Your Cat Makes Facial Expressions, You Just Probably Can’t Read Them

If you pay very close attention, you may finally be able to tell WTF your cat is thinking.

A study in the journal Animal Welfare found that cats show their moods on their faces, but that only a small subset of people can actually pick up on what they’re feeling.

Researchers at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada conducted the study by asking 6329 participants to watch videos of cats reacting to certain events. The participants had to name whether the cat was exhibiting a positive or negative reaction by relying only on their faces—not their tails or any other body language.

Most of the respondents were cat owners. Nonetheless, their average score was just 59 percent correct, which is not very impressive.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

But 13 percent of participants scored very well on the test. They correctly guessed 15 out of 20 questions. These participants weren’t just cat owners, but people who had very extensive experience with cats, such as veterinarians.

Thus, the researchers concluded that a minority of people can tell what cats are feeling based on their facial expressions alone.

It’s not clear whether this talent is innate or learned, though.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

“They could be naturally brilliant, and that’s why they become veterinarians,” the study’s senior author, Georgia Mason, told The Washington Post. “But they also have a lot of opportunity to learn, and they’ve got a motivation to learn, because they’re constantly deciding: Is this cat better? Do we need to change the treatment? Does this cat need to go home? Is this cat about to take a chunk out of my throat?”

Who knows? Maybe you, too, can learn this skill one day.

If you want to test yourself, a shorter version of the video test that participants used is available online.

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These Great Cat Posts Should Make You Smile

Do you want to see some cute/funny/mischievous kitty cats! I know I do!

Well, what are you waiting for?!?!

Go ahead and get started!

1. Move along.

I guess this is her chair now from aww

2. I’ll be two shelves below the soy sauce.

Everytime we open the fridge, he does this and I don’t know why. from aww

3. This is amazing.

4. Fell for it!

Outsmarted her this time. Muahaha. from cats

5. No more of that.

6. He doesn’t give a sh*t.

Something tells me Reinhardt is not impressed.. from cats

7. The Thinker.

Watson deep in contemplation. from cats

8. Hahahaha. Yes!

9. All month long.

10. Straight up chillin’.

Levi just needs a beer and a remote from cats

11. All snuggled up.

12. A new way to do it.

13. Looks comfy.

My 2 adopted (non-related) kitties really like each other. from aww

14. Better be careful.

Show us some pics of your feline friends in the comments!

We’d love to meet them!

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These Cats Definitely Thought They Were Hiding from the Vet

Nobody likes going to the doctor, and when you think about it, the experience is probably doubly uncomfortable for animals. After all, they don’t know why they’re there, they aren’t prepped (and can’t consent) for treatment, and the vet is a mostly-stranger who probably frightens them.

So, it’s no wonder they put on the brakes on the way in the door, and maybe even try to make themselves invisible once in the exam room.

Sadly for them (and us, honestly) there’s no invisibility spell currently available, no matter how hard these 12 kitties were willing it to be so.

12. Stop looking over here, you’re gonna give me away!

My cat also hates the vet/loves sinks. from aww

11. The classic “if I can’t see them they can’t see me.”

My cat went to the Vet today from aww

10. I am she and she is me.

My cat’s vet office strategy: blend in with the knick-knacks from aww

9. I hope somebody tall works there.

My mom took my cat to the vet today… from aww

8. He didn’t quite go all in.

Took apart my cat’s crate at the vet because he wouldn’t come out. Didn’t work! from aww

7. I will not go down without a fight!

My cat came out ready to fight someone at the vet. from aww

6. Nothing to see here, just another bill to pay.

This cats foolproof method of avoiding their vet checkup from aww

5. I can’t get past that his name is Yam tbh.

I see the dogs and cats in the corners of the vet, and I raise our cat, Yam. He escapes through the trash hole. from aww

4. Awww, Little Bob. It won’t be that bad.

Little Bob desperately hiding at the vet from aww

3. If only she was a calico.

My cat’s attempt at camouflage at the vet from aww

2. Regretting all of those extra treats now, aren’t we.

My cat doesn’t like the Vet from aww

1. This one is pretty impressive.

The vet thought we came in without her… from aww

 

Once again, cats prove they’re one of the main reasons for the internet.

I hope all of these little furballs got better soon!

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These Crocheted Hats for Your Pet Are Just What You Need This Winter

It’s shaping up to be a long, cold winter, and, in addition to keeping yourself warm, you gotta keep those pooches and kitties nice and toasty, too!

So consider picking up a crocheted hat for your pet this year.

Here are some of the best selections from Etsy. The links to the hats are in the photo credit if you want to purchase any of these beauties.

1. Reindeer games.

Photo Credit: Etsy

2. A notorious Viking.

Photo Credit: Etsy

3. This pug is a little confused.

Photo Credit: Etsy

4. This little piggy.

Photo Credit: Etsy

5. Very classy and elegant.

Photo Credit: Etsy

6. I love this one.

Photo Credit: Etsy

7. Long locks.

Photo Credit: Etsy

8. The turkey look.

Photo Credit: Etsy

9. Googly eyes.

Photo Credit: Etsy

10. The queen of outer space.

Photo Credit: Etsy

Check out more hats for your pets HERE. Stay warm this winter!

