Some of our cats can be particularly greedy. At mealtime, they pounce on their bowl as if it were the last one, and often end up vomiting their kibble or pâté. Their small stomach cannot handle this rapid food intake... Why does my cat eat too fast? How can I help it regulate? We tell you everything in this article. My cat eats too fast: vomiting, bloating, and risk of obesity Meow, Miaouuuuuuuuu. Hearing its little meows, it’s time to eat. Your cat looks at you with soft eyes, rubs against you (leaving some hair on your nice pants). In short, it puts on a real seduction show. But as soon as its bowl is set down, it rushes and devours its pâté or kibble in the blink of an eye. Not a crumb left. And shortly after... it vomits! A nice little pile on the floor or your couch. Thanks, kitty! If your cat eats too fast, rest assured, it’s not alone. Some cats can indeed be particularly greedy. But this behavior should not be taken lightly, especially if this rapid food intake often leads to vomiting. Repeated vomiting can not only lead to dehydration, but it can also cause serious deficiencies in your beloved little cat because it will not have absorbed all the essential nutrients present in its food (provided it is of good quality). Its digestive tract will also be irritated. For other greedy cats, no vomiting, but flatulence. Yes, a rapid food intake can also cause gas. By eating too fast, they swallow a lot of air. Result: they have bloating and fart excessively. For our whiskered friends, farting is not always a sign of good health. They have stomach aches, and are uncomfortable. Finally, this rapid food intake can have another effect on your furry friend's health: overweight, even obesity. The satiety mechanism in cats is like ours; the faster they eat, the less time their stomach has to signal to their brain that they are full. This can lead to overeating and thus a risk of obesity. To learn more about feline eating behavior, especially the 3 stages experienced around meals, feel free to read our article Why is my cat always hungry. Why does my cat eat too fast? The reasons are many. It can be a dietary or behavioral problem. On the dietary side, it may be inadequate, not meeting its nutritional needs; not enough protein and/or poorly digestible, too high quantities of carbohydrates which are rapidly metabolized by the body. Also note that many cat foods contain additives and flavor enhancers that increase palatability. So faced with its bowl, your cat can only be excited. It cannot control itself and devours its meal in seconds. It’s exactly like us in front of a fast-food burger and fries tray “come as you are,” we rush at it (well, almost). It’s hungry! In the wild, our whiskered friends can hunt all day and night to have up to 20 small meals daily. They are true little nibbles. Our domestic cats don’t need to hunt to eat, but their feeding style remains the same. They like to have several small meals throughout the day and night. If your cat only receives one or two meals a day, it can feel frustrated and therefore eat its food quickly. At Ziggy, we recommend at least 4 wet meals per day for our companions, to best respect their nature as small nibblers. If you work outside, you can split your cat’s meals as follows: one in the morning at waking, then another before leaving. In the evening, you can give another portion when you come home and before going to bed. We also recommend giving a small amount of kibble in a toy during the day or night as a bonus. What if I give kibble ad libitum? Kibble is indeed well adapted to our cats’ nibbling behavior. You can give kibble ad libitum, provided the quantity is controlled—matching the daily ration—and that your cat is able to self-regulate. You can provide some kibble in a dispenser toy that slows down food intake. Keep in mind though that an exclusive dry food diet hardly meets your cat’s hydration needs (water). It is also more calorie-dense: kibble has on average four times the calories of pâté! An overweight or obese cat is at higher risk of developing diseases such as diabetes. Favor a 100% wet diet or a mixed diet (pâté and kibble). "My cat only devours and vomits its pâté" Your cat may also feel frustrated here because you only give pâté occasionally. Unfortunately, pâté is often MISTAKENLY seen as a treat. However, it is a complete food. Full pâté is absolutely not a treat, it can be given multiple times a day! It is actually the food closest to the natural needs of cats. Introducing a new food should always go through a transition phase to help your cat’s digestive system adjust. For more info, feel free to read our article on food transition. It is stressed A cat that eats too fast is often a stressed cat. It can be disturbed at mealtime: being petted, its bowl placed in a busy area, etc. It can also be afraid of missing out because it frequently shares its bowl with another cat. If you have welcomed another animal into your family, it may feel competitive and, instinctively, want to protect its food. "Hands off, that’s my pâté." It is bored Outside, our cats spend several hours hunting, running, climbing, and playing. In short, they never get bored. Some indoor cats, on the other hand, may lack stimulation and feel bored. This can lead them to seek refuge in food. Again, our furry friends are very much like us. When bored, we eat (and not carrots). Here too, the cycle is vicious because a bored cat moves little, drags its paws, and can gain weight. It fears scarcity Your cat may fear scarcity because it shares its bowl with another cat. But this fear can also come from its past. In fact, some cats have had difficult experiences (cat rescue, abandonment, or abandonment by the mother cat). It is then not uncommon to observe behaviors of abandonment and scarcity: eat fast and voraciously to protect oneself, guard food, etc. He might be sick A cat that suddenly becomes greedy is not something to take lightly. It can be a sign of an