To best prepare your holiday plans, you need to consider an important factor: your little companion! Can you bring them with you, is it better to leave them at a boarding facility, or to have a trusted person come by? To ensure your stay (and theirs) is full of relaxation and good vibes, here are our best tips for taking your cat on vacation. Should I take my cat on vacation with me or not? Our cats are very attached to their territory, but some cats, usually those accustomed to traveling from a young age, have no trouble traveling with their human. However, whether you decide to take your cat on vacation or leave them in care, avoid changing their diet. This could add stress and upset their digestive system. To decide if it’s wise to bring your kitty on vacation, consider these points: How long am I going away? Will the trip be long? Are pets allowed at the destination? Will my cat be safe? First important point: make sure in advance that the rental, campsite, or hotel accepts cats. Also, if you have to take a plane, train, or bus, check with the company beforehand about their policies. Going on vacation without my cat: how to arrange care? Having a trusted person come by If for some reason your vacation might be stressful for your furry friend, it may be better to leave your cat at home and have a trusted person come once or twice a day to refresh their food and water and play a little. This could be a friend, family member, or neighbor happy to help (in exchange for a small thank-you gift). Many cat sitters also offer their services for about ten euros per visit. Boarding facility or cat hotel If you’re away for more than a week or have no one to ask to come by, you can choose a boarding facility or cat hotel where your kitty will be safe. A boarding facility is a regulated establishment; the owner must hold a diploma certifying their skills and knowledge about animals. To be accepted in a boarding facility, your cat must be identified, vaccinated, and have their health record. Aristide Hotel in Paris At Aristide Hotel, no cages or grills, but rooms with soft cushions, huts, perches, and zen music. Address: 11 rue Ambroise Thomas, 75009 Paris Price: Cool Cat stay, shared room with a playmate, €25-30 per day ChaperlipoPet in Lyon A boarding facility where you can leave your cat without worry! Calm, bright, and secure, it welcomes your cat during business trips, weekends, or holidays. Address: 83 rue Duguesclin, 69006 Lyon Price: all-inclusive rate for one cat, €15-17 per day Harmonie Chat in Bordeaux Individual rooms, a playroom, and a secure outdoor courtyard — that’s what Harmonie Chat offers. Your furry friend won’t have time to get bored! Address: 122 rue de la Benauge, 33100 Bordeaux Price: €24 per day for one cat in a single room, including kibble and litter Preparing to go on vacation with your cat Getting them used to their carrier To prepare your cat for the trip, place their carrier in your living room so they can get used to it. On the day of departure, it will be less stressful and easier to get them inside! Help them relax Try to relax them by massaging, play a playlist of music designed specifically for cats, or consider valerian root. These natural methods will help your cat feel calmer before the trip. Car trips with your cat Before a long trip, take your companion on short drives first. This helps you gauge how well they handle travel and whether they get anxious or carsick. If needed, ask your vet for medication. Even if your cat is used to car rides, we recommend keeping them in their carrier and not letting them roam freely inside the vehicle—for their safety and yours! Secure your cat safely in the car Place them in their bag or carrier and, if possible, on the floor between the front passenger seat and the back seat. Avoid putting them in the trunk—they need to breathe and not get too hot. Long car trips with your cat: breaks and wet food Make sure to schedule breaks where your cat can drink and eat. Cats rarely drink while the car is moving, so stopping regularly is important. Offer them wet food, which helps keep them hydrated even if they drink little water. However, some cats get carsick, so avoid feeding them during the trip but ensure they drink enough. Of course, during breaks and before letting your cat out of the car, don’t forget to put on their harness! In case of heatwave, bring a damp cloth or towel to cool your cat during breaks. Also, bring wipes or absorbent paper to clean your cat’s carrier if it gets soiled. Once you arrive At first, set up your cat in a reasonably small room, like a bedroom. Provide litter and a water bowl. Keep them in that room for 2 to 3 days to see how they adapt before letting them explore the rest of the place. Check the environment to make sure there are no escape routes before letting them roam freely. Flying with your cat: how to do it? You want to fly with your cat? This is totally possible. Most airlines allow cats under 8 kg (with a carrier) to travel in the cabin. The carrier must be approved, soft, and well-ventilated. Unfortunately, your kitty cannot leave the carrier during the flight. If you have a large cat, like a Maine Coon over 8 kg, they must travel in the cargo hold in an approved rigid cage. Note that some airlines simply do not allow pets. Check beforehand. Traveling abroad with your cat: what to prepare? Within the European Union Each country has its own rules regarding pet movement. If you travel within the EU, your cat must be identified with a microchip, as tattoos alone are no longer valid. Your cat must also have its own European passport. This official document, issued by your vet, contains all necessary information (ID, vaccinations, medical history, etc.). Vaccinations must be up to date, especially rabies, which is mandatory in some countries and protects your cat from rabies. Also, don’t forget to deworm your cat 1 to 5 days before the trip, following your vet’s advice. Outside the EU As with travel within the EU, your cat must have a microchip and be vaccinated against rabies. Note the vaccine only becomes effective 21 days later. For the vaccination to be valid, it must be done after the chip is implanted. For specific rules depending on the country, check with the foreign embassy or consulate in France. If you plan to bring back a cat from abroad, it’s important to know that bringing back an animal is only authorized after 4 months of age and only by adults. Your cat must have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and a health certificate issued by a vet in the country of origin.

