21.
A house cat is over 95% tiger (genetically).
They have many of the same behaviors, like play hunting, scent marking, and pouncing.
22.
Cats actively choose to ignore us sometimes. Studies suggest that cats often hear us call for them but decide to ignore us. They believe it is because they were not bred to listen to humans, like dogs.
23.
Cats are responsible for the extinction of at least 63 animal species. This has landed them a spot on the “100 worst invasive species” list.
24.
Cats often carry the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which causes rats to be attracted to cats. T. gondii makes its way to the rodent’s brain, and stops the natural fear response to cats. They seek them out, leading to their death and the cats’ meal.
25.
Cats get the “zoomies” from built up energy. They are like a wind-up toy: once energy is built up, they must let it out.
26.
Cat whiskers are WAY MORE than just cute.
They pick up vibrations that help cats navigate their environment and determine spaces they can fit through (they are about the same width as their body).
Trimming a cat’s whiskers causes them to become very disoriented.
27.
Cats can find their way home even if they have traveled many miles. Scientists don’t know how they do it. Some believe they can sense the earth’s magnetic field, others believe they use their strong senses.
28.
Cats can develop depression (usually caused by external stressors). Some symptoms include loss of appetite, reduced energy levels, and changes in litter box usage.
29.
Cats communicate with their whiskers. Whiskers that are still usually mean relaxed, forward usually means curious, and back usually means upset.
30.
Cats can get acne. It is fairly common and is usually on the chin.
