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It's All About Cats Did you know that the domesticated cat is one of the most popular pets in the world? It is thought that cats have been kept as pets for thousands of years. Most people consider themselves cat or dog people depending on the pet they prefer, but many of us pet folks like both cats and dogs. There are lots of types, or breeds, of cats. Cats come in many different colors, sizes, with hair, without hair, and with or without tails. Some of the most popular breeds include the Maine Coon, the Persian, the Siamese, and the American Shorthair. The scientific family of cats is called Felidae. There are two subfamilies of the Felidae: Felinae - These are the medium to small cats like the domestic cat, cheetah and lynx. Pantherinea - These are the big cats like the lion, tiger, and the leopard. Cats usually weigh between 5 and 16 pounds, assuming they are healthy. An unhealthy, fat cat can weigh quite a bit more. A cat that is kept indoors will typically live for 15 to 20 years. Cats have very good hearing. Their ears have 32 different muscles that enable them to point their ears in any direction. Cats are extremely agile and also have good night vision. These characteristics make cats good hunters. Cats first became so popular as pets because they are skilled at catching rodents. They are very quick and can catch mice, rats, and other rodents in tight spots and in the dark. Cats are also very intelligent. Because of this, cats are often used in barns and in ships to keep rodents under control. A large group of cats is called a clowder. A group of kittens is called a kindle. A baby cat is called a kitten. A male cat is referred to as a tom, while a female cat is referred to as queen. Cats can be good pets, but one must be very careful around them. Cats have sharp teeth and claws. It's best to play with cats with toys and not to push or wrestle with them with your hands. There are expert cat trainers who can help you with your new cat as well. Fun Facts About Cats People who love cats are called Ailurophiles. Cats can make over 100 vocal sounds, while dogs can only make about ten. In Ancient Egypt cats were considered sacred and people could be put to death for killing a cat. There was a cat in England named Puss who lived to be 36 years old. Their sense of smell is around 14 times better than a human. Best of all, cats are smart, lovable and just fun to have around. ~ Vivian Walker, vivr@sbcglobal.net 34 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | AUGUST 2020 Tails & Trails - All Pets Respecting Private Property The summertime heat has arrived! Best time to walk your dogs is early morning or later in the evening – air temperature and paving temperature are more moderate at those times. Be sure and supply your dogs with plenty of clean water both during the walk and immediately afterwards. Now is the time to keep your dog and yourself well hydrated! When walking your dog in the residential neighborhoods, do not allow them to trespass on the landscaping in residents' front yards. This is private property. Even though your dog may be interested only in "smelling the flowers" in someone's front yard, it is still private property and you should not allow your dog to trespass. PACK WALKS – all pack walks have been canceled until further notice as a result of guidelines imposed by Riverside County due to COVID-19. ~ Patrick and his dog, Ricky Ricardo: dog_owners@ yahoo.com Dog Owners Group Just in case: Check with your club contact to confirm meeting place, date, and time.

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