We made a selection of 10 Cat Dads who never thought for a second they'd go totally crazy about their cat... In these photos, you might recognize a friend, a husband, a father, or even yourself! #1 "Kids? That's so outdated!" This Cat Dad completely changed his mind, to the point of investing in a double stroller for his little ones. Source: mr-mrs-wild-cats #2 He thought cats "had no use" Until this adorable kitty came into his life, since then they never miss a nap together. Source: lodo_el_gato #3 He didn’t want a cat at home And now, they have football nights together. Source: ilurvbears via Reddit #4 "A cat stays outside" A few weeks later, they became completely inseparable! #5 "The cat or me" He obviously had no choice... At the same time, how can you resist this ball of fur? Source: imgur #6 Guess who is the favorite human of the cats in this house? He lives with three balls of fur "against his will", according to him. Source: Jaxtsuu via Bored Panda #7 "Are you thirsty, son?" And to think he was mad at his (real) kids for bringing a cat home... He even decided to make the cat his heir. Source: PaniniBree via Reddit #8 "I'm allergic to cats" Two years later, he teaches his son to "give me five". Source: MrPresident91 via Reddit #9 "We can’t keep it!" Do you find that believable? We don’t! #10 "As long as it doesn't get on the bed" Another Cat Dad who knows how to make himself obey.

Let us introduce you to the Norwegian cat, a gentle giant straight from the cold forests of Northern Europe. Strong and resilient, it is also a very kind and affectionate cat, sure to bring happiness to its surroundings. It is a large-sized breed, but be careful, it should not be confused with the Maine Coon. We explain everything in this article! The origins of the Norwegian cat Also known as the Norwegian Forest Cat or norsk skogkatt, the Norwegian is a rustic and natural breed, whose evolution does not result from crossbreeding or human selection. It was brought from Asia Minor to the Nordic countries in the 8th century by the Vikings. Hence its nickname: "the Viking cat"! At that time, the Norwegian’s mission was to hunt mice on boats. Once a sea wolf, the Norwegian has become a forest dweller. Its fur evolved and became denser to adapt to the long winters and harsh climatic conditions of the Scandinavian forests. Nordic mythology also honors them: Freyja, the goddess of love, drives a chariot pulled by two large and powerful cats, which remind us of Norwegians. Its appearance The Norwegian belongs to the family of semi-longhaired cats, like the Maine Coon and Ragdoll. It has a double coat, with an undercoat that keeps it warm, and a slightly oily outer coat that makes it waterproof. Its coat is so dense that it is difficult to reach its skin. Its head is triangular, unlike the Maine Coon, which has a square muzzle. Its ears are positioned high on its head and are adorned with tufts of hair at the tips and between the ears. Around its neck, you can notice a fur collar that forms a heart shape. Adorable, right? Another feature of the Norwegian cat is the fur between its paw pads, which acts like snowshoes! It is also one of the largest cat breeds in terms of size. Norwegians reach their full size only at the age of 2 or 3 years. Although they are less bulky than Maine Coons, they can still weigh between 4 and 9 kilos. Its personality The Norwegian is a big Scandinavian softie! Like Maine Coons, the Norwegian cat is considered a gentle giant. Zen and energetic, it loves both running and climbing, but also enjoys long naps. It is a chill cat, gentle and peaceful with those around it. Very balanced and calm, it occasionally has bursts of energy for play. Contrary to popular belief, while it enjoys the cold and open spaces, it also loves cocooning and the comfort of a heated home. It can easily adapt to apartment life, as long as it is well arranged for it and has enough space available. After all, you are living in its space, not the other way around! The Norwegian cat is very sociable and enjoys the company