Whether you’ve just adopted your first cat or you’re a long-time cat lover who has come across some new terminology, you’ll want to pounce on our glossary of cat terms. You’ll find terminology from the world of animal welfare, grooming, behavior, cat shows and more.
A
Abyssinian: A medium-sized, short-haired cat breed known for its ticked coat pattern and playful, energetic nature.
ACFA (American Cat Fanciers Association): A feline registry organization in the United States dedicated to the welfare of cats, promotion of feline research, and preserving the pedigreed breeds of cats. ACFA sponsors cat shows and provides information about cat care, breeding, and showing. It sets breed standards and works to ensure the humane treatment of all cats, both pedigreed and non-pedigreed.
Agouti: The term ‘agouti’ refers to a type of hair on a cat’s coat that has alternating light and dark bands of color, typically seen in tabby patterning. It is the result of a specific gene that affects pigment distribution in the individual hairs, and is most visible on the parts of the hairs closest to the cat’s skin. This banding effect gives the coat a ticked or speckled appearance, which can help camouflage the cat in wild settings.
Ailurophile: A person who has a strong, affectionate love of cats. The term is derived from the Greek words “ailouros,” which means cat, and “phile,” which means lover. Ailurophiles are often advocates for cat welfare, may be involved in cat rescue, and usually enjoy the company of their feline friends greatly.
Allogrooming: The act of grooming another animal; in cats, it is a social behavior used to strengthen bonds.
Alopecia: Hair loss in cats, which can be caused by various medical conditions, stress, or parasites.
Anisocoria: A condition characterized by unequal pupil sizes, which can be a sign of illness in cats.
Antibodies: Proteins produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances (antigens) that help fight infections.
Awn Hairs: Intermediate hairs in a cat’s fur that are longer than the undercoat but shorter than the guard hairs. Awn hairs provide insulation and contribute to the overall texture and color of the cat’s coat. These hairs are softer than guard hairs but coarser than the downy undercoat, helping to protect the skin from injury and provide thermal regulation.
B
Barbels: Long, whisker-like sensory hairs located around a cat’s mouth that aid in navigation and detecting objects.
Barbering: A behavior in cats where they excessively groom themselves or others to the point of removing fur, leading to bald patches. It’s a form of self-soothing that can be triggered by stress, anxiety, boredom, or skin problems.
Barring: A pattern in cat coats where there are distinct bands or stripes of color, often darker than the base coat, around the legs, tail, or body. Barring is commonly seen in various breeds and is a notable feature in tabby-patterned cats. This striping pattern is usually genetically determined and can vary in width and intensity, giving each cat a unique appearance.
Bicolor: A term used to describe a cat with a coat that exhibits two colors, typically consisting of white and one other color. Bicolor cats often have a color distribution that includes white paws, chest, and belly, with a different color on the rest of the body.
Blaze: A vertical stripe or marking of contrasting color that runs down the center of a cat’s face, often seen in bicolor or tuxedo cats. A blaze can vary in width and length, and it can be any color that contrasts with the base color of the cat’s coat.
Blue: In feline terms, ‘blue’ refers to a cat’s coat color that appears as a soft, silvery-grey. The term ‘blue’ is used by breeders and enthusiasts to describe this particular shade, which is due to a dilution gene affecting the black pigment, resulting in this lighter color. Blue can be the primary color of a cat’s coat or part of a pattern, such as in blue tabbies or blue pointed breeds like the Siamese.
Brachycephalic: Cats with short, flat faces and noses, such as Persians, which can lead to certain health issues.
Brush Tail: A term used to describe a cat’s tail that is thickly furred and bushy, resembling a brush. This feature is common among some breeds, like the Maine Coon or the Norwegian Forest Cat, where the dense fur on the tail helps protect against cold climates. A brush tail can also add to the visual allure of a cat, accentuating its natural elegance and grace.
Bunting: When a cat head-butts or rubs its face against objects or people, marking territory with scent glands located on their cheeks.
Burmese: A breed of domestic cat originating from Thailand, known for its compact body, rounded head, and friendly nature.
C
Calico: A cat coat pattern that is predominantly white, with patches of two other colors (often orange and black).
Carnassial Tooth: A large tooth found in carnivores, used for shearing meat and breaking down food.
