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 white cat in the garden We are so immersed in technology and surrounded by machines it is often easy to overlook the natural wonder that is right next to us in the form of our cats. “How does my cat work?”, is a question I have often asked. Not so much as a mechanic wanting to understand the physical interactions of pistons, gears and gaskets but more as seeking understanding of the awe that is evident when you look at a cat, touch the cat, and watch the cat navigate through the world, guided by instincts and incredible forces we can barely comprehend.
When you get a cat, you should have a basic understanding of how your cat works both physiologically and psychologically, as it will give you a great amount of insight into your cat’s behavior. Some behaviors are driven by instinct or have a psychological base, but others come from a physiological need. Knowing the inner workings of your cat’s mind and body will help you meet your cat’s needs even better.
The Basic Anatomy of Your Cat
As a mammal, your cat has much of the same physiology as you. A cat has organs and tissues, along with a circulatory system that is similar to humans. Their skeleton is also similar, though some bones have a different length and placement. However, when it comes to digestion, a cat is a carnivore, where people are omnivores. This means that there is a slight difference in digestion that requires some difference in food.
The Cardiovascular System
Your cat has a similar cardiovascular system as most other mammals, including humans. Your cat has a heart, lungs, veins, arteries, and other blood vessels. Your cat’s cardiovascular system functions in the same way as yours, by moving oxygenated blood and white blood cells around the body to keep all the organs in working order.
The Respiratory System
Your cat’s respiratory system also functions in the same way as other mammals. Your cat has lungs, a nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, and alveoli that work together to bring oxygen into the body and release carbon dioxide from the body.
The Skin
A cat’s skin provides the body protection, and it also has a layer of fat underneath it, just as human skin does. However, a cat’s skin does have some differences than human skin. First, while human skin has a light covering of hair, most cats have a full coat of fur, which keeps your cat warm by holding in body heat.
Your cat’s coat is part of its role as a hunter. The markings on your cat’s coat make it effective at camouflaging itself in the wild. The types of coat (long hair, short hair, wiry, etc.) along with the color and pattern of the coat have their roots in the wild, too. Cats from cooler areas had longer coats; cats from the desert had tan coats, etc. Though the original coats were more similar to the tabby, tiger-striped coat, breeders have brought about cats with an even wider variety of coat types and colors.
Claws
Although humans often refer to “clipping my cat’s nails” when discussing grooming, cat’s really do not have nails at all. Instead, your cat has claws, which can be retracted (although the cheetah is the only cat that cannot retract its claws).
There is a lot of debate about de-clawing your cat. Most experts agree that the de-clawing process is invasive and cruel to your cat, especially if you have a cat that goes outdoors, where your cat uses its claws for defense and climbing. The de-clawing process involves the removal of the claw, toe bone, ligaments, and other connective tissues. At times there are severe complications, and it can be very painful for your cat.
The procedure is banned in the U.K., but it is still commonly practiced in the U.S.
If you are concerned about your cat scratching up your furniture, children, or other pets, you will just need to keep your cat’s nails trimmed. You can also purchase nail caps to put over the nail to prevent serious damage to your things. However, scratching is a normal cat behavior, so you should be prepared for your cat to scratch on things by buying a scratching post and learning to let go of your furniture.
Foot Pads
The pads of the food are thickened skin, and they work as a shock absorber when the cat is walking or running. There is also the carpal pad on the front paws, which some experts believe may be used to stop skidding after a jump, but experts still do not have a definitive reason for the pad, because it does not have a real role in your cat’s movement.
 Whiskers
The whiskers are still a source of mystery for many cat experts. Most agree that the whiskers are specialized hairs that surround the face and eyes. Cats will use their whiskers like little antennas, guiding them when they cannot see and can even guide them when they are jumping on uneven ground.
Apocrine Glands/Pherephores
Cats have glands that secrete a milky substance, which allows them to rub their scent on things. These glands are not sweat glands, as cats cannot sweat to release heat – they pant instead. The pherephore glands are located on the face, with the apocrine glands all over their body.
Anal Sacs
Not the most pleasant of all the skin glands, they can be one of the more troublesome. There are two anal sacs, one on each side of the anus. These glands are used to store the fluid used in marking, and they can become inflamed and smell quite raunchy. If your cat is emitting a strong, fishy smelling odor or is even “leaking” from the anal area, you will need to have the vet take a look at the anal sacs.