of children. It loves companionship, so if you are away during the day, we recommend adopting another cat so it won’t get bored. The nutrition of the Norwegian cat The secret to a healthy Norwegian cat with a shiny coat lies in its food! Like all other cats, it must have high-quality cat food that meets its nutritional needs and provides enough animal-based protein. Its food should contain many essential nutrients for the quality of its coat and the proper functioning of its organs: proteins, sulfur amino acids (methionine and cysteine), essential omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic and arachidonic acid), omega-3s, minerals, vitamins A, E, and B-group vitamins, especially biotin (B9), trace elements (including copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, iodine), and of course water for proper hydration! Robust by nature, the Norwegian cat is rarely sick. However, to maintain its health, it is still important to provide it with quality food and take it for a yearly veterinary checkup. Adopted a Norwegian cat? Tell us about it! Its personality, appearance, we want to know everything!

  The Scottish Fold is well known for its folded ears and round face, giving it the look of a little angel. Here are 10 things to know about the Scottish Fold, a lovely cat! #1 A breed from Scotland The history of the Scottish Fold begins in 1961 in Dundee, Scotland, specifically with William and Mary Ross. They were the first breeders to develop the Scottish Fold breed, thanks to their cat, Susie, who was born with folded ears. #2 Its distinctive feature: its ears The Scottish Fold cat has a round head, a wide muzzle, and folded ears that form almost like a cap! The ears, which fold forward, are due to a spontaneous genetic mutation. #3 Scottish Fold and Highland Fold The only difference is in the length of the fur: the Scottish Fold has short fur, while the Highland Fold has medium-length fur. #4 The Scottish Straight, on the other hand, keeps its ears straight The difference between the Scottish Fold and the Scottish Straight is only in the fold of the ears! The Scottish or Highland Straight are the kittens in the litter born with straight ears. #5 A cat with a robust bone structure Of medium size, the Scottish Fold has a solid and robust bone structure, giving it an imposing look. The weight of a female Scottish Fold can reach up to 5 kg, and up to 6 kg for a male. #6 The Fd gene (Folded) can cause health problems Certain health issues can be directly linked to the Fd gene (Folded). For example, kittens resulting from a cross between two Folds may suffer from osteochondrodysplasia, a degenerative disease of the bones and cartilage, which can lead to stiffness in certain limbs. #7 Breeding Scottish Folds is not allowed The marriage of two Scottish (or Highland) Folds may promote the appearance of osteochondrodysplasia. The LOOF (French Cat Breeder Association) therefore only permits breeding between a Scottish (Highland) Fold and a Scottish (Highland) Straight, a British Shorthair, or an American Shorthair. #8 Breeding Scottish Folds is banned in Belgium Following an advisory from the Brussels Animal Welfare Council issued in late June 2018, the Belgian government approved a bill banning the breeding and sale of Scottish or Highland Folds. This decision was motivated by osteochondrodysplasia, which some Scottish Folds may suffer from if two Folds are bred together by unscrupulous breeders. #9 A gentle and affectionate cat These are adorable cats that bring joy to their families. Scottish Fold owners describe them as affectionate, curious, gentle, playful (and often very amusing!). #10 A big foodie! You will need to pay special attention to their physical and mental stimulation as the Scottish Fold tends to compensate for inactivity with a voracious appetite! Finally, opt for healthy and protein-rich food to help them maintain their ideal weight. Feel free to check out our article "Why is my cat always hungry?", where we share our best tips to help your cat regulate its appetite.