Carpal Whiskers: A set of specialized sensory hairs, or vibrissae, located on the back of a cat’s front legs, particularly on the underside of the wrist area. Carpal whiskers are less known than the more prominent facial whiskers but serve an important role in a cat’s spatial awareness and hunting ability. They help the cat gauge and sense the movements of prey or objects close to their paws, especially when the cat cannot see them, such as in tall grass or in low light conditions.
Carrier: An object or container used to transport cats safely, or a cat that has a gene for a trait or disease but does not show the trait or symptoms.
Cat Cafe: A theme cafe where customers can spend time with cats while enjoying drinks and snacks. Originating in Taiwan and gaining popularity in Japan, cat cafes have spread worldwide, often serving as a way to introduce potential adopters to shelter cats.
Cat Fancy: A collective term for the community of people who appreciate, breed, show, and register pedigree cats.
Cat Tree: A multi-level structure designed for cats, providing them with an area to climb, play, and rest. These structures cater to a cat’s natural instincts to climb and survey their surroundings from a high vantage point and can help keep indoor cats physically active and mentally stimulated.
Caterwaul: A term used to describe the loud, wailing noise made by cats, typically during the breeding season when they are in heat or when males are asserting territory. This sound is distinct from regular meowing due to its high volume and extended duration, which can be unsettling to hear. Caterwauling serves as a form of communication between cats, often related to mating rituals or territorial disputes, and can be heard over long distances to attract or warn off other cats.
Catio: A portmanteau of “cat” and “patio,” a catio is an outdoor enclosure that allows cats to enjoy the outdoors safely. These structures are typically made with a frame and wire mesh to prevent escapes and keep out predators. Catios can range from small window box-like spaces to large enclosed patios with multiple levels, and they often include shelves, perches, and climbing areas for cats’ enjoyment and exercise.
CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association): The world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats, known for its role in the promotion of the health, welfare, and breeding of purebred cats. The CFA also sanctions cat shows and sets the standards for various recognized breeds.
Chattering: A behavior exhibited by cats characterized by a rapid, teeth-chattering motion, often accompanied by chirping sounds, usually in response to sighting prey, such as birds or rodents. This peculiar vocalization and movement often occur when a cat is watching potential prey from a distance, particularly when they are behind a window or otherwise unable to reach the animal.
Chinchilla: A specific coat pattern in cats where the fur is tipped with a contrasting color, giving the coat a sparkling appearance. This term is most commonly associated with Persians and is characterized by black or silver tips on white or silver fur, resulting in a shimmering effect.
Clowder: A group or cluster of cats; also known as a glaring, particularly when the group consists of unowned feral cats.
Cobby: A term used to describe a cat’s body type that is short, compact, and muscular, with a broad chest, short legs, and a round head. This conformation is typically associated with certain breeds like the British Shorthair, Persian, and Exotic Shorthair. Cobby cats often have a sturdy appearance and may have a more sedentary lifestyle compared to cats with a leaner build.
Colony: In feline terms, a colony refers to a group of cats that live together in a specific area and share a common food source. Often used in the context of Feral or Community Cats, colonies can form in urban environments, on the streets, in neighborhoods, or in the wild.
Community Cats: A term that refers to unowned cats who live outdoors in a community. They may be feral or semi-feral, stray, or abandoned cats who have adapted to a free-roaming life. Community cats can form colonies with their own social structures and are often cared for by volunteers who provide food and basic medical care, including spay/neuter services to control the population.
Crepuscular: Describes cats that are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk.
D
Dam: In the context of cat breeding, a dam refers to a female cat who has given birth to a litter of kittens. The term is used to specify the mother in a pedigree and is important for tracking lineage, genetics, and breed characteristics.
Dander: Tiny, even microscopic, flecks of skin shed by cats, often causing allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Declawing: A surgical procedure known as onychectomy, where the last bone of each toe of a cat from which the claw grows is removed. Declawing is a controversial practice considered inhumane by many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations because it can cause pain, behavioral problems, and long-term physical issues for the cat. It is illegal or considered unethical in many countries and regions.
Desex: A term used to refer to the surgical sterilization of animals, including cats, through procedures such as spaying (for females) and neutering (for males).