illness. Several diseases can indeed cause an increased appetite in cats, leading to rapid food intake. It could be a parasitic disease (intestinal worms), diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. My cat eats too fast: how can I help him regulate? Eat more slowly? As we have seen, the causes are multiple. If your cat eats too fast, and especially if he frequently vomits his meals afterwards, first consult your veterinarian. They will be able to check his health and try to identify the cause of his unusual eating behavior. Wet and quality food To promote the feeling of satiety, the ideal is to favor wet food, namely pâté. Thanks to its high moisture content, it adds volume to our cats' stomachs without the accompanying calories. Yes to pâté, but containing quality proteins! Among quality proteins are fish, meat, eggs, and offal. In feline nutrition, the protein/phosphorus ratio of a food provides an indication of the quality of proteins used. These ratios are very high for good proteins. This is not the case for cereals, carcasses, and bones used in many cat foods. At Ziggy, our cat wet food are very rich in quality proteins (+60%). We do not use reconstituted meat, mechanically separated meat (MSM), or animal "waste" like carcasses, skin, feathers, or fish bones. You will only find real muscle pieces and fine offal (chicken, beef, pork). Moreover, they contain a minimal amount of carbohydrates (-2%), which, as a reminder, are not necessary in our feline diet. Finally, if your cat still shows greedy behavior even with pâté, you can add a few boiled zucchini cubes to his food. Appreciated by our cats, this vegetable is rich in water and adds volume to our little companions' stomachs. As a reminder, facing a greedy cat, doubling the amount of his food is useless. This would be a big mistake, as your cat will gain weight. An overweight or obese cat is more likely to develop diseases such as diabetes. Your cat must feel full without increasing calorie intake. Hence the importance of offering him wet and quality food! How much pâté should I give my cat? It all depends on his size, weight, and age. To easily and accurately determine the amount of food to give your cat, feel free to use our ration calculator. Several small fractioned meals To regulate your cat's appetite, fractioned meals are the key. Ideally, give him at least 4 meals a day to best respect his nature as a little nibble-eater. These fractioned meals will also reassure cats who are afraid of missing out. They will gradually understand that they will always have food under your roof. And over time, they will learn to regulate themselves better and no longer experience the stress of an “empty bowl.” This technique has notably proven effective for a member of our Ziggy Family, Ineka. “My little cat was found in a pizza oven of an abandoned restaurant. The association that saved her fed her well, but she still rushed to the bowl out of fear of missing out. I established 6 small meals a day: a teaspoon of pâté, in addition to her kibbles. Ineka regulated herself. She still has some phases even after 5 years, but fractioned meals work well,” tells us Marine. Note that rations must of course be adapted. For that, you can use our ration calculator above 😺 A calm and stimulating environment If you can, place his bowl in a quiet place, away from any disturbance, and where no other animal or human can bother him during meals. Your whiskered friend will feel more confident and enjoy his pâté more calmly. “Bulimic” cats are also cats that get bored. If your cat has no outdoor access and you are often absent, it is important to mentally and physically stimulate him by providing toys, hiding places, or a cat tree. Also, give him access to windows so he can observe outside. Our fur balls are little watchers; they love knowing what is going on outside, watching birds, passersby, etc. In short, front-row seats. Regulate your cat with a fun bowl To slow down his food intake, you can finally try investing in one of these accessories: A slow feeder bowl A kibble ball A maze. Your cat has to move the kibbles to get them. A licking mat. This accessory is ideal for pâté. Just spread the portion on the mat, and kitty will have to lick it. He won’t gulp his pâté and will have no choice but to take his time to savor it. An ice cube or canelé mold in which you can incorporate pâté and/or kibbles. These bowls are effective, but be patient. For your cat to get used to it and understand how it works, proceed step by step. Split his portion in two: one part in his usual bowl and another on his licking mat, for example. Let’s not forget that our cats are creatures of habit. The slightest change can upset them. Your feline will no longer rush to his food; on the contrary, he will reject it. If despite all these tips your cat continues to eat too fast, don’t hesitate to consult your usual veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. They can help you understand why your furry friend acts this way and give you the keys so he can regulate himself. We have listed here the main causes and solutions, but each cat is unique. That’s why we love them so much ❤️

As cute as they are, our little cats also fart. Just like us, they emit flatulence, but it is generally very discreet; a small bellow that smells absolutely nothing or almost nothing (so chic!) But it happens that some of our mustachioed ones fart excessively and abnormally: noisy and nauseating farts. Although the subject is laughable, a cat that farts a lot is not insignificant. Let's take stock.

Your cat doesn't leave any droppings in its litter box? Does it meow while it does its business? There's a good chance that your cat is constipated. Constipation is a fairly common intestinal disorder in our little companions that nevertheless requires rapid treatment. Why is my cat constipated? What should I do? How can constipation be prevented? We'll tell you everything in this article.

