12 New Cat Discoveries

Cat Allergies May Soon Be a Thing of the Past

A new treatment for cat allergies is in trials and proving to be successful. The vaccine created by Canadian allergists is a series of four shots that can greatly diminish cat allergies for two years at a time. The vaccine was constructed by taking apart a cat dander molecule and has proven to have few side effects. If the treatment continues to be successful in tests it could be available to the public in two years.

Cats Lap Liquids in a Certain No-Spill Way

Ever wonder how your cat stays so dry while drinking? Research has shown that cats have developed a unique no-mess way of lapping up their liquids. Through studying YouTube videos, it was discovered cats use a high speed lapping method that balances gravity and inertia to keep the water off their face and in their mouths. Humans and dogs have developed something similar, but use more gulping and sucking than cats, which causes dribbles and drops. (Discovery)

Felines Are Big Outdoor Predators 

Fans of cuddly housecats were shocked by a Smithsonian report that felines kill billions of birds and mice a year. These numbers make cats the biggest killer of local wildlife, beating out habitat loss. The study said many of the deaths were due to "unowned" cats throughout the country. Scientists are now worried about the effect felines could have on endangered species, while many animal lovers say the numbers are incorrect. 

Felines Pick Up Owner's Habits

You better watch how you behave around Fluffy, because she looks to you for cues on how to act. In a recent study, it was found that indoor cats who live in close quarters with their humans soon adopt the eating and sleep schedules of their families. Meanwhile, cats who are let outdoors, especially at night, tend to pick up the natural nocturnal behavior of a cat. (Discovery News)

Some People Prefer Cuddle Time With Their Cat Over Their Partner

There are more cat ladies than you think. A look into cat owners revealed that these pet people have serious feelings for their animals. Ninety-five percent of cat owners see their pets as part of the family, while 64 percent of owners judge people based on how they treat their pets. One in 10 took it even farther, saying that they'd rather spend cuddle time with their understanding feline than their significant other. (Daily Mail U.K.)

Cats Were First Domesticated in Ancient Egypt 

You can thank the pharaohs for the cat purring in your lap. New research has shown the earliest traces of domestic cats were found in ancient Egypt. The animals were often bred and trained in large numbers in the catteries of the time. Some of these felines went on to be worshipped in homes, while others were used for sacrifice. DNA from the mummified remains of cats from this time period compare closely to the genetic material of today's felines. (Daily Mail U.K.)

Sphynx Cats Are the Most Affectionate Breed

Sphynx cats aren't shy about their hairless look; this breed loves to socialize. This fact was proven by a study that looked at some of the highest rated cat breeds in the world. The common domestic shorthair showed the least interest in being friendly, while the sphynx cats were the opposite. The breed continually showed an interest in attention and affection with strangers, other cats and even with the vet. (Telegraph U.K.)

The CIA Tried to Turn Cats Into Spies

It was recently revealed that in '60s, the CIA attempted to train cats to be furry listening devices. Scientists equipped the feline subjects with microphones, radio transmitters and antennae to pick up audio. The hope was that the cats could be trained to get close to foreign officials and pick up private conversations. Problems arose when the felines didn't really take to training. (IO9)

Fat Cats Have Become an Epidemic 

We have talked several times about the growing rate of pet obesity, but now the problem has become something bigger. Over 55 percent of cats are overweight, making the issue a legitimate epidemic. The number of fat felines has increased by 90 percent from 2007. Vets are worried that these numbers will eventually lead to a dangerous increase in weight-related issues like arthritis and diabetes. Sadly, many doctors have already seen a rise in these cases. (Chicago Now)

Cats Are Helping With Lazy Eye Treatments

Felines are helping to sharpen our vision. Scientists have been using cats to help develop a treatment for amblyopia, a lazy eye condition that develops early in life. Researchers chose cats due to their high visual acuity. By covering the affected cat's stronger eye, doctors found the weak eye was forced to work harder, strengthening the vision in that eye. This treatment could reverse some of the effects of amblyopia in humans. Doctors are hoping to apply the findings to those affected. (Truro Daily News)

People Judge Cats Based on Their Coat Color

Cats suffer prejudice, too. Researcher found that many animal lovers have preconceived notions about cats of different colors. The numbers show that orange cats are seen as the friendliest, while many believe calico cats are less kind than others. White cats were seen as snooty by many of the people taking part in the study. Surprisingly, for all the rumors about black cats, there was no majority opinion on how dark-colored kitties are viewed. (Catster)