"Ashes in my cat's food, and what's next?!" We see you panicking! Don't worry, we're not talking about cigarette butts or charred paper, but about minerals found in our cats' food, which remain after the complete combustion of a food, hence the term "ashes". How is the ash content calculated? "Crude Ash", "Mineral Matter", or "Minerals": These three terms, which appear on the labels on the back of packaging, refer to the total amount of various minerals present in a food's composition. The mineral matter is mainly represented by calcium and phosphorus, but also contains sodium chloride, potassium, and magnesium. If a percentage of calcium and phosphorus is also listed, it is additional information, but they are already counted in the crude ash. The calculation of the ash content in a food is done in a laboratory. The food is heated to a very high temperature until completely burned. The remaining ashes are mainly composed of mineral matter that remains after this combustion. In short: it's what "remains" when the food has been entirely burned. What are the main minerals and trace elements? In the ash content, there are macroelements, which are present in relatively large quantities in the food, and trace elements, which are found in small quantities. The Macroelements calcium (Ca) phosphorus (P) potassium (K) sodium (Na) magnesium (Mg) chloride (Cl) The Trace Elements iron (Fe) zinc (Zn) manganese (Mn) copper (Cu) iodine (I) selenium (Se) What is the role of minerals in my cat's diet? Minerals and trace elements in our cats' food play a major role: They ensure the growth and maintenance of hard and soft tissues and also preserve tissue integrity. They help regulate biological and physiological processes of the cells. For example, calcium ensures the functioning of the nervous system, blood clotting, and muscle contraction... Iron guarantees the binding and transport of oxygen. They are essential for the production of enzymes and hormones. The ash content should not be too low or too high in your cat's food. Too low or, conversely, too high a micronutrient intake can have a negative long-term impact. We should be cautious about both underdosing and overdosing. Ash Content, an Indirect Indicator of Quality In a complete food, the crude ash content is a good indirect indicator of quality. A minimum amount is required to meet needs, but a very high amount indicates a high amount of carcass with bones. We aim for a crude ash percentage of 6 to 10% of dry matter. This means approximately 5.5 to 9% in dry food like kibble, or 1.25 to 2.5% in wet food like pâté. Avoid choosing foods with more than 12% crude ash (of dry matter). A food rich in ash (and therefore in carcasses or Mechanically Separated Meat) can lead to very hard white stools or even constipation. Example of the analytical composition of a well-balanced mineral food, Ziggy Sterilized Adult Cat Food - Grain-Free - Fish: Example of the analytical composition of a supermarket pâté with more than 2.5% crude ash: Crude protein 9.5% Crude fat 4% Crude fiber 0.8% Crude Ash 3% Moisture 82% Estimated carbohydrates 0.7% Does your cat suffer from urinary problems? Watch the ash content in their food If your little companion suffers from urinary issues, it will be important to pay attention to the "mineral matter" or "ashes" in their food. In a cat with urinary problems or kidney stones, the goal is to dilute urine through a wet food diet and avoid high mineral content, as these can aggregate into crystals and then stones. Choose food with a controlled and stable mineral composition (calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, phosphorus). Choose food with less than 5% ash content of dry matter. This means less than 4.6% in kibble with around 8% moisture, or less than 1.1% in wet food with 78% moisture. Finally, don't forget that by choosing the right food for our cats, we can prevent certain diseases, keep them healthy, and avoid high vet bills. Are you a cat nutrition expert? Test your knowledge with our quiz!

We say that a cat "kneads" when it kneads with its paws on a surface, such as a cushion for example, a blanket or even your belly.