Tartar, bad breath, gingivitis... Your little cat can also have dental problems, which can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. How to take care of your cat’s teeth? What diet should you favor for healthy teeth? We tell you everything in this article. The Cat’s Teeth Whether by play or boredom, your beloved cat has probably bitten you before. A rather painful experience, as their teeth are hard, sharp, and pointed. Our little companions’ dentition is made this way: it is naturally adapted to hunting prey: their canines, like small daggers, allow them to tear the flesh of their prey and hold it firmly (these are the teeth that sometimes leave marks on our skin). Their incisors, small and square, and their premolars also allow them to cut and tear. As for their molars, they serve to crush food. An adult cat’s jaw contains a total of 30 teeth: 4 canines, 12 incisors, 10 premolars (6 on the upper jaw and 4 on the lower jaw), and 4 molars. Note that at birth, kittens have no teeth. The first baby teeth appear around 3 weeks, then all come out between 6 and 7 weeks. They have no molars and only 26 teeth. Their baby teeth start to fall out around 3 months old. The kitten will have its adult teeth at about 6 months of age. Sharp, our companions’ teeth are nonetheless fragile. Poor oral hygiene can have more or less serious consequences on their health. Beware of tartar in cats! Our cats can indeed develop periodontal disease characterized by the formation of dental plaque and tartar on the teeth. After each meal, food residues, saliva, and bacteria present in the mouth deposit on the cat’s teeth, forming dental plaque. Without good oral hygiene, this plaque gradually thickens and mineralizes to form that famous tartar. The back teeth of the jaw, namely the premolars, are usually the first affected. Over days and meals, tartar continues to spread and accumulate, and can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums whose symptoms include very red gums, bleeding, bad breath in cats (called halitosis) and excessive salivation. If this inflammation is not treated in time, it can progress to periodontitis, tooth loss. Affected teeth loosen and can eventually fall out. Oral infections, even abscesses at the tooth root, may also develop. Note: bad breath is not always a sign of dental problems. It can also be a symptom of other diseases such as chronic kidney failure in cats. And it doesn’t stop there; bacteria proliferating in tartar can enter the bloodstream and infect other organs such as the heart and kidneys. Tartar should therefore be carefully monitored, especially as the effects are very painful for kitty. Having tooth pain, he no longer tolerates even the smallest bite, and your cat stops eating (even his delicious Ziggy pâtées 😿). How to know if my cat has tartar? And how to treat it? Tartar is visible to the naked eye: it appears as a yellowish or even brownish color. You can spot it by opening your little companion’s mouth. But be gentle, especially if your cat is not used to this handling. If you don’t succeed at first, don’t insist. And as mentioned earlier, other signs should alert you: your cat has bad breath, very red gums, bleeds during meals, doesn’t eat anymore, has excessive salivation, etc. At the slightest doubt, do not wait and quickly consult your veterinarian. In most cases, they will perform a scaling procedure under general anesthesia. The practice may differ from one vet to another, but most often tartar is removed by ultrasound (like at the dentist) and a paste is applied to polish the cat’s teeth. Sometimes extraction of the most damaged teeth is necessary. But rest assured, this procedure is painless for your furry friend. Even with one or two teeth less, he will be relieved. And once his dental problem is solved, he will regain all his old vigor. How to prevent tartar in cats? Brushing your cat’s teeth You’re not dreaming, our furballs also need to brush their teeth. And to prevent tartar buildup, nothing beats a little brushing of their tiny teeth! On the market, there are small kits specially designed for cleaning cat teeth. You can find a suitable toothbrush or a finger brush (a small rubber tip with little bristles) and a special cat toothpaste. Note that human toothpaste is completely prohibited. While we spit out our toothpaste after brushing, our felines do not. They must not swallow toxic products. Also, they probably don’t appreciate the mint or coconut flavor of our toothpaste... Before starting, however, ask your vet’s opinion. Some cats have very painful mouths, even if they show no external signs of this pain. Effective but very demanding, brushing — to be done at least once a week — remains quite difficult. And above all, few cats are accustomed to it from a very young age. If your cat runs away when he sees your toothbrush, know that there are several alternatives: powders to put in your cat’s food, oral sprays intended to kill bad bacteria, liquid toothpastes to dilute in their water, or chew sticks like for dogs. Some pet stores also sell chew toys. But again, ask your veterinarian’s advice! The false good idea: giving dry kibble To fight plaque, it is often recommended to favor dry kibble because it has an abrasive effect. That said, many cats fed dry kibble still have significant plaque and tartar deposits and suffer from dental diseases such as periodontitis. The real effectiveness of dry food’s anti-tartar action can be questioned. Kibble is hard but quite crumbly. It simply crumbles with little or no abrasive effect on the teeth. Remember that our cats’ teeth are not designed to crunch kibble, but rather to shear and tear meat. It’s no coincidence that their wild ancestors had little to no dental problems. They brushed their teeth naturally by crushing bones, tearing flesh, skin, tendons, and ligaments of their prey. Also note that most cats swallow their kibble whole. If you have ever cleaned your cat’s vomit, you must have noticed it: they don’t chew all their bites. They gulp down half of each mouthful. The same applies to special anti-tartar treats in kibble form. Many cats swallow them directly without a bite. Does your dentist advise you to eat hard biscuits for your teeth? No? Well, it’s the same for your cat. He doesn’t need to eat dry kibble to have healthy teeth. However, be careful: scaling is only a treatment and not a permanent solution. Tartar can come back quickly. To prevent its formation, good oral hygiene is necessary to keep your cat’s teeth healthy. A low carbohydrate diet We often hear that pâtée favors plaque formation. Yes and no. Actually, it’s mainly pâtée rich in carbohydrates! The same principle as for us: the more carbohydrates we consume, the more our teeth are attacked. Note that carbohydrate-rich foods can also increase the demand for insulin secretion and thus predispose to the development of diabetes mellitus in cats. In industrial food, unfortunately, these carbohydrates appear in significant quantities (10 to 50%). Why? Two reasons: animal proteins are rarer and more expensive. Manufacturers then compensate with carbohydrate intake. A minimal quantity (about 10-15%) is indispensable for the extrusion process in kibble manufacturing. So choose a low carbohydrate diet. At Ziggy, our cat pâtées contain less than 10% carbohydrates! And we will never stop telling you: favor wet food for your little cat. It contains much more water than kibble! Hydration has nothing to do with teeth, but it is essential for the proper functioning of all organs. Meat For dental health, the ideal would be to give your cat a big piece of raw meat (quickly cooked though to avoid the risk of salmonella) so he can shear and tear it with his teeth. But if you choose this option, be careful. His diet should not consist only of this, as he risks developing deficiencies. Our cats are indeed strict carnivores, but they also need, for example, calcium — which is minimal in meat — and some extra fiber in their diet to keep good digestion. In wild cats’ diet, the skin and digestive contents of the mouse, along with some grass consumption, fulfill this role. You’ve understood: the oral hygiene of our little companions should not be neglected. You must take care of their teeth and regularly check their health. Of course, some cats will never have any problems in their whole life; it’s like humans, some have their dentist as their best friend, others hardly ever see the dentist’s drill. But a little inspection is always necessary. Better safe than sorry!

