Happy Thursday:

• 🐱 Why does your cat rub their face on everything?

• 🐈 Cat of the day, Zelda

• 💪 Meal prep for cats

• 😸 30-second meal prep

• 💡 Can you guess the most popular cat names of 2024?

• 😺 The best feel-good gummies

If you’ve ever noticed your cat rubbing their face on the corners of furniture, doorways, or even your legs, you might have wondered why. It’s not just a random quirk—this behavior is called “bunting” and it plays an important role in how cats communicate and navigate their world.

When a cat rubs their face on a corner or object, they’re marking it with their scent. Cats have scent glands around their cheeks, forehead, and chin, which release pheromones when they rub against surfaces. It’s a way to claim territory, feel secure, and create a familiar environment filled with their scent.

But it’s not all about ownership—bunting can also be a sign of affection. When your cat rubs their face on you, they’re marking you as part of their “safe zone.” This behavior strengthens their bond with you and reinforces their trust. It’s a subtle yet powerful way for cats to express comfort and connection.

Interestingly, bunting can also serve as a way for cats to gather information about their surroundings. By mixing their scent with existing scents in a space, they can better understand who or what has been there. It’s part of their natural instinct to stay aware of their environment.

So, the next time your cat rubs their face on a corner—or your leg—know that it’s a combination of marking territory, gathering information, and showing affection. It’s one of the many fascinating ways cats communicate without saying a word. Does your cat have a favorite spot to “claim”?

Meet Zelda, a one-year-old tortie with a big personality and a name that fits her perfectly, according to her human, Shiela. Adopted from a shelter, Zelda quickly made herself at home with her playful and quirky ways.

Her favorite activities? Chasing her laser pointer with unmatched enthusiasm and sweet-talking her way to extra treats. When she’s not lounging on her tower or napping, you can find her “chatting” with the neighborhood squirrel during its daily visit—a scene that never gets old for Shiela.

While Zelda is mostly polite and affectionate, she has her moments of tortie sass, sometimes giving a little nip when she’s decided a petting session is over. But her charm and sweetness far outweigh her feisty streak, making her the perfect companion.

Happy New Year to Shiela and Zelda! Here’s to more laser-chasing, squirrel-watching adventures in 2025.

Thank you to Shiela for sharing this photo of Zelda. If you’d like to see your cat featured as cat of the day, send in a picture and some fun facts about your kitty - you might just see them in the next edition!

Thank you to Huel for sponsoring Daily Purr.

Choosing the perfect name for a cat is an art—one that balances creativity, personality, and maybe a touch of trendiness. In 2024, cat parents leaned into unique inspirations for naming their feline friends, with pop culture, personality quirks, and timeless classics dominating the charts.

Top Picks and Rising Trends:

Names inspired by movies, TV shows, and books made a splash this year. Think of names like Luna and Simba, which continue to be top choices, thanks to their charm and cultural staying power. On the quirky side, names like Biscuit, Pickles, and Mocha reflect a growing trend toward naming cats after food and beverages, perfectly matching their playful and comforting nature.

Meanwhile, modern names like Milo and Leo remain fan favorites, offering a blend of elegance and simplicity. Many cat parents also leaned into celestial themes—names like Nova and Cosmo bring an otherworldly flair, perfectly suited for cats with a mysterious side.

Naming Your Own Cat:

When picking a name for your cat, consider their unique personality and appearance. Is your cat playful and full of energy? A name like Ziggy might capture their spirit. More reserved and elegant? Names like Luna or Sophia could be just right. If you're feeling inspired by this year's trends, you might even draw from your favorite book, movie, or snack.

The most important thing is choosing a name that feels special to you and your furry companion. After all, every time you call their name, you’re strengthening the bond you share. What would you name your next cat?

Thank you to Mood for sponsoring Daily Purr.

From stress relief to quirky cat behavior, here’s your feline update:

• 🎥 Kitten Break Video - Feeling overwhelmed? Take a moment to relax with an adorable kitten video that’s guaranteed to brighten your day. Watch it here.

• ❓ Why Does Your Cat Make That Noise? - From chirps to trills, cats have a unique way of communicating. Learn what those sounds mean and why your cat uses them. Find out more.

• 😂 Nimbus the Unhinged Cat - Meet Nimbus, a Siberian cat with endless energy and hilarious antics. Watch as this mischievous cat takes chaos to a whole new level. Check out Nimbus here.

🐱 Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 True or False: True. Studies show cats recognize their names but may choose whether or not to respond.

😸 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat, their name, and a short description for the chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!