  Our white cat friends are majestic in their immaculate coat. Genetic features, famous cats, and cat breeds... We’ve prepared a list of 10 things you should know about our little companions with white fur. #1 They are very sensitive to the sun We all know the harmful effects of the sun on the skin, and although our cats are a bit better protected than us due to their fur, white cats and hairless breeds (Sphynx, Donskoy, Peterbald...) are more exposed to sunburn, and thus to squamous cell carcinomas, than other cats. For white cats, the nose and ears are common locations for skin lesions due to sun exposure. Luckily, there are now sunscreens specially designed to protect your little companions. #2 The W (White) gene is responsible for the white coat For a cat to be white, it must carry the W (White) gene: during gestation in the female, the W gene blocks the migration of pigmentation cells (melanocytes) to the fur. That’s why our little companions’ coats do not color and remain white. #3 White cats with blue eyes have a 50% chance of being deaf Another mystery of genetics, let us explain: for a kitten to be fully white, it must inherit the W gene (for White) from one of its parents. This gene blocks the pigmentation of the iris and destroys some ear cells. As a result: the kitten’s coat is white, its eyes stay blue, and it becomes deaf about a week after birth. This occurs in approximately 50% of white cats with blue eyes. #4 The coat of the Turkish Angora changes color The white coat and blue eyes were iconic of the Turkish Angora breed. But due to the hearing problems we just described, colored coats are becoming more favored during cat shows. #5 Some white kittens are born with a spot on their head The color of this spot corresponds to the color the kitten would have had without the W gene. Gradually, this spot will disappear with age. #6 The Khao Manee: one of the rarest cat breeds in the world It stands out with its completely white coat and often heterochromatic eyes. In Thailand and England, its eyes are even called "diamond eyes". Its body is slim and fine, similar to oriental-type cat breeds. Its character is often said to be similar to that of the Siamese! #7 A white cat is not necessarily albino Albinism is a genetic trait that affects all animal species and humans alike, without distinction. Due to this genetic mutation, the albino cat lacks pigmentation: its fur is white, its skin is pink, and its eyes are pale blue, heterochromatic, or sometimes even red. An albino cat is like any other cat; it does not suffer from any particular disease but is, however, a bit more fragile than other cats. #8 Superstition: the white cat is a sign of good luck Unlike the black cat, which is considered to bring bad luck according to some ancient beliefs, white cats have long been considered true good luck charms. At Ziggy, we love our cats in all shapes and colors! #9 Famous white cats In the world of cartoons, we immediately think of Marie and Duchess from The Aristocats. We can also mention Hello Kitty, the cute white kitten that was very popular in the 2000s. #10 Our white cats are more fragile, so we take care of them Due to their high sensitivity to the sun, we avoid letting them nap outside for long periods and we don’t hesitate to apply full-spectrum sunscreen, specially designed for our little companions. If you notice wounds, scabs, or a color change in the skin on the risk zones (ears and nose), we recommend consulting your vet quickly. Similarly, if your white cat is diagnosed as deaf, we make sure it evolves in a safe environment. Finally, our white cats, we love them like full members of the family, and we choose for them the best food for cats possible, without cereals and with quality proteins, to keep them healthy.

  Every year, many kittens are abandoned or left to fend for themselves due to abandonment or the disappearance of their mother... If you find a ball of fur, it is important to know how to take care of it and to be assisted by a veterinarian or an association to increase its chances of survival. Whatever the outcome of the rescue, be gentle with yourself. Taking care of a young kitten is not an easy task. Some kittens are unfortunately sometimes sick, too weak, or too young to survive without their mother. I found a kitten, what should I do? Abandonment, disappearance of the mother... First, you should make sure that the mother is not nearby. Keep in mind that kittens have a much better chance of surviving if they are with their mother than if they are taken away. The mother may have just gone hunting, for example. Wait and see how the situation evolves before making a decision. The main thing to observe is the kittens' general condition: are they dirty, thin, or appear disoriented? If so, they are most likely abandoned. If you are unable to take care of them, you can ask for help from an animal protection association near you. If you notice the presence of the whole little family, do not hesitate to contact an animal protection association or the SPA, which may be able to take them in or at least guide you on the next steps. You can also inquire with the local town hall services. First reflex: take it to the vet! This is where your mission as a surrogate mother begins! The best thing to do is to take your little protege as quickly as possible to a veterinarian, who will, depending on its age and health