Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever was bred to be both a friendly companion and a useful working dog breed. Historically, he earned his keep as a fisherman's helper: hauling nets, fetching ropes, and retrieving fish from the chilly North Atlantic. Today's Labrador Retriever is as good-natured and hard working as his ancestors, and he's America's most popular breed. These days the Lab works as a retriever for hunters, assistance dog to the handicapped, show competitor, and search and rescue dog, among other canine jobs.

The warm and intelligent Lab is America's number one breed registered with the American Kennel Club. Even non-dog people can recognize a Lab, and artists and photographers have captured his image countless times — usually as the loyal companion, waiting patiently by his owner's side. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. He has a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels.

The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. John's dog, after the capital city of Newfoundland, he was bred to help the local fishermen — hauling nets, fetching ropes, and retrieving fish that had escaped the nets — as well as to be a family dog.

Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs.


The Lab's sweet nature makes him an excellent therapy dog, visiting homes for the elderly and hospitals, and his intelligence makes him an ideal assistance dog for the handicapped. He also excels as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to his athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature.

And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions — especially obedience.

There's one dog job that Labs are hopeless at: watchdog. 

In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show him where the goods are stashed.

Labrador Retrievers have proven their usefulness and versatility throughout the breed's history, easily shifting from fisherman's companion, to field retriever, to show dog, to modern working dog. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend.

Highlights

- Labrador Retrievers love, love, love to eat, and become obese very quickly if overfed. Limit treats, give your Lab plenty of exercise, and measure out regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time. And be warned that the Lab's large appetite extends to people food and even inedible items. Labradors will forage in garbage, counter surf, and can make a meal out of chewed-up items like children's toys.

- Labrador Retrievers were bred for physically demanding jobs, and they have the high energy that goes along with being a working breed. They need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. Without it, they can vent their pent-up energy in destructive ways, such as barking and chewing.

- Labs have such a good reputation that many people think they don't need to bother with training. But Labs are large, energetic animals, and like all dogs, they need to be taught good canine manners. Sign up for puppy and obedience classes as soon as you bring your Lab home.

- Many people think of Labs as a hyperactive breed. Lab puppies are definitely lively, but most will slow down a bit as they grow up. However, they usually remain fairly active throughout their lives.

- Labrador Retrievers are not known to be escape artists, but with the right motivation — such as a whiff of something yummy — a Lab will take off. Make sure your Lab has current identification tags and a microchip.

- The Lab is America's number one dog, which means there are plenty of people breeding Labs who are more interested in filling the demand for Lab puppies than in breeding healthy dogs with good temperaments. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they're free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.

- If you're looking for a puppy, you'll find that Labs vary depending on what breeder you choose. Some Labs are bred for competitions testing their skill as working dogs, and others are bred to get as close as possible to the ideal look, movement, and temperament of the breed. You'll also find breeders who aim for both looks and utility. Labs bred for the show ring tend to be slightly heavier and more solidly built than those intended for canine careers.

History

Labrador Retrievers hail from the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called St. John's dogs, after the capital city of Newfoundland, Labs served as companions and helpers to the local fishermen beginning in the 1700s.The dogs spent their days working alongside their owners, retrieving fish who had escaped hooks and towing in lines, and then returned home to spend the evening with the fishermen's family.

Although his heritage is unknown, many believe the St. John's dog was interbred with the Newfoundland Dog and other small local water dogs.

Outsiders noticed the dog's usefulness and good disposition, and English sportsmen imported a few Labs to England to serve as retrievers for hunting. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. John's dogs shipped to England sometime around 1830. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors.

Amazingly, Labs — now America's most popular dog — were almost extinct by the 1880s, and the Malmesbury family and other English fans are credited with saving the breed. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters.

In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in 1903. The American Kennel Club followed suit in 1917, and in the '20s and '30s, British Labs were imported to establish the breed in the U.S.

The breed's popularity really began to take off after World War II, and in 1991, the Labrador Retriever became the most popular dog registered with the American Kennel Club — and he's held that distinction ever since. He also tops the list in Canada and England.

Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to the handicapped, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience.

Size

Males stand 22.5 to 24.5 inches, and weigh 65 to 80 pounds. Females stand 21.5 to 23.5 inches, and weigh 55 to 70 pounds.

Personality

The Lab has the reputation of being one of the most sweet-natured breeds, and it's well deserved. He's outgoing, eager to please, and friendly with both people and other animals.

Aside from a winning personality, he has the intelligence and eagerness to please that make him easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means he is active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep him happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity.

CAT BREED - PERSIAN

As the dusty desert caravans wound their way westward from Persia and Iran, it is supposed that secreted among the rare spices and jewels on the basket-laden camels was an even more precious cargo, an occasional longhair cat. They were called Persian for their "country of origin," but hieroglyphic references as early as 1684 B.C. shroud forever their exact beginnings.

Persians, with their luxurious coats and open pansy-like faces are the number one breed in popularity. Their sweet, gentle, personalities blend into most households once they feel secure in their new environment. Creatures of habit, they are most at home in an atmosphere of security and serenity, but with love and reassurance, can easily adapt to the most boisterous of households. Their quiet, melodious voices are pleasant and non-abrasive. They communicate delightfully with their large expressive eyes and make charming pets for all ages. Persians have short heavilyboned legs to support their broad, short bodies. They like to have their feet firmly planted and are not given to high jumping and climbing. Playful but never demanding, they love to pose and will drape themselves in a favorite window or chair, enhancing the decor in much the same way as a treasured painting. Persians are tremendously responsive and become a constant source of joy and delight to their owners. Pleasurable as an unexpected sunbeam, their companionship is close and enduring.

Their long flowing coats require an indoor, protected environment. Proper maintenance requires a daily run-through with a metal comb to eliminate the potential drawbacks of tangles and hairballs. An occasional bath, attempted only after a complete comb-through and clipping of the nail tips, will keep the coat clean, healthy and beautiful. It is wise to establish the routine of the bath when they are young. While the white Persian has long been the darling of photographers and advertisers, Persians come in an astonishing number

of colors, which are divided into seven color divisions for purposes of competition.

Hairballs

Naturally, being long haired, means these cats often suffer from problems related to hairballs. This can be reduced by feeding the cat a good quality food, regular brushing, and reducing stress in the home. Both stress and low quality cat food contribute to excess shedding and hair loss in cats.
Problems Due to Face Shape
Because the trend has been to breed Persian cats with extremely pushed in noses these cats often suffer from related problems. The more pushed in the face, the more problems the cat may have. Problems include tear ducts that constantly run and will stain the fur below the eyes, if neglected this can cause sores on the skin.
Eyelashes, and hair on the nose, can cause a problem if they rub on the eyes of the cat.
The short noses can cause breathing problems for the cat, making them more vulnerable to problems associated with warm, or cold, temperatures. This is because the longer noses give the air a chance to either warm up, or cool down, before entering the body. These cats often have small nasal passages and cannot take as much physical exertion as other cats, and tend to be more lazy as a result.
Malocclusion, or a bad bite, is also common in Persians and should be checked before buying a kitten.
Because of the facial deformity eating can be more difficult for Persian cats.
As a result of the distorted head shape it is not uncommon for Persian cats to have difficulty birthing kittens – the shape of the kitten's head does not pass easily. Still born kittens are seen more in Persians than most other breeds.
Persian cats often have side effects from Grisofulvin, a ringworm medication.
Some Persian cats have behavior problems and simply stop using their litter box (note this can also be related to kidney problems).
Persian cats are prone to hip dysplasia.
Eye diseases are common in this breed.

If not groomed regularly they will develop painful hair mats and may require shaving.


BE AWARE that when you buy a kitten from a good breeder they should have taken the parents to shows to prove they were good quality, worth breeding and had them tested for genetic health problems. One concern with the Persian cat breed is that some breeders are selecting to breed for unhealthy traits such as extreme pushed in noses.

