Sustainable Tails

Hey Gang! Welcome back to another edition of Sustainable Tails. Thank you for taking a few minutes to see what we have lined up for you this week. What allows cats to have such quick reflexes that they have? Ever wondered about the 6th sense that dogs have? And cat “zoomies,” what makes cats spaz out the way they do? We’ll try to get some of these answered (and maybe a few other fun things) along this short journey. Settle in, relax, and enjoy what we put together for you.

Cat Reflexes

20-70 milliseconds, that is the average response time of a cat. To put into perspective, the average it takes a human to blink is 100-400 milliseconds. Cats are known for their incredibly quick reflexes, which play a crucial role in their survival and daily activities. Several factors contribute to a cats’ fast reflex response time, including their anatomy, sensory abilities, and evolutionary adaptations.

One key factor is cats' unique musculoskeletal system, which is designed for agility and speed. Their flexible spine has especially elastic cushioning disks, allowing for great extension and bending of their spine, therefore allowing for much flexibility while running. Powerful muscles, and retractable claws allow them to move swiftly and with precision. Additionally, cats have a highly developed nervous system, particularly their brain and spinal cord, which enables rapid processing of sensory information and quick motor responses.

Cats' keen senses, especially their vision and hearing, also contribute to their quick reflexes. Their eyes are adapted for low light conditions and can detect even subtle movements, allowing them to quickly identify potential threats or prey. Cats' ears can rotate independently, helping them locate the source of sounds with pinpoint accuracy.

These quick reflexes benefit cats in various ways. In the wild, quick reflexes are essential for hunting, allowing cats to swiftly capture prey and avoid danger. In a domestic setting, quick reflexes help cats navigate their environment, avoid obstacles, and react to sudden movements or sounds. Overall, cats' quick reflexes are a remarkable adaptation that reflects their agility, keen senses, and ability to thrive in diverse environments.

Cat Fact Corner

Cats possess exceptional spatial memory and awareness, allowing them to navigate their environment with ease and precision. They can remember the layout of their territory, including hiding spots, escape routes, and food sources. We’ve all seen how they always pick the sliver of sunshine on the kitchen or living room floor. This spatial awareness is crucial for their survival (and occasional only warm spot on the floor), enabling them to hunt effectively and avoid predators.

Do Dogs Possess A 6th Sense?

Dogs are known for their keen senses, including a mysterious "sixth sense" that allows them to perceive events before they occur. While the scientific basis for this phenomenon is not fully understood, there are numerous accounts of dogs displaying unusual behavior before disasters such as earthquakes.

One theory is that dogs are sensitive to changes in the environment that humans cannot perceive, such as subtle shifts in electromagnetic fields or changes in air pressure. These changes may occur before natural disasters like earthquakes, giving dogs a warning signal before humans are aware of any impending danger.

Another explanation is that dogs are highly attuned to their surroundings and the behavior of their owners. They may pick up on subtle cues from their owners, such as changes in body language or mood, that indicate something is amiss. This heightened sensitivity allows dogs to react to potential dangers before they occur.

Regardless of the exact mechanism, there are numerous documented cases of dogs displaying unusual behavior before earthquakes or other disasters. Some dogs become agitated or restless, while others may bark or howl for no apparent reason. While more research is needed to fully understand this phenomenon, it is clear that dogs possess a remarkable ability to sense and respond to changes in their environment.

Pet Poem Place

Thor the Wonder Dog of Deluz

By Saphire, Age 9, California USA

Happy every time food is here,
When time to go to school near.
Never does a crumb stay put,
For his little nose sniffs it out.
If he doesn’t get food he’ll pout!
He has a nose the color of soot,
He barks at doorbells, strangers, and other dogs,
But the delicious stuff, he hogs!
Thor is a little miracle in progress!

Cat “Zoomies”

Cat "zoomies" refer to sudden bursts of energy and frenetic activity that many cats display. During zoomies, cats may run around the house, jump on furniture, and engage in playful behavior. Zoomies are most commonly seen in young cats and kittens but can occur in cats of any age. Several factors can trigger zoomies in cats. One common cause is pent-up energy, especially in indoor cats that may not have sufficient opportunities for exercise and play.

Cats may also experience zoomies after using the litter box or eating, possibly as a way to release tension or express happiness. Another possible cause of zoomies is instinctual behavior. Cats are natural hunters, and the sudden bursts of energy may mimic hunting behavior, allowing them to practice their stalking and pouncing skills.

Zoomies are generally harmless and are considered a normal behavior for cats. However, it's essential to ensure that your cat has a safe environment to engage in zoomies, free from potential hazards. Providing interactive toys, scratching posts, and regular playtime can help prevent excessive zoomies and ensure that your cat stays happy and healthy.

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Snacks

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

• ¼ cup peanut butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs)

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon of water, more if necessary (optional, used for making the dough workable. The dough should be dry and stiff, not watered down)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs until well combined.

3. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon (if using) to the wet ingredients, stirring until a stiff dough forms.

4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.

5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply use a knife to cut the dough into squares.

6. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until firm and golden brown.

7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving to your dog. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

This recipe makes approximately 24-36 dog treats, depending on the size of your cookie cutter or how you cut the dough. These pumpkin peanut butter dog treats are sure to be a hit with your furry friend! They're packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a healthy and delicious snack option.

Just For Fun

Well, that’s a wrap for this week. Please be sure to share this growing community of pet lovers from around the world with your friends and family. We send you an unobtrusive email once a week right to your mailbox. That’s all there is to it! We welcome any and all input from all of our subscribers. Send us topics you’d love to know more about, or just drop a line to say hello. There are exciting things coming as Sustainable Tails grows in popularity!

Sustainable Tails is dedicated to helping you create a harmonious and eco-friendly life for you and your pets. By embracing zero-waste and pet-friendly grooming products and sustainably exploring the outdoors together, you're not only enhancing the well-being of your furry companions but also contributing to a healthier planet.

Thank you for joining us on this weeks adventure. Continue to spread the word on what we are doing here, and always know your comments and participation in our community are welcomed with open paws. We’ll see you right here next week, so continue making sustainable choices and cherishing each and every day with your beloved pets!

Joshua McCarty

Founder, Sustainable Tails

P.S. Have a topic you’d like us to cover in our next newsletter? Share your ideas and questions with us. We’d love to hear from you!

P.P.S. Take a peek over at our partner website for an ever growing list of sustainable and eco-friendly pet supplies and accessories, as well as many other pet friendly products!

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