socialization

We all recognize scratching as a normal behavior for a cat. Should your cat claw his way into the arm of your favorite chair, you would simply let out a sigh of regret, and wonder why you hadnt thought to cover that precious piece of furniture.

Cat lovers must surely agree that there is little as lovely to behold as a cat running freely outdoors. What is as graceful as a cat nimbly climbing a tree or darting after a butterfly?

Humans are very biased in assessing the intelligence of our cats (or dogs). Thats because we tend to judge them according to traits that we can relate to as humans. When cats do something entertaining or "display their independence, we think of them as intelligent," says Julia Albright, MA, DVM, animal behavior resident at Cornell Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine. But there is actually far more evidence for cats intelligence than just our perception of it. According to researchers at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, the physical structure of our brain and that of cats are very similar; they have the same lobes in the cerebral cortex (the "seat" of intelligence) as we do. Our brains function the same way, conveying data via identical neurotransmitters.

Who isnt charmed by photographs of kids holding and petting cute, cuddly kittens? Children can benefit from having a cat, and vice versa. "The experience of bonding between the child and the cat can be invaluable," says Larry Lachman, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist, animal behavior consultant and author of Cats on the Counter: Therapy and Training for Your Cat, "and a child learns to increase compassion and empathy for nonhuman life."

Our cats do have it made; we humans want only the best for our feline companions. Much to the chagrin of the average cat, this care is likely to include at least one thing that just doesnt seem particularly enjoyable.

Training your cat to accept a harness and lease can provide extra stimulation and bonding.

Cognitive dysfunction can be as hard n us as it is on our beloved pets. Here's some help.

Your cat uses her entire body to communicate messages to us and other animals.

Sometimes, even though I am a veterinary behaviorist, I am asked about couples therapy. You are probably familiar with the situation. Two humans meet, marry - and then remember that their respective pets have not been formally introduced. Bad enough when this is cat-meet-cat. But cat-meet-dog can be quite a challenge. …

A visit to the veterinarians office can be extremely stressful for your pet. Learn ways to make it more enjoyable - for both of you.

The loss of a beloved companion can be difficult for your cat. Heres how to help her heal.

Are my cats playing or are they fighting? Are there ways that I can tell? Simple enough, right? In fact, not really; these are...