CAT BREED - MAINE COON

Myths, legend and lore surround the Maine Coon Cat. Some are amusing, some are fantastic flights of fantasy and some are merely plausible. They certainly provide good material for conversation. Many books and articles dealing with these aspects of the Maine Coon Cat are available and have been well received as people never seem to tire of the subject and are always eager to learn more about this National Treasure.
The Maine Coon Cat is the native American long-haired cat and was first recognized as a specific breed in Maine where it was named the official cat of the state. These cats were held in high regard by the locals for their mousing talents and special competitions were even held to reward the best “Coon Cat.”

The Maine Coon cat evolved through nature’s own breeding program developing characteristics by following a “survival of the fittest” evolution. The characteristics all have a purpose or function. Maine Coons developed into sturdy, working cats suited to the harsh winters and varied seasons of the Northeast region. The Maine Coon of today is known for a sturdy, rugged appearance, which includes an uneven, shaggy coat of three distinct lengths and a long, well furnished tail. They carry that tail proudly and use it to surround themselves for warmth and protection. A Maine Coon Cat has large, well tufted paws to allow ability to walk on top of snow despite size and weight. Ears are large and well tufted for protection and warmth. Even more than for beauty, Maine Coons are noted for intelligence and kindly disposition. After all, what they couldn’t obtain themselves, they could always get by charming a nearby human. Though their size can be intimidating, they are known for their friendliness towards just about anything and are especially good with children and other pets. For these reasons, they have been dubbed the “Gentle Giant” of the cat fancy and are commonly sought after as family pets, companions, and therapy cats.
After years of local competitions and adoration, the Maine Coon Cat was chosen as Best Cat at the first major cat show ever held in the United States. “Cosey,” a brown tabby female Maine Coon Cat, was awarded this distinction at the Madison Square Garden show held in NYC in May of 1895. The silver collar and medal awarded to Cosey is on display at the CFA headquarters in Alliance, Ohio.
The transition from adorned or glorified “Barn Cat” to pedigreed CFA finalist was neither an easy one nor did it happen quickly. The Maine Coon Cat was all the rage in the early 20th century but lost popularity after the introduction of other long-haired breeds to the U.S. The Maine Coon Cat was even thought extinct in the 1950’s. Luckily, rumors of their death were greatly exaggerated and thanks to the dedication and perseverance of breeders, the Maine Coon Cat breed was accepted for CFA championship status in 1976. At present, sometimes the largest number of entries in a CFA show will be Maine Coon Cats and it is not unusual for one of them to be named Best Cat in a ring or even of the entire show. Recently, GC, NW, Highlander Tony Bennett of Wenlock achieved one of CFA’s top awards: Highest Scoring Cat in Premiership.
Maine Coon Cats are intelligent, trainable, described as “dog like”. They will offer you hours of enjoyment with their antics but can at times be intrusive. Without question they want to be part of everything and your privacy may require a closed door between you and your cat. Most Maine Coon Cats have a fondness of water, to be in it, watch it, wash their food in it, or just plain play in it, so don’t be surprised if you have an uninvited guest in your shower or help washing the dishes on any given day.

The Maine Coon Cat has a silky and somewhat oily coat, it is not dense and its upkeep is much easier than that of other longhaired breeds. The coat is almost self-maintained but will require occasional grooming. Because they love attention of any kind, grooming is easily accomplished.
Maine Coon Cats are an affordable pedigreed addition to any household. Prices vary in different areas of the country and overseas, depending on an individual breeder’s guidelines. “Show” vs. “pet” qualities are often a determining factor as well as the pedigree or titles held by the cats in the kitten’s “family tree.” However, many breeders offer retired show or breeding cats at a reduced cost to welcoming homes.

