Cats

Why My Cat Rubs His Face Against Objects and More

Your cat may rub or push his face against objects with his forehead, cheeks, or chin. What your cat is doing is marking them with subtle biological scents. Some say that a cat’s rubbing with the forehead or cheeks indicates affection, but rubbing with the chin is usually reserved for territorial marking.

Furniture Scratching

Contrary to popular belief, furniture scratching is not the cat’s way of sharpening his claws but is a form of visual and scent marking. Your cat’s paws are equipped with scent glands to facilitate this function. Territorial concerns will increase furniture scratching/marking and should be addressed if furniture scratching becomes a problem.

Marking Object with Urine or Feces

This is an even more distasteful form of marking behavior to most cat owners. The function is like furniture marking signifying an olfactory warning.

Anal Sac Secretions

Your cat may sometimes discharge his anal sac when in situations of extreme fear. Anal sac secretions are thought to contain a fear pheromone that serves to remind the cat not to pass that way again. There are benefits to caring cat owners in obtaining glimpses into the mind of their pet because it enhances their bond and facilitates communication.

Permethrin Poisoning in Cats

Flea control products labeled for use on dogs only should never be used on cats. Many ‘spot-on’ flea and tick products formulated for dogs contain permethrin, which can be fatal to cats. Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. Pyrethrin is the naturally occurring form derived from dried Chrysanthemum flowers and related species. The synthetic form, permethrin, is found in many ‘spot-on’ flea and tick control products for dogs that are readily available in supermarkets and pet stores. While pyrethroids are generally safe for most mammals, including humans and dogs, cats are extremely sensitive to their effects. Accidental poisoning is becoming increasingly common, especially in multi-pet households where a tiny amount of the dog’s medicine is thought to be safe. Sadly, this is not the case.

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