Your little cat isn’t eating anymore? He’s ignoring his bowl, even with a delicious pâté? A complete loss of appetite in cats is a problem not to be taken lightly. It can be a sign of a more or less serious illness, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. Let’s take a closer look. My cat isn’t eating anymore: when should I worry? Just like in humans, appetite in cats can fluctuate. One day your cat might devour his bowl, and the next day only eat half of his kibble or pâté. He may also eat less when it’s hot, as his appetite decreases due to the heat. But sometimes some cats suddenly stop eating altogether. They won’t eat anything at all, refusing even the smallest treat. Our cats lose weight quickly. If your cat hasn’t eaten for more than 2 days, this becomes worrisome. This is called anorexia. A cat that doesn’t eat for more than 48 hours risks severe dehydration, deficiencies in essential nutrients for its health (present in its food), and in the case of overweight cats, developing hepatic lipidosis, also known as “fatty liver disease.” This deadly disease shows symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or jaundice visible around the ears, eyes (the whites), and the cat’s oral mucous membranes. If your cat isn’t eating, be very vigilant, especially since this disorder could indicate another condition that requires prompt treatment. My cat isn’t eating anymore: what are the causes? And what to do? A cat may stop eating for many reasons. Whatever the cause, it is important to take your furry friend to the vet as soon as possible. A change in food His refusal to eat may be directly related to his food. Cats are greedy but also very picky, especially regarding what’s in their bowl. Even the slightest change can put them off. This is called neophobia. Among our little companions, we distinguish two categories of eaters: the cautious (neophobic) and the curious (neophilic), those attracted to novelty. Neophobes are more numerous, especially among older cats whose eating habits are well established. They prefer familiar food rather than trying new flavors. Neophobia is not limited to older cats; it also appears in cats that were rarely exposed to dietary diversity during the first weeks of their lives. It is also important to know that cats are sensitive to the physicochemical characteristics of their food. Smell, taste, texture, and temperature are key factors in food acceptance. The cat will prefer food at room temperature or close to body temperature, between 20°C and 35°C. A pâté straight from the fridge will likely put him off. Don’t hesitate to warm it up by adding a little spoon of warm water. Besides cautiousness and particular tastes, your cat may also have developed an aversion to his new food. This can be caused by a bad experience: a sudden change in diet may cause diarrhea and vomiting. Since eating is associated with a negative experience, the cat refuses the food categorically. Once, but not twice! If your cat shows no other symptoms, the best solution here will be to perform a dietary transition to help him accept his new food. This involves gradually mixing the new food with the usual diet. This transition can last up to 3 weeks for the most resistant. Learn more in our article about dietary transition in cats. We also prepared a handy guide with all our expert tips for an easier food transition. Also, think about placing your cat’s bowl in a quiet place, away from human activity. People passing by can stress him and prevent him from eating. Stress Stress is another likely reason. A stressed cat easily loses appetite. Your cat isn’t eating because he is too stressed. Poor kitty 😿 Stress sources in cats are multiple: moving house, travel, vet visits, arrival of a new animal or child in the family, change of furniture at home, and so on. To help your cat relax, there are several tricks: you can cuddle him (if he wants), play with him more, use valerian, or play special music for stressed cats. It seems cats are particularly sensitive to soft, relaxing music. Note that stress should not be taken lightly. It is notably one of the main causes of cystitis in cats, a urinary disorder characterized by inflammation (with or without infection) of the bladder lining. Arthritis (old age) Cats are also affected by old age: they can suffer from arthritis. Older cats may have trouble bending down to their bowl. Unable to reach it, they don’t eat. If your cat is otherwise fine and likes his food, just place his bowl a little higher 😺 To care for your senior cat, also consider giving him quality food. We tell you everything in our article on food for senior cats. Oral problems Like us, cats can have oral problems. They may suffer from chronic gingivitis (gum inflammation), abscesses, or broken teeth. These conditions are very painful and make chewing difficult. Gingivitis is the most common, with symptoms such as very red gums, bleeding, bad breath, and excessive salivation. Check your cat’s mouth (if you can), and see your vet quickly. Once the mouth problem is resolved, your little cat will regain his appetite. Be careful that he doesn’t rush too fast to his bowl! A cat that gulps food too quickly risks simply regurgitating it (like dogs). Important point: It is often said that cats have fewer dental problems when eating kibble than pâté. No study has yet proven this “promise”! Remember that dry food is hard but crumbly, and breaks apart with little to no abrasive effect on teeth. Cats’ teeth are not designed to crunch kibble, but rather to shear and tear meat. Also, many cats swallow most of their kibble whole. Saying kibble promotes dental health in cats is therefore absurd. That would be like saying dry cookies are good for our teeth. Whether pâté or kibble, no food is better than another for the dental health of our cats. Many factors — known and unknown — contribute to poor dental health. It may be genetic, due to a virus, or simply because our furry friends don’t brush their teeth like humans do. Oral hygiene in cats should not be neglected. To learn more, read our article: why and how to care for your cat’s teeth. Kidney failure If your cat isn’t eating, it could also be a sign of chronic kidney failure. This disease is defined by kidney dysfunction, whose role is to eliminate all toxins produced by the body in the blood (creatinine and especially urea). Loss of appetite is one of the symptoms of this sneaky disease which, unfortunately, cannot be cured. It is also accompanied by intense thirst, vomiting, fatigue, and even mouth ulcers characterized by bad breath. If your cat’s condition suggests kidney failure, consult your vet quickly who, through blood and urine tests, can prescribe suitable treatment. Feline herpesvirus (coryza) Another likely cause of loss of appetite in cats is coryza, an upper respiratory tract disease. Highly contagious, coryza is caused by simultaneous or individual infection by various pathogens, viruses, and bacteria, each causing different effects and symptoms. Among them: anosmia (loss of smell) and ulcers on the tongue and palate. This loss of smell and the ulcers can cause loss of appetite or difficulty eating, sometimes leading to anorexia. A consultation with your vet will also be necessary. If coryza is confirmed, he will prescribe suitable treatment. To learn more, read our article on coryza in cats. Gastrointestinal problem If your cat isn’t eating, he may have a digestive system problem. It can be caused by a foreign object (a string, a toy) that he cannot naturally expel, or hairballs that may irritate his stomach. These masses called "trichobezoars" can also cause intestinal blockage. Hence the importance of regularly brushing your cat, especially during shedding periods. Loss of appetite can also indicate intestinal parasites, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas. The cause of this disease often remains unknown but it can be triggered by some antibiotics or caused by viral or bacterial infection. Infectious peritonitis More worrying; a cat that stops eating may have infectious peritonitis (FIP). This disease, caused by a mutation of an intestinal Coronavirus, mainly affects young cats. Unfortunately, it remains incurable. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If your cat shows these signs, consult your vet immediately. What to do if my cat isn’t eating anymore? As we have seen, a cat that stops eating can have many causes, ranging from benign to severe diseases. Here are some practical tips: Try to stimulate your cat’s appetite by warming up his food, offering tasty treats, or changing the feeding place to a quiet and calm area. If the anorexia lasts more than 48 hours, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or lethargy, do not delay consulting your vet. Keep your cat hydrated by encouraging water intake. Never force feed your cat without veterinary advice. Taking quick action is essential because prolonged anorexia can lead to serious complications and worsen the underlying condition.