Dewclaw: The first digit on the inside of a cat’s front paws, analogous to a human thumb, though it is not opposable. The dewclaw is higher on the leg and does not touch the ground when the cat is standing. In some cats, the dewclaw may have a functional role in gripping prey or climbing, while in others, it is more vestigial. It is also the claw least likely to be used in scratching behavior.
Deworming: The process of treating a cat to remove internal parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms.
Dilute: A gene that modifies a cat’s coat color, making it appear more subdued or paler.
Domestic Longhair (DLH): A cat with a long coat that is not of a specific pedigree or breed.
Domestic Shorthair (DSH): A cat with a short coat that is not of a specific pedigree or breed, often referred to as a ‘moggie‘ in the UK.
Down Hairs: The soft, fine, and fluffy fur closest to a cat’s skin, serving as the undercoat. Down hairs provide insulation and are the shortest and lightest type of hair in the cat’s three-layered coat system, which also includes awn hairs and guard hairs. These hairs help regulate the cat’s body temperature, keeping them warm in cold conditions and cool in hot conditions.
E
Ear Furnishings: Refers to the long, fine hairs that grow from the inside of a cat’s ears. These hairs help to insulate the ears and protect them from dust, debris, and potentially harmful insects or particles. Ear furnishings are often more pronounced and visible in certain breeds, such as the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat, adding to their distinctive appearance.
Ear Mites: Tiny, parasitic insects that infest the ear canals of cats, causing irritation, inflammation, and an intense itching sensation. Ear mites are highly contagious among animals and are identified by dark, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds in the ear. They can lead to secondary infections if left untreated and are typically addressed with prescribed medication after a veterinary diagnosis.
Eartipping: The practice of removing a small portion of the tip of a feral cat’s ear to indicate that it has been spayed or neutered.
Eclampsia: A life-threatening condition in nursing cats, due to low blood calcium levels, often requiring immediate veterinary care.
Ectoparasite: A parasite, such as a flea or tick, that lives on the outside of the host organism.
Elimination Diet: A feeding strategy used to identify food allergies or intolerances by removing certain ingredients from a cat’s diet.
Emesis: The act of vomiting, which can be a sign of various ailments in cats.
Euthanasia: A medical procedure that involves the humane and painless termination of an animal’s life, typically performed by a veterinarian through the administration of a lethal injection.
F
Fawn: A pale, beige-like color seen in cat coats, often described as a dilute version of cinnamon. The color is the result of a dilution gene affecting the cinnamon coat, resulting in this lighter shade. Fawn can be found as the primary color in some purebred cats or as part of a color pattern, and it gives a warm, muted tone to the cat’s overall appearance.
Feral: A cat that has reverted to a wild state or was born in the wild and is not socialized to humans.
FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus): A slow-acting virus similar to HIV in humans, which affects a cat’s immune system over a period of years.
Flank Sucking: A compulsive behavior seen in some cats where they suck on the flank or abdominal area, often a sign of weaning too early.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis: An allergic reaction to flea bites, characterized by intense itching and scratching.
Flehmen Response: A behavioral reaction in cats, where they open their mouth, curl back their upper lip, and pause breathing momentarily. This action facilitates the transfer of pheromones and other scents to the Jacobson’s organ (vomeronasal organ) located on the roof of their mouth. The Flehmen response is often seen when a cat encounters unfamiliar smells or pheromone signals and is particularly common in males detecting the scent of a female in heat.
Foster: In the context of animal care, to foster means to temporarily provide a home, care, and socialization for cats or kittens until they are adopted into a permanent home. Fostering is a crucial service offered by volunteers to help rescue organizations and shelters by easing overcrowding and giving individualized attention to animals in need, especially those that are too young, ill, or under-socialized to be immediately available for adoption.
Foster Fail: An affectionate term used within the animal rescue community to describe a situation where a person who has taken in an animal for fostering becomes so attached to the animal that they decide to permanently adopt it. Although the term contains ‘fail’, this outcome is generally considered positive, as it indicates the foster has formed a bond with the animal strong enough to provide it with a loving forever home.
