Cats love canned tuna because of its powerful aroma and savory umami flavor, driven by high levels of amino acids like histidine and inosine monophosphate, which activate their taste receptors. This strong, meaty taste, combined with high protein and omega-3s, makes it irresistible, even though tuna isn't a complete meal and should only be an occasional treat due to risks like mercury and sodium.
They have a broader ability to taste umami flavors than we do and are more sensitive to different amino acids. The way we taste certain ones particularly well and it's particularly rich in certain foods like mushrooms and red meat, the ones cats respond to well is particularly-high in fish.
Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to malnutrition because it won't have all the nutrients a cat needs. And, too much tuna can cause mercury poisoning.
The mercury levels are high enough that cats fed lots of tuna can develop mercury toxicity. Tuna is rich enough in calories that too much can lead to obesity rather quickly. Some cats can be allergic to fish. Human-grade tuna is deficient in vitamin E, a critical vitamin cats need.
As a rough guideline, if you want your cat to eat tuna, only give a very small amount once a week. Too much tuna can also result in mercury toxicity in cats, may upset their gastrointestinal health, and can lead to picky eating habits.
The top "silent killers" in cats are Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), often progressing until 75% kidney failure, and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart muscle disease, both often showing few symptoms until advanced stages, along with Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) and Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver), leading to sudden illness or organ failure if undetected. Early detection through regular vet check-ups, blood tests, and monitoring for subtle changes like increased thirst/urination, weight loss, or hiding is crucial for managing these common, often hidden, feline diseases, says this article.
Cats hate strong, pungent, or overly sharp smells, with citrus (lemon, orange), vinegar, strong spices (pepper, garlic), certain herbs (lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary), and harsh cleaners (ammonia) topping the list due to their overwhelming intensity and potential toxicity. These scents irritate their sensitive noses, often causing them to recoil or avoid areas where they are present, making them useful for humane deterrents.
1. Chicken. Let's start with a favourite—chicken. Known for its lean protein content, chicken is not only highly palatable but also easy to digest, making it an ideal option for cats with sensitive stomachs or food intolerances.
You should never feed your cat raw meat, fish, or bones, as they carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, risk causing pancreatitis from fat, and raw fish can destroy essential thiamine. Cooked, plain meats are best, but always remove bones, as cooked bones can splinter and cause internal damage or choking hazards, making raw meat and bones a definite "never" for feline health.
A cat's "worst enemy" depends on context, but common foes include dogs (due to predatory instincts), loud noises (vacuum cleaners, thunderstorms), other cats, and cars for outdoor cats; in the wild, it's larger predators like coyotes, birds of prey, and even other felines, while cancer is a leading cause of death for indoor cats.
Bones can also splinter, which can result in sharp pieces that damage the mouth, throat, and organs. Chicken bones also have the potential for blocking your cat's intestinal tract, resulting in a partial or complete obstruction. Chicken bones should always be off-limits to both cats and dogs.
Calming oils, such as lavender, can be used safely in your home as long as they produce a subtle aroma and cats aren't able to come into direct contact with them.
Double-sided tape Cats avoid walking on sticky surfaces. Attach a tape such as Sticky Paws (sold at pet-supply stores) to metal, plastic, wood, leather, or fabric surfaces. Bubble wrap This packing material with bubbles that pop is not something most cats want to walk on.
The 3:3:3 Rule: Help Your New Cat Adjust to Their Home The 3:3:3 rule explains some general expectations for the transition process and some tips on how to support your cat through each stage: 3 days for initial acclimatization, 3 weeks for settling in, and by 3 months, they should be comfortable and at ease in their ...
Cats do remember negative experiences, but they don't dwell on resentment the way people do. Instead, they react based on learned associations and their need for safety. With patience, consistency, and care, most cats return to positive behaviors quickly.
8 common human foods that are poisonous to cats
1) Cats hate weird smells
Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus. Many essential oils are toxic to cats so it stands to reason that they instinctively want to run the other way when they get a whiff of your bath oils. They also aren't a fan of strong menthol smells.
Cats view their territory as their place of safety. They are naturally very attached to their home and need to feel they can have access to this at all times. Being taken on a lead takes them into new territory and prevents them from being able to access their own space.
Cats don't feel guilt or remorse like people do—and if you're waiting for an apology from them, you'll be waiting a long time.
Anything with the smell of vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or other strong acidic or noxious smells is going to irritate your cat's respiratory system and make them uncomfortable. Many are also toxic if your cat licks them off of their paws or fur.
Playing with your cat and providing them with interactive toys, such as wand toys and puzzle toys, can also reduce anxiety. Over-the-counter calming products, such as pheromones and supplements, may help reduce anxiety but should be discussed with a veterinarian first.
Cats can feel stressed by various situations and one of the most recommended treatment methods is a cat-calming plug-in. These plug-in diffusers are a fantastic way to minimise anxiety and stressful times and can get your kitty feeling content in just a short while.
The number one killer of cats depends on age and lifestyle, but cancer is the leading cause of death in older cats, while Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), accidents/trauma (especially for younger cats), and diseases like kidney/heart issues are major factors, with FeLV often cited as the top infectious killer. Causes range from diseases like FeLV, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and FIP, to organ system failures (kidney, heart), and external factors like poisons or trauma.
You should never feed your cat raw meat, fish, or bones, as they carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, risk causing pancreatitis from fat, and raw fish can destroy essential thiamine. Cooked, plain meats are best, but always remove bones, as cooked bones can splinter and cause internal damage or choking hazards, making raw meat and bones a definite "never" for feline health.