Of course, if you decide to adopt a furry friend, you must also expect some challenges. She’s a living being, after all. Your furbaby will have her needs and niggles, and you’ll have to devote quite a lot of your time to keeping her healthy and happy.

But isn’t that the beauty of having a pet? You get someone who loves you unconditionally, and you take care of her because you love her, too! Before you decide to adopt one, though, doing a bit of research first is a good call.

Shelters are filled with beautiful felines left by owners who weren’t ready for them. Learning about the breed you plan on adopting is one of the most important things you can do. You don’t want to regret your decision a few months down the line and break your fluff’s heart by leaving her, right?

That’s why I’m super happy you’re here. It’s easy to read about the good things and be excited about your new furry friend, but there are some bad things about Ragdolls that are equally important to know. Let’s see what they are.

1. These feline divas are pretty expensive

Is your budget ready for this feline diva? She comes at a pretty big cost, which is one of the bad things about Ragdolls that makes people question their decision of adopting one. You might be ready to pay a reputable breeder for a purebred feline, but are you ready for what comes next?

Let me just remind you – a purebred Ragdoll can cost anywhere from $500 to $2500. That’s often not what people are willing to fork out for a cat, especially because they can adopt one for free. However, if you’ve set your budget for this, there are some other things you should consider, as well.

This is a high-maintenance fluff. You need to keep in mind that taking care of one is pretty expensive, too. She’ll need regular cleaning, grooming, high-quality food, and regular visits to the vet. If you think this might be too much for your budget, you should probably consider getting a different breed.

2. They want constant attention

Yes, Ragdolls are incredibly loving and affectionate. The problem is, they’ll expect you to be the same way. No matter how adorable she is and how much you love your furbaby, she can be clingy to the point where it becomes quite annoying.

You may think you’d be okay with your fluff constantly wanting to be by your side, but trust me, Ragdolls need all the attention in the world, and then some more. Although it might sound adorable, it’s a completely different story once you actually get to experience it.

“But I’d love to have a cuddly cat that wants to spend time with me.” If these are your thoughts, you should wait until you try to get anything done while certain someone is bumping her head into you, or determined to climb on your lap.

3. They’re strictly indoor cats

If you plan on keeping your cat inside while occasionally letting her roam in your back garden, you should probably forget about getting a Ragdoll right away. These divas are strictly indoor cats, and they don’t really have the skills it takes to survive the outdoors, no matter how harmless it might seem to you.

These purrers were carefully bred to make perfect feline friends to humans. In other words, Ragdolls are created to be companions, not hunters. Because of that, they won’t contribute much when it comes to hunting down mice, and they’re usually pretty bad at surviving any type of danger outside.

They’re one of the most gentle cats you can get. They don’t have the need to fight aggressively like some other cats, which can be pretty dangerous if they ever find themselves face-to-face with another kitty. Your soft diva needs to stay safe and protected in the comfort of her furever home.

4. They’re very loud

They might be gentle, but that doesn’t mean they’re quiet. Far from it, actually. One of the bad things about Ragdolls that makes some people regret getting one is how vocal they are. If you live in an apartment, you might want to think twice before bringing a Ragdoll into it.

Sure, most cats can get pretty loud when they want something. But when it comes to these prima donnas, they get vocal simply because they feel like it. Most of the time, however, they want to get your attention. They want to be heard, and they make sure they are.

5. You’ll be at constant war with cat hair

One of the main downsides of owning a Ragdoll cat is dealing with cat hair. You’ll find it everywhere. And I mean everywhere.

Even though Ragdolls are designed to suit human needs, they’re one of the breeds that shed the most. If you’re a clean freak, you’ll probably want to pass on this kitty and go for one with shorter hair or at least one that sheds less.

Trust me when I say you’ll be at constant war with her rich fur. Your black pants will be covered in it, and you’ll need to vacuum your home and furniture almost daily.

Shedding can be reduced by regular brushing, but are you ready to deal with daily grooming sessions? Even then, your feline will probably shed, so just prepare to make cleaning an everyday thing.

6. They need regular grooming

If you’ve decided to get a Ragdoll cat because of her beautiful, long fur, just know that it comes with a price. That kind of fur needs regular cleaning, brushing, and grooming. If you don’t, your kitty’s fur will quickly end up in knots and mats that will be even harder to deal with.

No, shaving your long-hair feline is never an option. She needs her coat for her body to function normally. You’ll simply have to make peace with it. Devote a part of your day to brushing, and regular visits to the groomer will be needed, too.

7. These gourmands need high-quality food

In order to stay healthy, your Ragdoll diva will need high-quality food. She’s a big fluff, and she needs enough protein, minerals, and nutrients to help her stay in her best shape.

You may opt for a cheap can of cat food, thinking it’s probably just as good as a branded one. Most of the time, however, that’s not really the case. With high-quality cat food, you’re not just paying for the brand. It’s filled with nutrients your furbaby needs for healthy development.

Stay away from processed foods that are low in protein or filled with artificial ingredients.

You might think twice before you put a can of expensive food into your shopping basket, but remember that your feline buddy needs it. She’s a diva who’s made for a relaxed, joyous life. If you’re not able to provide it for her, she’s not the kitty for you.

8. They’re a nightmare for people with cat allergies

If you deal with cat allergies, you can forget about bringing a Ragdoll home. I’ve already mentioned how much these kitties shed and, when you have a cat allergy, this issue becomes 10 times worse. Unfortunately, these kitties are far from hypoallergenic.

9. They’re prone to genetic diseases

Although you’ll probably get your Ragdoll from a reputable breeder, there’s still a chance she may suffer from a certain genetic disease. No matter how carefully bred they are, Ragdolls can be subject to quite a lot of health issues, the most common ones include:

• Stomach-related diseases
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Mouth diseases
• Kidney diseases
• Urinary tract infections

On top of that, these kitties aren’t very active. They’re designed to be lap cats who spend most of their days lazing around your home. Because of that, they’re prone to obesity, so you’ll have to spend some time trying to get your kitty to move her body.