Free Feeding: A feeding strategy for pets, particularly cats, where food is made available at all times, allowing the animal to eat according to its own hunger cues throughout the day. This method is common with dry food, which does not spoil quickly. Free feeding can be beneficial for cats who self-regulate their food intake but may lead to overeating and obesity in others.
Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs): A common behavior–commonly called Zoomies–observed in cats, characterized by sudden bursts of energy leading to them running wildly around the house, jumping on furniture, or playing vigorously. These episodes often happen without an obvious trigger and can be amusing or bewildering to owners. FRAPs are thought to mimic the natural hunting behaviors of wild ancestors, providing mental stimulation and physical exercise, and are most common in young cats or cats that may not be receiving enough playtime.
G
Gib: A neutered male cat. Often, this term is used in the context of feral cat colonies.
Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums, often seen as a precursor to more serious dental diseases in cats.
Grooming: The act of a cat cleaning itself with its tongue, which can also help to regulate body temperature and stimulate blood flow.
Guard Hairs: The longest and most outer layer of a cat’s fur, which protects the undercoat and skin from moisture and damage. Guard hairs are typically coarser and provide the primary color and pattern seen on the cat’s coat. They also have sensory functions, as they are connected to nerve endings and help cats detect changes in their surroundings.
Gusset: The stretchable, fabric insert in some cat carriers that allows expansion for additional comfort.
H
Hairball: A small mass of hair that forms in the stomach of a cat from grooming and may be coughed up.
Heterochromia: A condition where a cat has two different colored eyes.
Hip Dysplasia: A hereditary condition in some cat breeds where the hip joint is formed improperly, which can lead to arthritis or lameness.
Hybrid: Technically the crossing of two species but often used for a cat whose parents are of different breeds.
I
Immunization: The process by which a cat’s immune system is fortified against diseases through vaccines.
Inbreeding: The mating of closely related cats, which can increase the risk of hereditary health problems.
Indoor Cat: A cat that lives inside the owner’s home and does not have regular access to the outdoors.
Ingest: To take food, fluid, or another substance into the body by swallowing or absorbing it.
Intact: A cat that has not been spayed or neutered and is capable of reproducing.
J
Jacobson’s Organ: An olfactory sense organ located in the roof of a cat’s mouth, also known as the vomeronasal organ, used to detect pheromones.
Jowls: The fleshy area on the sides of the face of some mature male cats, which can become more pronounced after neutering.
Jumping: A natural behavior for cats, which can involve leaping several times their own height.
Junior: A cat between the ages of 7 months to 2 years, at this stage, the cat is past kittenhood but not yet fully adult.
K
Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea in cats that can lead to discomfort and vision problems.
Kindle: A term used to refer to a group of kittens born from the same mother and shared litter.
Kitten: A young cat under one year of age.
Kneading: A common cat behavior often referred to as “making biscuits,” where a cat pushes its paws in and out against a soft surface, such as a blanket, another animal, or even a human. This action is usually accompanied by purring and seems to be a sign of contentment. Kneading is a behavior that originates from kittenhood when kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow.
Knuckling: Walking on the tops of the feet instead of the pads, which can be a sign of neurological or muscular problems in cats.
Kibble: A type of dry cat food that is processed and formed into small, bite-sized pieces.
L
Lactation: The production and secretion of milk by a mother cat for feeding her kittens.
Lavender: A color in cats’ coats that is a dilute, greyish-pink shade, often described as a pastel or muted purple. It results from a combination of the dilution gene affecting black or chocolate coats and is considered rare and unique. Lavender-colored coats are most commonly seen in breeds such as the Oriental Shorthair.
Lethargy: A lack of energy and enthusiasm, which can be a symptom of illness in cats.
Lilac: A delicate, pale grey coat color with a pinkish hue in cats, also known as “lavender” in some breed standards. It is the dilute form of the chocolate color and is recognized by its warm undertones, giving it a distinctive plush appearance. This color is a result of a combination of genetic factors that dilute the melanin pigment. Lilac is particularly associated with breeds such as the British Shorthair, Persian, and Siamese.
Litter Box: A box filled with litter for cats to excrete waste in. It is essential for indoor cats and must be cleaned regularly.
Lynx Point: A type of colorpoint in cats that has tabby markings on the points of the body (ears, tail, paws, and face).
