Your little companion seems stressed? Maybe it's time to reveal your inner masseur/masseuse! First, try to identify the source of the stress: a vet visit, a new family member, or maybe a recent move? Then it’s your turn to help them relax. Just like with humans, massage works wonders on cats. But for the best results, you need to know how to do it properly. The effects of massage on our cats Massaging your cat has many benefits: first of all, it relieves tension and improves blood circulation. When you touch certain areas of their body, it triggers the release of endorphins (feel-good hormones), which help support the immune and cardiovascular systems. It’s also a great opportunity to monitor your cat’s health and detect any pain or injury. Plus, it strengthens your bond with them—and that’s priceless! Bonus for you: your blood pressure drops, and you relax too. It’s well known—cat purrs have anti-stress effects on humans. However, avoid any rough manipulations—leave that to specialized osteopaths! How to properly massage your cat Step 1: Start with the head Begin gently, by softly feeling the areas they love to be petted—most often the head and neck. Then use light circular movements. You’ve probably noticed that the top and back of the head, around the ears, and between the eyes are favorite spots for most cats. Step 2: Extend the massage zone Slowly move your hands down their body using small circles along the shoulders, sides, and rear end! You can apply VERY gentle pressure with the palms of your hands. Step 3: Try the belly Warning: sensitive area! As you know, most cats don’t enjoy belly rubs. But if your furry friend is relaxed enough to lie on their back, you can gently stroke their tummy. Be very delicate, and start by pressing your palms lightly on their belly and chest. Step 4: Move down to the legs Many cats dislike having their legs touched. However, the area between the paw pads is hard for them to reach. A gentle massage here can relieve itchiness and provide a strong sense of comfort. Step 5: Finish with the tail After the belly and legs, give the tail a try—this is a very sensitive area for cats. To massage it, hold the tail gently between your hands and slide your fingers from the base to the tip. If they start to get annoyed, return to an area they enjoy more. So, have you tried massaging your cat? Tell us about your experience!

Whatever the cause of agitation or stress in your little companion, it is absolutely possible to help them relax. Here are 5 ideas to calm your favorite furry friend. #1 Provide hiding spots As you may have noticed, cats love confined spaces. If they don't have access to the outdoors, they will still appreciate having a proper hiding place. In nature, cats like to observe without being seen. They also seek out hiding spots in case of conflict to feel safe. A simple cardboard box will definitely make them happy. Typically demanding, in this case, our cats are pretty minimalistic! It’s no secret—according to a Dutch study, cardboard boxes have a calming effect on cats. In general, cats need a safe environment where they can easily access their food, litter box, scratching post, and toys without being constantly disturbed. #2 Help your cat relax with music Scientific research has once again shown the positive impact of music on our cats. Be careful with your music choice—your kitty may not be a big fan of rock or R'n'B! It seems our cats are particularly sensitive to gentle and relaxing music. Some composers have even created music exclusively for cats, based on the tempo of purring and the sounds kittens make during nursing.Definitely worth trying to see the effects of music therapy on your little one... Find some of these tracks on: Youtube or Spotify. #3 Consider valerian! Using valerian can be recommended to relax a cat that is too stressed. It is used in small doses by veterinarians to treat anxiety naturally. However, it is still useful to understand the causes of stress in your little companion, whether it’s a move, the loss of a fellow pet, the arrival of a new animal, or a trip to the vet. Valerian is available in different forms, such as sprays, indoor diffusers, or in small toys. At Ziggy, we offer small cat toys infused with catnip, a natural ingredient that induces feelings of well-being. #4 Naturally calming scents Cats are extremely sensitive to smells. That’s why it might be helpful to place a piece of clothing with your scent in their bed or on their cat tree. If a new animal has arrived in your home, it’s also useful to get your cat accustomed to its scent before a physical introduction. #5 A massage session It doesn’t work only for humans! Massages are known to promote physical relaxation, but also mental calm in animals. Massaging your little companion will relieve tension, calm them down, and strengthen your bond. Unfortunately, "my turn" won’t work with them!