 White Lion White cats are not limited to small to medium size feline you could cuddle at home. There are also big white cats, which you should also consider family to your pets. These big cat counterparts are termed wild cats for they commonly thrive in the forest. They are not usually adopted as pets due to their high or violent temperament.
There are different species referring to wild white cats. Conclusively, the cats are considered part of the felidae family, which is a biological classification. There are sub classifications under felidae family, which are felinae and pantherinae. The former is inclusive of wild cats present 25 million years ago.
White Cheetah: Still the World’s Fastest Animal
White cheetah is just a variation of the normal Cheetah, which comes in distinctive pattern. The fastest animal could run as fast as 70 mph. They could also swim, but they do not prefer doing so.
For over 5,000 years, this big cat has been in captivity. Sumarians were the first to tame this animal. According to experts, it is the easiest to domesticate among exotic cats. History showed that it served as a hunting partner in Asia before Libya’s Assyrian Dynasty.
Snow Leopard: The Endangered Species in Central and South Asia
White Leopards are called Ounce or Snow Leopards. The animal is one of the threatened species in Central and South Asia. As of 2003, the population of adult Snow Leopards is just 4,080 to 6,590. Only 2,500 adults may be reproducing in their habitats.
The wild cat is usually found at elevations from 3,000 to 4,500 meters. They inhabit alpine and subalpine areas. Nonetheless, you could also find them in lower elevations in northern countries.
White Cougar: America’s Mountain Lion
White Cougar is also called as White Panther. There are several species under this big cat breed. In some parts of North America, it is named Cougar. Alternatively, in South America, it is called Jaguar.
The big white cats are results of leucism, albinism, or chinchilla mutation. They are not selectively bred, which makes them more aggressive than an average big cat.
White Tigers: The Popular Bred of Bengal Tigers
In contrary to popular belief, White Tiger is not a result of albinism. It occurs when two Bengal tigers have recessive genes, which produce the coat color of the big cat. This is the reason why it is considered a sub species of Tiger.
The White Tigers are rare, but could still be found in animal sanctuaries and zoos. These beautiful felines attract visitors the most. It could weigh up to 300 kg and may grow up to three meters in length.
White Lion: The Species Animal Welfares Aim to Reintroduce
Similar to White Tiger, White Lion is not a result of albinism. It is a rarity in genes, particularly in Kruger Park/ Greater Timbavati Region. At present, the lions are classified under Panthera leo species according to Convention for the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
In 2006, after its technical extinction, the White Lions continued to reproduce in Timbavati and nature reserves near the areas. This further proved that its gene still exists.
Similar to normal white cats, big cat species are extra special. They also need care and attention in order to survive. At present, more and more animal welfare organizations are pursuing big cats protection programs.
 The white lions at Parc Safari in Quebec are amazing. Such beautuful big cats and the white colorings make them so spirit like and awe inspiring! The Big Cat Videos Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida makes amazing videos about the cats they rescue, save and rehabilitate at their facility. They are the world’s largest accredited sanctuary in the world dedicated to helping and saving abused and abandoned big cats. If you aren’t able to visit them in Florida you can watch all their videos ... Beautiful Big Cat Pictures Whenever I see a majestic big cat I am thankful that I can have a domesticated smaller version at home. Whenever I am at a zoo and can see the wild cats I am amazed at the stature, size and strength of the big beasts. What strikes me is how much our small indoor cats ... Superstitions, Legends & Symbolism Of White Cats Around The World When you think about the adorable nature and endearing curiosity of your pet cat, it’s not far-fetched to contemplate the delightful relationship between humans and pet cats in general.
