when the environment becomes crowded with cats — in other words, more cats in close proximity means more encounters and more fights when they compete for resources. And these chance encounters are more likely in the hours before sunrise and after dusk, when cats venture out to hunt (remember how crepuscular they are?).

Cat bite abscesses from cat fights

Unfortunately, cat fights can be quite vicious, resulting in scratches and abscesses from cat bites that can run up vet bills from several hundred dollars to more than $1,000 and even spread disease (more on this below). A cat bite abscess results in a soft, swollen sore under the cat’s skin.

It may be several days before you notice it. Worse, cat bite abscesses can rupture and ooze the pus inside. You may not notice a bite abscess until it swells, but there are other signs that could indicate a problem.

Signs that might indicate a cat bite abscess:

Fever

Decreased appetite

Lower energy level

While some cat bite abscesses can rupture and then heal on their own with some home care, these injuries are best treated by your veterinarian.

Other Common Cat Fight Injuries

In addition to bite abscesses, bite wounds are also the main transmission route of the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV – also known as “feline AIDS”) and feline leukemia (FeLV).

Untreated battle wounds can easily become infected. A cat’s mouth carries as much bacteria as a dog’s, but their teeth are better at transmitting those bacteria, even through tiny puncture wounds, according to Mayo Clinic researchers.

Cat’s claws also carry a ton of their own bacteria, which fester and thrive in the warm, moist environment of a fresh wound. In fact, cat scratch fever (the horribly painful disease for humans, not the horribly painful song) is caused by the Bartonella bacteria, which is transmitted through a cat’s claws, which is actually transmitted to a cat by fleas.

Unneutered males are much more likely to fight than neutered cats. This is true even in multi-cat households, where unneutered males are more likely to fight and mark their territory. Spaying indoor-only cats will not eliminate fights, but it should reduce the number of fights.

Noises cats make at night

Aside from the obvious sound of a cat fight, you’re likely to hear a cat mainly when it wants to be heard, such as when it’s playing. B. when she is looking for food or a mate. The following videos contain examples of cat mating sounds. You might also enjoy the other videos put together by Meowsic (think “music” combined with “meow”), a research group studying how cats communicate with each other — and with us.

Why cats howl at night

Excessive vocalizing can be due to a variety of factors. If your cat howls at night, it may not be a cause for immediate concern, but you shouldn’t ignore this behavior either. Here are some of the most likely reasons for the howling.

Age: Howling in older cats may be due to Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, also known as feline dementia.

Howling in older cats could be due to Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, also known as feline dementia. Boredom: A house cat that doesn’t get much opportunity for exercise or play may be howling excessively because it’s bored.

An indoor cat that doesn’t get much opportunity for exercise or play may be howling excessively because it’s bored. Stress: Sudden changes in a cat’s routine — like the addition of a new baby or a recent move — can stress a cat and cause it to make vocalizations.

Sudden changes in a cat’s routine — like the addition of a new baby or a recent move — can stress a cat and cause it to become vocal. Medical Issues: Once you’ve ruled out other causes of your cat’s howling, it’s time for a visit to the vet. Your vet will need to perform an exam and check your cat’s blood pressure — and possibly collect blood and urine for testing — to check for underlying medical conditions, such as:

High blood pressure (hypertension) Excess thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) Blindness Kidney disease Bladder infection And a variety of other possible causes

When you can rule out the other causes of your cat’s howling, it’s time for a visit to the vet. Your vet will need to perform an exam and check your cat’s blood pressure — and possibly collect blood and urine for testing — to check for underlying medical conditions, such as:

Important note on vocalization: If your cat is yelling and straining while using the litter box, take them to the vet immediately! This could be a sign of urinary tract obstruction, which is not only painful and distressing for a cat, but can be fatal if veterinary attention is not sought immediately.

Hearing a cat meow at night isn’t uncommon—but if you’re a cat owner and your cat meows at night, it may be something to worry about.

Also known as night vocalization or night calls, when your cat meows at night it can be a problem if it’s a sign of their discomfort or disturbs your rest. Read on to learn more about the reasons your cat can be extra noisy at night.

It is well known that cats are night owls. It seems that the moment we turn off the light, they start sprinting around the house right away – like the feline version of canine zoomies. When they get up for their late-night antics, they can also meow a lot. And sometimes, your crying cat can be extremely disruptive and prevent you from getting your much-needed rest.

If your cat is doing this and you are wondering why is my cat meowing at night and what can I do about it? We have the answers to your questions! Here at Purina, we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know.