Lynx Tufts: Distinctive tufts of hair at the tip of a cat’s ears, reminiscent of those seen on wild lynx. These tufts enhance a cat’s keen hearing by funneling sounds into the ear and can also be an aesthetic trait favored in certain breeds, such as the Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest Cat. Lynx tufts can vary in length and may add to the expressive characteristics of a cat’s appearance.
M
Mackerel Tabby: A coat pattern in cats characterized by narrow stripes that run in parallel down the sides of the body.
Marking: A behavior in cats where they deposit their scent on objects, places, or people using their facial glands, paws, or urine. Marking is a form of communication used to establish territory, create a familiar environment, or signal reproductive status. Facial marking, done by rubbing their cheeks against surfaces, is usually a sign of comfort and claiming ownership. Scratching is another form of marking; it leaves both a visual mark and a scent from glands in the paws. Urine marking, or spraying, is often hormonally driven and more common in unneutered males. It can also be a response to stress or changes in the environment.
Mask: The darker coloration covering a cat’s face, typically contrasting with the lighter fur on the rest of the body, and is often associated with pointed breeds like the Siamese. The mask covers the face surrounding the eyes and extends to the cheeks and sometimes the ears, enhancing the facial features of the cat. This coloration is due to temperature-sensitive genes that cause fur to darken on the cooler parts of the body.
Mating: The act of reproduction in cats.
Meezer: A colloquial and affectionate term for a Siamese cat, derived from the distinctive vocalizations that are characteristic of the breed. Siamese cats are known for their loud, low-pitched, and unique meow, which has been described as sounding like “meezer.” The term is often used by Siamese cat enthusiasts and in casual conversation among cat lovers to refer to Siamese cats in a familiar or endearing way.
Meow: The most common vocalization in cats, which can have various meanings depending on its tone, pitch, and frequency.
Microchip: A small electronic chip implanted under a cat’s skin, providing permanent identification.
Mitts: A colloquial term for the paws of a cat, especially when they have extra toes (polydactylism) or are white in color on a cat with a different body color.
Molly: A term used to refer to a mature female cat, often when she has had kittens, similar to how a mature female horse is called a mare. In the cat world, ‘molly’ distinguishes adult female cats from queens, which specifically refers to female cats that are able to breed or are currently breeding.
N
Neuter: The surgical removal of the testicles in male cats, which prevents breeding and can reduce undesirable behaviors.
Nictating Membrane: Also known as the third eyelid, it is a thin, protective layer that moves across a cat’s eye to provide protection and moisture. Normally not visible, the nictating membrane can sometimes be seen as a white or translucent film at the inner corner of the cat’s eye, especially if the cat is unwell or the eye is irritated. This membrane also helps to remove debris from the surface of the eye.
Nocturnal: Describing cats that are active at night. While domestic cats are typically crepuscular, some may exhibit nocturnal activity.
Nose Leather: The typically hairless, often pigmented skin surrounding the nostrils of a cat.
Nystagmus: An involuntary eye movement that can be horizontal, vertical, or rotary, and may indicate a neurological problem in cats.
Nutrients: Substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life. Cats require specific nutrients in their diet, such as taurine.
O
Obligate Carnivore: A term used to describe animals, like cats, that require a diet composed primarily of meat to thrive. Cats are obligate carnivores because their bodies are specifically adapted to metabolize animal-based proteins and fats for energy. Unlike omnivores or facultative carnivores, cats have a limited ability to digest plant-based nutrients, and essential nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A must be obtained through their diet from animal sources.
Ocicat: A breed of domestic cat selectively bred to resemble a wild cat but has no actual wild cat genetic material.
Oestrus: The period of sexual receptivity in female cats, commonly referred to as being ‘in heat’.
Olfaction: The sense of smell, which is highly developed in cats and used for detecting pheromones and sensing their environment.
Onychectomy: The surgical procedure for Declawing, where the last bone of each toe is removed to prevent claw regrowth.
P
Panleukopenia: Also known as feline distemper, a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease in cats.
Papillae: Small, hook-like structures on a cat’s tongue that aid in grooming and eating.