Is your cat having trouble urinating? Does it meow before and/or while urinating? It might be suffering from cystitis. Cystitis is a common urinary disorder in cats, characterized by inflammation (with or without infection) of the bladder wall. Symptoms, treatments, cat food, prevention — we tell you everything about cystitis in cats. What is cystitis in cats? Cats are particularly sensitive animals, often prone to urinary problems such as cystitis and urinary stones, also called urolithiasis. Cystitis is one of the subtypes of feline lower urinary tract diseases (FLUTD). It corresponds to an inflammation of the bladder wall, causing painful and frequent excretion of small amounts of urine. The causes are varied; it can be associated with many diseases: congenital malformation, tumor, presence of urinary stones that disrupt urine flow, urinary tract infection... But in most cases (2 out of 3), the origin is not identified. No physical or infectious cause is proven. That is why we speak of feline idiopathic cystitis, whose main cause is thought to be stress, to which cats are particularly sensitive. Cystitis is often confused with kidney failure in cats. Two very different diseases. While cystitis affects the bladder, kidney failure is a dysfunction of the renal tissue, the kidney itself. Unlike cystitis, this disease is irreversible. How the cat's urinary system works The urinary system of our cats works like ours. It is a well-oiled machine that can, however, be disrupted. As explained in our article on urinary problems in cats, the kidneys play a major role in regulating hydration and minerals and eliminating toxins continuously produced by the body. They are highly vascularized and filter blood, directing electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium...), water, and many substances from protein metabolism (like creatinine and urea) to the urine. In the kidneys, there is the so-called parenchyma, highly vascularized, containing functional units like small factories sorting molecules to recycle and waste. This allows the kidney to clean the blood and produce primary urine sent to the renal pelvis. This acts like a funnel that collects the primary urine and sends it to the ureter, then to the bladder. From there, we talk about the lower urinary tract: the ureters, bladder, and urethra conduct, transform, and eliminate urine.   What are the symptoms of cystitis in cats? Pain and excessive licking A cat with cystitis may show one or more signs. These are easily recognizable. Among them: The cat meows before or while urinating. Cystitis is indeed a particularly painful disorder for our little companions (just like for us humans). Blood in the urine is sometimes present. Note that the presence of blood in urine does not necessarily mean an infection is present. We will discuss the causes shortly. The cat excessively licks its genital area. Behavioral changes Other signs may alert you, especially regarding your whiskered friend’s behavior. Frequent trips to the litter box. The cat goes very often to its litter box, with or without producing urine (pollakiuria). Having great difficulty urinating, it squats in the litter box for a long time and produces only a few drops of urine. This is called dysuria. Some owners think their cat is constipated, while it actually shows signs of a lower urinary tract problem. Be alert! It urinates outside the litter box. Suffering, the cat associates its toileting with pain and prefers to urinate elsewhere. What causes cystitis in cats? Infectious cystitis The causes of cystitis in cats are varied. It can be due to congenital malformation, tumor, or urinary tract infection. Infections remain very rare in young cats: they concern only about 1% of cats showing clinical signs of cystitis. In cats, cystitis is often “sterile,” without infection. However, infections can be favored by diabetes in cats, chronic kidney failure, or hyperthyroidism. Water-deficient diet Another probable cause of inflammation is the presence of urinary stones, which disrupt urine flow. A diet deficient in water is often to blame: a cat that does not drink enough water while eating only dry food, such as kibble, risks chronic dehydration, leading to concentrated urine that favors the formation of urinary stones. In fact, more cases of cystitis are observed in cats eating dry food than in those eating wet food (pâté). Feline idiopathic cystitis: the role of stress But in most cases (2 out of 3), the cause of cystitis is not precisely identified. No physical cause is proven. This is called feline idiopathic cystitis. The mechanisms of this cystitis are still poorly understood, but stress seems to play an important role in the inflammation of the feline bladder. Stress sources for cats are numerous: moving house, transport, vet visits, arrival of a new animal or child in the family. Even a change of couch or curtains can stress our little cats. Using an unsuitable litter box can also cause stress. Even if a cat normally uses its litter box, it can have frustrations: it is not comfortable enough for its little paws, it dislikes the smell, etc. On our blog, we give you some advice to choose the best litter for your cat (and for you). 