Why do cats meow at night?

Your cat may meow at night because she is bored, unstimulated, lonely, or just wants to get outside. If your cat won’t stop crying at night even when given plenty of time to play, other causes to consider are thyroid or kidney disease.

6 Common Reasons Why Your Cat Cries at Night and What You Can Do About It

If you have a cat that howls at night, it’s only natural that you’ll wonder why it’s doing it. There are six common reasons your kitten does this, including:

1. Cats are naturally more active at night

A lot of your cat’s nighttime crying may have to do with the fact that she’s naturally more active at certain times of the night. Although it is widely believed that cats are nocturnal, this is not entirely true. However, they are crepuscular – meaning they are naturally most active at dusk and dawn. Although many cats adapt to their owners’ routine, this twilight tendency means your cat can be particularly active in the early hours of the morning when the rest of the house is asleep.

Younger cats tend to be more active at night as their instinct tells them this is a great time to hunt. However, as she matures her rhythm will likely adapt to that of the rest of the household, which hopefully can result in the cat meowing less at night.

2. Your cat might be bored or unstimulated

Cats who cry at night may simply be because they’re bored — or because they haven’t exhausted themselves during the day. Active play before bed can help keep them more sleepy at night, as can trying to stay active and happy during the day. Essentially, your cat’s meowing at night may be an attention-seeking behavior.

Strange things keep popping up in your dreams – things you think shouldn’t be there: people you’ve never met, activities you’ve never done, skills you never had (raise your hand , if so ever became a full superhero and flew in a dream). Sometimes, however, your nocturnal wanderings are host to more… mundane things. Like cats for example. But what does it mean if you dream about cats? People tend to associate personality traits or characteristics with animals. So when animals appear in your dreams, they offer a fantastically rich dream decoding opportunity. This is especially the case when the animal is as familiar to humans as cats are.

Like any other dream topic, cat dreams can be your sleeping mind’s way of sending you a message. And that is why experts suggest to look for common lines in your dreams. “Whenever you wake up and can remember your dream, quickly jot down as much information as you can,” says Danielle Massi, LMFT, therapist and owner of The Wellness Collective. “Do this for several weeks and you will find that some patterns emerge from your dreams.”

From there, try to look past the cat symbolism. According to psychiatrist Josiah Teng, MHC-LP, it can be helpful to think of the cat as a puppet and the dream meaning as strings. “Look at his function,” he tells Bustle. “What role does the cat play in your dreams? Does it guide you through the dreamscape or wreak havoc with its actions? Do you feel comforted by his presence or threatened when he shows up? The cat’s actions reflect those of a force in your real life.”

Each dream symbol is a chance to better understand yourself and what you may need to address or change in your waking life. With this in mind, according to experts, here are different interpretations of cat dreams.

A History of Cats in Culture

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When interpreting this particular dream theme, it helps to be aware of the long history of mythology and symbolism associated with cats. For example, it’s possible you’ve learned about Bastet, the Egyptian tutelary goddess who was traditionally portrayed as a part cat, and now that the story has made its way into your dreams.

Then there is the long list of legends and folklore associated with cats. Some believe cats smother babies or cause both good and bad luck. Some say cats can also predict the weather. Depending on what you’ve heard, it might help explain why a cat appeared in one of your dreams and what the appearance might mean to you.

Then there is the psychological side to consider. While some schools of thought – such as those of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung – credit the idea of ​​universal dream symbols, other researchers disagree. In a 2012 Psychology Today article, Dr. Stephanie A. Sarkis: “Your chipmunk is not someone else’s chipmunk. The importance you attach to a chipmunk is your experience with chipmunks in everyday life.” So if your experience with chipmunks was mostly negative, chances are your dreams about chipmunks will be too – but someone who has had generally positive chipmunk experiences probably will have other dreams about them.

The same goes for cats, if you dream about cats the best way to interpret this dream is to look for themes and possibilities connecting your dreams with waking life and also to think about your own thoughts, feelings and associations with cats . When you find that out, you may be able to land on the cat dream meaning that is specific to you.

What it means when you dream about cats

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1. You want more independence

Have you noticed that cats often sleep alone, play alone, or stalk alone through the night? If yes, are you a little jealous?

According to licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., Cat dreams often represent a desire for greater independence. “You may feel like you’re too dependent on others or that you long to be strong enough to stand on your own,” she tells Bustle.

