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Vet Reviewed Articles

The Catster Magazine relaunch is officially underway with a fresh new look and an all-new digital experience. We’re thrilled to reintroduce our Digital Magazine to the Catster community! As a thank-you for being a subscriber, we’re giving you FREE access to our Summer 2026 issue. Inside, you’ll find expert and...

The Dream of Talking to Cats Just Got Closer to Becoming a Reality

If you’ve ever wished your cat could simply tell you what they wanted, you’re not alone. From the meow that wakes you before...

According to Vets, Most Owners Miss These Signs That a Cat is Sick

Cats are famously good at hiding discomfort. It is not stubbornness or indifference; it’s a deeply ingrained survival instinct. In the wild, showing...

From Fast Food to First Aid

How One McDonald’s Became an Emergency Hub for People and Pets After Venezuela’s Earthquake Most of us pull into a McDonald’s expecting burgers,...

What Normal Aging Looks Like in Cats and When You Should Worry

These days, cats can live anywhere from 13 to 17 years on average, with some making it well into their 20s. That is...

The Purr-suit of Happiness: A New Way to Measure Feline Quality of Life

How can you tell if your cat is truly thriving? It’s a question that every pet parent has probably wondered at some point....

The Dream of Talking to Cats Just Got Closer to Becoming a Reality

If you’ve ever wished your cat could simply tell you what they wanted, you’re not alone. From the meow that wakes you before...

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Weekly mews and updates from our feline reporters

Canopy Cat Rescue: The Team Rescuing Cats From the Treetops | Heroes of the Pet World 5

Canopy Cat Rescue: The Team Rescuing Cats From the Treetops | Heroes of the Pet World

In nearly every movie where a cat gets stuck in a tree, the fire department comes rushing to the rescue. In reality, that’s rarely how it works. For..

The Cat Who Changed Everything_ Gwen Cooper on Homer, Hope, and Her Newest Chapter gwen vashti homer

The Cat Who Changed Everything: Gwen Cooper on Homer, Hope, and Her Newest Chapter

When Gwen Cooper first brought home a tiny blind kitten that nobody else wanted, she never imagined he would become a New York Times bestselling author in his..

Catster Photo Contest

Catster’s Weekly Photo Contest Winners: The Laziest Cat (July 20, 2026)

Every week our team gets the privilege of sorting through our readers..

Expert Advice

From everyday concerns to complex health issues, trusted veterinary professionals share their expertise — ensuring you always have access to the most current care advice.

Should Cats Wear Collars? Our Vet Answers Explains the Pros & Cons

The way some people see it, we have two types of people in this world. You’re either an ailurophile or a cynophile. An...

Why Can’t I Get My Cat Into a Carrier? Our Vet Explains

How do you get your cat to the vet? The safest way to get them to the vet or places requiring a car...

How to Store Homemade Cat Food: Our Vet Answers!

If you’re looking into homemade cat food or have already made some, you’ll need a safe way to store the food that works...

My Cat Smells Like Death: 5 Reasons & What to Do (Vet Answer)

Saying that something smells like death can mean different things to different people, but it’s usually just a creative, if dark, way of...

Ask Dr. Paola

Ask Dr. Paola' brings expert cat health advice from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) every Monday

Cat Tips in Health, Lifestyle & Behavior

Whether it’s quick tips or expert guidance, you’re in good paws — and with new articles added every week, you’ll always have the latest info when you need it most.

Going to the vet’s office isn’t much different than seeing your doctor. You want to make the most out of your time with minimal hassle. Your veterinarian also wants to use their time effectively to help you and your animal

cat owner bringing her pet to the vet

Why Do Cats Use Litter Boxes? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

You might be quite impressed with your cat’s ability to check out a tub of litter one time and know exactly what to...

Why Do Cats Stare at Nothing? 4 Possible Reasons

Experienced cat owners know that no matter how much we bond with and learn about our pets, there will always be at least...

Why Does My Cat Play With Poop? 6 Possible Vet-Reviewed Reasons for This Behavior

Typically, cats are very clean animals. They groom themselves regularly and they have quite specific demands when it comes to litter trays. Despite...

Why Do Cats Sleep in a Circle? Vet Reviewed Reasons

If you own a cat, your smartphone is likely filled with photos of your cat sleeping. They always find interesting positions and places...

