1.
Normal body temperature is 100.5-102.5°F, slightly higher than humans.
2.
VISION Cats see well in low light but are not completely colorblind as once thought.
3.
HUNGING Natural instinct even in well-fed domestic cats; they're obligate carnivores.
4.
Adult cats have 30 designed for their carnivorous diet.
5.
BREEDS Over 40 recognized cat worldwide with distinct characteristics.
6.
LITTER Average size is 2-5 kittens, born after 64-67 days gestation.
7.
DOMESTICATION Began approximately 9,000 years ago in the Near East.
8.
Used for balance and communication, containing 19-23 vertebrae.
9.
SCRATCHING Necessary behavior for claw maintenance and territory marking.
10.
CLAWS Retractable sharp nails used for climbing, hunting, and self-defence.
11.
WHISKERS Sensitive facial hairs that help cats navigate and sense their environment.
12.
HEARING Exceptional range up to 64,000 Hz, much higher than humans.
13.
HAIRBALLS Common occurrence from grooming; regular brushing helps prevent them.
14.
AGILITY Excellent climbers and jumpers, can fall from heights and land safely.
16.
Indoor cats typically live 13-17 years, outdoor cats 2-5 years.
17.
Behavior from kittenhood when nursing, indicates comfort and affection.
18.
SOCIALIZATION Critical period is 2-7 weeks old for proper human and animal interaction.
19.
TERRITORIAL Cats are animals that mark their space with scent.
20.
GROOMING Cats spend 30-50% of waking hours cleaning themselves.
21.
CATNIP Plant that triggers euphoric response in about 70% of cats.
22.
MEOW A primary form of cat communication, especially with humans.
23.
NOCTURNAL Cats are actually crepuscular, most active during dawn and dusk hours.
24.
SLEEP Cats do this for 12-16 hours per day to conserve energy for hunting.
25.
PURR A vibrating sound cats make when content, though also sometimes when stressed or in pain.
26.
HISSING Defensive vocalization warning others to stay away.
27.
INDEPENDENT Cats are more self-sufficient than dogs but still form strong bonds.