To find out, look at the different elements of your dream. “If you dream that you can’t find your cat and it’s lost, it can be a metaphor for your own independence and a feeling that something is holding you back,” says Schiff. “Saving the life of a cat in your dream can be a symbol of regaining your independence.”

2. They tap into your feminine energy

Historically, cats have represented the divine feminine, Massi says, so consider how that might be true. According to Massi, if the cat is happy, it could mean that your divine feminine energy is in balance. But if the cat is unhappy, it may mean that some aspect of your energy is out of whack.

A cat dream could also indicate that a feminine energy in your life – like a friend or partner – is throwing you off balance or in need of more attention.

3. A spirit guide is trying to get your attention

Some believe that the Egyptian deity Bastet sends a cat via a dream as a message or an invitation to work with her, especially in moments when you need protection. To interpret this type of dream, Massi suggests researching what Bastet symbolizes to see if any of these elements apply to your life.

4. You feel uncomfortable

If you’re the cat in your dream, consider how you’re thinking and feeling as you move through the dream world, Teng suggests. For example, if you are constantly hiding from dogs, it could indicate that you are not feeling safe or that there is a threatening presence in your waking life that needs to be addressed.

“Cat dreams are often less about the cat itself and more about your relationship with the cat, their actions and your reaction,” he says. “By searching for threads connecting these elements and finding its counterpart in real life, you can find the meaning of cat in your dreams.”

5. You suspect someone is lying to you

Cats are said to be strongly associated with curiosity, stealth, and independence, but also with hidden knowledge, misfortune, and some sort of deception. Therefore, a dream about cats could mean that you suspect that someone is deceiving you, or that you are deceiving yourself about something. As you jot down these issues in your journal, consider whether there are any shady behaviors in your daily life that need to be addressed.

6. You must listen to your intuition

If a cat appears in your dream, listening to your intuition could be a powerful message. Like a cat, your intuition is always there, but it is often hidden and you are not aware of it.

Alternatively, depending on how you perceive cats, it could also represent something about yourself that you don’t want to reveal, either because you’re ashamed of it or lack the confidence to fully express yourself. Think of a cat hiding in the shadows.

Like cats themselves, your intuition is unpredictable. It shows up when it feels like it and isn’t easy to train or contain. Again, paying attention to how the cat appears in your dreams is important as it tells you how well attuned you are to your own intuition.

7. You feel overwhelmed

Cats are a dream symbol of independence, but there is an exception to this rule. When they appear in the form of a helpless kitten—representing innocence, purity, and openness to the future—you may feel vulnerable and overwhelmed. If so, take better care of yourself or ask for help when you need it and you might find this type of dream unraveling.

And depending on what is going on in your waking life, dreaming of a kitten or cat giving birth may suggest a new project or relationship or something or someone that you are not yet sure about or that needs nurturing to establish themselves. And if you have a lot of cats in your dreams, you may feel overwhelmed by chaos or confusion.

8. You are lonely

Had a dream of a cougar or bobcat hanging out in the forest or on a windswept mountaintop? Wild cat dreams could indicate that you are feeling free and independent or that you are feeling lonely. There are also often themes of survival, power, cunning, and ferocity to watch out for.

Whether it’s a lion, tiger, leopard, panther, or jaguar, a wild cat might indicate that you feel you are in a dangerous place, but that any difficulties can be overcome with courage and a roar. You have to face your fears. When you can clearly see which wild cat is chasing you, there is a whole new world of symbolism and association to delve deep into.

9. You need to trust yourself more

If you lost a cat in your dream or you are trying to find one, it indicates that in real life you are aware that you need to trust yourself more, but you are not there yet. Now may be the time for you to put your own emotional needs ahead of others. If the cat is being abused or neglected, consider your close relationships. Are there toxic patterns of codependency? Remember, people treat you the way you treat yourself.

10. You need to face an unresolved fear

Although some people only dream in black and white, most dream in vivid color, so you need to explore the color associations and see if they speak to you. is it a white cat You may have “difficult times” ahead of you. is it black Maybe you have an unresolved fear of something. Black cats are often mistaken for a sign of bad luck, which could indicate that you don’t trust your intuition enough. If you dream of an orange cat, it is a sign of unbridled creativity in your life.

11. You must embrace your uniqueness

Remember that what the cat is doing in your dream can affect its symbolism as well. If the cat is chasing a mouse or a toy, your subconscious may be telling you to embrace your independence and uniqueness no matter what others think. You may also see an interpretation of your own playful side, which could be an indication that you should show that playful side more often.

