There are so many interesting news stories out there about pets and other animals, veterinary medicine or other animal related topics!  Each week we’ll be gathering some stories that might be interesting to you, so keep posted each week for new stories!  Hopefully you’ll find the information in some of these articles useful and interesting!  This week we have some articles specifically related to cats!

Does Your Cat Eat Strange Things?” – Unusual eating habits in cats warrant a veterinary visit

Ever heard of the disorder called pica?  This is when animals eat unusual nonfood items.  It has even been tied to a few clinical illnesses like feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia.  If your cat eats unusual items, this may warrant a trip to the vet for several different reasons.

Can Classical Music Calm Cats” – Does music soothe the savage feline?

At Colorado State University a veterinarian and psychologist are pairing up to study if classical music will calm cats.  They will be looking to see if they are less stressed, which can be beneficial since calm cats are much easier for vets to examine both on the person and the cat.

Pet Talk: Fat Cats Indeed are Developing Diabetes” – Report: Feline diabetes is on the rise as cats get fatter

According to a report from Banfield Hospitals, there has been a 16% rise of diabetes diagnosed in cats since 2006.  It is on the rise in dogs as well.  Gaining weight through eating more and exercise less is the most likely contribution to the reason why.  There may be others factors involved, but regardless it is important to feed both dogs and cats a little less and get them moving more.

Veterinary Q&A: Vaccinations for Indoor Cats” – What vaccines do indoor cats need?

Dr. Matt Mickas from Washington State University explains the vaccines the cats need even if they are indoor only and the reasons why they are important.

Kitten Survives 50-min Wash Cycle”

Cats like small dark hiding spaces, so be sure to check that your kitty doesn’t jump through the door while your back is turned.  It could lead to an unfortunate experience.  Fortunately this kitten turned out okay after a night of hospitalization at the vet.

Once 35 lbs., ‘Biggest Loser’ of cats now weighs 29″ – Obese cat loses the equivalent of 100 human pounds

Otto, short for Ottoman, is so obese that his little heart and lungs have been working overtime to keep Otto going.  He has also developed arthritis from bearing the extra weight.  Otto has a new lease on life since his owners surrendered him to his vet and they have started him on his weight loss journey.