Hiking With a Cat: If It Is Possible & Vet-Approved Tips

Many cats enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, either on walks or while enjoying catios and other enclosures. Fresh breezes and blue...

Can Cats Be Trained Like Dogs? Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks

Cats are independent creatures that like to do things on their own terms. However, they are also highly intelligent and can learn to...

What Is a Cat Dental Emergency? Health & Care Facts (Vet Answer)

Dental pain and periodontal disease don’t just affect us. Our furry family members can develop oral infections, broken teeth, and even masses in...

Do Cats Need Professional Groomers? Vet-Reviewed Cleaning Facts & Tips

Grooming is a must for all cats, long-haired and short-haired alike, but do cats need to be professionally groomed? Not necessarily. You can...

Can Cats Eat Meatballs

Can Cats Eat Meatballs? Vet-Reviewed Dangers & Facts

Spaghetti and meatballs are a classic comfort food and a childhood favorite meal for many people....

Can Cats Eat Apple Pie

Can Cats Eat Apple Pie? Vet Reviewed Advice

Apple pie is a popular dessert, and the smell alone will attract any hungry and curious...

Can Cats Drink Gatorade

Can Cats Drink Gatorade? Vet Approved Nutritional Facts & FAQ

If you have a cat that needs help rehydrating, Gatorade might be the first idea to...

Can Cats Drink Coconut Water? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Coconut water is the clear liquid that is found inside young coconuts. It is packed with...

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Meet @homerblindcat—the blind black kitten who entered Gwen Cooper’s life through one unexpected phone call and went on to inspire readers around the world.

At first, others saw a kitten defined by what he lacked. Gwen saw courage, personality, and a life worth choosing. Their bond became the heart of the bestselling memoir Homer’s Odyssey, encouraging people to look beyond disability and recognize the extraordinary spirit within every cat.

Homer’s story is a beautiful reminder that the animals who are often overlooked can leave the deepest mark—and that one act of compassion can create a legacy of hope. 💜

🐾 Has a special cat ever changed the way you see the world?

#CatsterTales #Catster #BlindCat #SpecialNeedsCats #CatRescue #CatLovers
Meet @homerblindcat—the blind black kitten who entered Gwen Cooper’s li...
Did you know your cat's ears contain 32 muscles? 👂🐱

That's what allows cats to swivel, tilt, flatten, and rotate their ears with amazing precision. Unlike humans (who can barely wiggle our ears), cats use these muscles to locate the exact direction of a sound—whether it's a bird outside the window or the crinkle of a treat bag from another room.

Their ears can even move independently of each other, helping them build an incredibly accurate "sound map" of the world around them.

It's just one of the many adaptations that make cats such skilled hunters.

💜 Did you already know this, or is this your new favourite cat fact?

#catfacts #themeowyouknow #catears #vetapproved
Did you know your cat's ears contain 32 muscles? 👂🐱 That's what allo...
Some heroes answer the call from the ground. Others climb nearly 200 feet to bring a frightened cat safely home. 🐾💕

Founded by arborists Shaun Sears and Tom Otto, @canopycatrescue  combines professional climbing skills with patience, compassion, and a deep understanding of cat behavior. Today, their four-person team completes close to 900 rescues each year—helping stranded cats and reassuring worried humans waiting below.

Every rescue is different, but each one is a powerful reminder that heroism can mean climbing higher, staying calm, and refusing to leave a vulnerable animal behind.

Read our Heroes of the Pet World feature and meet the dedicated team bringing cats down from the treetops and back into loving arms. ❤️

🔗 Link in our LinkTree (in bio)

#Catster #CanopyCatRescue #CatRescue #AnimalRescue #RescueCats #HeroesOfThePetWorld #CatSafety #CatLovers #PetRescue #Cats
Some heroes answer the call from the ground. Others climb nearly 200 feet t...
🐱 Quality of life is more than just being disease-free — and a new tool may help vets understand how cats are really doing at home.

Researchers developed and validated the Feline Quality of Life questionnaire, or FelQoL, to assess a cat’s physical health, emotional well-being, and daily behavior.

The final tool includes 37 scored questions across 7 areas: active, talkative, satisfied, relaxed, mobile, appetite, and sociable. It was validated using responses from 1,324 cat owners and can be completed by pet parents in less than 10 minutes.

