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Penelope hosts a short video series called Feline Facts, which mostly consists of her sitting very still while I read a fact, and then yawning. It has done shockingly well. Here are fifteen of the facts from the series, with the context that does not fit in a 30-second clip.
1. Slow blinks are cat kisses
A slow blink means “I trust you enough to close my eyes.” Do it back. Minnie Mouse does it constantly, usually right before demanding something.
2. Cats prefer running water
Instinct says still water might be stagnant. That is why Penelope ignored her bowl for years and now lives at the fountain.
3. A cat's nose print is unique
Like a fingerprint. No two are the same.
4. Cats sleep 12 to 16 hours a day
Stripes is closer to 18. He is fine.
5. Purring can mean stress, not just happiness
Cats also purr to self-soothe when they are hurt or scared. Check body language, not just sound.
6. The tail tells you everything
Straight up means happy. Puffed means scared. A slow swish means she is deciding whether to attack your ankle. Full breakdown in the body language guide.
7. Cats can't taste sweet
They lack the receptor. That is why she is unimpressed by your dessert but very impressed by your chicken.
8. Kneading is a kitten habit that never left
Kittens knead to stimulate milk. Adult cats do it when they feel safe. Take it as a compliment, even when the claws are out.
9. Head bunting is scent marking
When Penelope headbutts the camera, she is claiming it. She has claimed most of my equipment.
10. Cats need vertical space
Especially in multi-cat homes. Height equals safety. It is the single biggest reason a good cat tree reduces fights.
11. Whiskers are the width of the body
They tell a cat whether she fits through a gap. Deep bowls press on whiskers, which is why shallow bowls are on the shop page.
12. Cats sweat through their paws
Only through the paw pads. Damp paw prints on the vet table are a stress sign.
13. A group of cats is a clowder
A group of four cats in one kitchen at 6am is a riot.
14. Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees
32 muscles per ear. She hears you open the treat bag from three rooms away. This is science.
15. Tortoiseshell cats are almost always female
The coat gene is on the X chromosome. That covers Luna and her whole personality. More in the tortie facts post.
