10 facts about cats that you don't know yet

These nutrients are essential for cats in their diet‍

Cats are real meat lovers - out of biological necessity. They are obligate carnivores, which means that their diet must contain animal protein. A plant-based diet is not enough for them because they need certain nutrients such as taurine, which is only found in animal products. A lack of taurine can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease or vision problems. So make sure you choose high-quality cat food that contains this essential amino acid.

You can find more information on this topic in our article: How do I feed my cat properly?

How cats communicate with purring and hissing

‍Purring
Why do cats purr? Purring is not only for relaxation, but is also a self-healing mechanism. It is believed that cats purr to promote their health, especially after injury or stress. Thus, purring is not only seen as an expression of contentment, but also as a form of therapy. Did you know that cats even purr when they are in pain to soothe themselves?

Hissing
A clear sign of "Enough already!" - hissing is a defensive reaction. It signals fear, defense or pain. It can also serve as a warning signal to other animals or humans that the cat is showing its limits. Hissing should always be taken seriously, as it often indicates that the cat is being overtaxed or is in danger.

How your cat communicates with its body language‍

Body language reveals a lot:

• ‍Araised, trembling tail? A joyful greeting.‍
• Ears laid flat? Attention - the cat feels threatened.‍
• Slowly blinking? Pure affection.

Cats are sensitive observers - and expect the same from us. If you can interpret your cat's body language correctly, you will understand and respect their needs and moods much better.

These coat & eye colors have an increased risk of deafness

Blue eyes and deafness
Cats with blue eyes (especially white cats) are genetically more frequently affected by deafness. Cats with an all-white coat and two blue eyes are particularly at risk. This link is not yet fully understood, but there appears to be a strong genetic component that favors deafness in these cats. If you have a white cat with blue eyes, make sure that it reacts well to its environment, as deafness is often not immediately obvious.

More about cat health: Cat colds - anything but a cold

Breeds bred by humans

‍The domestic cat as we know it is originally descended from the African wild cat. Many of today's cat breeds have been deliberately bred by humans - e.g. the Sphynx, Bengal or Scottish Fold. The focus is often on appearance and behavior - sometimes unfortunately at the expense of health. Certain breeds, such as the Sphynx, for example, are more prone to skin problems, while others, such as the Maine Coon, are more likely to develop joint problems due to their size. If you have a specific breed of cat, you should find out exactly what their particular health needs are.

Would you like to know which cat breed suits you best? Read our article: Which cat is right for me

Age, loners, population - frequently asked questions when it comes to cats

How old does a cat get?
Domestic cats live to be 15 years old on average - some even much older. The oldest known cat was Scooter and lived to be over 30 years old! This shows that cats can live a very long life with the right care and a healthy environment. Regular visits to the vet, a balanced diet and mental and physical exercise are crucial for their life expectancy.

‍Arecats loners?
No - many cats enjoy the company of other cats. Siblings or early socialized animals in particular benefit from having a cat buddy. But even if cats are generally considered loners, it is important to pay attention to their socialization and needs. If you keep several cats, make sure that they have enough retreat options and space.

How many cats are there in Switzerland?
According to estimates, around 2 million cats live in Switzerland - making them the most popular pet in the country and almost four times more common than dogs.

Conclusion
Cats are fascinating creatures full of secrets. The more you know about their needs and idiosyncrasies, the better you can care for them - and deepen your bond. Appropriate husbandry, a balanced diet and understanding their communication are crucial for a happy and healthy cat's life. By learning about your cat's individual needs, you'll find that your relationship becomes even closer - and you'll be able to make the right decisions for their health and well-being.

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