Outdoor Cats: The Unseen Impact on the Environment

I hope this post finds you and your pets well. Today, I want to chat about something that's been on my mind lately. It's about our cats and the impact they might be having on the great outdoors. Don't get me wrong, I adore cats.I have had cats on and off my whole life. But, I've been reading up on how outdoor cats affect the local ecosystem, and, honestly, it's been an eye-opener.

First off, did you know that domestic cats are considered one of the top human-introduced threats to wildlife? Surprising, right? Our cuddly companions, when they roam outside, can become efficient predators. They often hunt birds, small mammals, reptiles, and insects. This isn't just about the occasional bird or mouse; it's about the broader impact on local wildlife populations.

The numbers are pretty staggering. Studies suggest that in the United States alone, free-ranging domestic cats kill billions of birds and mammals each year. These aren't just random numbers; they're a significant hit to biodiversity. Birds, in particular, are at risk. Many bird species are already struggling due to habitat loss and climate change, and predation by cats adds another layer of stress.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – cats are natural hunters, right? It's in their nature. And that's true. But the problem is, our neighborhoods aren't natural environments. They're ecosystems heavily influenced by human activity, where some species may already be at a disadvantage. When we add a large number of predators (i.e., our pet cats) to the mix, it can throw things off balance.

So, what can we do as responsible pet owners? Well, there are a few things. Keeping our cats indoors is a straightforward solution. It not only protects wildlife but also keeps our pets safe from traffic, diseases, and other dangers. If you're worried about your cat getting bored indoors, there are tons of ways to keep them entertained – think climbing structures, interactive toys, and even leash training for supervised outdoor time.

Another option is a 'catio' – an enclosed outdoor space that allows your cat to enjoy the outdoors without posing a risk to wildlife. It's like a mini-adventure zone for them. And, if you're into DIY projects, building a catio can be a fun weekend activity.

In closing, I just want to say that being a pet owner is a joy and a responsibility. Our choices can have a wider impact than we realize. By being mindful of how our pets interact with the world around them, we can make a positive difference for all creatures – big and small.

This is the second in a series of posts about cats. You can find the first post here.

Let's keep the conversation going. What are your thoughts on indoor vs. outdoor cats? Any tips on keeping indoor cats happy and active? Share your stories and ideas – I'd love to hear them!

We also posted a short YouTube video about this and you can view it here.

Cats indoors or outdoors? What's the difference?

For cat owners, one of the most significant decisions is whether to keep their feline friend indoors or let them explore the great outdoors. This choice not only impacts their daily lifestyle but also their health and longevity. In this post, we'll delve into the benefits and risks of both indoor and outdoor living for cats, and explore why there's such a stark difference in life expectancy between the two.

Benefits of Indoor Living:

1. Safety from External Dangers: Indoor cats are protected from various threats such as traffic, predators, and other aggressive animals.
2. Controlled Health Environment: Being indoors reduces the risk of contracting diseases from other animals and limits exposure to parasites like fleas and ticks.
3. Reduced Risk of Accidents: Indoor cats are less likely to suffer from injuries due to fights or accidents.
4. Closer Monitoring: It's easier to monitor health and behavior changes in indoor cats, ensuring timely medical attention.

Risks of Indoor Living:

1. Lack of Exercise: Indoor cats may lead a more sedentary lifestyle, leading to obesity and related health issues.
2. Behavioral Issues: Without proper stimulation, indoor cats can develop stress, anxiety, or destructive behaviors.
3. Limited Environmental Enrichment: Cats have a natural instinct to explore and hunt, which can be stifled indoors.

Benefits of Outdoor Living:

1. 
   Natural Exercise: Outdoor cats tend to be more active, maintaining a healthier weight and muscle tone.
2. Mental Stimulation: The outdoor environment offers a variety of stimuli, satisfying their natural instincts to hunt and explore.
3. Behavioral Enrichment: Access to the outdoors can lead to a more content and well-adjusted cat.

