Author: Sarah Whiskers

No, javelinas do not eat cats. These peccaries, or ‘skunk pigs’ as they are otherwise known, are omnivores, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. Their diet predominantly consists of cacti, fruits, roots, tubers, and sometimes small animals or insects. However, they do not typically prey on cats and it is uncommon for them to engage in such behavior. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, javelinas usually pose no direct threat to cats if not provoked.

Yes, cats do have lips. However, they are not the same as human lips. These thin, barely discernible flesh edges run along the opening of a cat’s mouth and underneath their fur. They lack the muscular structure and expressiveness distinctive of human lips, rendering them essentially functional in the consumption of food and drink.

Yes, cats can indeed gain weight after being spayed. This occurrence is commonly linked to a decrease in metabolic rate following the procedure. Hormonal changes after spaying can lead to increased appetite while simultaneously lowering energy levels, resulting in a higher likelihood of weight gain. However, this does not mean weight gain is inevitable. By observing changes in eating habits and maintaining regular physical activity, owners can effectively manage their cat’s post-spay weight.

Just like human beings, cats do experience a “water break” when in labor. This means that the amniotic sac containing the kitten ruptures, leading to the release of fluid. It’s one of the signs that kittens are on their way. However, it may be less noticeable in cats compared to humans due to the relatively lesser amount of fluid. The timing can vary too – sometimes it might occur shortly before the first kitten is born, while in other cases, it happens during birth. By observing behavioral changes such as nesting, restlessness, and decreased appetite, one can better anticipate the imminent birth of kittens.

Although it’s uncertain whether cats comprehend familial relationships in the same way humans do, they undoubtedly form deep bonds and can miss their companions, which may include siblings. These social ties become particularly significant if the cats were raised together from a young age. In instances of separation, they may exhibit behaviors commonly associated with sadness or stress, such as decreased appetite or less interest in play. However, individual responses can vary widely among cats, with some appearing unaffected by such changes. It’s essential, then, to observe and understand the specific behaviors and emotions of a cat in different contexts to gauge their feelings most accurately.

No, cats do not have uvulas. The uvula, a small fleshy extension at the back of the human throat, plays a role in speech and prevents food from entering the nasal cavity. Cats, however, lack this feature. Their anatomical design differs from humans and they have other means of preventing food from entering their nasal cavity. Hence, the absence of a uvula does not in any way hamper a cat’s quality of life.

Contrary to popular belief, cats do not express glands when they are happy. This common misconception may stem from the confusion with some animals that do express glands under various emotional circumstances. In fact, cats do possess scent glands in many parts of their bodies, such as cheeks, paws, and the base of the tail. However, these glands are often used for territorial marking, not as a sign of emotional expression like happiness. It is more accurate to interpret a cat’s happiness through their behavior and bodily cues, such as purring, relaxed body posture, slow blinking, and other signs of comfort and contentment.

While extremely rare, under extreme circumstances or in situations of heightened territorial aggression, cats can inflict lethal harm on each other. More commonly, cats may engage in fights that result in scratches or bites, often due to disputes over territory or mating rights. It’s essential to understand, however, that this is not the norm under regular circumstances, especially when the cats are properly socialized and live in a balanced environment. In many instances, cat behavioral issues can be mitigated through appropriate training, providing sufficient resources, or consulting with a veterinarian or animal behaviour expert.