Ingrid King's Blog: The Conscious Cat, page 434

Mews and Nips: British Airways Introduces “Paws and Relax”

Flying is going to get a little less stressful for British Airways passengers. The airline figured that since watching adorable videos of cats (and puppies) on the internet is relaxing, why not introduce an entire channel dedicated to light-hearted footage of cats and dogs. British Airways will launch its new “Paws and Relax channel” on long haul flights this September. “We discovered some scientific research that proves watching images of cute animals can actually lower your heart rate and r...

Ruby’s Reflections: Meditating with Mom

Hi, everyone! It’s Ruby! It’s been forever since Mom let me write something here. I’ve been hard at work helping her with product reviews, being Mom’s office assistant, and, my most important job of them all, keeping my sister Allegra in line. What’s that, Allegra? You keep me in line?

Anyway, one of my jobs is to help Mom meditate every morning. She says meditation is important for her physical, mental and spiritual health. I have no idea what those big words mean, but what I do know is that...

Review and Giveaway: SwheatScoop Natural Clumping Litter

The variety of alternative litters on the market now is growing every day. From corn to pine to walnut shells, I find it fascinating what manufacturers are coming up with.

I’m well aware of the controversy around traditional clay litter, but I’ve found that many cats don’t like the alternative litters. And ultimately, if your cat won’t use a litter, it’s no good, no matter how environmentally friendly it may be!

SwheatScoop, a wheat based natural clumping litter, has been on the market for more...

Animal Planet Casting Couch: Casting Now Open for My Cat From Hell

You’ve watched Cat Daddy Jackson Galaxy come to the rescue of behaviorally challenged cats and their humans for four seasons. Armed with his signature guitar case filled with cat toys, Spirit Essences and other training aids, Jackson trains the humans as much as he trains the cats, since the majority of feline behavior problems are usually caused by humans who don’t understand cats’ natural behaviors.

If you think your cat could use Jackson’s help, now is your chance. Casting is now open for S...

Review: e-cloth Pet Grooming Mitt

There are numerous benefits to grooming your cat on a regular basis. Grooming increases circulation, it’s kind of like a mini massage. It’s also a great way to bond with your cat. The calming, repetitive motion of grooming can have a relaxing effect on your cat (and on you!). And of course, grooming also helps remove loose hair, which means less shedding.

Not all cats enjoy being groomed. If your cat is not receptive to grooming, start slow, and gradually increase the time you spend grooming....

Should You Buy Your Cat’s Medication Online?

I’m sure you’ve seen the claims: “Discounted pet drugs! No prescription necessary! Convenient home delivery!” There’s no question that prescription drugs are expensive, but is it really such a good idea to buy your cat’s medications online?

There are reputable internet pharmacies that sell pet drugs at a discounted price, but there are others that violate federal, state, and sometimes international pharmacy laws. Additionally, illegal online pharmacies may sell medications that are counterfeit...

Conscious Cat Sunday: Introverts and Extroverts

The terms introvert and extrovert are often misunderstood. Just because someone is bubbly and outgoing doesn’t necessarily mean they’re an extrovert, and just because someone is shy and quiet doesn’t automatically make them an introvert. The difference between introverts and extroverts has to do with how both types gain or loose energy. Introverts are drained by being around people for extended periods of time and need alone time to recharge. Extroverts thrive on interaction with others and t...

Mews and Nips: Hero Cat Alerts Woman to Husband’s Heart Attack

In yet another story of a cat saving her human’s life, 15-year -old Cleo alerted her guardian, Pauline Jenkins, when her husband Richard was having a heart attack. Jenkins knew something was wrong when the normally laid-back Cleo started running up and down the stairs and behaving strangely. When Richard complained of chest pains and Cleo clambered onto the bed to be next to him, Pauline called for help. Paramedics arrived and confirmed Richard had suffered a heart attack and needed emergency...

Review: Bailey Boat Cat: Adventures of a Feline Afloat

When it comes to unusual feline lifestyles, Bailey, a three-year-old seal point Siamese, is leading quite the life. Bailey lives on board a 37-foot yacht just outside Rome, Italy, with hishuman guardians. Bailey has been cruising the Mediterranean since 2011. His adventures were first chronicled on his blog, which was the basis for Bailey Boat Cat: Adventures of a Feline Afloat. Eventually, Bailey hopes to cruise around the world with his two humans.

The book describes Bailey’s life on board,...

Cat Sounds: What Do Your Cat’s Vocal Expressions Mean?

Cats communicate in so many different ways. One of the primary ways of feline communication is body language. Yesterday, we talked about marking behavior, which can include scent marking, head bunting, scratching and kneading as well as less common behaviors such as middening. And of course, cats also express themselves with a wide range of vocal expressions, from meowing, hissing and growling to chirping, chattering and purring.

In a recent article for Answers.com, I explored cats’ various vo...