Risks of Outdoor Living:

1. Increased Exposure to Diseases: Outdoor cats are at a higher risk of infections like FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus).
2. Danger from Traffic and Predators: Cars, wild animals, and even other cats can pose significant threats.
3. Risk of Theft or Loss: Outdoor cats can become lost or be stolen.

Life Expectancy Differences: 

Studies have shown that indoor cats often live significantly longer than their outdoor counterparts. The average lifespan of an indoor cat can range from 12 to 15 years, with many living into their late teens or early twenties. In contrast, outdoor cats have a much shorter average lifespan, often only 2 to 5 years.

Reasons for Life Expectancy Differences:

• Exposure to Harm: Outdoor cats face numerous hazards such as traffic, predators, and human cruelty.
• Health Risks: The risk of contracting diseases and parasites is much higher for outdoor cats.
• Nutritional Uncertainty: Outdoor cats may not have consistent access to nutritious food.
• Stress: The life of an outdoor cat can be stressful, impacting their overall health and wellbeing.

Choosing between keeping your cat indoors or allowing them outdoor access is a complex decision that requires weighing the benefits and risks. While indoor living generally promises a longer, healthier life due to controlled environments and reduced risks, it's crucial to ensure that indoor cats receive adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and love. For those who prefer to let their cats experience the outdoors, supervised outings or secure cat enclosures can provide a safer alternative. 

We have a video on YouTube about this very same issue you might enjoy. You can view it here.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the individual cat's personality, health, and the owner's ability to provide a safe and enriching environment.

Answers to the Cat Quiz Video

 I'm so glad you decided to play with us.  I hope you enjoyed the video, but if you missed it you can find it here: https://youtube.com/shorts/fVdf-xW310Y?feature=share .

I know it was just a quick, 5 question quiz, but it was fun and fast.  I plan to make several more of these fast quizes to see how much we really know about our pets.

I may even make some quizzes about strange animals all over the world that you may not really know much about. I would hope such a quiz would inspire you to learn more about the animals we share this world with.

Here are the answers to the quiz:

1. The average lifespan of an indoor cat is 20-25 years.  The lifespan of an outdoor cat is 5-7 years.

2. The breed of cat known for a lack of tail is the Manx. There are actually scientific studies ongoing right now to determine why they have no tail.

3. Your cat has an average of 24 whiskers total.  12 whiskers on either side of the face. Cats use whiskers to determine where they are in relation to their environment and they use it to detect motion and air currents.

4. This was my favorite. A group of kittens is called a Kindle.  Isn't that cute?

5. The least developed sense a cat has is its sense of taste. It has fewer taste buds on its tongue and cannot taste any sweet taste.

So, how did you do? Please leave me a comment and tell me.  I so enjoy these little quizzes and I hope you do too.  Come back soon for the next one.  Who knows what it will be on?

Making Spirits Bright: Christmas Gifts for Your Pets

As the festive season approaches, it's not just family and friends who are on our Christmas shopping list – our pets are too! They bring so much joy and companionship into our lives, it's only natural to want to include them in the holiday cheer. This year, make your pet's Christmas unforgettable with our ultimate guide to choosing the perfect gifts.

We have explored this topic before "Pets and Holidays: Things to do with your pets".

 Before diving into the sea of pet gifts, it's important to consider what your pet loves. Does your dog enjoy a good game of fetch, or does your cat spend hours lounging in cozy corners? Understanding their preferences will help you pick a gift that they'll adore.

1. For the Playful Pup:

Interactive Toys: Keep your dog mentally stimulated and physically active with interactive toys like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls.

Durable Chew Toys: For the enthusiastic chewer, invest in some durable chew toys that can withstand hours of gnawing.

2. For the Curious Cat:

Cat Trees and Scratching Posts: Give your cat a gift that caters to their climbing and scratching instincts.

Interactive Laser Toys: Keep your cat entertained and active with a laser toy that encourages them to chase and pounce.

