Children love cats so here are 74 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cats that your child might ask, with concise answers:
- What do cats eat?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require meat in their diet. - How long do cats live?
Typically, cats live around 12-15 years, though some can live into their 20s. - How often should I feed my cat?
Most adult cats should be fed twice daily, but this can vary based on health and lifestyle. - Can cats see in the dark?
Cats have excellent night vision but cannot see in total darkness. - Why do cats purr?
Cats purr for various reasons, including contentment, pain, and communication. - Are cats independent?
Cats are generally more independent than dogs, but they still require care and attention. - Can cats be trained?
Yes, cats can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques. - How often should a cat be groomed?
Depends on the breed; long-haired cats need daily grooming, while short-haired cats need less frequent grooming. - What is the best litter for cats?
The best litter varies based on cat preference, but clumping, unscented litter is often recommended. - How do I know if my cat is sick?
Signs of illness include changes in appetite, behaviour, and litter box habits. - Why do cats scratch furniture?
Scratching is a natural behavior for marking territory and keeping claws sharp. - Can cats be left alone?
Cats can be left alone for short periods but not for extended times without care. - Do cats need baths?
Most cats groom themselves and rarely need baths unless they get dirty. - Are cats nocturnal?
Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. - Why do cats knead?
Kneading is a comforting behaviour that originates from kittenhood. - How many hours a day do cats sleep?
Cats sleep about 12-16 hours a day. - What should I do if my cat is overweight?
Consult a vet for a diet and exercise plan. - Can cats eat dog food?
Cats should not eat dog food as it lacks necessary nutrients for cats. - What plants are toxic to cats?
Many plants, including lilies, are toxic to cats. - How do I introduce a new cat to my home?
Introduce slowly, in a controlled environment, to allow acclimation. - Do cats need vaccinations?
Yes, cats require vaccinations to prevent diseases. - Why do cats meow?
Meowing is a way cats communicate with humans. - Can cats drink milk?
Many cats are lactose intolerant; water is the best drink for cats. - How can I stop my cat from scratching?
Provide scratching posts and discourage unwanted scratching with deterrents. - What is a group of cats called?
A group of cats is called a clowder. - Why does my cat bring me dead animals?
This is a natural hunting behaviour and a sign of affection. - Do cats need a companion?
Some cats enjoy companions, while others prefer to be solitary. - What is the average weight for a cat?
Average weight varies by breed, but most domestic cats weigh between 3.6 – 4.5 kg. - How do I litter train a cat?
Most cats naturally use a litter box; just show them where it is. - Why do cats hate water?
Not all cats hate water, but many dislike being soaked due to their fur’s nature. - Can cats get colds?
Yes, cats can get upper respiratory infections similar to colds. - What is feline AIDS?
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) affects a cat’s immune system. - Why do cats have whiskers?
Whiskers are sensory tools that help cats navigate and measure space. - How can I tell if my cat is happy?
Signs of a happy cat include purring, relaxed body language, and playful behaviour. - What does catnip do to cats?
Catnip causes a temporary state of euphoria in some cats. - Can cats see colour?
Cats can see some colours, though not as vividly as humans. - Why do cats hiss?
Hissing is a defensive gesture indicating fear or aggression. - How often should a cat’s nails be trimmed?
Typically every 10-14 days, but it varies by activity level. - What are hairballs?
Hairballs are accumulations of fur that cats vomit after grooming. - How do I stop my cat from biting?
Discourage biting with a firm “no” and redirect to a toy. - Do cats dream?
Yes, cats experience REM sleep and likely dream. - Why do cats chase their tails?
This can be playful behaviour or indicate a medical issue. - Can indoor cats get fleas?
Yes, fleas can enter homes and infest indoor cats. - What does it mean when a cat wags its tail?
Tail wagging can indicate irritation or excitement. - How can I travel with my cat?
Use a secure carrier and plan for breaks and hydration. - Why do cats bury their waste?
This is an instinctual behaviour to hide their presence from predators. - Can cats recognize their names?
Many cats learn to recognize and respond to their names. - What should I do if my cat is missing?
Search the area, post notices, and contact local shelters. - Do cats get lonely?
Some cats can get lonely, especially if they are used to constant companionship. - How do I know if my cat is in pain?
Signs include changes in behaviour, vocalization, and mobility. - Why do cats like boxes?
Boxes provide security and satisfy a cat’s instinct to hide. - Can I walk my cat on a leash?
With training and the right harness, many cats can be walked on a leash. - What causes cat allergies in humans?
Cat allergies are typically caused by dander, saliva, and urine. - How can I reduce cat shedding?
Regular grooming and a healthy diet can reduce shedding. - What is a cat’s normal body temperature?
A cat’s normal body temperature ranges from 38.1°C to 39.2°C. - Why do cats have a third eyelid?
The third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, provides extra eye protection. - Can cats get diabetes?
Yes, cats can develop diabetes, often related to diet and weight. - How can I tell if my cat is dehydrated?
Signs include lethargy, dry gums, and decreased skin elasticity. - What is cat grass?
Cat grass is safe for cats to eat and can aid digestion. - How do I clean a cat’s ears?
Use a vet-recommended cleaner and gently wipe the outer ear. - Why do cats have retractable claws?
Retractable claws help keep them sharp for hunting and climbing. - Can cats get heartworm?
Yes, cats can get heartworm, but it’s less common than in dogs. - What is the best age to adopt a kitten?
Kittens should be at least 8-12 weeks old before adoption. - How do I stop my cat from jumping on counters?
Provide alternatives and discourage the behaviour with deterrents. - Why do cats rub against people?
Rubbing is a way cats mark their territory and show affection. - Can cats eat chocolate?
No, chocolate is toxic to cats. - What is a cat’s normal heart rate?
A normal heart rate for cats is 140-220 beats per minute. - Why do cats have rough tongues?
Their tongues are designed for grooming and stripping meat from bones. - What does it mean when a cat’s ears are back?
Ears back can indicate fear, aggression, or irritation. - Can cats get cancer?
Yes, cats can develop various types of cancer. - How do I deal with a spraying cat?
Neutering often helps; also, identify and address stress factors. - What does a slow blink mean in cat language?
A slow blink is a sign of trust and affection. - Can cats eat tuna?
Tuna is safe in moderation but shouldn’t be a primary food source. - Why do cats love high places?
High places offer security and a good vantage point.