I am not sure if only cat lovers would agree with me, but I honestly believe that every kitty in the world has something that makes her special and differentiates her from other fluffs.

Some felines have long and luscious locks of hair, while others have no hair at all. Some have bushy tails, while others don’t have as much fluff. Some have coats in one single color, while others have multiple colors and interesting patterns.

Some kitties are extremely playful, while others are lazy and don’t bother running around. Some are easy-going and straightforward, while others are more reserved.

I could go on and on like this forever, but I am sure you get the point. Regardless of their physical features, one thing is certain – cats have completely won our hearts, mostly due to their enchanting beauty.

In today’s article, we are going to introduce you to a very special feline, that comes all the way from the far lands of Thailand. Meet Wendy – a unique kitty whose two-colored face has won over the hearts of many cat aficionados around the world.

Wendy’s special feature is not a product of Photoshop, nor does it, God forbid, come as a result of hair dye. This peculiar but beautiful feature is well explained using only one scientific term – a chimera cat.

Chimera cats are those felines that happen to be born with two sets of DNA. This condition is a result of two embryos intertwining together, or to put it in layman’s terms, as a product of two non-identical twins fusing together into one.

Contrary to popular belief, chimera cats are not that rare at all. In fact, many cat experts claim that most male tortoiseshells belong to this special group. Sure, they are not an everyday occurrence, but every once in a while, one very lucky owner gets to share his life with a unique kitty like this one.

However, sometimes when a cat has a split-colored face, it doesn’t necessarily have to mean that she is a chimera cat. Take Nirvana, a beautiful British shorthair feline from France that we have already written about for example.

He was born as a two-faced feline, but the genetic testing he underwent has indeed confirmed that he has one set of DNA. So, his appearance, although mesmerizing, still remains a mystery.

On the other hand, we have Wendy, the heroine of today’s story, who’s been proven to be a chimera kitty. When her owner, Eva, first saw her she fell head over heels for her. Therefore, she decided that a beauty like this deserves her own Instagram page, so the whole world can admire her intricate looks.

And what a decision that was! In a matter of days, Wendy took the world by storm and gained a thousand followers and devoted fans.

Apart from being a chimera cat, Wendy is half Persian and half Scottish fold kitty. We can see the characteristics of both breeds, for sure, but her most striking feature is, of course, her gray and white colored face.

Eva says that Wendy reminds her of Harvey Dent from Batman, and we could not agree more! Although, we truly believe that she’s not nearly as malicious as he is.

Similarly to other cats, Wendy’s favorite snack is non-other than toilet paper. Yes, this not-so-edible treat is famous in the feline world because for God knows what reason they love to munch on it.

We do however hope that Eva is keeping a close eye on her, ensuring she isn’t eating too much of it on a daily basis.

Also, according to her Instagram bio, her best buddy is a cockroach named Peter, who I suppose visits her and her human from time to time. Weird choice of friends, if I do say so myself, but hey… Who am I to judge?

Maybe the reason why she befriended a cockroach Pete – other than because she is an amazing hunter – is that she genuinely has a very friendly nature. Her owner Eva claims that Wendy is extremely sweet, loving, and affectionate towards almost anyone.

Her beautiful outside completely matches her with the kitty she is on the inside! And we are all here for it!

We hope that you enjoy these adorable pictures of our friend Wendy from Thailand. We certainly do. Here at Cats Chef, Wendy is one of those kitties we always come back to. Her beauty is too striking not to be written about and admired daily.

But let’s face it: all we do here is talk about cats. But who can blame us? Our feline friends are simply the best!

Some see it as an omen of bad luck and danger so they avoid it at all costs. However, some cultures believe that the black cat is a symbol of protection and healing and see it as sacred.

So, if you’re mesmerized by black cats with yellow eyes and want to get yourself one, you may come across different opinions. People may try to persuade you to choose a different colored cat for yourself, but in the end, you should always do what makes you happy.

If you adore the mysterious appearance of these shadowy felines and want to find out more about them, then you’re at the right place. Let’s find out what black cats with yellow eyes symbolize and what breeds can have this dark fur and dazzling eye color.

1. Bombay cat

When you think of a black cat with yellow eyes, the first image that comes to mind is probably of a Bombay cat. You may not know the actual breed name, but chances are you know what it looks like.

The Bombay cat comes in a solid black color and has golden or copper eyes. What’s interesting is that her fur can’t be any other color.

This breed is a mix of the American Shorthair and Burmese, and people often refer to it as a miniature panther.

We know that black cats always have this dose of mystery, which is the main reason people see them as loners and antisocial. However, the Bombay cat busts the stereotype.

This breed is highly sociable and loves to be close to people. In fact, they’re known to be rather needy cats who don’t want to be left alone. They get along with kids, other cats, and dogs as long as they’re treated with kindness.

If you plan on getting this breed but don’t know if they’re hard to take care of, rest assured that these are some of the easiest cats to groom. The Bombay cat has a short coat that doesn’t require hours of brushing. Do it once a week and your cat will be thankful.

Since she has short fur, this breed doesn’t shed much. So, no need to have the vacuum going every day!

Provide your Bombay cat with enough exercise, feed her recommended portions of food, take her to regular checkups, and you’re good to go.

2. Chantilly-Tiffany cat

This breed is so rare, it is speculated to be extinct. Its name is still in use, though, with many people confusing long-haired cats that have yellow eyes with Chantilly cats. However, those tend to be some other breeds that simply look a lot like this one.

When it comes to temperament, this breed is similar to the Bombay cat. Chantilly cats are affectionate and don’t mind human attention. They love kids and can adapt to any environment as long as you provide them with everything they need.

And no reason to panic about grooming. Even though we’re talking about a long-haired breed, they’re still easy to take care of. If you brush them regularly once a week, you shouldn’t face any issues with matted fur.