MAINE COON BEHAVIOR

Kittens are normally available after 12 weeks of age, once they are weaned, physically stable, and have received basic inoculations. Socialization, additional examinations, testing and/or guarantees will vary from breeder to breeder. Maine Coon Cats and kittens are available from reputable CFA breeders in most areas in the U.S., Canada, and overseas, however, the transportation of cats/kittens to new homes depends on the individual breeder’s practices.
Your new Maine Coon Cat addition should be kept indoors, spayed/neutered (if purchased as a pet) and be provided proper nutrition and acceptable surfaces for expression of natural behavior, for example, clean litter pans and scratching surfaces (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery and most breeders will have related stipulations as part of their contract).
Available in a variety of about 75 different color combinations (with the exception of pointed pattern and colors) and two acceptable tabby patterns (classic and mackerel), there is a Maine Coon Cat just right for anyone. Although it is impossible to predict longevity, with proper care and nutrition, your Maine Coon Cat should give you many years of love, enjoyment, and companionship. For more information, please contact the Breed Council Secretary for this breed.

Your Cat Is Eating Constantly ?

As a cat guardian, you know that if your cat goes off his food for more than a day or so, a trip to the vet is probably in order. But did you know that constant eating can be a sign of health problems, both physical and psychological? Here are some reasons why your cat may be overeating.


Your cat has worms
Roundworms can cause your cat to become very hungry, because the worms are taking all the nutrition from his food before he can get it. Ironically, a roundworm-infested cat may look fat, as the parasites cause his body to swell.
Roundworms are contagious to humans, so if you suspect your cat has them, bring a fecal sample to your vet to have it tested.


Your cat has hyperthyroidism or diabetes
These diseases both cause a vast increase in appetite: hyperthyroidism does so because your cat’s metabolism is burning too many calories, and diabetes because your cat’s body can’t convert sugar to energy -- and the nutrition doesn’t even get into his body in the first place. If your cat is eating constantly and still losing weight, and especially if he’s also drinking a lot of water, get him to the vet as soon as possible.


Your cat is bored or lonely
Just like humans, some cats will eat because they’re bored. The solution to this problem is to provide your cat with more stimulation and to stop leaving kibble out for him to munch on all day. If you want to have a supply of food available, provide it in puzzle toys, which will cause your cat to have to work for his meal. This will help him burn calories and keep his mind engaged.
Be sure to provide other intellectually stimulating toys (or maybe even a kitty friend) to keep his mind off his dish. You can also buy automatic feeders, which provide access to a set amount of food at set times of day.


Your cat is depressed
Overeating can be a self-soothing behavior for cats who are depressed or grieving. I’ve seen this happen: I once met a couple who had a cat they'd exiled to the basement after their baby was born. In response, the cat started eating to self-soothe, and the result was incredibly sad.
If your cat is depressed, try drawing him out of his shell with gentle interactive play. Give him “love blinks” -- close your eyes slowly, leave them closed for a second, and then open them slowly, while thinking “I love you.”


Your cat's food isn’t meeting his nutritional needs

You know how when you eat fast food, you’re usually hungry an hour later no matter how much you ate? Poor-quality cat food can have the same effect on your cat. And like a person who eats a lot of fast food or who can only afford starchy foods, your cat will eat and eat because he can’t satisfy the true hunger (for nutrients) at the root of his desire to eat. Try feeding canned food; it’s typically more nutrient-dense, tastes better, and the cost ends up being about the same as kibble when you feed your cat the proper amount.
Remember that cats’ stomachs are extremely small: a couple of tablespoons of canned or raw food or (not and) a third of a cup of kibble per feeding is about all a cat needs to stay fit and healthy. Of course, if your cat a 20-pound Maine Coon, he’ll need a lot more food than a petite Singapura, so be sure to work with your vet to figure out the most appropriate amount to feed your feline friend.

The Saluki Dog

The Saluki is a Sighthound that originates from the Middle East. It is one of the oldest breed of dogs and is depicted in carvings of early civilizations such as that of “Sumerian Empire” of Mesopotamia dating back to 7000 BC. It’s names originates from Saluq, an ancient city in Arabia.

It is a dog of considerable size with a lean body built for speed and endurance and is believed to share a common ancestor with the Pharaoh hound. The Saluki Hound is also known by the other names of the Gazelle Hound and the Persian Greyhound.
It was originally bred to hunt hawks, hare, foxes, wolves and gazelle. They often hunted in tandem with falcons which locate the prey and for the dogs to run down.