Does your cat regularly bite your hand, feet, or calf? Despite all the love you give them, this behavior harms your relationship and leaves you with some nice scars. You’re probably wondering why your beloved cat, whom you feed and cherish so much, behaves like this. Don’t worry, if your cat bites you, it’s not by chance or for fun. You need to find and understand the cause of these frequent bites so you can put a stop to this behavior for good. But why is my cat biting me? Maybe because you taste like their favorite wet food... Who knows? Jokes aside, no matter how much you love them, their bites are not so pleasant. Getting bitten all the time isn’t very fun. First, try to observe in which situations your cat bites you. When you come home? When you play? When you pet them in a specific area? Depending on the situation, there are several explanations for this behavior: #1 Your cat is bored If your little companion bites you, it might be because they're bored; make sure they get their daily dose of playtime. Mental stimulation and activity levels are important for a cat to feel good in their mind and paws. Even indoor cats need to satisfy their hunting instincts! #2 They were weaned too early It’s the mother cat who teaches her kittens how to manage the intensity of their bites. It’s possible your cat was separated from their mother too early and didn’t fully learn this important lesson. #3 They were taught to play with your hands It’s also possible that when your cat was younger, you taught them to play with your hands. They may now consider your hands as toys, which seems quite logical to them. #4 Your cat is in pain If your usually calm cat bites you when you pet them in a specific area, they might be in pain. A trip to the vet is highly recommended! #5 They have "Tiger Syndrome" When a kitten isn’t properly weaned, socialized, or introduced to community life, they may develop what is called "Tiger Syndrome". You may notice a quick change in behavior, with your cat going from calm to aggressive, exhibiting biting and scratching. This syndrome is more common in cats who suffer from stress, anxiety, and boredom, but especially in those with improper diets. A cat that isn’t fed enough or doesn’t receive enough meals throughout the day may develop psychological issues due to a sense of lack. Their predatory instincts can kick in and lead to aggression. It’s highly recommended to feed your cat at least four meals a day. Note that this feeling of lack can also affect their gluttonous behavior. A frustrated cat tends to eat very fast, even too fast. Their small stomach can’t handle this rapid eating, causing them to vomit. Don’t hesitate to read our article about this issue: My cat eats too fast: Why and what to do? My cat bites me: How should I react to this behavior? You’re tired of being bitten by your cat, and we get it! If you think the cause of this behavior is boredom, feel free to provide some toys. Especially if your cat lives indoors. A fishing rod, a feather toy, a scratching post, or even a cat tree will definitely make them happy. During your play sessions together, don’t extend your hand or foot to play with them. Instead, use a toy. Even a bottle cap tied to a string can keep them entertained for a long time! Also, note that our Ziggy box can be turned into a little hideout. An ideal hideaway for your little cat 😺 They can also have fun with our awesome Cat'Mobile. Let the whiskers fly! Theia in her hideout and Topaz in their Ziggy Cat'Mobile. During a play session, if your cat bites you, you need to say "NO" firmly and stop playing for a few minutes to allow them to calm down. If you think your cat suffers from Tiger Syndrome, discuss it with your vet during a consultation. They can help you calm down this behavior by adjusting their diet and possibly giving them treatment to help them relax. Whatever the situation, remember that our cats sometimes need solitude. It’s important to respect their nature for your cohabitation to go smoothly. Sometimes, it's better to let them be alone for a moment, and wait until they decide to come give you a cuddle!