😺 Stress and lack of water are the two main factors of cystitis in cats. Diagnosing cystitis in cats If your little cat shows one or more signs, it is necessary to consult your veterinarian. They will perform various exams to determine the cause of the discomfort. Your vet will notably perform urine and blood tests, and if necessary, X-rays or ultrasounds to detect possible stones. Feline Cystitis: What Are the Treatments? The treatment depends on the cause of cystitis. If an infection is confirmed, your vet will prescribe antibiotics. In case of urinary stones, a special diet for cats with urinary disorders will be recommended. Surgery may also be considered if calcium oxalate stones are present. For idiopathic cystitis, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs. But whatever the cause, a diet high in water content will also be key for your little feline. Cystitis is a very frustrating condition to manage, especially when it is stress-related. It is a vicious cycle: stress can cause cystitis. Cystitis is painful. Pain causes stress in the cat. Stress promotes cystitis. And so on. Relapses can occur, however. Stress management and the amount of water in your cat’s diet are the most important factors to treat and prevent cystitis. Providing Your Cat with a Diet Rich in Water To provide optimal hydration to your cat, prioritize wet food. As a reference, wet food contains on average 75% water compared to 10% in dry kibble. Wet food is even recommended for all cats, whether sick or healthy. Wet food is the key to good health! It not only prevents urinary problems but also reduces risks of constipation, obesity, and overweight, which can lead to diabetes, kidney failure, and more. But be careful when choosing wet food: just being high in water is not always enough. It should also be rich in quality proteins, low in carbohydrates, low in minerals, and meet all your cat’s nutritional needs. This is the case for all our cat pâtés. A wide range of products formulated by Dr. Géraldine Blanchard, a veterinary specialist in feline nutrition for over 25 years. Ziggy Wet Food for Cats with Urinary Disorders At Ziggy, we care for all cats. We recently developed a special pâté for cats suffering from urinary disorders. Ziggy VET Urology pâté was formulated to support urinary function in cases of urinary disorders (idiopathic cystitis, reduction of struvite and calcium oxalate stone formation). Like all Ziggy recipes, our urinary health pâté contains proteins of excellent quality and exceptional digestibility. Very tasty and appetizing, Ziggy VET Urology pâté allows you to care for your cat while continuing to delight it! Be careful with dietary changes, though. If your cat is used to only eating dry food, introduce wet food gradually. A food transition is essential! A sudden change can cause stress, which, as mentioned, plays a role in cystitis onset in cats. Reducing Stress in Cats: Tips and Tricks Stress is a delicate problem, not always easy to identify or treat in cats. If your cat’s stress is due to a new child or pet in the home, try to spend a bit more time with them for petting and cuddling. Your cat will feel less neglected and regain confidence. Physical activity is also a great stress reliever. It releases endorphins, the well-being hormones. Play with your cat, offer toys (even a simple bottle cap or a cardboard box can work), or provide elevated structures so your cat can move around and also rest while watching over the living room. If stress is related to environmental changes (moving house, new sofa), be there to reassure your cat. It will gradually get used to the new situation. To help your cat relax, you can also use valerian. Available as a spray or diffuser, it is often used by vets to naturally treat anxiety. Also, spray some valerian in your cat’s carrier if stress is linked to vet visits or car trips. And of course, always use a suitable, clean litter box. If anxiety persists, your vet may prescribe an antidepressant treatment. How to Prevent Cystitis in Cats? A diet rich in water and a healthy environment are the best advice to reduce the risk of cystitis in your cat. Encourage Proper Hydration Proper hydration primarily comes from providing a diet rich in water by favoring wet food. As noted above, wet food contains about 75% water compared to 10% in dry food! It allows the cat to consume water through food and ultimately drink about 50% more water than when eating dry food and drinking separately! Wet food also has other health benefits. Besides fulfilling hydration needs, it has roughly 4 times fewer calories than dry food (per equal quantity); it allows your cat to eat enough to satisfy its appetite. The moisture content also adds volume in the stomach, helping your cat feel fuller longer. To increase your cat’s water intake, also consider offering several bowls of fresh water or a water fountain if your cat likes drinking from the tap or likes moving water. You can also add a tablespoon of water to the pâté or prepare flavored waters with a few drops of tuna juice or chicken/beef broth. Reduce Stress and Improve Your Cat’s Environment As mentioned earlier, reducing stress in cats is important. For this, play and cuddle your cat a bit more (if it wants), engage your cat with fishing pole toys, balls, or offer anti-stress products like valerian or plug-in diffusers. There are other tricks to calm a stressed cat: play music, give massages, provide hiding spots, etc. Be careful with the type of music played. Several studies show cats dislike rock, pop, or country music — all rhythmic genres. They prefer classical music, which is gentler on their ears. To avoid disturbing your cat (and neighbors), put away your Taylor Swift albums and play Mozart or Chopin!

Is your cat shedding? If your cat is shedding, don't worry. However, if your cat is shedding a lot of hair - abnormally (in clumps, scratching, holes) - this could indicate a behavioral or health problem.