This dog was declared “sacred ” by the Muslim religion whilst all other dogs were “unclean”. Salukis were not allowed to breed with non-Salukis, which explains their purity throughout the centuries.

The nomadic existence of the Bedouin owners of the Saluki’s ensured the spread of the breed throughout North Africa, the Middle East and Egypt. The terrain of the Saluki varies from the desert of the Sahara to colder, mountainous areas.

The Egyptian pharaohs were known to keep the ancestors of this dog. References to the Saluki’s’s ancestors appear as hieroglyphics and are also found engraved in cuneiform ( written in wedge-shaped characters) on ancient pillars and tablets.

The breed had been occasionally imported to England before 1840, however there was no serious interest until the Hon. Florence Amherst imported a breeding pair of Salukis from Lower Egypt in 1895 and began working to popularize the breed. The Saluki was recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1928.

English Salukis were exported to many countries, but by the mid-1930s, interest slackened, and with the outbreak of World War II, breeding and show activities almost entirely stopped. The number of litters was minimal – just enough to keep the breed alive. Food rationing reserved all edible meat for humans and rather than see their beloved Salukis starve or perhaps killed by bombs, some owners euthanized entire kennels. A small number of Saluki kennels survived the war, and along with fresh imports belonging to a second wave of soldiers returning from the Middle East, the slow process of re-establishing the breed began again.

Unique Dog Breeds You May Never Come Across

You will see many dog breeds in your life, but there are some unique breeds you may never see. While some of these breeds have similar traits to dogs we are familiar with, others look more exotic. Regardless of their sizes and shapes, these unique dog breeds are so cute. Enjoy reading about and looking at these pups and don’t hide your smile!

Swedish Vallhund



In 1942, the Swedish Vallhund almost became extinct in Sweden, but a breeding program started to save them. These dogs can capture small predators like rodents, herd cattle, and guard the house. Due to their perfect temper and love of their owners they are capable of being good pets. They are extremely energetic and they need lots of exercise. (see What to consider when looking for a dog) 

Bedlington Terrier



The first time I saw this dog breed, I thought it was a lamb, but it wasn’t! Bedlington Terrier puppies have dark coats that fade with age. This unique dog breed is good with kids and is easy to take care of. As long as Bedlington Terrier has his fur trimmed and gets enough exercise, he will keep his tail wagging. If you are thinking of having one, be ready for a stubborn attitude and loud barking. 

Tibetan Mastiff


Don’t think that this dog is a mastiff. The word ‘mastiff’ means ‘large dog,’ that’s why it is included in its name. Tibetan Mastiff is known as guardian and has been used to protect places, people, and herds. Since these dogs are very protective, they are not happy when their owners invite guests into their house. Again, these dogs require some training. 


Catalburun



Oh God! I’ve never seen anything so cute, and you? Look, this dog has a split nose! While it looks unique, it also works excellent and gives the Catalburun a very strong sense of smell. That’s why they’re great hunters and they’re able to track well. This unique dog breed is mostly seen in Turkey and is not known in other countries.


Mudi


 
This pup is really cute! This is a herding breed that comes from Hungary. Mudi is very energetic. They are expected to live from 13 to 14 years and weigh 18 and 29 pounds. Mudi comes in a variety of different colors, which are all equally adorable!






Catahoula Cur



This dog can be very noisy and might chew up your furniture, especially if they don’t get enough attention from you. Catahoula Cur was originally used for herding and once lived in swamps to round up cattle and pigs. This dog needs a truly dominant owner that can teach it the difference between wrong and right.




Schipperke



These dogs are from Belgium, and they are expected to live from 13 to 15 years. Although they are so adorable, they are known to cause some troubles. Sometimes called ‘the little black devil, these doggies like to disobey their owners and chase other animals. They can be very aggressive and must be kept away from other animals. They are not good for the weak-willed and they require a lot of training.