3. For the Small and Furry:

Comfortable Bedding: Upgrade your small pet's habitat with comfortable, warm bedding for the winter.

Chewable Accessories: Small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs will appreciate chewable toys that keep their teeth in good shape.

4. For the Feathered Friends:

Interactive Toys: Birds enjoy toys that they can peck at or dismantle. Look for colorful, safe options.

Perches and Swings: Enhance your bird's cage with new perches or swings for added fun and exercise.

Personalized Gifts: 

Add a personal touch with customized gifts like a collar with your pet's name or a custom portrait. Personalized gifts are a great way to show your love and make your pet feel extra special.

Safety First: Always consider the safety of the gifts you choose. Avoid small parts that can be swallowed and ensure that all materials are non-toxic and pet-friendly.

Christmas is a time of giving and sharing joy, and our pets deserve to be a part of that. Whether it's a new toy, a cozy bed, or a personalized accessory, the perfect gift can make your pet's holiday season as special as they make every day for you. Remember, the best gift you can give your pet is your love and attention. Happy holidays and happy gifting!

Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Safe

 With all the news going around about this "mysterious" illness affecting dogs, it seems like a good time to talk about routine pet care and staying ahead of any problems that may occur.

We discussed this illness before in the previous post and you can read that here.

When you adopt a pet, it is a life-long (for the pet) commitment. You assume total responsibility for the care and health of that animal. In return, the pet will love you and look up to you and obey you. We all know that having a pet is a wonderful experience. Pets enrich your life more than anyone can say.

One of the things we need to do is be organized about keeping them healthy, the same way we do for keeping our children healthy and safe. In that vein, you need some type of way to keep up with routine health items.  Having a checklist for the normal and routine things you need to do is a time saver and I have created a simple checklist for you here.  Just click this link to get a copy. 

As for this "mystery illness" going around, there are some things you can do to be proactive and try to protect your pet. 

1. Know your pet's normal demeanor--By being familiar with what is normal behavior, you will be alerted when something is "off".

Here are a list of things to look for:

Dog respiratory illness symptoms include:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Wheezing or nasal whistling
• Dehydration
• Difficulty exercising
• Fever
• Nasal or eye discharge
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy

Experts encourage dog owners to contact their veterinarians immediately if any of the symptoms occur, especially those that can lead to pneumonia.

2. Make sure you are feeding quality food to your pet.  I am aware that we all are suffering from this economy, but food is really not a good place to cut back.  We really are what we eat, so quality in makes quality life.

3.Try to limit or eliminate totally having your pet interacting with strange or unfamiliar animals. Just like during the pandemic, we had to limit our interactions with others.  Pets can't wear masks or use antiseptice hand cleaners, so the next best thing is to keep them isolated as much as possible.

4. If your pet goes to a groomer or a daycare facility, be sure to ask them about the measures they are taking to prevent outbreaks of illness to pets there. They should be aware of this situation and they should be doing something to prevent their clients from becoming sick.

5. Have the numbers of both your regular veterinarian as well as a 24 hour ER veterinarian available in case you need them.  In emergencies, every second matters and you don't want to lose time searching for these.

6. If you pet becomes sick, put that pet into some type of quarentine if you are a multiple pet household.  There is so much unknown about this illness that you don't want to take any chances with your family.

7. Don't panic. Your pet will respond to your emotional state and become agitated and frightened if you are in a frenzy. Remain calm, treat the symptoms and get your pet seen by the vet as soon as humanly possible.

8. Know that this illness requires agressive treatment and the cost will be high, so be prepared for the bill.  If possible, have pet insurance on your pet, or at least have a credit account you can use for emergencies.

The news about this illness is not good, except for the number of dogs dying is not astronomically high. There have been deaths but unfortunately it happens. The current thought by vets all across the country is that the sooner you catch it, the better the outcome. So, know your pets.