You’ve probably noticed that your cat has the annoying tendency to knock over everything that crosses its path. The pen, the remote control, your mustache mug... It spares nothing! Here are a few theories that could explain this behavior. Why does my cat knock over objects? To get my attention It's hard to admit, but our cats are badly raised children. Yes, you heard that right. So, you can interpret the fall of your book as a "I'm here, look at me", much like "Mom, watch me do a somersault!". If your cat knocks things over, it might be because it’s waiting for you to give it some attention. Or for you to serve its meal. Because it’s bored It’s important to dedicate some time to your favorite companion (we're still talking about the cat). Put down your phone or computer and try playing with it. A play session with a fishing pole, a feather wand, or even a laser pointer will stimulate its hunting instincts and might save a few of your favorite objects. It’s checking if the object is "alive" This is a strange theory but highly likely. Your cat might tap and knock over your coffee cup as if it were an animal, just to determine if it’s alive or not. Because the object is in its way Your keys shouldn’t be left lying around on the table, and your cat has gently reminded you of that with a quick paw swipe. It loves you with all its little feline heart, but it thinks you have terrible taste when it comes to decoration. It spends enough time dusting with its paw to have you come along and mess up its space. More seriously, it’s best to remove objects that get in its way from areas where it moves most. Because it finds it amusing In the end, your feline might simply enjoy studying the law of gravity. Watching and listening to the sound of an object falling—what could be more fun when you’re a cat? And yeah, you have to keep yourself entertained somehow! via GIPHY How to minimize the damage? Of course, if your little feline has a quick paw, it’s best not to leave fragile dishes within its reach. The same goes for dangerous objects, cleaning products that might spill, or hot liquids. As mentioned earlier, it’s possible that your cat is bored and that its mischief is the result. Maybe it’s not burning off all the energy it should through play or exercise. You can provide it with toys and furniture, like a cat tree or a scratching post, so it can entertain itself when you're not around. Ideally, try to set aside at least 30 minutes a day to play with it. Even though it’s not always easy, there’s no need to scold and yell at your little cat. It won’t understand this sudden change in behavior. You could scare it, and it might develop a distrustful attitude. And above all, it probably doesn’t care and will start again as soon as your back is turned, or worse, while staring you right in the eyes. Bam. What if this is the perfect opportunity to adopt another cat? Depending on your current cat’s temperament, introducing a playmate could be the solution. The more cats, the more fun! Does your cat also knock everything that crosses its path?

Out with the new, and long live recycling! One might almost believe that our cats are born environmentalists, sensitive to the cause of the environment. But let's calm down, the reality is somewhat different since it is the cat's instinct that drives it to monopolize any cardboard box. Moreover, no matter the size of your packaging, your cat jumps on it every time you return from shopping. If your little companion loves cardboard boxes so much, it is certainly because they represent an ideal hiding place. In nature, as an experienced hunter, a cat must be able to hide to observe its prey. Lacking a bush or a rock, at home, our cats are thrilled to have cardboard boxes or packaging as a hiding place. Feel free to make holes inside so that it can observe its surroundings, the goal being to see without being seen. Endless play sessions You may have noticed that when there are at least two cats, they go even crazier for cardboard. They then chase each other in the form of a game, hiding inside the boxes in turn. You can let your imagination run wild by stacking several boxes or customizing them to create a dream play area for your pet. A great way to relax It has been proven that cardboard has a calming effect on cats. They like being able to hide and feel safe in case of conflict. A well-known Dutch study was conducted on 19 cats in a shelter. They were placed separately in spaces with or without cardboard boxes. The result is quite surprising, as the cats with access to cardboard boxes appeared more relaxed than the others and had better interactions with humans. We can therefore conclude that boxes and packaging can be good allies against anxiety in our little companions. The ideal bedding Cats love cramped spaces that guarantee them comfort and security. In addition, cardboard has the advantage of retaining heat well. Sleeping in a cardboard box is therefore the perfect solution for our little companion, as it allows them to stay warm and feel protected from external threats. The packaging is then considered a nest or cocoon. In fact, we notice that our cats can stay in them for several hours a day without moving. Finally, if the cardboard is not too soft, it can even serve as a scratching post for your little companion (and therefore potentially save your furniture!). Is your cat crazy about cardboard?