This relationship is a legacy that extends back to over 9,500 years ago. Understandably, for a legacy this long, the innate behavioral patterns and biological characteristics of ... Tonga the White Serval is a Survivor We recently received two servals at our local zoo and they are beautiful! Back at home I was looking for more information about these amazing creatures that reminded me a bit of a small cheetah, with their long legs and small heads. I found a story about some servals at Big Cat Recue in Flordia, ... Big White Cats White cats are not limited to small to medium size feline you could cuddle at home. There are also big white cats, which you should also consider family to your pets. These big cat counterparts are termed wild cats for they commonly thrive in the forest. They are not usually adopted as pets due to ... The Pallas Cat: Oldest Living Species of Cat? The Pallas Cat can be found in Central Asia and are much smaller than the average exotic cat. They generally have a lifespan of 10 years, and are also known as Manul. The most interesting aspect of the Pallas Cat is perhaps that they are the oldest cats in the world. Because there are sources ... The Margay: Long-Tailed Spotted Cat The Margay is an exotic cat known for their slimness and grace. They have also been named the long-tailed spotted cat which derives from their appearance. The Margay closely resembles the Ocelot, and is much smaller than the average exotic cat. They are found generally in Central and South America, and have been known to ... KodKod Cat: South American Wild Cat of Mystery The KodKod Cat is a mysterious South American wild cat because not much is known about them due to insufficient research and data analysis. According to the IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group, the KodKod Cat is placed on Appendix II of the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species. They are, however, similar in appearance to Geoffrey’s Cat. They ... The Marbled Cat: Rare Cat Resembles the Clouded Leopard There are so many species of exotic cats out there, and surprisingly we probably have not sighted them all yet. The Marbled Cat is an exotic and rare cat and anyone who is able to see them is rather lucky as they are not often seen. They are another mysterious member in the exotic cat ...
A Mouthful of Moss
The first time he brought the moss in I thought it cute and kind of funny. A mound of dirt sewn together with a root system belonging to a crown of green fuzz, dropped with a thud on my white carpet by my eccentric Birman cat Ringo. It left a mark.
Why he did it, I will never know. The real question is, “Why does he still do it?”
Living in a loft just outside a vibrant downtown, my small apartment’s windows opened to a rooftop covered with soft green moss. Too much moss in fact. So much so, that my landlord made plans to have it professionally removed. Yet, the day when the contractors finally arrived to spray my roof with bleach solution, they found it bare. No moss, only lined roof tiles with the occasional claw mark scratched across it. Looking down at them on my now moss-free roof was a strange white cat with brown markings and deep blue eyes staring at them with no apparent emotion.
The confused workers checked several times to make sure they had the correct address. They even called my landlord. “I don’t see any moss,” one of them said into a cell phone.
Pulling into my driveway, there stood three men in work bibs and my landlord staring incredulously into the steel blue eyes of a 10lb cat standing above them on the roof with a look of smug apathy and superiority.
“Is this your cat?” my landlord asked when I opened my car door and got out.
“Umm..yes,” I answered.
The question of where the moss went quickly became answered when I opened the door to my quaint loft apartment that just the prior morning wore a carpet of brilliant white. My floor was now littered with dirty green moss. In the few hours I had been at work, my cat destroyed any chance of me getting my deposit back.
Quite possibly the worst part, my landlord stood behind me seeing the apartment apocalypse that my cat had caused.
Mounds of green moss were everywhere. Green on top and dirty on bottom, the stuff of outside lay inside strewn on nearly every inch of floor in my apartment. Lumps of moss even lay on my favorite spot on the couch. I have yet to get an answer on why he did this. Revenge for leaving him while I went to work perchance?
The moment that will be known in history as The Day My Cat Brought in the Moss, my landlord and I stood in the doorway of my loft afraid to enter; not knowing where to step. I did a little side dance and jump and made my way into my kitchen where my cat hadn’t left any moss behind. My landlord was quick to follow and we stood in horror at the moss graveyard in my living room.
To make matters worse, upon hearing our entrance, my Birman cat Ringo, AKA the Killer of Moss, came in an open window with a mouthful of roof green. He jumped down and made his way into the living room where he batted the green mound for several minutes. With one final death kick he pushed the moss from underneath him. There it was. The moss was now officially dead according to Ringo.
With no understanding of what was currently taking place, he approached me and my red-faced landlord and raised his back and tail and rubbed the side of his body against our legs.
I fearfully stood there. The red in my landlord’s face drained from his cheeks. He knelt down and scratched Ringo’s back, behind his ears and under his chin.
Without saying another word, my landlord stood back up and walked out.
For several minutes I stood in incredulous shock at my filthy living room floor. My cat Ringo stood beside me with a look of pride for a moment before scampering to the open window and back onto the roof.
Needless to say as long as I’ve had Ringo I’ve never had to remove moss from my roof. That day I saved my landlord a lot money. That afternoon I painstakingly picked up every bit of moss then shampooed my carpet back to white.
Still, I didn’t get my deposit back.