The final result

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According to Freud, cats represent erotic tensions, but Jung believed cats were an archetype, a source of inner inspiration and guidance. Cats can certainly be associated with your sexual energy or be a sign that sexual adventures are on your mind or maybe just on the horizon. The way forward is to express yourself and love like a cat: calmly be confident, listen to your intuition, choose your moment. Then don’t be afraid to explore and ask for whatever you want, like an inquisitive cat tends to be.

In summary, whether or not you are a cat person will determine whether dreaming about cats feels like a dream or a nightmare. If anything about the dream upsets or confuses you, try to figure out what’s going on in your waking life to make you feel that way. Your dreaming mind urges you to shine a spotlight on this topic and use your feelings towards cats and the lessons they can teach you to help you understand and heal what is holding you back.

In that sense, cat dreams – like their real-life counterparts – can truly become your best friend and your trusted lucky charm.

Sources:

Danielle Massi, LMFT, Therapist

dr Holly Schiff, Psy.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Josiah Teng, MHC-LP, Mental Health Clinician

Because your cat needs you

All cat parents know that cats have a “sixth sense”. They seem to understand a lot more than we give them credit for… For example, when we come home after several hours outside, the cat is very likely to be sitting outside as if it knows we’ll be home very soon. Aside from having every keen eye, they are very observant of their surroundings. Cats are not only adorable but also make amazing pets! Therefore, to ignite your love for cats, we bring you some common beliefs about cats.- Lucky Charms: The Egyptians believed that the life forces of cats could protect them from all evil . Good for the harvest: Europeans in many rural areas thought that cats were essential for a good harvest. Therefore, they were treated with great respect and care. – Weather Forecast: A sitting cat with its back to the fire was considered a sign of impending frost a cat on board, especially a black cat. Although for some odd reason actually saying the word “cat” was considered unlucky! – Good for the baby: In Russia, putting a cat in a cradle was supposed to ward off evil spirits from a new baby. – Look into my eyes: In ancient China, people believed they could tell the time by looking into a cat’s eyes. The ancient Romans believed that a cat’s changing eye color was related to the changing phases of the moon. In ancient Egypt, it was believed that a cat’s eyes reflected the sun’s rays and protected humanity from darkness and despair. Good Luck: No one understands why black cats are still considered good luck in the UK; and walking in front of the bride and groom was considered a happy omen for the wedding. Another belief was that a cat sneezing near the bride on the wedding day meant their marriage would be long and happy… And a white cat was supposed to bring luck and happiness to their pet parents. – Luck: Long ago, in China, it was believed that the image of a cat meant good luck and long life. Mao, the Chinese name for cat, means “80 years”.- Good for wealth: Another sentiment associated with black cats was that they brought good luck. And if the one who found a black cat with a single white hair could pull out the hair without getting scratched, he would make a lot of money and also find true love. The Japanese believe that a waving cat also brings them luck brings. In Japanese homes, the figure of a cat with its left paw raised holds pride of place. Japanese sailors take with them on their ships a tricolor cat (tortoiseshell) – known as “Me-kay” – for good luck and safe travels.- Symbol of purity: The Italian legend of the Nativity often mentioned a pregnant cat who became a mother at the same time as Mary, near the manger. Apparently, it was a symbol of the purity of Christ’s birth. (Joan Henderson lives in Australia and has judged furry cats in many other countries) www.dogsandpupsmagazine.com; www.facebook.com/DogsandpupsmagMeet Biglu, the hair loss machine in my lifeWe brought him home on my 13th birthday, a skinny tiny beagle baby (1 month old). Thousands of health problems and skin problems followed and were eventually cured and what we have now is a handsome little boy. My mother initially refused to let him on the sofa or in bed. But Beagles, I’ve heard, are known to have a will. Now he sleeps with us at night and watches cricket sitting on the sofa. We tried our best to train him to be a guard dog but eventually found it was useless as every person he saw became his new best friend. Playing fetch with him is probably the best part of my day. It’s weird how he manages to make my day just by wagging his tail. Just a year and a half in this household and Biglu has changed us all in more ways than we can imagine. But I had read somewhere… “Sometimes all it takes is a smelly dog ​​with foul breath, bad manners and pure intentions to help us see.” – Mom Chatterjee Are You a Proud Pet Parent? Do you have a cute cat story to share? Maybe your guinea pig is giving you problems? Whatever your companion, we are here to listen. Send your photos, inquiries and stories to [email protected]

Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. But they have also been said to have a mystical symbolism for centuries.