As with every other cat breed, Chantilly cats need a balanced diet that provides them with enough protein. Just make sure not to over-feed them since you don’t want to let your cat get overweight.

Also, this breed is prone to digestive issues which is another reason you should pay close attention to their diet.

3. The Korn Ja cat

The Korn Ja is usually solid black, lilac, or gray and her eyes are always yellow. Thai people consider this cat breed sacred and treat it with the utmost respect.

Afraid of getting this cat because you’re not sure what she’s like? Thankfully, the Korn Ja is affectionate and loves cuddling with her owners. And if you have children, this feline will get along with them without any issues.

However, you need to know that this breed is very vocal, which can be an issue if you’re living in an apartment. In that case, you’ll need to spend enough time training your cat so she gets a better understanding of what’s appropriate at certain times of the day.

When it comes to grooming, Korn Ja’s coat is very short so brushing her once a week is sufficient. Also, don’t bathe your feline often as you don’t want to disturb the natural oils that coat her fur.

The dietary needs of this breed aren’t much different from any other. Just make sure you’re giving her balanced meals that are high in protein.

Once your feline is well-fed, make sure to spend enough time playing with her. Get your Korn Ja some toys that will mentally stimulate her and keep her entertained.

If you have a garden, then you can let her play outside. Just don’t leave her alone so she doesn’t get lost.

And finally, to be sure that your cat is healthy and in great shape, make sure to take her for regular vet checkups. This breed tends to suffer from dental issues, cataracts, polycystic kidney disease, asthma, and cystitis.

But a regular trip to the vet should do the trick and provide her with the right treatment at the right time.

4. Scottish Fold

Scottish Fold is a unique cat breed with folded ears (hence the name). Same as the previous breeds on the list, she can have solid black fur and yellow eyes.

This breed is easy to take care of and won’t be a pain in the neck. That is unless you ignore her since that’s something she doesn’t tolerate.

She’ll love the attention you give her as she can’t live without it, but just don’t expect her to play with you. She’ll also get on well with kids and other pets in the house, which makes her a great family-friendly kitty.

On the grooming front, this breed needs regular brushing due to its thick fur. Another important thing you should pay attention to is her ears. Check them for mites and other irritations since they have an odd shape that’s prone to infections.

Her diet doesn’t differ from other cats; it should be rich in protein. However, since the Scottish Fold is prone to arthritis, keep a good eye on her weight.

Her bone structure can get affected by different conditions and being overweight will only make it worse for your kitty. So, control her portions and don’t give in when she stares at you with her bright yellow eyes. You don’t want to risk her health by giving her too many treats.

All in all, there are many other cat breeds that can have black fur and yellow eyes, but these are some of the most prominent ones. If you plan on getting one, just make sure to go for a kitty that suits your lifestyle.

For example, if you live alone and don’t work from home, don’t even consider getting a Scottish Fold since they’re prone to separation anxiety and won’t appreciate the time alone.

Good luck and I hope you find yourself the purrfect new friend!

Let me introduce you to this loveable orange feline with a spirit that once longed for companionship. He had no idea that his quest to find the place where he belongs would lead him to a classroom brimming with kids.

I know, I know… Most stray kitties tremble at the sight of children, but Tombi is no ordinary cat. He was fearless, brave, and confident in his skill to win the hearts of those around him. Tombi spent his days roaming around the school, getting hugs and cuddles from the young ones. And he was too charming to resist.

However, he wanted more than a couple of cuddles during a break. One day, Tombi made the boldest decision of his life – he stepped into a classroom filled with 8 and 9-year-olds. Now, you’d expect him to stay as far as possible from the room filled with young kids and loud noises, but this cat loved challenges.

The teacher, Özlem Pınar Ivaşcu, remembers how Tombi strolled into their classroom casually. It felt like he had been there many times before. It was love at first sight, and the kids absolutely adored him.

Slowly but surely, Tombi became a regular member of the class. He brought joy and laughter into the lives of his new best friends, and they all enjoyed each other’s company.

You may think that having a cat in the classroom would lead to absolute chaos. After all, his adorable purring and meowing must have been a huge distraction, right? Well, you’ll be surprised to hear that it was the exact opposite!

The kids enjoyed coming to school more than ever, and they eagerly waited for the morning bell, as it meant that they finally get to reunite with their furry best friend. That period between classes used to be chaotic but with Tombi in the classroom, a complete transformation happened.

All that over-the-top energy was brought down to a minimum, and the students became more focused than ever. Their lovely paw friend made them cherish their time together a lot more, and it made the classroom filled with harmony.

The students and their teacher loved the nurturing environment, and our lovely furbaby found himself a safe place he had been dreaming of. Not only did he receive plenty of delicious snacks and time to rest and play, but he was blessed with dozens of new friends he loved.

Özlem made sure that Tombi received the necessary veterinary care, including sterilization and regular check-ups, which made him happy and healthy, and also safe to be around kids. Everything seemed perfect, but this fairy tale story was close to a not-so-happy ending.

One day, a classroom that was usually filled with brightness and positivity, suddenly turned gloomy. A parent heard about their kid’s feline classmate and expressed concern that he may be a health risk. The administration didn’t take this complaint lightly, and they asked Özlem to say goodbye to Tombi.

It was a truly heartbreaking experience for everyone, both children and poor Tombi, who soon found a new home. However, he wasn’t the same kitty he used to be when he was surrounded by children. His appetite was gone, and a cloud of melancholy surrounded him.

It didn’t take long for Özlem to realize that the classroom was Tombi’s true forever home. Not knowing what else to do, the teacher turned to social media and opened her heart to people who followed her.

She didn’t expect the story to spread as fast as it did. Tombi’s fate touched the hearts of many, and it even got the attention of some television channels. Our brave little kitty got support from all over the country.