 Some people decide to get a cat because they want a pet and they think that cats are less work than dogs. I’m here to assure you that caring for cats is not as easy as some people think. Cat lovers know that a healthy, happy cat can take a lot of hard work. It may not require as much physical labor as caring for a dog, but it will take time and dedication on your part. Cat care is enjoyable and rewarding, so it is worth the effort. Following these 7 cat care tips will put your cat on the road to being the best that they can be.
Talk to Your Cat
Cats may not understand us and we may not understand them, but talking to your cat is important. They respond best to a high-pitched soft voice, similar to baby-talk. Often times, my cats “talk” back when I speak to them. Talk to your cat often enough and you will start to learn the subtle differences in their meowed responses to you.
Feed Your Cat Regularly
Feed your cat on a regular schedule unless you leave food out for them at all times. Make sure you always have fresh water available for your cat and clean your cat’s water dish often.
Play with Your Cat
Cats like to play. Have toys and scratching posts for them to use and play with them as often as you can. Cats are often entertained by simple household items, such as paper bags, boxes and ping pong balls. My cats have taken to stealing my hair binders if I leave them lying around. You need not spend lavishly for fancy store bought toys to make your cat happy.
 The cat is for the man who appreciates beauty as the one living force in a blind and purposeless universe.”
– H.P. Lovecraft Clean the Kitty Litter Often
It is important to clean your kitty litter often, preferably daily. You should also wash the litter box with water and soap on occasion. Cats prefer clean litter boxes and will sometimes become angry and unhappy if their litter box is unsanitary.
Don’t Give Your Cat a Bath Too Often
Cats like to be clean; they bathe themselves often. They don’t need a bath unless they got themselves into a substance that is not safe for them to lick off or if their fur is beginning to feel dirty. Giving your cat a bath too often can damage the natural oils that protect their fur.
Take Your Cat for Regular Check-Ups
Make sure your cat stays up to date on its vaccinations. Checking in with the veterinarian on a regular basis is as important as a yearly physical is for you.
Be Patient and Loving
It is important to be loving and patient with your cat. Cats can be very sensitive animals and will respond to your treatment of them. If you are patient and loving, your cat will be calmer and happier. If you are impatient and angry, your cat is more likely to act out aggressively.
The Truth on Deafness of White Cats With Blue Eyes
 Many people have asked veterinarians whether white cats with blue eyes are normally deaf or not. This is a frequent topic of research for the favorite white feline seems to have a special distinction not all knows.
White cat breeds are naturally sought for by pet lovers due to their long pure white coat, reserved personality, and wonderful eye colors. Nonetheless, adopting a white cat requires extra care. The deafness secret of white cat gives owners the precautionary to take care of their cats more carefully.
Do Not Confuse Blindness With Deafness
Many people have asked whether white cat with blue eyes are more prone to blindness. Take note that deafness of white feline does not define his or her eyesight. There is no research proving that white cats are prone to blindness, either acquired or hereditary.
Deafness as Main Issue in White Feline
The main health issue among white cat families is deafness. Hereditary deafness is normal in a white cat. According to statistics, only 17 to 22 percent of white feline without blue eyes are born with deafness. However, the rate increases by up to 40 percent if cats concerned have at least one blue eye. The measure is higher by up to 85 percent if pure white cats with both blue eyes are regarded.
Interestingly, some of the cats suffering from deafness only suffer from partial hearing loss. If a cat has one blue eye, only one ear will be deaf. In every case, the blue eye is on the same side as the deaf ear.
Most humans do not notice that their white pets are deaf for those with partial hearing loss will appear normal. They may even be perfect companions, including those cats with total deafness issue.
The Hereditary Risk of Becoming Deaf
A white feline may be three to five times more at risk of being deaf if they have two blue eyes. This is in comparison to cats with one blue iris. Moreover, a cat with one blue iris is more likely to be deaf than pure white cat with two non-blue eyes. It is also found out that long coated white cat is thrice more probable to be entirely deaf.
Upon acquiring the hereditary problem, white feline may be deaf and photophobic. The latter refers to the animal’s intolerance to bright light due to their blue eyes. Additionally, they will suffer from reduced eyesight in low light conditions.
The Most Important Pet Care for Deaf Whites
If you want to keep your cat healthy and live longer, you should settle with indoor care. It is best to prevent situations wherein your cat has to depend on his or her auditory sense. If you will let him or her stay outdoors, accidents may befall on him or her.
You could get more tips on how to take care of your deaf cats. This is due to the fact caring for white cats could be more sensitive yet fulfilling since they deserve equal attention despite their defectiveness.
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