condition, recommend how to proceed. The veterinarian will examine the kitten and check its identification. If you cannot take it to the vet immediately, do not let it come into contact with your other pets, if you have any. The kitten may carry diseases like leukemia or FIV. While waiting to take the kitten to the vet, keep it warm in a blanket or old sweater, and place it in a shoebox or a cardboard box where it can feel safe and observe its surroundings. Estimating the kitten's age Generally, a kitten weighs about 100g at birth if it has no health problems, and then it should gain about 100g per week until the age of 8 weeks. It is at this age that a kitten is considered weaned. Weigh the kitten regularly If you find a kitten, weigh it quickly, preferably on a kitchen scale due to its lightweight. If your little protege is very thin, it is likely that it suffered from growth retardation, making it more difficult to determine its age. We recommend weighing it every day to ensure it is gaining weight properly and, most importantly, not losing any. Of course, if you notice any problems, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. *This chart gives an estimate of the kitten's age but does not replace the advice of your veterinarian. How to feed the kitten I found? Nutrition plays a key role in the proper development and survival of your kitten! Try to determine if it is weaned To determine if the kitten is weaned and whether it needs milk, wash your hands thoroughly and offer your finger. If it sucks on it eagerly, it might not be weaned. You can then offer kitten milk replacer, which you can find at your veterinarian or in pharmacies. No cow's milk, no human baby milk Do not give it cow's milk, goat's milk, or human baby milk. They are too low in fat and the nutrients are not suited to the kitten's needs. Your veterinarian can advise you on a milk replacer specially designed for kittens. Depending on the age and health of your little protege, they can guide you on the dosage and how many bottles to give. Some nutritional deficiencies in kittens can unfortunately lead to growth retardation, anorexia, or even neurological issues, sometimes leading to death... So, it is essential to follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding its diet. How many bottles for my kitten? *This chart is for guidance only and does not replace the advice of your veterinarian. Introducing "solid foods" Normally, the kitten is first nursed by its mother until about 6 weeks of age. But it starts eating solid foods around 3 weeks. It is only at about 5 weeks of age that the kitten will eat them in significant amounts. By the 3rd week, milk is still necessary, either from a bottle or you can offer it in a shallow bowl for it to lap. This is also the time to introduce kitten food, preferably canned food, which you can mix with kitten milk replacer. Start with just one teaspoon of food per day during the 3rd week, then you can increase it to one teaspoon per meal from the 4th week. As you increase the amount of canned food, you can gradually reduce the number of bottles to two and then three per day. For more information, feel free to read our articles on feeding a non-weaned kitten and on the stages of kitten weaning. How to care for an abandoned kitten? Keep it warm A very young kitten cannot regulate its temperature on its own, which is why it is important to keep it warm in an old sweater or blanket, and, if possible, with a hot water bottle (but be careful not to burn it!). Its body temperature should be stabilized at 38°C. Below that, it will be hypothermic, and above that, it could go into hyperthermia. There are also heat lamps specifically designed for young animals that help maintain the temperature of kittens. Stimulate it to help it relieve itself Before one month of age, a young kitten cannot relieve itself on its own. Its mother must lick it to trigger urination or defecation. As a surrogate mother, you will need to stimulate its lower abdomen and anus with a cotton pad or a damp cloth. This is a crucial step for its survival! If there are multiple kittens, can they be separated? It is not recommended to separate kittens before 7 weeks of age. While it is more work, having several kittens is a better guarantee for their development. And after? Weaning As mentioned earlier, the introduction of solid food can be done around 3 weeks. You can stop giving kitten milk at the end of the 7th week. Since our cats tend to be neophobic (afraid of novelty), it will be interesting to introduce new flavors and textures to your kitten from the age of 5 weeks. Socialization The kitten socializes with its mother and siblings. It is useful to get your kitten used to human contact from a young age by handling it gently. It will also be beneficial during its learning process to introduce it to other cats or your dog, so it gets used to the presence of other species. Teaching it to use the litter box As a surrogate mother, it will also be your job to teach the kitten to use its litter box! When it starts relieving itself on its own, you can place it in its litter box and gently take one of its front paws to show it how to scratch. Be patient with it; it will eventually learn to use it. Vaccinations and identification From the 8th week onward, you can have your little companion vaccinated against diseases such as leukemia, feline panleukopenia, and calicivirus.