But most importantly, Tombi’s story even moved the concerned parent who asked for Tombi to return to the classroom. Everyone’s favorite fluff quickly returned to where his heart was all along. Once he was surrounded by giggles and showered by cuddles again, his spirit soared.

Tombi brought incredible joy to the 33 students from his classroom. Inspired by his beautiful story, a nationwide campaign was launched, which encourages schools across Turkey to introduce feline friends into their classrooms.

Hopefully, there will be many kitties bringing joy and harmony throughout the country, spreading love and laughter, and teaching our young ones compassion.

One thing’s for sure – Tombi’s life changed completely, and his beautiful spirit got him a righteous place in the classroom that he now sees as his home. He continues to bring joy into the lives of children who are blessed by his presence, and he absolutely loves his new role!

You know that you can’t train a cat like you can train a dog. You’re well aware of the stubbornness of felines.

However, you’re ready for the task. You don’t think that she’ll learn everything in a matter of days, but you’re ready to give her the time and attention she needs to learn a couple of tricks.

I mean, training your Maine Coon cat isn’t just about fun party tricks. It can also help you work on some behavioral problems that your kitty may have. You can also use this to train your cat to use her sandbox instead of your carpet as a toilet.

Either way, there are so many things that will become simple once she’s trained. She’ll become even more perfect than she already is.

1. Be patient and persistent

If you want to know how to train a Maine Coon cat, you need to understand that this entire process will need a lot of patience. At times, you’ll feel like you’re going insane because she doesn’t want to listen.

She’s stubborn and has a mind of her own. Why would she play fetch with you if she wants to attack the couch right now?

Well, that’s when persistence comes in. Trying to teach your cat a trick by simply repeating a command a couple of times and then getting frustrated won’t help anyone.

You need to understand that you’ll have to repeat the commands millions of times and not lose your focus while doing so. If you choose to give up then you’ll never be successful.

2. Strengthen your bond

How is your cat going to trust you if you don’t have a strong connection? Once you start to wonder how to train a Maine Coon cat, you’ll also have to understand that you have to bond with your cat.

Let her sit in your lap all the time, be the person who feeds her the most, help her when she has troubles, and don’t be aggressive when you’re playing with her. All of those things can make you and your cat become closer.

Once you strengthen your connection, she’ll trust you more with the commands that you’re giving her.

I mean, if your cat doesn’t like you at all, she won’t stick around for the food, much less for something else.

3. Set simple goals

If you want to teach your cat how to jump through hoops right off the bat, you’ll be disappointed and discouraged right away.

You have to set simple goals. For example, don’t put a deadline on the goal. Simply work on something with your cat to make her understand that you’re asking something from her.

For example, I would start with simple commands such as “speak.” She’ll meow anyway, but she’ll understand that you’re asking something of her, and she’ll get a treat after each meow.

4. Set time aside to train her

The best thing you can do is have a certain time every day when you’ll train her. For example, if you have certain pills that you have to take at a certain time, you can give your cat a treat each day at the same time.

Your Maine Coon is extremely intelligent and she’ll know when to come and get her treat each day. This will remind you that you have to take your pills.

If you train her at a certain time each day, you’ll see that she’ll expect you to play with her. That’s when she’s completely focused on you.

5. Don’t encourage bad behavior

If you want to know how to train a Maine Coon cat, the first thing you need to remember is that you can’t encourage bad behavior.

For example, if she does something bad, don’t try to distract her with toys or treats. If she sees that you’ll give her a treat for bad behavior, then she’ll continue doing those bad things.

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to simply take her away from what she’s doing and put her in time-out. Don’t ignore her, because that’s when she’ll think that what she’s doing is normal.

6. Use positive reinforcement

We already talked about using treats to affirm your cat’s behavior. They can’t really understand praise in the sense that humans can, but treats will always be her favorite thing in the world.

You can use different treats so that she feels like she’s being surprised with something delicious each time.

If you’re concerned about weight gain, then you can use affection. If your cat is a very affectionate one, then you can pet her or let her sit in your lap afterward.

Find something that makes your cat happy and use it as positive reinforcement for her good behavior.

7. Avoid boredom

If you want to understand how to train a Maine Coon cat, you also have to know that you need to avoid boredom. Your Maine Coon is the smartest domesticated cat out there, she’ll know when you’re bored.

Cats feel their owner’s emotions, and they react to them. If you’re not invested in the task, then she won’t be interested either.

Be enthusiastic when you’re giving her a command, be playful, don’t lower your voice too much, and be constantly engaging. Boredom can only make her look for something more entertaining.

8. Use a clicker

Many experts recommend using a clicker when you’re training your cat. The sound of the clicker will let your cat know that she’s doing something good and that praise or treats are coming her way.

She’ll associate this sound with something good. This means that the absence of this sound will make her work harder to get that approval.

At one point, you won’t even have to provide any treats. You can pet your cat and cuddle her after using the clicker, but you won’t have to give her treats.

This is great because she’ll do the tricks even when you don’t have any special food with you at that moment.

But cats are fighters and Valentino is a real proof of that. He defeated all odds and got the happy ending every kitty deserves.

His touching story begins at the Baldwin Park Animal Shelter in Los Angeles County, where he was discovered by a wonderful woman, Elaine Seamans. When she first found Valentino, he was in a really bad condition, and it broke her heart into pieces.

This tiny feline hero was suffering from sarcoptic mange, a skin infection caused by mites. It affects cats and dogs, but it can also spread to humans, causing a mild rash. Poor Valention was covered in dirt, his eyes were completely shut, and his condition left him all alone at the shelter simply because he wasn’t a perfect cat.

This kitty was also blind but he found his way of communicating and did his best to show people that he was longing for human love. As Elaine was passing by, he felt her presence and started meowing softly.

The moment she saw him all alone, lost, and scared, was the time her heart tore in two. She knew she had to help him, no matter what.