Particolor: A term used in the cat fancy to describe cats that have a coat combining white with patches of one or more other colors (such as black, red, or blue). It is often used interchangeably with “piebald” or “bicolor.” This color pattern is seen in various breeds and is distinct from a calico or tortoiseshell pattern, as it generally has more white areas and the colored patches are usually larger and more defined.
Pedigree: A documented record of a cat’s ancestry, especially in relation to cats of recognized breeds.
Pheromones: Chemicals secreted by cats that affect the behavior of other cats, used for communication.
Pica: A behavioral disorder in cats characterized by the compulsive eating of non-food items such as fabric, plastic, cardboard, or wool. Pica can be caused by various factors, including dietary deficiencies, boredom, stress, or genetic predisposition. It poses a risk of gastrointestinal blockage or injury and requires veterinary attention to manage or treat the underlying cause.
Piebald: In cats, this typically refers to a white coat with patches of one or more other colors, such as black, orange, or grey.
Piloerection: A physiological phenomenon in cats where their fur stands on end due to the contraction of tiny muscles located at the base of each hair follicle. This involuntary reaction can occur when a cat is frightened, angry, or excited, effectively making the cat appear larger and more threatening to potential predators or rivals.
Polydactyl: A genetic trait that results in a cat having more than the usual number of toes on one or more of its paws.
Primordial Pouch: A noticeable saggy flap of skin found on the belly of a cat, stretching from the end of the rib cage to the hind legs. This feature is not an indication of being overweight or out of shape; rather, it is a normal part of a cat’s anatomy.
Purr: A continuous, soft, vibrating sound made by cats, often when they are in a state of contentment, comfort, or relaxation.
Q
Queen: A mature female cat, especially when kept for breeding purposes.
Quarantine: A period of isolation imposed on a cat to prevent the spread of disease.
Quick: The central, blood-rich core of a cat’s nail, where nerves and blood vessels are located. Cutting into the quick during nail trimming can cause pain and bleeding.
R
Rabies: A deadly viral disease that can affect cats and many other mammals, including humans, preventable by vaccine.
Retractile Claws: A characteristic of feline claws that allows a cat to extend and retract its nails as needed.
Righting Reflex: An innate ability in cats to orient themselves to land on their feet when they fall from a height, a phenomenon noticeable as early as 3 weeks of age. This reflex involves a cat’s flexible backbone and lack of a functional collarbone, allowing it to twist its body mid-air to land on its paws. While this ability is remarkable, it is not foolproof, and falls can still result in injury.
Roan: A coat pattern in some cats where white hair is evenly intermixed with colored hairs.
Ruddy: The darkest shade of the Abyssinian cat breed’s coat color, characterized by a rich, warm, burnt-sienna coloration. Each individual hair is ticked with darker color at the tip, which gives the coat a glowing, iridescent appearance. This ticking effect is caused by bands of color on each hair shaft. Ruddy is not simply a solid color but a complex pattern that is unique to the breed and is the result of careful selective breeding. It is often considered the breed’s traditional and most common color.
Runt: The smallest and often weakest kitten of a litter, sometimes requiring extra care.
S
Scratching Post: An object made for cats to scratch on, which helps them to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, stretch and flex their bodies, and work off energy.
Silver: A color descriptor in cats’ coats characterized by a silvery-white base fur with black tips, giving the coat a shimmering appearance. The silver effect is created by a dominant gene that inhibits the full color from developing in the hair shaft, resulting in a lighter, silver-toned base. This can be combined with various patterns, such as tabby (silver tabby), shaded (shaded silver), and smoke (black smoke), to produce different visual effects in the coat.
Sire: In the context of cat breeding, the term “sire” refers to a male parent of kittens. It is used to identify the father in breeding records and pedigrees.
Smoke: A term used to describe a type of cat coat where the fur’s roots are light-colored, often silvery, and the tips are a darker shade. This creates a smoky effect, especially noticeable when the cat moves and the fur separates. Smoke coats can be found in various breeds and colors, such as black smoke, where the cat appears black but has a silvery undercoat that can give a spectral shimmer to the fur.
Socialization: The process of introducing a kitten to various experiences, including human interaction, to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults.
Spraying: When a cat ejects urine on vertical surfaces with a strong odor, often as a territorial marking behavior.
Sterilization: The process of rendering a cat unable to reproduce, achieved through spaying or neutering.