This matters because cats often hide pain and stress, and many behave differently at the vet clinic. By turning everyday observations into useful clinical insight, FelQoL may help vets and pet parents spot changes earlier, monitor treatment success, and support happier, more comfortable lives.

👉 Swipe through to learn more about FelQoL and what it could mean for feline care. Read more via the link in our Linktree.

❤️ Have you ever noticed subtle changes in your cat’s behavior at home? We’d love to hear your experience in the comments.

#Catster #WeeklyMews #CatHealth #CatCare #FelineHealth #CatBehavior #VeterinaryMedicine #CatsOfInstagram #CatLovers
🐱 Quality of life is more than just being disease-free — and a new too...
I’ll take two, please! You know what, let’s make it four!
I’ll take two, please! You know what, let’s make it four!
Meet Kizzy—the fluffy Maine Coon × Ragdoll mix who's proving that some of the most meaningful partnerships are built on patience, trust, and understanding.

People often notice the pink stroller first. But behind it is a devoted support companion and a beautiful bond between Kizzy and her Meomy.

Their story is a reminder that every cat is an individual, and when given the opportunity to grow at their own pace, they can surprise us in extraordinary ways. 💜

🐾 Have you ever had a pet who unexpectedly changed your life?

#CatsterTales #CatLife #CatLovers #MaineCoonMix #RagdollCat #CatCompanion #HumanAnimalBond
Meet Kizzy—the fluffy Maine Coon × Ragdoll mix who's proving that some o...
🐱 CANADA has officially become a DECLAW-FREE NATION — a major milestone for feline welfare.

On May 25, 2026, Ontario filed a new regulation under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act. Starting January 1, 2027, non-therapeutic declawing in cats will be prohibited, closing the final gap in Canada’s feline welfare protections.

Declawing is not a simple nail trim. It involves amputating the last bone of each affected toe and may lead to chronic pain, altered gait, and behavioral changes.

Scratching, on the other hand, is normal feline behavior. Cats use their claws to stretch, climb, communicate, maintain claw health, and feel secure as they move through the world.

This change reflects a growing shift in animal welfare: instead of changing cats to fit our homes, we can adapt our homes to better support their natural needs.

👉 Swipe through to learn more about what this means for cats in Canada.
Read the full story through the link in our Linktree.

❤️ What are your thoughts on Canada becoming declaw-free? Let us know in the comments.

#Catster #WeeklyMews #CatHealth #CatCare #Declawing #AnimalWelfare #CatWelfare #CatsOfInstagram #CatLovers
🐱 CANADA has officially become a DECLAW-FREE NATION — a major mileston...
💧 July is National Pet Hydration Awareness Month!

Cats may have a reputation for being independent, but when it comes to water, they often need a little help. Because they evolved from desert-dwelling ancestors, many cats have a naturally low thirst drive—which means they don't always drink as much as they should.

Staying hydrated is essential for healthy kidneys, digestion, circulation, and urinary health. The good news? Small changes, like offering fresh water daily, feeding wet food, and keeping multiple clean water stations around your home, can make a real difference.

One important thing to remember: not every cat drinks the same way. Some love fountains, some prefer bowls, and some insist on sipping from your glass (you know who you are 😹).

💙 Swipe through for vet-verified hydration facts and tips every cat parent should know.

👇 And, we'd love to hear from you:

 Where does your cat prefer to drink from?
 🥣 A bowl
 💦 A fountain
 🥛 Your water glass
 🚰 The tap
 😹 Somewhere completely unexpected

Save this post so you'll always have these hydration tips on hand!

#Catster #CatHealth #CatCare #CatLovers #PetHydrationAwarenessMonth #CatWellness #HealthyCats #PetHealth #CatParents #Hydration #CatTips #vetapproved
💧 July is National Pet Hydration Awareness Month! Cats may have a reput...
🐱 Sometimes, healing comes with three paws, three legs, and one very special friend.

Blueberry, a 1-year-old French Bulldog mix, arrived at Last Chance Animal Rescue after being found with puncture wounds and a badly damaged front leg. A few weeks later, Meadow, a young black kitten, was admitted with part of a hind limb missing and also needed an amputation.

During recovery, the two tripod survivors found comfort in each other. They cuddled, played, shared toys, and quickly became inseparable.

Their story is a beautiful reminder that pets with limb loss can still live full, joyful lives. Most cats and dogs adapt surprisingly well after amputation, often returning to running, playing, and exploring once healing begins.