What toys should I choose for my cat? Many of us wonder how to keep our feline friends entertained to prevent boredom. Cats can be delicate creatures, but when it comes to toys, simplicity often trumps sophistication. Sometimes, a simple cardboard box, a paper ball, or a bottle cap tied to a string make the best toys! Understanding the Importance of Play in Cats In the wild, a cat spends several hours a day hunting, so boredom is rarely an issue! Our indoor panthers need both physical and mental stimulation. When they have access to the outdoors, they encounter a multitude of natural play opportunities and can easily unleash their predator instincts. But in an apartment, it's essential to provide your little companion with enough stimulation to keep them from getting bored. If not stimulated enough, your cat might show signs of boredom such as excessive meowing and overeating. Play keeps your cat entertained and contributes to good health throughout its life. The more they move, the lower the risk of becoming overweight or obese. What Toys for My Cat? A cat tree, which serves as a perch. Your cat can jump, observe, and hide as it pleases. A scratching post, to satisfy their scratching needs (and save your couch!). A cardboard box, you’ve surely noticed, cats love them! Customize a box by adding openings or stacking several together. A paper ball, probably the cheapest toy on the list! A fishing rod or feather wand, simple but always effective. Let the inner hunter out! A plush toy, some come filled with catnip – your cat will go crazy for it! A tunnel, perfect for cats who like sneaking into tight spaces. A laser pointer, to mimic a hunting session while playing together. A lookout spot, such as a small piece of furniture or chair placed near a closed window for outdoor observation. And what about feeding time? A slow feeder bowl, so your cat eats more slowly. Mealtime becomes both fun and stimulating. A puzzle feeder, in the shape of a tunnel, maze, or track – the options are endless! A treat or kibble ball, your cat will roll it around to release the food inside. Depending on your availability, put down your phone or laptop and play with your cat. These shared moments will keep boredom away and strengthen your bond. Be careful not to give your pet toys with detachable parts that could be swallowed. Your Hands Are Not "Toys" When your kitten is still young, it’s important to teach them not to bite or scratch your hands. Hands should never be considered toys. If your cat scratches or bites, stop the game and say “no” firmly. There’s no need to yell or make sudden movements – your cat wouldn’t understand. Once calm, you can resume playing. No matter your cat’s age, spending quality time with your little companion is priceless! It will always make them happy. What toys have you chosen for your cat?

Plants make wonderful decorations for our homes, but some are particularly toxic to our little companions. It is better to opt for a nice pot of cat grass that will delight your cat and allow it to purge itself in peace. My cat has been poisoned, what should I do? The curiosity of our cats leads them to sniff plants and sometimes chew on them, especially indoors... It is important to know how to react if your cat ingests a toxic plant. Time is of the essence, so immediately call your veterinarian, who is the only one able to guide you on what to do. If possible, try to tell them the name of the plant and the amount your cat has consumed. If you don't know the plant's name, gather some leaves or flowers. Do not attempt to make your cat vomit or give them water, as it could worsen the situation. There are two veterinary poison control centers in France, which are available 24/7 for free. What are the signs of poisoning? The toxicity level varies from plant to plant. Symptoms can vary. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain These may be digestive, such as diarrhea in cats. Poisoning may also cause your cat to vomit. For example, your cat may vomit bile. A poisoned cat may also experience abdominal pain. The azalea, a plant from the rhododendron family, causes diarrhea and vomiting in cats. Heart and/or neurological disorders Ingesting certain plants can also trigger heart and/or neurological disorders in cats. This is true for azalea, but also lily of the valley and mistletoe, common festive plants in our homes. Skin irritation, kidney failure, breathing difficulties Poisoning from a plant can also cause dermatitis, kidney failure in cats, or breathing difficulties. 20 Toxic Plants for Cats Indoor and garden plants to absolutely avoid for your cat Aloe Also known as aloe vera, the gel inside its leaves can cause digestive issues if ingested. Amaryllis Amaryllidaceae plants (daffodils, narcissus, and amaryllis) are toxic due to the lycorine they contain. They can cause heart and neurological issues. Arum The sap and leaves of arum are extremely toxic if ingested. Even simple contact can cause irritation. Azalea This beautiful plant is a real poison. The entire plant is toxic: the stem, leaves, and flowers. Symptoms mainly include diarrhea and vomiting. Its ingestion can lead to severe neurological and cardiac problems. Croton The latex in croton leaves is highly irritating and toxic to cats. Cyclamen Belonging to the primrose family, cyclamen is dangerous for cats. If ingested, it can cause diarrhea, vomiting, convulsions, and even heart complications. Dieffenbachia Your cat risks poisoning if it chews on the stem or leaves of this ornamental plant. The latex