As she was observing Valentino, she realized that he was craving the touch of someone who truly cared. He longed to be held so she bravely decided to pick him up, despite his disease. She didn’t put on any gloves and instead made skin-to-fur contact with this poor kitty. It was an act full of love and trust.

As she held him close, she could feel just how fragile and weak he was, and she was scared he might pass away right there in her arms. But, she wouldn’t let that happen. She was determined to give Valentino a new chance at life, so she contacted her friend Toby, who worked at Leave No Paws Behind.

They teamed up to help Valentino fight through his condition and took him to a vet right away. That’s when they found out that Valentino wasn’t only battling sarcoptic mange, but he also had a bacterial infection and a bleeding ulcer.

This poor fluff was going through a lot, and it was a heartbreaking thing to see. All they wanted to do was give him some relief and protect him. Although his health was rapidly deteriorating, they knew Valentino had a fighting spirit that wouldn’t give up easily. So, they decided to be there for him in his battles.

Valentino received a ton of love and affection from his saviors and thankfully, he responded positively to the treatment. A week later, he was finally able to open his eyes and this moment truly felt surreal.

A pair of breathtaking, emerald green eyes was staring at Elaine and her friend. It was a look full of love that took their breath away.

Despite his skin condition, Valentino’s health was getting better and better. Just like that, this brave kitty embarked on the road to recovery. As the days passed, Valentino underwent a complete transformation.

It’s like the story of the Ugly Duckling, really. After Valentino recovered from his illness, he turned out to be a magnificent senior tiger cat, simply brimming with beauty and resilience.

After three months of dedicated care, love, and many different treatments, something incredible happened. The people who took care of Valentino couldn’t give him away. They grew close to this fluff who didn’t want to give up on his life so they decided that they wouldn’t leave him.

I believe that all of Valentino’s feline dreams came true when his foster family gave him a forever home, right there with them. The love and affection they shared created an unbreakable bond between them.

Today, when you look at Valentino, you can’t comprehend what he looked like three months ago. To all the people who had a chance to hear his story, he became an embodiment of hope and second chances.

This lovely purrer is no longer confined by illnesses and struggles. He found a new purpose in life – raising funds for the rescue and care of other senior animals that are in the same condition as he was once.

His journey was a rough one, but he made sure to fight through it. From a devastating condition, he turned into a real inspiration for people all over the world. His story truly is a real example of how much love can do for you.

We all have this ability to help those in need and to change their lives for the better simply by being there for them. It’s such a simple act of kindness that can make a huge difference.

So, next time you see a fluff who’s struggling, don’t turn your head the other way, assuming that someone else will help them. Instead, be the change you want to see in the world. Remember, your love and care can give someone a new chance at life, so use that opportunity whenever you can.

Show them that, despite their age and the state they’re in, they still deserve a chance to live. Give them the love, care, safety, and protection they desperately need, and you’ll see just how much joy our furry friends can bring into our lives.

Whether you’re planning on getting a Mau kitten or you’re already trying to get one to come down from the top of the fridge, you probably already know a thing or two about Egyptian Mau cats. Although they’re not as popular and prominent as Maine Coons or Ragdolls, Maus are a sight to be seen.

With long, lean, athletic bodies that run around the apartment at the speed of light, stunning, spotted coats that attract attention and turn heads, and bright green eyes that take you by surprise every time you stare at them, Egyptian Mau cats deserve all the hype they’re getting.

As a cat with a noble heritage and an appearance that’s reminiscent of the ancient past, the Egyptian Mau needs to be on your radar when you’re searching for the perfect pet. Egyptian Maus are much more than meets the eye – they’re affectionate, appreciative, and extremely attached to their family.

Warm, visually striking, and rare, Egyptian Mau cats managed to overtake the world and become one of the most well-known Egyptian cat breeds. What are Egyptian Mau cats? Where did Egyptian Mau cats come from? What are some surprising Egyptian Mau facts? All that and more down below!

1. The Egyptian Mau is one of the only naturally spotted domestic cat breeds

We’re not kidding! Egyptian Mau cats are considered one of the only naturally spotted domestic cat breeds because they’re not a consequence of crossbreeding. Maus descended from ancient Egyptian domestic cats and grew their stunning spots themselves.

Moreover, there are two varieties of Maus’ spots you can come by – the show version and the native. Show Maus are silver, bronze, or smoke with dark-colored spots on the body and tabby stripes on the face, tail, and feet.

Native Maus come in pretty much every color of the rainbow, including blue, cream, and red. Show or native, Egyptian Maus are embellished with an “M” marking on the top of their heads, also known as “the mark of the scarab.”

2. Egyptian Mau cats might not actually be Egyptian at all

We already mentioned that Egyptian Mau cats are considered – well, Egyptian – because they’re super similar to the ancient Egyptian domestic cats depicted on tombs. With that out of the way, though, we don’t know whether modern Egyptian Maus come from Egypt, too.

While the resemblance is uncanny, it’s unclear where modern Egyptian Maus came from. With a little help from a DNA analysis, we were able to conclude that modern Egyptian Maus are genetically similar to Turkish Angora cats and might be from Europe. Spotted cats are from Egypt, but Maus might not be.

3. The word “mau” meant “cat” in ancient Egypt

We’re not surprised that we all collectively agreed that Egyptian Mau cats are from Egypt. With everything we know about ancient Egyptian felines, we’re forced to draw connections and conclude that Egyptian Maus came from the gift of the Nile.

The Egyptian Mau’s name is derived from the Middle Egyptian word “mjw,” which means cat or sun. The stripes on the Egyptian Mau’s head resemble a scarab beetle, regarded as Egypt’s holy beetle that was oftentimes promoted as a symbol of the sun.

The more we read about the Egyptian Mau, the more we’re sure that the breed originated in Egypt.