A cat litter that doesn't stick to paws, effectively controls odors, is healthy, and environmentally friendly. Finding the ideal cat litter is not an easy task. In this article, we give you tips on how to choose the best cat litter for your cat (and for yourself). The Importance of Choosing a Good Cat Litter As cute as they are, cats are sensitive creatures and very particular. Regarding their diet: they need a complete and balanced diet that provides all essential nutrients for their health. But their needs don’t stop at food. They are also very picky about their cat litter. For Their Well-being Our furry friends place great importance on hygiene. They groom themselves constantly, even after a little petting session. And when they need to do their business (big or small), they expect a litter box that’s worthy — clean, comfortable for their paws, and pleasant for their noses. Otherwise, they might avoid the litter box or hold it in, which can be dangerous for their health. And For Their Health Cats are prone to urinary tract diseases like cystitis, an inflammation of the lower urinary tract. This causes pain and difficulty urinating. The causes of cystitis are varied: congenital malformations, kidney stones, tumors, infections. Often, the exact cause cannot be determined — called idiopathic cystitis. The mechanisms are not fully understood but seem linked to stress: moving house, arrival of a new pet or child, transport, etc. Stress can also be caused by the cat litter! Important: If your cat shows urinary problems, contact your veterinarian immediately. To prevent and avoid relapses, it is recommended to: Prefer wet food as it contains a lot of water and dilutes the urine; Offer more water points; Use calming pheromones; Provide elevated places for playing and resting; Spend more time with your cat; And of course, provide a clean and suitable cat litter. A good cat litter is therefore important. It contributes to well-being and prevents urinary diseases! But we as owners also suffer from unpleasant side effects. Some litters do not absorb odors (hello gas mask), stick to paws and spread throughout the house. The vacuum cleaner game — no thanks. The cat litter must satisfy both: the cat and the owner. Which Cat Litter to Choose? There are many types of cat litter: plant-based, mineral, clumping, non-clumping, silica, scented, etc. The choice is difficult. Let's get an overview. Mineral Cat Litter Introduced in the 1950s, it was the first commercial cat litter! It consists of small stones of various sizes made from clay minerals (natural or synthetic) or sand. Examples include bentonite (sometimes sodium-activated for better absorption), calcium silicate, kaolinite, attapulgite, and illite (green clay). There are clumping and non-clumping mineral litters. What is clumping cat litter? When in contact with urine, the grains clump together. This makes it easy to remove solid and liquid waste without changing the entire litter box content. Disadvantage: litter can stick to paws! Non-clumping litter does not bind urine. Mineral litter is very absorbent but binds odors poorly. Also, it is very dusty, which can be problematic for respiratory issues in cats or humans. Another downside: mineral litter is very environmentally unfriendly. It comes from non-renewable resources (clay from quarries), is neither recyclable nor biodegradable. After use, it belongs in the residual waste bin. Dust and ash from burning are harmful to the environment. Some products contain chemical additives (fungicides or pesticides), e.g., bleached or scented litter. Not ideal! Advantages of mineral cat litter: Absorbency Texture Price Disadvantages of mineral cat litter: Dusty Environmental impact Poor odor control Silica Litter A mineral litter made of transparent blue crystals, consisting of silica gel made from sodium silicate (from sand) and sulfuric acid. It stands out for its strong absorption. The crystals bind urine and especially odors very well. Easy care: only solid waste needs to be removed. It does not stick to paws and produces little dust. However, it barely clumps. The urine is simply absorbed by the crystals. So it is difficult to remove individual spots; you have to change the entire litter content. Although some manufacturers recommend monthly changes, more frequent changes are advised. The crystals get moist over time, promoting bacteria growth. Silica gel is a non-renewable resource. Dust can irritate respiratory tracts. Silica litter is usually more expensive than mineral litter. Advantages of silica litter: Absorption power Odor control Little dust Non-sticking to paws Disadvantages of silica litter: Low clumping capacity Costly Non-renewable resource Plant-based cat litter This litter is made from natural ingredients. It can be made from hemp, wood, corn cobs, or fir. 100% natural, this litter has many advantages: besides being eco-friendly (biodegradable and compostable), it is absorbent and effectively traps unpleasant odors. Also, its texture is particularly appreciated by cats, much softer on their paws than other types of litter. Its scent is natural, and it produces very little dust. Some are clumping, others are not. If you choose clumping litter, be aware that it contains a glue that removes the natural, recyclable, and compostable aspect of the litter. Unlike other types of litter, plant-based litters have a very low environmental impact. The raw materials used are recycled; they are not specifically produced. The litters are made from by-products of the wood industry, and corn cobs are unsuitable for consumption. Most are made in Europe (France and Germany). This reduces the environmental impact linked to transport. Furthermore, they are biodegradable and compostable. You can definitely compost them! However, be careful with feces which may contain very resistant forms of parasites such as oocysts of Toxoplasma gondii (the parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis). In any case (with or without feces), do not use compost containing litter for plants intended for consumption, such as your vegetable garden. Which type of plant-based litter to choose for your cat? There are different plant-based litters. Some are fiber-based and others are pellets. They are all absorbent, but fibers tend to stick to the cat’s paws. Very light, they can also get caught in your cat’s fur. If you have a Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat, or British Longhair, you might find some litter all over your house. Pellets turn out to be a better option. Among the different components, wood is the best option: it perfectly traps odors. Whatever solution you choose, favor litter certified NF Environnement. This certification guarantees that the products are of good quality and environmentally friendly throughout their life cycle. Ziggy’s (happy) cat litter At Ziggy, we chose a non-clumping plant-based litter that is ultra-absorbent (up to 600%), made from crushed resinous wood pellets. No problem of litter sticking to paws or fur! And like all our products, it is French. A plant-based litter is no longer really ecological if it is made on the other side of the world, right? And to top it all off, Ziggy litter is NF Environnement certified. Advantages of plant-based litter: A soft texture for the paws Low environmental impact A gentle and natural pine scent Absorbent and odor-controlling Disadvantages of plant-based litter: We don’t know any (at least for ours 😺) Scented litters There are also scented litters that give off a pleasant smell of vanilla, lavender, or baby powder (yes, that exists!). If the smell of litter bothers you a lot, they can be an effective solution. However, remember that cats are animals: they mark their territory and go to places where they find their own scent. If your litter smells like Provence, your cat will be very disturbed and may avoid its litter box. Keep in mind that your cat has 30 times more olfactory receptors than humans! A slight smell to you is unbearable for them. Which litter to choose for my kitten? Whether plant-based or mineral, your kitten’s litter should not be clumping. Because kittens often ingest it, and it could get stuck in their digestive tract. How to get your cat used to its new litter? After reading this article, we hope to have enlightened you on your litter choice. Be careful when you change it though. Our four-legged friends are creatures of habit, and the slightest change can unsettle them. This applies to their food too: to avoid abrupt changes which could cause diarrhea or vomiting, it is essential to go through a food transition phase. But also for their litter. Some cats will have no problem switching from one litter to another. For others, it will be more difficult. In this case, we recommend mixing the old litter with the new one for several days, so your cat gets used to it. If you just adopted a kitten, ask the association, foster family, or breeder from which you adopted your kitten which litter was used, so the transition is smooth. Can two cats share the same litter box? If you have two pets at home, it is better to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra just in case. So three litters. Sharing one litter box for two cats can cause territorial problems. Of course, it depends on the situation. Two cats can perfectly get along with a single litter box. You decide. If one of your cats soils elsewhere, you will need to provide its own box.