If you’ve had an encounter with a cat that seemed unusual to you, you may be wondering what that meant. Well you are in the right place to find out!

We will examine how our feline friends have acted as symbols for different cultures. And we will learn more about the spiritual meaning of cats and the possible interpretations of seeing a cat.

So go here to find out more…

Cats in Myths and Legends

The shared history of cats and humans goes back almost ten millennia. Cats feature in the myths, legends, and art of cultures around the world. So it is not surprising that they have their own rich symbolism.

The ancient Egyptians worshiped cats, perhaps because they protected their grain stores by killing rodents. When domestic cats died, they were mummified and taken to Bubastis, a holy city dedicated to their burial.

The Norse goddess Freyja had two cats as companions. Scandinavian farmers sought her help in protecting their crops, leaving saucers of milk for their cats in their fields.

The Picts, who lived in parts of what is now northern England and Scotland, had a kingdom of the cat. For the Chinese Song Dynasty, cats were preferred pets. And to this day, cats are considered lucky charms in Japan.

However, the connection between cats and happiness is not always positive. Black cats are generally considered lucky in the UK. But elsewhere in Western Europe, cats are associated with bad luck.

Cats also feature in religious stories, albeit more in oral tradition than in religious texts. According to legend, the newborn baby Jesus was lulled to sleep by a purring tabby cat jumping into the manger.

The Virgin Mary shared the gratitude every new mother feels for something that keeps her baby from crying. She is said to have petted the cat and left it with the distinctive “M” on its head, which is common to all tabbies.

An Islamic legend says that the Prophet Mohammed also loved cats. He was so fond of them that he would not bother a cat to get the cloak it was sleeping on.

Cats as spiritual symbols

The spiritual importance of animals is usually determined by those qualities that are most obvious to us. For cats, these are independence, self-love, sensuality, freedom, patient observation, and curiosity. Few people who have a pet cat will be surprised by this list!

But with such a range of meanings, how do you know what message your encounter with a cat might carry? And how can you be sure that there is even a message?

Did your cat encounter have a spiritual message?

Unfortunately, there’s no simple checklist you can use to determine if your meeting with a cat had any deeper meaning. That’s because every encounter will be different and every message will be personal to you.

But there are some questions you can ask yourself to find out if your encounter was spiritually meaningful.

Was there anything surprising about the cat’s appearance at first? If you live with a cat and your meeting followed a usual routine, it’s unlikely to mean anything specific to you. (Except maybe it’s feeding time!)

But if something about the encounter struck you as unusual or strange, it might contain a deeper message. Perhaps the cat held your gaze in a way that indicated it was trying to tell you something. It may have followed you for no apparent reason and demanded your attention.

Perhaps the cat appeared out of nowhere and disappeared just as abruptly. Or maybe there was just something spooky about the experience, although you had a hard time pinpointing exactly what it was.

All of these could be a sign that you are being asked to notice the cat and ponder its meaning.

The cat as a power animal

Do you feel connected to cats? Maybe you feel energized when you see them. You may feel an affinity with their behavior and attitude.

Or maybe you have seen cats many times in your daily life. These can be real, meat and blood cats. But it could also include other types of apparitions – in illustrations, in books or movies, even heard at night.

If any of this strikes a chord, it’s possible that the cat is your spirit animal. In some cultures it is believed that certain animals can act as our spiritual guides and protectors. These are power animals, and cats are one of them.

When you have a cat spirit animal, sometimes it can appear when you need its help or guidance. This may be the case when you are facing a period of change or some other type of challenge.

Just the sight of the cat can give you new energy and motivation. And the encounter may also remind you of your own feline traits that might help you address your issue.

For example, if you are feeling let down by someone, the cat might remind you of your independent spirit. You may be upset, but you have all the inner resources to deal with it on your own.

Or maybe you are concerned about how to solve a difficult situation. In this case, the cat can be a reminder of the benefits of patient observation. Sometimes it’s best to wait for more information before deciding how to respond.

1. The spiritual meaning of seeing a cat

The key to unlocking the spiritual meaning of seeing a cat is to listen to your own inner wisdom. As we have seen, different cultures ascribe different symbolism to these furry friends.

And as individuals, we will also have our own experiences with cats. These will have shaped the associations they have for us. And it’s these associations that are central to the personal meaning of your cat encounter.