4. Pregnant Egyptian Maus have the longest gestation period of all domestic cats

We’re pretty sure that’s not something you’re considering when trying to decide whether or not to adopt an Egyptian Mau kitten, but we do need to talk about the fact that pregnant Egyptian Maus have the longest gestation period of all domestic cats.

When cats get pregnant, they typically give birth after 65 to 67 days of pregnancy. Whether we’re talking about pedigree cats or average street cats, the numbers are almost always the same.

With Egyptian Mau cats, though, you can expect them to remain pregnant for an average of 73 days. We don’t know why that happens, but we do know that you might be relieved to have a few more days to prepare for the arrival of the kittens.

5. The entire Egyptian Mau breed was rescued by a Russian princess

Nowadays, Egyptian Mau cats are adored, sought-after, and taken care of. Whether that’s because they’re sweet, affectionate, and the opposite of high maintenance or because they’re the closest you can get to owning a wild cat without breaking the law, that’s up to you to decide. But that wasn’t always the case.

During the World War II, Egyptian Mau cats faced extinction. Europeans weren’t attending cat shows and Egyptian Mau cats weren’t the priority at the time. Even though the times were tough, the future of the breed was secured when a Russian princess was given a Mau as a gift.

Natalie Trubetskaya was living in exile in Italy when she was gifted an Egyptian Mau kitten that was reportedly imported from the Middle East. Natalie became enamored with the spotted breed and decided to bring the Mau kittens with her when she emigrated to New York City.

When she reached American soil, she started the Fatima Egyptian Mau cattery, which produced many of the ancestors of today’s Egyptian Maus in America.

6. Egyptian Mau cats are one of the oldest domestic cat breeds

We might not know the exact dates of when the first Egyptian Maus appeared, but records of the Egyptian Mau date back to 1400 B.C. Egyptian Mau cats are considered one of the oldest domestic cat breeds and are celebrated for the fact that they’re a naturally occurring breed, too.

7. Egyptian Maus are the fastest of all domestic cats

We’re all thinking of a particular TikTok sound that perfectly describes the speed of an Egyptian Mau cat, right? Egyptian Maus are believed to be the fastest of all domestic cats, clocking up to 30 miles per hour.

Maus are blessed with big, bold, muscular bodies and unusually long hind legs that allow them to move at the speed of light. Egyptian Mau cats are built for running, climbing on high spots, and exploring the great outdoors – that’s something to consider when you start searching for Egyptian Mau breeders.

Maus are equipped with a stomach flap similar to that of a Cheetah and that’s why they’re able to stretch further back, sprint, and leap with ease.

8. The Egyptian Mau can jump really, really high

Whenever you decide to adopt an Egyptian Mau, don’t be alarmed when the curious creature starts climbing on kitchen counters, hanging out on top of the closet, or hopping off the highest windows. Maus are extremely physically active, but they’re also built for all sorts of shenanigans.

Because of those powerful hind legs, Egyptian Maus have been known to hop as high as 6 feet straight up. Before you get scared that there’s something wrong, know that Egyptian Mau cats adore working out, climbing on cat trees, and hopping like little bunnies – higher than bunnies, but still…

9. Egyptian Mau cats are shy but friendly

We’ve arrived at the end of the article with one of the most surprising Egyptian Mau facts – Maus are shy when you meet them for the first time.

Egyptian Mau cats are affectionate, friendly, and fun-loving, but don’t expect them to be all over you from the moment you take them home. Maus need a little time to figure things out, get to know you better, and trust you. When they do, though, they become the cutest, cuddliest cats you’ve ever seen.

Make a wild guess about the origin of his name. Yep, it’s inspired by a poisonous plant. In fact, the whole litter is named after one! I wonder why…

Our beautiful baby boy, kitten Hemlock, is just a smaller (but no less adorable) version of his brother Foxglove. Seriously, how cool are their names? I can’t get over it!

And, let me tell you, Hemlock is a true gentleman. He’s got a sharp suit and half of a mustache, as every cavalier does. And the white ear tufts? Please, how could we resist him and his out-of-this-world charm?! You simply can’t help but fall in love with this special little purrer.

Sorry to pull on your heartstrings, but just imagine him looking at you with a sad look on his face, all teary-eyed… Why, you may ask? Well, this lovely furry baby boy is just one canister away from running out of formula. And, let me tell you, this fluff loves his food, and he couldn’t be more scared!

His caregivers turned to their Instagram followers to ask for a donation. They reminded the lovely people who keep up with their work that donations are always appreciated but never expected, and that they shouldn’t feel obligated. What a lovely group of people!

They appreciate the support of their followers just as much as they’d appreciate their donations, and Hemlock does, too. The crew even shared an adorable photo of his RSF (resting sad face). God, it’s impossible to resist his eyes. They make you want to give him the world!

It’s like a magic spell, an advantage that effortlessly tugs at heartstrings and gives him whatever his soul wishes. Those lopsided ears and innocent gaze could melt even the coldest hearts! And, his caregivers know exactly how to succumb to his enchanting charms.

Just imagine Hemlock in all his glory. Twitching whiskers, an adorable mustache that gives him a dash of sophistication, and his irresistible bubblegum-pink toe beans that are too precious for this world – this fluff has got it all.

Naturally, the Instagram followers fell in love with Hemlock, and they’re always patiently waiting for another photo of this little man. Luckily, the crew has a lot of photos to share about their tuxedo buddy, as he’s quite a big fan of cameras, too!

It doesn’t take a lot to make this grateful fluff happy to be a part of his new foster family. They shared a photo of him acting like the happiest kitten in the world simply because they gave him a square of wrapping paper! He’s sitting on it like it’s his throne, looking like the cutest feline king ever.

Whether you’re behind the screen following this adorable fluff or being blessed by his presence, it’s clear that he’s living a healthy life filled with love, joy, and endless snuggles. Although he has a “resting sad face,” his eyes shimmer with a delight that’s hard to ignore.