"My cat has diarrhea, should I be worried?" It depends on how long the episode of diarrhea lasts and the general condition of your little companion! Sometimes it may simply be a food intolerance, or a sudden change in diet, but diarrhea is also one of the symptoms of certain diseases. For this reason, we advise you to closely monitor your little companion's health and not hesitate to consult your veterinarian. What can be the causes of diarrhea in my cat? You have noticed that your cat is frequently passing soft or liquid stools? Do they have a foul odor? These are indeed the characteristics of diarrhea. The causes of diarrhea in cats are numerous, and it's important to monitor its progression. We refer to chronic diarrhea if it persists for more than three weeks. The quality of the food If you are feeding your cat poor-quality food, it's likely that the proteins in the food are not fully digested. When these proteins reach the large intestine, they begin to decompose and may cause gas or diarrhea. A diet that is too rich in ash (and thus in carcasses) can, on the other hand, lead to constipation. Food intolerance This is the case if your little companion drinks milk unusually and is unable to digest lactose. The lactose in milk can be difficult for adult cats to digest since they're not used to drinking it. For some cats, digestion of starch is more difficult than for others, and it may ferment in the large intestine, causing gas and diarrhea. A sudden change in diet If a cat’s diet is changed suddenly, the components that reach the intestines differ, and their digestibility will also vary. Dietary changes should be made gradually, and always gently. This is why we recommend doing a dietary transition to avoid disturbing your little companion's digestion. A sign of illness Persistent diarrhea can be a sign of illness, especially if it’s associated with other symptoms. Diarrhea that lasts for several hours in kittens, or for several days in adult cats, should not be ignored. It’s urgent to take your little companion to the vet if diarrhea is accompanied by lethargy. Several diseases can cause diarrhea: viral diseases (FIV, FeLV, panleukopenia), certain parasitic digestive diseases (giardia, coccidia, worms), endocrine diseases (hyperthyroidism), digestive system diseases (pancreas, liver, intestines), and food intolerances or allergies. Antibiotic treatment If your cat is prescribed antibiotics for an infection, diarrhea may occur as a result of the impact on their gut flora. In such cases, your veterinarian will likely recommend ultralevure capsules to stabilize the intestinal flora. What to do if he has diarrhea? As mentioned earlier, it's important to monitor the overall condition of your cat to act accordingly. Pay particular attention to: His appetite. If your little companion has diarrhea, he is likely to stop eating. It’s important to consult your veterinarian quickly in such cases. The duration of the diarrhea episode. The appearance of other symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, etc.). A change in behavior: for example, if he stops playing or seems to be in pain somewhere. The color of the stools. The presence of blood in the stools. If the diarrhea episode follows a change in food, you can either return to the previous food or add some yogurt or give him a special clay that will be prescribed by your veterinarian. Giving probiotics to your cat Probiotics for cats are also excellent for supporting your cat’s intestinal microbiome. These are non-pathogenic living microorganisms that, when consumed, provide a beneficial role for the cat by improving its gut flora and digestive system. At Ziggy, we offer probiotics for our cats and kittens. Formulated by our veterinary nutritionist specializing in clinical nutrition, Dr. Géraldine Blanchard, Ziggy Care probiotics contain Enterococcus Faecium NCIMB 10663 (4b1707) at proven levels to promote good health and microbial balance in the intestines of cats while strengthening their natural immune defenses. The best to preserve the health of our felines. In general, to prevent diarrhea episodes, we recommend providing your cat with fresh water and changing it frequently. Also, make sure to offer them a healthy diet, rich in high-quality proteins, which you can serve in the form of at least 4 small meals per day. For example, Ziggy cat food is highly digestible because it is made from muscle meat and noble offals, without mechanically separated meat (MSM), without animal flours, without carcasses (therefore low in minerals) – and it contains no grains (wheat, corn, rice, spelt…), no tubers like tapioca or cassava, and no legumes (lentils, peas, chickpeas…). What to avoid Under no circumstances should you give human medications to your cat, as there is a real risk of poisoning and overdose. Your veterinarian is the only person qualified to diagnose and prescribe treatment for your cat. You should not remove access to their water bowl. Diarrhea causes significant dehydration, and your cat needs to stay hydrated. Changing their diet too often or too abruptly is also a bad idea, as the digestive flora of cats is quite sensitive. Don’t give them too much food in an attempt to compensate: overeating could make the diarrhea worse. Conversely, you should not stop feeding them. It’s better to divide their meals and offer them a highly digestible diet.