Monthly Pet Tips—for Cats

Q. What is the gestational period of cats?

A. The gestational period can vary but is typically in the range of 57-69 days, with 63 days (9 weeks) as the average. The average litter can be from 1 to 8 kittens.  Mom cats (known as queens)

Q. My cat likes to go outside is this ok?

A. Cats are territorial by nature and even though they are domesticated they may still like to go outside.  If your cat does go outside make sure that they have received all of their vaccinations, like rabies and FIV/FelV.  These will help protect in case they get into a fight or some other trouble.  Which brings up the subject of safety.  If you live in a busy urban area, you should probably keep your cat indoors.  If you live in a very rural area it may be safe because there are no cars but you still need to think about predators like coyotes. Also you want to protect your cat against the weather.  Snow, rain and heat are a few harsh elements that can pose trouble for your cat.

Q. Why does my cat like to scratch?

A. Cat scratching is a natural instinctive behavior.  It helps keep their nails from getting too long and sharp.  Big cats, like lions, use trees as scratching posts.  You can train your cat not to scratch on furniture by offering a scratching post instead.  Many of the scratching posts available have cat nip as an incentive to get the cat interested in it.  Make sure that the base of the post is secure and stable when they use it.  You wouldn’t want your cat to use it and have it tip over on them.

Animal Life Savers, Inc.