“I have lived with several Zen masters—all of them cats.” — Eckhart Tolle
Happy Wednesday! Here's the scoop:
Robotic cats bring comfort to dementia patients
Simple ways to provide your cat with enrichment experiences
The 8 cat breeds that achieve the ultimate chill
True or False...
Cats have 18 toes.
(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)
Study Finds Robot Cats Can Help Dementia Patients
People who have Alzhiemer’s disease or dementia unfortunately frequently struggle with anxiety and depression. Luckily we have found something that helps: robot pets.
The idea is that since these cats are robotic, they could give some of the same comfort as a real cat, but without the burden of care. Researchers conducted a study in an adult day center where they gave participants robotic cats as pets. Participants were told these pets were robots and were asked to pick a name for their cat.
The researchers found that many participants regularly chatted with their new pet and felt listened to and loved by it. Some participants even slept with their robot cats for extra comfort.
Overall, this was a very successful study that showed these robot cats improved participant’s mood and quality of life. We’re glad that the love of a cat, even in robot form, can help those who need it.
Enrichment Ideas for Stressed Cats
Cats can feel stress for any number of reasons, from a new environment, a trip to the vet, or even a lack of play and exploration in their lives.
One way to help your cat feel less stressed is to make sure they have an enriching environment in your home. Here are a few ways to give your cat more enrichment throughout their day.
Make DIY toys - This could be anything from hidden treats in a toilet paper roll to classic string toys. Look for creative ways to get your cat moving and exploring.
Use mealtime as enrichment time - Consider using a cupcake tin to separate your cat’s meal into different sections. You could also hide your cat’s meal in a few of their favorite places for them to find, or purchase any number of puzzle or slow feeders.
Create a schedule - Call it “cat homeschooling” if you’d like, but any sort of schedule is great for a cat. For example, you could feed them with a puzzle feeder at 8am, play with them at 10am, and put a nature show on the TV at lunchtime.
Consider clicker training - If your cat is up for a challenge, clicker training could be extremely beneficial to them. Check out the suggested video here.
The 8 Laziest Cat Breeds Who Love to Chill
Are you a laid back person who loves to take it easy? Then you might be interested in owning one of these breeds of cats, since they’re known to be some of the most chill.
Birman - Birmans are generally quiet and very loyal - they’re even known as “velcro cats” because they don’t mind being carried around!
British Shorthair - This “lazy” breed loves to sit next to you rather than cuddle with you, but we’ll take it. The British Shorthair is known for being calm and independent, perfect for a human with the same demeanor.
Chartreux - Chartreux cats are smart and affectionate, but they also don’t mind some alone time - so they can be left at home during a work day and they’ll gladly watch TV with you in the evening.
Himalayan - This breed is sweet and friendly, and always looking for a lap to nap on. Their fur does require grooming though, so perhaps they’re suited better to someone a little less lazy than they are.
Persian - Most Perisan cats are a bit lazy and quite sweet, so they’d love nothing more than a cozy cuddle.
Ragdoll - These cats love to lounge, and don’t mind if it’s on the couch or in your arms. These intelligent cats are friendly and tend to live long lives.
Russian Blue - These gentle creatures are a bit shy and prefer a quiet home and a set routine (but a routine that includes a lot of lounging!).
Scottish Fold - This loveable breed enjoys making new friends and they adapt to new situations well - as long as there’s a cozy spot to nap after!
We hope this post has inspired you to take a cat nap with your own feline today, whether they’re more lazy or more energetic!
True or False...
Answer: TRUE, unless your cat is polydactyl! Polydactyl cats can have as many as 9 toes per paw.
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