Thinking about the details of what happened and how you felt is the best way to gain a deeper understanding. But if you’re having trouble pinning down the meaning, other people’s interpretations can provide useful clues.

Used correctly, these can help you narrow down the possibilities. But remember, the explanation has to feel right to you. If not, go ahead and consider other options.

With that in mind, let’s look at some possible meanings behind your encounter with a cat.

2. A cat crossing your path

In most cases, the sight of an animal crossing your path emphasizes its spiritual significance. A cat that gets in your way is a cat you can’t ignore! So it can mean that it is particularly important for you to heed his message.

It is also sometimes seen as a metaphor for the future. The road ahead can be seen as a symbol of the days or weeks to come. A cat positioning itself on your path may symbolically place itself on your timeline.

This can be helpful when trying to interpret the message. It could refer to any of the meanings associated with cats – freedom, independence, sensuality and so on. However, it could also refer to events in the future instead of what is happening right now.

3. A black cat crossing your path

When it comes to cats, there are also certain details that can affect meaning. And if it’s a black cat that crosses your path, it’s associated with good luck.

However, there is no consensus on whether that brings good luck or bad luck! It is considered unfavorable in most parts of Western Europe. But in Germany, Ireland and the UK it depends on which way the cat is going.

If the cat runs from left to right, it is considered a sign of good luck. But if the cat runs in the opposite direction, it’s bad luck. So pay attention to the details of your encounter!

4. A cat running towards or away from you

Cats in general are also considered good luck or bad luck. And that reflects in another way they can appear – either towards you or away from you.

In this case, the cat is generally considered a lucky charm. So if it goes your way, maybe it’s time to buy that lottery ticket!

But if the cat walks away from you, it probably takes your happiness with it.

5. A cat washing her face

The folklore of some Native American tribes ascribes a specific meaning to the sight of a cat washing its face. It is believed that the person who sees the cat will soon get married.

The traditional interpretation applies only to women – and in particular to a group of young girls. It was expected that the first to see the cat washing its face would be the first to get married.

It’s possible that this superstition links observation skills to success in finding a partner. The eagle-eyed girl who spotted the cat might be just as perceptive when it comes to identifying a potential suitor!

Whatever the origins, if you are looking for love, seeing a cat washing its face could be a positive sign.

6. Cats of different colors

Black

We have already seen that black cats can be associated with both good and bad luck. But if a black cat keeps showing up in your home, it’s generally considered a positive omen. (Of course, if you have a beautiful black cat as a pet, you’re already very lucky.)

Ginger

Ginger cats are always male (and tortoiseshell cats are always female). So, seeing a red cat could be a message about masculine energy or traditionally male traits.

Ginger cats are also considered to be bearers of good news regarding business or financial matters. If you’ve been waiting for news about an interview or a raise, this could be a good sign!

Gray

Gray is a color often associated with the psychic realm. If you saw a gray cat, it means that you will receive a message in a dream.

The dream could bring you valuable knowledge, so try to remember it. It can be a good idea to keep a notebook by your bed to record the details.

Gray can also be associated with uncertainty and ambiguity. So you are particularly likely to see a gray cat if you are not sure about the further path.

Tabby / Brown

Brown is often associated with domestic life and feminine energy. If the cat you saw was brown or tabby, it’s usually taken as a sign that good news is on the way. And this news probably relates to your private life in particular.

This could be related to practical issues. Perhaps you are waiting for a repair or renovation and this is an indication that things will go well.

Or if you live with others, it could refer to the spiritual energy in your home. The brown cat here could be a sign of harmony and domestic happiness.

White

White as a color is often associated with innocence and purity. It can also be associated with divine communication, with the white reflecting the white light of spiritual energy.

These meanings can add an extra dimension to a white cat’s appearance. One possibility is that the message refers to the freedom that comes with innocence.

It could also be a sign that you are developing your spiritual awareness. And in some cases, it might even indicate that you are developing psychic powers.

Cats as spiritual messengers

We hope you’ve enjoyed our look at cats as spiritual messengers. These beautiful animals have played an important role in human history and have even been considered sacred by many cultures.

But their spiritual message is usually tied to typical aspects of feline behavior. It can refer to independence and self-reliance, freedom, curiosity, or patience. And it can also be linked to a love of comfort.

The best way to find the right interpretation is to think about your experience and your emotional response. We hope that some of the options we’ve outlined here will help you in your search for meaning.