Blueberry and Meadow also show the powerful value of companionship. Positive social bonds can help reduce stress, support emotional recovery, and make the healing process a little less lonely.

In March 2026, a Maryland family adopted them together, giving these two best friends the forever home they deserved.

👉 Swipe through to learn more about Blueberry and Meadow’s journey.

❤️ Have you ever cared for a tripod pet or witnessed an unexpected animal friendship? We’d love to hear your story in the comments.

#Catster #WeeklyMews #TripodPets #CatRescue #AnimalRescue #PetAdoption #CatHealth #CatsOfInstagram #CatLovers
🐱 Sometimes, healing comes with three paws, three legs, and one very spe...
With the holiday long weekend fast approaching, we thought we'd share some of our top tips to keep your kitty happy and safe amongst the celebrations.

🎆 Firstly, fireworks are exciting for us—but they can be terrifying for our cats.

While many cats hide quietly during fireworks, that doesn't necessarily mean they're coping well. Loud, unpredictable noises can trigger fear, stress, and even panic, causing some cats to bolt through open doors or windows in search of safety.

Here are a few simple ways to help your cat feel more secure this Fourth of July:

🏠 Create a cozy hiding spot and let them choose where they feel safest.
🎵 Play calming music, the TV, or white noise to help mask loud bangs.
🚪 Keep your cat indoors and double-check doors and windows before guests arrive.
❤️ Stick to your cat's normal routine as much as possible—familiarity can be incredibly reassuring during stressful events.

Every cat reacts differently. Some may hide under the bed, while others become clingy or unusually vocal. The most important thing is giving them a safe, quiet space and allowing them to cope in their own way.

🐱 Swipe through for our top tips, and if you'd like even more advice—including ways to prepare before the celebrations begin—head to the full article at Catster.com (in our linktree).

#Catster #CatCare #CatSafety #FourthOfJuly #FireworksSafety #IndoorCats #CatParents #CatTips #PetSafety #HappyCats #CatLovers #July4th #CatsOfInstagram #PetWellness
With the holiday long weekend fast approaching, we thought we'd share some ...
Most people notice a cat's facial whiskers—but have you ever spotted the ones on the backs of their front legs?

These are called carpal whiskers, and they're just as important as the ones on your cat's face.

Because they're connected to sensitive nerve endings, they help cats gather information about their surroundings, especially when climbing, catching prey, or navigating in low light.

They're another reminder that whiskers aren't "just hairs"—they're sophisticated sensory tools.

💜 Take a peek at your cat's front legs today—you might spot them for the first time!

#catfacts #themeowyouknow #felineanatomy #catsenses #catsrule
Most people notice a cat's facial whiskers—but have you ever spotted the ...
🐱 If you have a senior cat, this new research may be worth paying attention to.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects up to 40% of cats over the age of 10, making it one of the most common health conditions seen in older felines. Despite its prevalence, researchers still don't fully understand why cats are so susceptible to it.

Now, a team at the University of Nottingham has identified unusual fat deposits in cat kidneys that may be playing a bigger role than previously thought. These deposits, called lipid droplets, were once considered harmless. However, researchers found that cats with kidney disease had significantly more of them than healthy cats.

The discovery suggests these fat deposits could contribute to inflammation and kidney damage, potentially helping explain how CKD develops and progresses.

While this research won't lead to new treatments overnight, it does give scientists a promising new area to investigate. Better understanding the disease could eventually lead to earlier detection, improved treatments, and better outcomes for the millions of cats affected worldwide.

👉 Swipe through to learn more about the findings and what they could mean for the future of feline kidney health.

❤️ Have you cared for a cat with kidney disease? We'd be grateful to hear your experience in the comments.

#CatHealth #KidneyDisease #ChronicKidneyDisease #SeniorCats #CatCare #VeterinaryMedicine #CatsOfInstagram #CatLovers #Catster
🐱 If you have a senior cat, this new research may be worth paying attent...
Will you be participating this year? Which working cat is your cat? Or maybe another one not on this list. Share with us below, and happy National Take Your Pet to Work Week! ❤️ 🐈‍⬛ 

#takeyourpettoworkweek #catholidays
Will you be participating this year? Which working cat is your cat? Or mayb...
Some heroes wear capes. Others wake up every two hours to bottle-feed a kitten fighting for its life. 🐾💕

At @babykittenrescue , the tiniest and most vulnerable kittens are given a chance not just to survive, but to thrive. From neonatal orphans to kittens with complex medical needs and disabilities, every life is treated as precious and worth fighting for.

