Curious Cat Questions Answered by Dr. Marianne Janosco at Markham Woods Animal Hospital
Sharing your home with a cat is like having a little furry mystery in your life—one that’s equal parts affectionate, playful, and just a tad mischievous. Whether it’s their zoomies at 3 AM or their inexplicable love for knocking things off your shelves, cats keep us on our toes! At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we know pet parents have tons of questions about their feline companions, so we’ve rounded up some of the most common ones. Let’s dive in!
1. Can My Cat Steal a Bite of My Dog’s Food?
A nibble here and there? Probably no big deal. But making it a habit? Not a good idea! Cats have specific dietary needs—like taurine, which is often missing in dog food. Stick to a high-quality cat food to keep your feline in tip-top shape.
2. Why Does My Cat Zoom Around the House Like a Maniac?
Ah, the infamous “zoomies!” Cats, just like dogs, can get sudden bursts of energy. This is their way of releasing pent-up excitement, hunting instincts, or simply saying, “Hey, I need attention!” Engage them with a laser pointer or a toy mouse to help them burn off that energy in a fun and interactive way.
3. Can I Share My Snacks with My Cat?
It depends! A plain piece of boiled chicken? Sure! A chunk of your cheesy pizza? Not so much. Many cats are lactose intolerant, and some human foods (like garlic, onions, and overly fatty treats) can be harmful. When in doubt, check with us before sharing your snack!
4. Should I Bathe My Cat?
Unless your kitty has rolled in something unpleasant or has a medical condition that requires bathing, you can skip the bubble bath. Cats are expert groomers and typically keep themselves clean.
5. Why Does My Cat Keep Knocking Things Off Shelves?
Because they can! Cats are naturally curious and love to experiment with cause and effect (aka, “What happens if I push this off the table?”). Providing enrichment like puzzle feeders and interactive toys can help redirect their playful destruction!
6. Can Cats Drink Milk?
Despite what cartoons would have you believe, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. A small sip might be okay for some, but for many, it leads to tummy troubles. Stick to fresh water for hydration.
7. Why Does My Cat Stare at Nothing?
Is your cat seeing ghosts? Probably not (though they’d never tell us if they were!). Cats have incredible hearing and eyesight, so they may be detecting something we can’t, like a distant sound or tiny movement. Sometimes, they’re just zoning out—just like we do!
8. Should I Worry If My Cat Sleeps All Day?
Cats love their beauty sleep—on average, they snooze 12-16 hours a day! But if your usually active cat suddenly starts sleeping even more or seems lethargic, it’s time for a vet visit to rule out any health concerns.
9. Why Does My Cat Attack My Hand After Asking for Belly Rubs?
A cat’s belly is a super sensitive area, so while they may briefly tolerate a rub, they can quickly become overstimulated. That “attack” might not be aggression—it could be their way of saying, “Enough!” or even an invitation to play.
10. How Often Should My Cat Visit the Vet?
For healthy adult cats, we recommend a wellness check-up twice a year. Since cats are experts at hiding illness, regular exams help us catch any health issues early. Cats with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits.
At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we love helping pet parents navigate the quirks and questions that come with cat ownership. If you have concerns about your feline friend, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. We’re here to keep your kitty happy, healthy, and purring for years to come! Schedule your pet’s appointment today 407-682-5298