Can you believe August is over half done? There are actually some pretty important kitty holidays in August. International Cat Day was the 8^th, which is also when Canada celebrates National Cat Day. The 17^th is Black Cat Appreciation Day, and then the 22^nd is Take Your Cat To The Vet Day, which Fluffy would probably insist should be Take Your Dog To The Vet Day. Of course, you don’t need a special day to celebrate our feline friends and their adorable quirks. A Vinton, VA veterinarian lists some things you may not have known about your furry friend in this article.

Kitties In Groups

We all know that a group of cows is a herd, and a group of dogs is a pack. What do you call a gathering of kitties? Clowder is the most commonly used term, but you can also use clutter, pounce, or glaring.

Whiskers

Fluffy’s adorable whiskers aren’t just for show. Those wiry hairs are very deeply rooted and surrounded by nerves. These little ‘antennae’ help kitties tell things like wind direction. They also help our feline pals gauge the width of openings, to determine whether they can fit through. (This of course doesn’t work so well for obese furballs.)

Stealth

Another thing kitties are known for? Their ability to walk without making noise … except, of course, when they are meowing at their humans. Fluffy’s stride is actually similar to that of giraffes and camels.

Cat’s Eyes

Our feline buddies have quite striking eyes. Although Fluffy can’t technically see in the dark, she does have better night vision than we do. Those pretty eyes are also among the largest in proportion to overall head size among all animals.

Longevity

Here’s something to celebrate: Fluffy’s average lifespan increased between 2002 and 2012, growing a year longer. Better veterinary care no doubt played a role in that milestone. (Note: kitties still only get one life.) 

Tail Position

There’s no physical difference between stray, feral, and pet cats. However, only pets walk with their tails held up. This may be Fluffy’s way of signaling ‘I’m taken’ or ‘Haha, I have humans!’ Another cute ‘tale’ about these charming furballs? If your kitty runs up to you with an upright, wiggling tail, she’s happy to see you.

Please contact us, your Vinton, VA pet hospital, for your cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!