Sodium is an essential mineral for life. Found in the blood and in the fluid that surrounds cells, sodium maintains the cellular environment and prevents cells from swelling or dehydrating. Sodium is also important for maintaining proper nerve and muscle cell function.
Meat, poultry, fish, and eggs are good sources of sodium. It also may be included in commercial cat foods in the form of table salt (sometimes listed on the ingredient panel as salt). Salt is an important palatant for animals, as well as for people.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials recommends that dry cat foods contain at least 0.2% sodium for maintenance and to support normal growth and development. These are the minimum recommended levels.
While high sodium intake may cause increased thirst and water consumption, the extra sodium is excreted in cat urine.
Therefore, the sodium level in commercial pet foods is not a cause for concern in healthy animals.
A veterinarian may recommend decreasing a cat's sodium intake if the animal has some types of kidney, liver, or heart disease, in order to help decrease high blood pressure or the accumulation of excessive body fluid. Although older cats may be more likely to develop these diseases, healthy older cats do not require a low- or reduced-sodium diet.
The sodium level in our cat foods is appropriate for healthy cats. The sodium content in these foods is balanced in proper proportions with energy, other minerals, vitamins, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Have you ever wondered about the mysteries behind a cat's purr? It is not just a simple sound, but a blend of feline physiology at work. Cats achieve their signature purr through rapid contractions and relaxations of their laryngeal muscles, around 150 times per second. This creates that familiar, soothing and resonant sound we all adore. And as your cat takes each breath, the airflow caresses these vibrating muscles adding more depth to its purr. In this blog, we will look into the secrets behind this enchanting feline phenomenon.
Purring is a feline’s versatile tool of communication. Sure, cats purr when they are happy and comfy, but they can also purr when they are stressed, in pain, or even when they are hungry – it is like a cat crying for some attention. And here is a fun fact: mama cats purr to bond with their kittens, and kitten sounds are indicators of the little ones telling mom everything is fine.
Let us dive into the details of different cat sounds because they might just be trying to tell you something important.
Cats are like mysterious little furballs, and their purring adds another layer to the enigma. So, what exactly are they trying to convey when they turn on the purr engine?
When your cat is in its happy place – curled up on your lap or basking in a sunbeam – that gentle purring is often a sign of pure contentment. In cat language, it means, 'Life is good right now.'
Cats are known for their independent streak, but when they snuggle close and start to purr, it is a clear sign of love and bonding. It is a cat’s way of saying, 'You are my favorite human, and I adore you.'
Ever noticed your cat purring when you are in the same room but cannot see her? That is her way of announcing her presence, like a cat crying as a GPS locator, 'Don’t worry, I am nearby.'
It is not all sunshine and rainbows. Cats may also purr when they are in pain or discomfort, which can be akin to a kitten sound or cat cry, meaning something is not quite right.
Cats are remarkable self-healers, and purring may have therapeutic effects. The vibrations produced during purring may promote the healing of bones and tissues. I is their natural way of saying, 'I will make myself better,' and it is not unlike the comforting kitten sound that a mother cat makes to communicate love to her babies.
That ecstatic purring when you stroke cats’ fur or tickle them? It is the feline version of laughter. They are loving every moment of your attention, and their purr is a joyful response.
Cats have a unique ability to use purring as a stress-relief mechanism. When faced with a tense situation, they may start to purr to calm their frayed nerves. It is like their built-in stress buster.
Sometimes, it is all about the food. Cats can be quite vocal when they are hungry, and this may include the sound of a cat crying. When being loud, it could mean that the cat said it is dinnertime. It is like a polite request for a meal.
With this information up your sleeve, the next time your furry friend starts to purr take a moment to decode the message. It is like having a heart-to-heart conversation in your cat’s language!
If your feline friend seems to be a chatterbox, you might be wondering what is behind your cat’s meowing. Cats are quite expressive through their meows, and the reasons can vary. A cat’s meow sound may be to seek attention, express hunger, combat loneliness, or signal stress or discomfort. Older cats may meow more due to cognitive changes, and sometimes, boredom can lead to cats meowing excessively. Paying attention to the context and your cat's specific meowing patterns can help you understand its needs and ensure its well-being.
Cats are vocal creatures, and they have an impressive range of sounds to express themselves. Here are five of the most common cat sounds and what they typically mean.
Meowing is an all-purpose communicator in cat language. Cats meow to get your attention, ask for food, or simply say hello. The tone and intensity can convey their emotions, from friendly greetings to a cat crying for urgent demands.
In cat language, this is a clear sign of displeasure or fear. When a cat hisses, it is a warning to back off, and it is best to respect their boundaries.
This quirky cat sound often happens when a cat spots a bird or other prey through a window. It's like their way of expressing excitement and frustration at not being able to catch it.
This kitten sound is a signal that your cat is feeling threatened or territorial. It is a low, guttural sound meant to deter potential intruders.
This is the sound of a cat crying, meaning it is mating season. This cat crying sound is also heard when an unspayed female is in heat. It is a cat's way of announcing its presence and seeking a mate.
Understanding these sounds can help you connect better with your feline friend and respond to its needs and emotions appropriately.