My cat nibbles my face, destroys my clothes, or has even developed a real obsession with curtains... Frédérique Blot, aka La Psy de Mon Chat, psychologist and feline behaviorist, deciphers four behaviors in our cats. Frédérique Blot is a psychologist and feline behaviorist. She has recently trained in pet bereavement support with Lynne Pion, known in Canada and France for her books and groups on the subject. When she's not consulting, Frédérique passionately runs the blog La Psy de Mon Chat, where she teaches us how to decode their messages and shares tips to help our furry companions feel good in their paws. Frédérique kindly agreed to a Q&A, addressing four specific behaviors observed in our clients’ young cats. #1 My kitten nibbles my face and clings to me "My kitten tends to 'bite' my face (chin, cheeks, neck) at night, gently, while purring and lying on me. It seems like he’s clinging to me? I don't know what this means or how to stop it!" Frédérique Blot’s answer: Kittens love to bite everything they find—it helps them practice hunting. If your kitten was well socialized by his mother (between 2 and 3 months), he’ll have learned to control his bite. If not, his biting may be painful. If he clings to you, purrs, and then bites your face, he may be experiencing a form of regression. If he also kneads, it's an additional sign that he’s remembering nursing from his mother, replicating that behavior for comfort and joy. However, remember that your tiny 500g kitten will soon be a 4–5kg adult. Keeping this in mind will help you decide when to set boundaries. If this happens at night, he may be trying to create a ritual: "I do this, and they wake up and cuddle me." So: "If I get attention, I’ll do it again." If it's at night, pretend to sleep and do not react with cuddles or attention. If he bites your face, turn away and ignore him—no cuddles, no engagement. Alternatively, place a blanket or stuffed toy in front of your face and gently push him toward it. The goal is to redirect him. In any case, you must break the habit of letting him bite your face—or any part of your body. #2 My cat suckles on me "What does it mean when an adult cat suckles on us?" Frédérique Blot’s answer: A kitten suckles from his mother while kneading around her nipples to stimulate milk flow. It's a moment of pure bliss for him. As adults, many cats retain this kitten-like behavior. It helps them self-soothe and de-stress. It’s a comforting ritual and perfectly normal. There’s no need to worry unless it becomes very frequent (daily). In that case, it might signal anxiety, which should ideally be addressed with a specialist. #3 My kitten is obsessed with curtains "My cat constantly tries to climb our curtains. She’s just 5 months old. We’ve tried deterrents, loud clapping, and even a little water spray. Nothing works. Any advice? Also, she nibbles my hands when I pet her. I’m the only one she does this to. Why?" Frédérique Blot’s answer: Cats—and especially kittens—love to climb. It’s a natural need that helps them feel safe and in control of their environment. What not to do: Punishing a cat (yelling, sprays…) is counterproductive and increases stress. Your cat won’t understand and may even become aggressive. What to do instead: Offer an alternative. Your kitten needs vertical space—get a tall, sturdy cat tree. Ideally, choose a cat tree over 1.2–1.5m tall with large platforms, made from natural, appealing materials. Place it near the curtains and she’ll likely switch to that. You can also install wall-mounted cat shelves, bridges, and climbing systems. If you already have a cat tree but she ignores it, it might be too small, unstable, or poorly placed. As for the hand nibbling, this may be a case of overstimulation—the “pet-and-bite” syndrome. If she’s not in the mood, she might bite to set boundaries. Only pet her when she initiates it. Also, avoid playing with your hands—they’ll become targets for biting and scratching. #4 My cat destroys my clothes "Why does my cat turn my clothes into Swiss cheese when he's bored or upset?" Frédérique Blot’s answer: Cats love to knead, suckle, and chew soft fabrics. If the clothes smell like you, even better—it’s their olfactory paradise, bringing comfort and security. What to do: Always store worn clothes out of reach, and keep clean ones in closed closets.Give your cat their own blankets or soft toys, scented with a bit of valerian or catnip to attract them. Create a toy area where they can play, tear, and release frustration. Boredom and frustration lead to stress, and your cat will need to vent. Offer alternatives they’re allowed to use and destroy. If your kitten was adopted too early (at 2 months instead of 3), weaning may have been incomplete, which can cause increased suckling or even fabric ingestion. Important: If your cat swallows fabrics and not just chews or suckles them, it could be a sign of Pica—an eating disorder where they ingest non-food materials (plastic, clothing…). In that case, consult your vet.