Their account is an exclusive pass to the beautiful world of this tuxedo kitty. The people behind the profile encouraged their followers to use the hashtag #tuxie and share the photos of Hemlock and his fellow feline tuxedo friends. They’ve built a beautiful community that spreads nothing but love and positivity.

This special feline won the hearts of many, including a company that makes cat food. They decided to surprise Hemlock and his furry friends with a box full of kitten food, supplements, delicious treats, and some cool toys for them to play with!

The crew shared the photo of our adorable Hemlock surrounded by all his new goodies, his eyes sparkling with joy. Apparently, the kitten mouse they sent him has been a real lifesaver. It’s easy to feed the sickest babies with it, and they actually love the taste!

The wonderful people from this company have made many furbabies happy, not just Hemlock, earning praise and love from the kitten crew’s followers. Judging by these photos, it’s clear that their feline friends are in safe hands, surrounded by love, and it fills my heart with joy just thinking about it.

Next time you decide to get a feline friend, think about many foster kittens that are waiting to make your home their sanctuary. One thing’s for sure – they’ll show you gratitude, and affection like no one else, and you’ll learn what true, unconditional love is.

We truly hope Hemlock finds his forever home quickly, and that he’s now a happy feline companion to a family that showers him with love and appreciation.

Whether you’re planning on getting a Wegie kitten or you’re already trying to get one to come down from the top of the fridge, you probably already know a thing or two about Norwegian Forest cats. With athletic, muscular bodies and long, luscious coats, these gorgeous giants are a sight for sore eyes.

Wegies are often compared to Maine Coons. We’d argue that the resemblance seems uncanny to the untrained eye. Norwegian Forest cats are, however, slightly smaller with a more narrow frame than Maine Coon cats. Solid, bicolor, tortoiseshell, calico, or tabby, Wegies are born to attract attention.

When you add to that the fact that these cats are friendly, calm, and gentle, we’re not surprised that most humans can’t get enough of them. What are Norwegian Forest cats? Where did Norwegian Forest cats come from? What are some surprising Norwegian Forest cat facts? All that and more down below!

1. Norwegian Forest cats are the national cats of Norway

Starting with something you probably expected to read, Norwegian Forest cats are the national cats of Norway. Many, many years ago, Norwegian Forest cats became known as “Wegies” which was supposed to be short for “Norwegian.”

Wegies were popular throughout Scandinavia and the rest of Europe at the time. We’re going to mention that a little later, but Wegies were close to becoming extinct when an official breeding program was launched to save the breed.

When these curious creatures were out of the woods (metaphorically and literally!), Norway’s King Olav V decreed the Norwegian Forest cat the national cat breed of Norway.

2. Wegies are mythical creatures

Oh, but these bad boys are much more than meets the eye.

On one hand, there’s nothing more monumental than becoming your country’s national cat breed. On the other, Norwegian Forest cats come with myths and legends galore that tell the tales of the unspeakable things they’ve achieved a long, long time ago.

Where do we even start? Norwegian myths mention a large, long-haired cat with the ability to climb rock faces and stones that other cats could not manage. Now, these cats were beloved by Freya, the Norse goddess of love and beauty.

According to one of the Norwegian myths, Thor, the god of thunder, fought the tricky god Jormungand. Jormungand won the contest of strength because he was disguised as a Norwegian Forest cat. Norwegian Forest cats played quite a part in the history of Norwegian people.

3. Norwegian Forest cats are a part of numerous Scandinavian superstitions

That’s not all! Norwegian Forest cats are a part of numerous Scandinavian superstitions, most of which go back to Freya, the Norse goddess of love, beauty, fertility, and health.

Wegies were Freya’s favorite cats which might be the reason why people believed that being nice to cats would grant them Freya’s blessings. We’d argue that the most surprising Norwegian Forest cat facts talk about giant Wegies pulling Freya’s chariot.

With that out of the way, though, most myths talk about people doing things for Wegies hoping Freya would grant them a wish. Couples wanting to marry sought approval from Freya and her cats. Farmers fed milk to Freya’s cats hoping to be blessed with a bountiful harvest when she passed through their fields.

Women who wanted to find love became “crazy cat ladies” because they believed Freya would send them a man because of the cats. Brides-to-be fed neighborhood cats because they thought they’d have a sunny wedding day that way. Wegies had everyone in a chokehold back then!

4. The breed’s origins are a source of mystery

We don’t know when or where Norwegian Forest cats came from. We know they’re a huge part of Norwegian history, but we’re not sure whether they were born there or brought there by a third party. We do have theories, though.

First and foremost, Wegies might be related to black-and-white, short-haired cats from Great Britain that were found on Viking ships at the time. Furthermore, they might be descendants of long-haired cats brought to Scandinavia by the Crusaders.

Finally, they might have been roaming around the Norwegian forests thousands and thousands of years ago where they evolved into the large, dense-coated animal we know and love today.

5. They nearly became extinct

Wegies might be adored by people around the world today, but that wasn’t always the case. Back in the day, these boisterous beats were praised by farmers and sailors because they were great at catching mice and protecting people from disease, but they weren’t recognized by fanciers.

Before you ask about the timeframe, fanciers didn’t start noticing and showing the breed until the 1930s.

During World War II, the breed came dangerously close to becoming extinct due to a lack of interest in the breed and crossbreeding with other breeds. Because of an official breeding program, the breed’s lineage was preserved for future generations and the species went on to flourish.

6. They’re bigger than you might think

Wegies might not be known as gentle giants of the feline world, but they’re almost as big as Maine Coons. When you take a closer peep at a Norwegian Forest cat’s appearance, you might be taken aback by the fact that they’re typically 9 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 16 pounds heavy.

When you add to that the long, luscious coat, you get a teddy bear with a tendency to meow. Truth be told, Norwegian Forest cats aren’t Chatty Cathys, but that doesn’t stop them from demanding attention and commanding the room. What’s not to adore, right?