in the plant is highly irritating and toxic. Ficus If ingested, ficus can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and kidney problems. Wisteria Wisteria is toxic and irritating to both humans and cats. Mistletoe This plant, often found in homes during the holiday season, can cause digestive or neurological disorders in your cat. Holly Traditionally present in homes during Christmas, holly can cause adverse health effects if ingested by your cat. Iris Ingestion can cause digestive problems in your cat. Hyacinth It typically causes digestive poisoning. Oleander Highly toxic. Ingesting just a few leaves can cause cardiac arrest. Lily of the valley Entire plant is toxic: stem, sap, leaves, and flowers. Ingesting lily of the valley can cause digestive problems as well as heart issues. Philodendron This trendy ornamental plant is toxic due to its high concentration of oxalates. Japanese Mimosa Can cause digestive and heart issues if ingested. Poinsettia This plant, often given at Christmas, can cause digestive issues if your cat chews on the leaves. Rhododendron From the Ericaceae family (like azalea), rhododendron is toxic if ingested. Tulip From the lily family, the bulbs are the most toxic part of the plant. It can cause digestive poisoning. How to protect your cat from toxic plants? To protect your cat, the ideal is, of course, not to buy these plants. But if someone gives you one, place it in a spot where your furry friend can't reach it: on top of a dresser, in a closed room, etc. Unfortunately, you won't be able to enjoy it, but your curious cat won't be tempted to nibble on it, and you will have peace of mind. Otherwise, you can opt for non-toxic plants for cats! Alternatives to toxic plants: Safe plants for cats What plants can you safely have at home without risking your cat's life? Luckily, there are several safe plants for cats. Here are some examples: Ferns Dwarf Palms Chlorophytum comosum, also called Spider Plant Maranta Pilea, or Chinese Money Plant (with small round leaves) Gerberas Valerian Butterfly Orchid Cat grass Your cat's health is important, especially since it’s the one that truly brightens up your home. 😽Pssst: if your cat tends to nibble on everything in sight, try our delicious cat food. Healthy and balanced treats that will delight your cat and offer them a life full of purring. 💛

My cat is peeing everywhere – help! This behavior can be incredibly frustrating, but it's important to identify the root cause in order to solve the issue properly. On your couch, on furniture, in your bed or even in your plants – your cat may spare no corner of your home. Don’t worry – it’s a common problem that can often be resolved with a few simple tips. Why is my cat peeing all over the house – except in the litter box? Cats are known for being very clean animals. Still, sometimes your furry friend might start urinating all over your home. Before looking for a solution, let’s clear up a few common misconceptions: 1: “My cat is doing it out of revenge” Revenge is a human concept – cats don’t act this way out of spite. If your cat is peeing outside the litter box, it’s not your fault. 2: “Repellents help with cat pee” Cats have a very strong sense of smell and like environments that smell familiar. Spraying essential oils, bleach, vinegar or other repellents will likely cause your cat to pee there again – trying to restore their scent. 3: “The litter box must always be super clean” Cats are picky – and each cat is different. A dirty litter box can certainly discourage use. Scoop out urine and feces regularly. A full cleaning once a week is usually enough. You can find more advice on choosing the right litter box in our full guide. 4: “My cat needs privacy” We often anthropomorphize our pets – but cats don’t have a concept of “privacy.” Their litter box doesn’t need to be hidden, just easily accessible. Before assuming it’s a behavioral issue, consult your vet to rule out any medical problems. Urinary tract infections or other illnesses could explain a sudden loss of bladder control. If the problem isn’t medical, it’s likely behavioral. Litter box issues vs. urine marking Litter box issues Your cat urinates on horizontal surfaces like the floor, bed, or couch. Check the litter box – is it clean enough? Clean and remove all traces of urine from the affected areas. Cats may return to spots that smell like their own scent. Avoid cleaning with bleach – the smell actually attracts cats! Use white vinegar instead. You can clean the litter box itself with bleach – it can help encourage use. In multi-cat households, each cat should have their own litter box. The scent of another cat may be a deterrent. If your cat continues peeing outside the box despite being neutered, stress might be the cause. Ask yourself: Has anything changed recently? A new baby? A new pet? A move? New furniture? Identifying the source of stress will help you resolve the issue. Urine marking Litter issues and urine marking are two distinct behaviors. If your cat is not spayed or neutered, and is peeing on vertical surfaces like walls, table legs, or chairs, it’s most likely marking behavior. In that case, spaying or neutering is often the best solution. Finally, don’t punish your cat for urine marking. For them, it’s completely natural and has nothing to do with defiance or revenge. The sooner you understand the root cause, the easier it’ll be to resolve – and bring harmony back to your home.   Did you enjoy this article? Then check out our post: 10 signs that you have a cat at home.