Their stories are inspiring, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful—and they're a powerful reminder of what compassion can accomplish.

Read our Heroes of the Pet World feature and meet the incredible people giving these tiny fighters a future. ❤️

🔗 Link in our LinkTree

#Catster #CatRescue #KittenRescue #RescueCats #AdoptDontShop #SpecialNeedsCats #AnimalRescue #HeroesOfThePetWorld #FosterCats #CatLovers
Some heroes wear capes. Others wake up every two hours to bottle-feed a kit...
Love your cats but hate cleaning their litter box? Maybe it’s time to level up with a self-cleaning litter box. 

Dr Karyn tried the Ease-1 Self-Cleaning Litterbox from @oneisall_official with her five felines, and she is never going back! 

You can read her review here (link in our LinkTree as well, or comment LITTERBOX and we'll send the link to your inbox):

https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/level-up-with-the-self-cleaning-litter-box-from-oneisall-review/ 

🌟 For a special Catster price, use code CATSTER25 for 25% off at oneisall.com. Valid through December 31, 2026
Love your cats but hate cleaning their litter box? Maybe it’s time to lev...
Catster's Pet of the Month is... Clover! 

Help us give her some love by sharing a heart emoji in the comments below. 
If you think your cat could be next month's Pet of the Month, head to https://www.catster.com/catsters-pet-of-the-month-submit/ to enter. 😊 

And, you could win a complimentary televet call from @pango_vet 

 
#catphotocontest #catofthemonth #petofthemonth #cutecats
Catster's Pet of the Month is... Clover! Help us give her some love by sh...
We've been busy... and can finally announce that Catster's Digital Magazine IS BACK!!!

Featuring expert and vet-approved cat care advice, seasonal safety tips, and plenty of feline fun,  and inspiring community stories from some wonderful Catsters like @winkythedwarfcat , @luciferfluffovich , and @duane.hook 

Head to Catster.com or to our link in bio to get your FREE digital copy today 😊 ❤️ 

#catstermagazine #catmagazine #summermagazine #petcare
We've been busy... and can finally announce that Catster's Digital Magazine...
Today is National Hug Your Cat Day! Do you have a kitty that will gladly celebrate with you? 💕
Today is National Hug Your Cat Day! Do you have a kitty that will gladly ce...
Can your cat increase your risk of schizophrenia? 🤔🐱

It's a claim that has made headlines for years, often linked to a common parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. But does the science actually support the idea that living with cats can cause serious mental health conditions?

The answer is a lot more complicated than the headlines suggest.

Dr. Karyn took a closer look at where the claim came from, what researchers have found, and why experts say cat lovers shouldn't panic.

🐾 Read the full story at Catster — link in our linktree (in our bio)

What do you think? Have you heard this claim before? Are you afraid of your cat? Let us know below. 👇

#Catster #CatsOfInstagram #CatFacts #CatNews #CatLovers #CatHealth #WeeklyMews
Can your cat increase your risk of schizophrenia? 🤔🐱 It's a claim th...
Helping rescue cats doesn’t always have to mean huge donations or complicated commitments. Sometimes, it can start with something as simple as one daily click. 🐾

@yummypets VOICE is a program helping generate food donations for rescue animals and shelters across the U.S. — and it’s completely free to participate. @voice.usa 

No purchases.
No complicated signup.
No catch. (We were just as surprised as you are!)

Just cat lovers helping cats. 💜🩷

Shelters and rescues are stretched thin right now with rising costs, overcrowding, and nonstop kitten season demands, so initiatives like this can make a real difference one meal at a time.

Want to learn more about how VOICE is helping rescue pets? Read Dr. Karyn's full scoop on Catster.com
🔗 Link in our LinkTree (found in our bio) -- or comment VOICE below and we'll send the story to your inbox. 

#Catster #CatRescue #RescueCats #ShelterCats #CatLovers #AnimalRescue #CatsOfInstagram #KittenSeason #CatCommunity #CatPeople #RescuePets
Helping rescue cats doesn’t always have to mean huge donations or complic...

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