7. Norwegian Forest cats are waterproof

What do we mean by that? When you think of a Norwegian Forest cat, you probably think of a giant ball of fluff strutting her way on equally fluffy paws. A Wegie’s coat might be one of the biggest reasons why these precious pets are as popular as they are. And now you find out that their coats are waterproof?

Norwegian Forest cats needed to become stronger to be able to endure harsh Norwegian winters, and with time, they managed to develop extra layers of fur that protected them from the cold and the wet. So, the outer layer of a Wegie’s coat gets wet quite easily, but the rest of the layers remain warm and dry.

8. Wegies are prone to health problems

Sadly, Norwegian Forest cats aren’t as hardy as Vikings. Now, Wegies are known to have a happy and healthy life that lasts anywhere between fourteen and sixteen years of age. With that in mind, though, Wegies are known to develop quite a few health problems with time.

Norwegian Forest cat’s greatest health risks include hereditary heart problems, hip dysplasia, patella luxation, cardiomyopathy, eosinophilic granuloma complex, glycogen storage disease type IV, and a bunch of other conditions we can’t even pronounce.

With regular screening from a reputable breeder, though, the risk of contracting these diseases might be a little lower.

9. Norwegian Forest cats are related to Maine Coons

We’re not kidding! Norwegian Forest cats and Maine Coons are oftentimes compared because they’re super similar, whether we’re referring to their appearance or their personality. Now we know why that’s the case – Norwegian Forest cats and Maine Coon cats are cousins.

With genetic testing, we were able to trace Maine Coon cats back to Wegies. What that means is that Maine Coon cats are descendants of both the Norwegian Forest cat and an unknown and extinct domestic breed.

We do need to underline that the two aren’t the same, even though we’re taken aback by their resemblance, too.

At least that was the case with me as I was a young girl.

If I’m being completely honest, an adorable kitten is still at the top of my list, I just prefer to keep it for myself. I already have three cats and I definitely don’t want my friends to assume I am some kind of crazy cat lady (although they would not be far from the truth).

Anyway, when I was younger, I used to beg my parents to get me a kitten for my birthday. Every. Single. Year. Even though we already had several cats roaming around our backyard.

But there was something so special in being gifted something you hold so dear to your heart. And I am sure the protagonist of our today’s story would agree with me.

Meet Lillian Grant, a lovely resident of Ridgeview Gardens Assisted Living in St. George, Utah who asked for a very special gift for her 103rd birthday.

Lillian used to be a proud cat mom of a lovely cat named Sammy. Unfortunately, just over a year before her 103rd birthday, her beloved Sammy sadly passed away, leaving her heartbroken and in need of a new furry companion.

Everyone at the facility loved Lillian. So naturally, Debbie Persland, the administrator at Ridgeview Gardens Assisted Living, wanted to ensure she has the best birthday party ever.

A week prior to her birthday party, Debbie asked Lillian what would be her ideal birthday present. If she could choose anything in this world, what would she choose as her gift? To which Lillian simply said, “A sweet cat like Sammy.”

When she heard Lillian’s simple yet heartwarming wish, Debbie was deeply touched. So from that moment on, she had promised herself she would do everything in her power to get Lillian the gift she so strongly wants and deserves.

Luckily for her, her brother, Joseph Harradine, was working as an animal services officer at St. George Animal Shelter. So, she contacted him and asked if he would be so kind and help her get Lillian a new fluffy companion.

Joseph agreed and after consulting with others at the shelter, they have agreed that Marley, a beautiful 9-year-old feline, is a perfect candidate for Lillian.

What made Marley so special was the fact that his previous owner was also an older lady who unfortunately had to give him up because she was supposed to move to an assisted living facility that did not allow animals.

Joseph said how they had put a lot of thought into deciding what feline to opt for. They all wanted to ensure Lillian and the kitty are a perfect match. However, in case that did not happen, Joseph said how they were ready to try with another feline.

Fortunately, there was no need for that.

On April 6th, the date of Lillian’s birthday party, Debbie and other workers had prepared all the fun decorations, delicious food, refreshing beverages, and of course – her birthday cake.

Just before they brought the cake out, Debbie told Lillian that they have a very special surprise for her. At that moment, Josh brought out Marley and Lillian immediately took him in her arms.

No one could deny it – the connection was there!

Lillian started cuddling with Marley and forgot about the cake, her guest, and all the other birthday-related things. However, Debbie feared that Lillian did not quite understand why Marley was there. She was under the impression that Lillian thought Marley was just visiting her.

So, she decided to lean over and whispered to her “This is going to be your cat now.”

When Lillian heard this, her eyes filled with tears. At that moment, it was evident how much she truly craved a feline friend.

It is no secret that a company of a cat can have many benefits for an elderly person. After Sammy passed away, Lillian was probably feeling lonely and sad. But it was time to finally change that and put back a smile on her face!

In the days that followed her birthday party, Lillian and Marley became real friends. According to Debbie, these two were inseparable.

Marley was everything Lillian wanted to talk about. And most of the time, she even refused to leave his side. She always wondered where he is and what he had been up to, and when is he going to come back to her.

She even called him Sammy on several occasions, after her late kitty whom she still missed so much.

Because Lillian was an older lady, the shelter where Joseph worked had to ensure that Marley would have a safe home, even if something happened to Lillian in the years to come. If, for whatever reason, Lillian becomes unable to take care of him, the shelter needed proof Marley would still be taken care of.

And that’s where Debbie stepped in. She agreed that she would take the role of Marley’s owner if (or more likely when) something happens to Lillian.

Debbie said that she did not mind this small sacrifice. She said how she had always liked cats, and if putting a smile on Lillian’s face meant that she would have to adopt Marley when her dear friend passes away – it was all worth it!

Such a small act of kindness truly can mean the world to some people. I hope this story inspires us all to do good to the people we love and care for, even if doing good means getting them a cat. Why not, really?! That’s the best act of kindness in my book, anyway.