Resources:

• Reports of mysterious, deadly dog disease now surfacing across Western Washington
• WA veterinarian warns of respiratory illness affecting dogs across nation
• Mysterious and fatal dog respiratory illness now reported in 14 states: See the map.

Unraveling the Mystery: Understanding the New Illness Affecting Dogs

In recent times, a new, mysterious illness has been emerging in the canine world, raising concerns among pet owners and veterinarians alike. This illness, still unnamed and not fully understood, has been observed in various locations, leading to a growing need for awareness and understanding among dog lovers.

I have been aware of this illness for some time due to a video posted online by The Asher House. Mr. Asher has a YouTube channel that features him talking about his rescue efforts and introducing the myriad dogs he has living on his sanctuary. It is obvious to anyone who watches him that he loves these dogs and wants them to live healthy and happy lives.

But, back 3 months ago, he talked about how the animal community in Oregon was being hit by a mysterious disease for dogs.  His dogs were becoming sick at an alarming rate.  Several of his dogs died from this illness, but due to the fact that he takes in sick, old, and disabled dogs to his sanctuary, he felt that was unavoidable. He posted several videos about what was going on in Oregon and with his dogs. He worked tirelessly with the Veterinarians in Oregon including those at the Veterinary College. 

As far as we know, Oregon was the first state hit, however now this illness has crept into numerous states at an alarming rate. Here is a map showing the states involved so far:

A map of U.S. states showing those where a new, mystery respiratory illness has been reported among the local dog population, as of November 22, 2023. States marked in red are where cases have been officially confirmed, while those in cream are where cases have been reported but not confirmed.NEWSWEEK/GETTY

What We Know So Far

The symptoms of this illness are varied, but some common signs have been noted. Affected dogs have shown:

• - Unusual lethargy and lack of energy
• - Loss of appetite
• - Unexplained weight loss
• - Gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea
• - Respiratory problems in some cases

Veterinarians have been working tirelessly to understand the root cause of these symptoms. While it's still early in the investigation, there are no clear links to any specific breed, age, or environmental factors.

Theories and Investigations

Several theories are being explored to understand this mysterious illness:

1. Viral Infection: Similar to how the canine influenza virus operates, a new virus could be responsible for these symptoms. Researchers are conducting extensive tests to identify any new viral strains.

2. Environmental Toxins: There's a possibility that environmental factors, such as toxins or allergens, could be triggering these symptoms. This theory is being explored through geographical analysis of affected cases.

3. Dietary Causes: Given the gastrointestinal symptoms, a dietary link hasn't been ruled out. This includes potential reactions to certain ingredients in dog foods or treats.

4. Genetic Factors: Although there's no clear breed-specific pattern, genetic predispositions to certain illnesses could play a role.

What Dog Owners Should Do

While the investigation continues, dog owners are advised to be vigilant. If you notice any of the above symptoms in your dog, it's crucial to consult your veterinarian immediately. Early detection and supportive care can make a significant difference.

The Role of the Veterinary Community

Veterinarians are on the frontline of this situation, not only providing care but also collecting data to help understand the illness. They are working in collaboration with various health organizations and research institutes to fast-track the identification of the cause.

Staying Informed and Prepared

As a dog owner, staying informed is vital. Follow updates from reputable sources such as veterinary associations and animal health organizations. Additionally, maintaining regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle for your dog is more important than ever.

This new mystery illness in dogs is a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of animal health. It underscores the importance of ongoing research, surveillance, and the bond between veterinarians and pet owners in ensuring the well-being of our beloved canine companions. As we await more concrete information, vigilance and proactive care remain our best tools.

Listed below are articles I found about what is happening for you to read and learn how to protect your dog(s).

Resources:

• Mystery dog illness: Symptoms, states, and what to know as vets scramble to map out the cause
• Dog Illness Map Shows States Where Pets Are Affected
• A potentially fatal mystery illness in dogs is spreading in the US. It starts with a cough