Stud: A male cat kept for breeding.
Superfecundation: A breeding phenomenon in cats where a single litter of kittens can have multiple fathers. This can occur because a female cat can mate with more than one male while she is in heat, with each mating potentially leading to fertilization.
T
Tabby: A cat featuring a distinctive coat with stripes, dots, or swirling patterns, along with an “M” shape on the forehead.
Taurine: An essential amino acid for cats, crucial for heart function, vision, and reproduction, which must be supplied in their diet.
Temperament: The nature or personality of a cat, which can range from outgoing and affectionate to shy and independent.
Territory: An area that a cat considers its own and may defend against other cats or animals.
TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return): A humane strategy for managing and reducing community cat populations. The process involves trapping the cats in a community, having them spayed or neutered by a veterinarian, and then returning them to their original location. TNR programs help prevent the birth of more kittens and can reduce nuisance behaviors associated with unneutered cats, such as yowling or fighting.
Tomcat: A colloquial term for an adult male cat, specifically one that is unneutered and typically allowed to roam free, often associated with aggressive behavior and territorial marking.
Tortoiseshell: A coat coloring in cats that consists of a mix of black and orange patches or a combination of their diluted colors (blue and cream).
Tuxedo: A color pattern in cats characterized by a predominantly black coat with white markings that resemble a formal tuxedo suit. Typically, these white markings are found on the cat’s paws, chest, throat, and often the face.
U
Umbilical Hernia: A condition where a cat has an opening in the muscle wall where the umbilical cord passed through, sometimes requiring surgical repair.
Undercoat: The dense, soft layer of fur beneath the longer, coarser guard hairs of a cat’s coat. The undercoat provides insulation and helps regulate the cat’s body temperature, keeping them warm in cold conditions and cool in hot conditions. In some breeds, the undercoat may be particularly thick, leading to a plush feel and often requiring regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. The amount and thickness of the undercoat can vary greatly among different cat breeds and individuals.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A common health issue in cats that can cause frequent, painful urination and potentially lead to more serious complications.
V
Vaccination: The administration of vaccine to help a cat build immunity against certain infectious diseases.
Vocalization: The act of making sounds. Cats vocalize in various ways, including meows, purrs, hisses, and growls.
W
Weaning: The process of transitioning kittens from their mother’s milk to solid food.
Wedge: A term used to describe the distinctive head shape of certain breeds of cats, most notably the modern Siamese. The wedge-shaped head starts at the nose and flares out in straight lines to the tips of the ears, forming a triangle, with large, wide-set ears that continue the lines of the wedge.
Weigie: A colloquial and affectionate term for the Norwegian Forest Cat, derived from its common nickname, “Wegie” (pronounced “WEE-gee”). This breed is known for its large size, thick fur, and hearty constitution, traits that have been developed over centuries to survive Norway’s cold climate. Norwegian Forest Cats are also known for their friendly and playful nature, making them popular pets and show animals. The term “Weigie” is used among enthusiasts and breeders to refer to these cats in a familiar and endearing manner.
Whisker Fatigue: A sensory condition in cats that occurs when their highly sensitive whiskers are repeatedly stimulated by touching surfaces, such as the sides of a narrow feeding bowl. This overstimulation can lead to stress or discomfort, manifesting as avoidance of food or water dishes, pawing at food to remove it from the bowl, or aggression around feeding time. To prevent whisker fatigue, cat owners are encouraged to use wide, shallow dishes that allow cats to eat without their whiskers touching the dish edges.
Whiskers: Long, thick, tactile hairs on a cat’s muzzle, which are highly sensitive and aid in navigation and measuring gaps.
Worms: Internal parasites that can infect cats, including roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms, often treatable with medication.
Z
Zoomies: A colloquial term used to describe the sudden bursts of energy cats exhibit when they run at full speed, twist, turn, and sometimes even bounce off of furniture and walls. Officially known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), zoomies are a common and normal behavior in cats, often seen during the early morning or late evening hours. This behavior is thought to be a way for cats to release pent-up energy, relieve stress, or express excitement.
Zoonosis: A disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Cats can carry certain zoonotic pathogens, underscoring the importance of good hygiene and preventive care.
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