Azawakh


The Azawakh is a sight hound dog breed that is rare outside of its native West Africa. Azawakh is found in a great variety of colors such as grizzle, red, blue fawn, and, rarely, black and blue. Renowned for its agile and cat-like gait, these dogs are timid by nature, but friendly and very affectionate. The breed is used to hunt gazelle and other fleet animals.



Thai Ridgeback



An ancient dog breed, the Thai Ridgeback is also renowned as Mah Thai Lang Ahn. I love this breed and I think it’s the most unique and beautiful dog breed. The Thai Ridgeback has a line of hair running along the back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. These beautiful, strong-willed and powerful dogs are usually used as livestock guardians. Thai Ridgeback is a very intelligent breed. This dog is best kept by a consistent owner who has a good understanding of dog behavior.

Must Common Cat Myths

Cats have nine lives 

Fact: The myth most likely originated from Egyptian gods and religions, where sun god Atum-Ra, one of the Ennead, or the Nine would assume the form of the cat when visiting the underworld. Throughout the ages, cats continued to be considered magical and otherworldly, and their resilience in surviving falls from high places and long confinements without sustenance continue to amaze us. 

 

Pregnant women cannot live with cats

Fact: While toxoplasmosis is a risk for fetuses, a woman is more likely to catch it from handling raw meat or digging in the garden than from her cats. Cat guardians can protect themselves from cat-related exposure by emptying the litter box daily, having someone else clean the litter box or wearing rubber gloves and a mask if the litter box task can’t be foisted onto anyone else.

Cats steal the breath of babies

Fact: Cats are heat-and comfort-seekers. Curling up next to a newborn in a crib meets both of these needs. However, if the cat chooses to press up against the face of a bundled infant who is too young to turn away on her own, her breathing may be hampered. Keep cats out of the nursery at naptime/bedtime.

 

Cats purr only when happy

Fact: Purring is one of the first sounds kittens can make. They can purr by the time they are 48 hours old. While nursing, both mom and kittens can be heard to purr. But while purring is often heard at times of contentment, cats also purr when in pain and in the throes of death.

 

Cats hate water

Fact: While most cats hate baths, many find running water fascinating and spend time pawing at dripping faucets or demanding their guardians turn on the water for a fresh, cool drink. Kittens, in particular, find sinks and showers a source of amusement, although for most the thrill lessens with age. One breed, the Turkish Van, is nicknamed “the swimming cat” for its swimming prowess and love of all things wet.

Cats are loners

Fact: Outdoor cats are solitary hunters, but most will choose to live in a colony near a food source. Unneutered males will roam the farthest, in search of food and females in heat. Studies of barn cats showed matrilineal groups were created by a founding female, her daughters and their kittens. When males reach approximately eighteen months of age, they leave the area and strike out on their own. The kittens of domesticated house cats are best prepared to fit into a multi-cat household when they are kept with their littermates until at least eight- to ten-weeks of age. Cats can even be friends with dogs! 

Cats always land on their feet

Fact: As a tree-climbing species, the cat’s survival depends on its ability to survive falls when possible. The feline vestibular system and vision work together with the cat’s flexible spine to allow the cat to right itself and, when there is enough time, to “parachute out” in a manner similar to the flying squirrel. While they can usually right themselves, they can still sustain serious injury to limbs, jaws and the thoracic region which may result in death.

 

Black cats are bad luck

Fact: There are nearly as many superstitions about black eats bringing luck as there are about them being harbingers of bad luck. In different cultures around the world, other colors and coat patterns are seen as lucky – or not. However, in one 2000 study of 321 patients reported in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology patients with dark-colored cats were up to four times more likely to suffer a moderate to severe allergy attack than those with light-colored cats. Researchers speculate that darker cats produce more fel d 1 allergen in their skin and saliva. So if adopters are mildly allergic to cats, it may be smart to steer them to lighter colored ones, leaving all the terrific black cats to those lucky folks with no cat allergies.

 

Cats are nocturnal

Fact: Cats are crepuscular. They are most active at dusk and dawn when prey abounds and the hunting is best. The construction of their eyes allows them to see well in low light. Cats only need 1/6 of the light humans do in order to decipher shapes. However, they cannot see in absolute darkness.