• 🥐 Is your cat carrying on a 1,200-year-old habit?

• 🤔 The real cost of cat care

• 😸 Start 2025 financially strong

• ❤️ A unique cat ritual

Did you know…

Did you know that kneading is a behavior that cats learn as _______?

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Imagine this: Centuries ago, a curious cat wandered across a clay jug, leaving tiny paw prints that would last over a thousand years. That’s exactly what happened, preserved for us to discover all these years later.

Recently, archeologists uncovered a 1,200-year-old artifact with these delicate feline imprints, offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives of cats in ancient times.

This accidental discovery was found on a freshly made clay jug (before it went in the kiln) from the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), a period when cats were gaining popularity in Chinese homes, not only as pest controllers but also as companions.

The paw prints seem to tell the story of a cat drawn to the habit of “making biscuits”, a marvel in which cats make a rhythmic motion where they press their paws into a soft surface—blankets, pillows, your lap—alternating left and right in a soothing, almost trance-like pattern.

While ancient cats had practical duties, this little discovery shows that even back then, they couldn’t resist a bit of mischief, just like our modern-day companions.

These ancient paw prints remind us that, despite centuries of change, the personality of cats has stayed delightfully the same, a charming reminder that feline bonds truly do last the test of time.

Caring for a cat brings both joy and a few surprise costs. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses and some you might not expect:

Essentials

• Food and Treats: Regular food, treats, and occasional specialty diets.

• Litter and Supplies: Litter, boxes, scoops, and liners for a tidy home.

Healthcare

• Vet Visits: Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and occasional treatments.

• Preventative Care: Flea treatments, deworming, and dental care for long-term health.

Home-Friendly Needs

• Scratch Posts and Cat Trees: Essential for healthy claws and to protect your furniture.

• Pet-Proofing: Especially around the holidays, when decorations like Christmas trees can become playgrounds for curious cats.

Unexpected Replacements

• Furniture and Décor: Cats’ love of climbing and clawing can lead to some replacement costs, especially for rugs, couches, and more.

While cats are relatively low-maintenance, their curiosity and the occasional need to “cat-proof” your space add a little extra to the cost. But for most cat owners, it’s a small price to pay for the joy they bring.

Before you welcome a new cat into your family, take a moment to plan for their care and comfort. Setting aside a budget ensures you’ll have everything they need, from cozy beds to vet visits, so they can thrive in their new home with you.

Thank you to CompareCredit for sponsoring Daily Purr.

If you've ever watched a cat rhythmically pressing its paws into a soft surface, like a blanket or your favorite sweater, you've witnessed a behavior called “kneading” or, as it’s fondly known, “making biscuits.” This endearing habit goes back to kittenhood, when young cats knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow—a behavior that becomes linked to feelings of safety and contentment.

As adults, cats continue to knead because it’s comforting; it often signals they feel relaxed and at home. Some experts even think that kneading helps cats mark their territory. Cats have scent glands in their paw pads, so with each gentle press, they’re leaving a little “ownership” marker, saying, “This cozy spot is mine!”

Though we may never know all the reasons behind this behavior, kneading appears to be a timeless cat ritual. Whether it’s soothing, scent-marking, or simply an expression of feline happiness, watching a cat “make biscuits” reminds us of the deep-rooted instincts our furry friends carry, right into our homes and onto our laps.

🐱 Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 Did You Know: Kneading is a behavior that cats learn as kittens.

😸 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day! This month’s theme is all about festive felines in the holiday spirit. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat looking cozy, festive, or spreading holiday cheer. Be sure to include their name and a short description to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!