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Lil Bub, the Cat That Became an Internet Sensation, Has Died

In some very sad news, Internet-famous cat Lil Bub has passed away at the age of 8. The adorable cat with the goofy face had 2.4 million followers on Instagram and was a social media star.

Lil Bub’s owner, Mike Bridavsky, said on social media, “On the morning of Sunday, December 1st 2019 we lost the purest, kindest and most magical living force on our planet,”

View this post on Instagram

This is my first photo with BUB next our last photo together. On the morning of Sunday, December 1st 2019 we lost the purest, kindest and most magical living force on our planet. BUB was cheerful and full of love laying in our bed with us Saturday night, but unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her sleep.. I have always been fully transparent about BUB's health, and it was no secret that she was battling a persistent and aggressive bone infection. Even knowing this, we weren't expecting her to pass so soon or so abruptly without warning. I truly believe that she willingly made the decision to leave her failing body so that our family would not have to make that difficult decision ourselves. It is impossible to put into words the profound effect that BUB has had on my life, on the lives of thousands of homeless pets, and on the lives of those of you that have cared for her as if she were your own family. She taught me everything that I know about unconditional love, she brought my wife Stacy and I together, she's the reason we have our beautiful children Rosco and Lula, and she has been a constant source of warmth and love in our lives for the past 8 years. To say that our family is devastated would be an understatement. But most importantly, BUB has made a huge difference in the world of animal welfare, and in the lives of millions of people worldwide. She has literally saved thousands of lives (both pets and humans), she started the first national fund for special needs pets, she was the subject of groundbreaking genetic and biological research, she's helped raise over $700,000 for animals in need, and has spread a message of determination, positivity, and perseverance to people all over the world. And even though my heart is absolutely crushed by her graceful departure from planet Earth, I know that her sprit, magic, and overwhelming energy are still with us, reminding us every day to be better. Dearest BUB, I will never forget your generosity, your limitless supply of love, or your uncanny ability to bring so much magic and joy to the world. I am forever honored and humbled that you chose me as your caretaker. Please visit all of us in our dreams o

A post shared by Lil BUB (@iamlilbub) on

Lil Bub rose to prominence in 2011 when Bridavsky posted a photo of the cat on Tumblr.

https://bublog.tumblr.com/post/12524777484/sup-bub

Lil Bub became a sensation due to her appearance, which was the result of several genetic deformities. The little kitty had medical problems throughout her life and became the first cat ever diagnosed with osteopetrosis when she was only a year old. Even though Lil Bub had so many health issues, Bridavsky said that her death was a shock, and the day before she passed away she was “cheerful and full of love laying in our bed with us but unexpectedly passed away peacefully in her sleep.”

He added, “I have always been fully transparent about BUB’s health, and it was no secret that she was battling a persistent and aggressive bone infection. Even knowing this, we weren’t expecting her to pass so soon or so abruptly without warning.”

View this post on Instagram

BUB in my lap.

A post shared by Lil BUB (@iamlilbub) on

Lil Bub is the second famous cat to die in 2019, after Grumpy Cat passed in May. Here is a photo of the two social media darlings together.

View this post on Instagram

Friends forever

A post shared by Grumpy Cat (@realgrumpycat) on

Bridavsky said, “I am forever honored and humbled that you chose me as your caretaker.”

RIP Lil Bub. You will be missed.

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These Good Dogs All Use Wheelchairs to Run and Play!

Maybe you’d be tempted to feel bad for these exceptional pooches, but don’t worry about them. Yes, they have to use wheelchairs for one reason or another, but they’re living their best lives, and they’re clearly very happy to have a new lease on life.

Enjoy these beautiful pics and videos of these pups zipping around.

1. I’m a huge fan of Moby!

2. Look at them go!

3. All those fall colors.

4. Awwwww. My heart is melting.

5. Atlas is doing great!

6. Let’s go for a stroll.

7. He even has a cool license plate.

8. A dynamic duo!

9. Don’t slow me down!

10. Gone, but not forgotten.

Wonderful, aren’t they? I think so.

If you have any pets that use devices like these, share some photos and stories with us in the comments!

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There’s Now a Real Formula to Calculate ‘Dog Years’

If you’ve ever had a dog, you know that your pup has two “ages” — their actual age, and their age in so-called “dog years.” To calculate dog years, you simply multiply the dog’s age by seven. But is there any actual scientific evidence behind this formula?

The short answer is no — but scientists have come with a more accurate way to calculate it.

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, examined dog DNA to see how quickly dogs age. They looked at 104 Labrador retrievers from 1 month to 16 years old, comparing their rates of DNA methylation – which usually speeds up as living beings age – to those of humans.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

The researchers found that the rates of methylation were similar between dogs and humans; however, adolescent and mature dogs experienced more accelerated aging.

Based on this data, they came up with a new formula for calculating dog years.

Take the natural logarithm of a dog’s age, multiply it by 16, and then add 31.

By this measure, a 2-year-old dog would be 42 human years old – way older than 14!

However, methylation slows later in life, so the dog’s age in human years doesn’t increase as quickly. A 5-year-old dog would only be 57 years old, while a 6-year-old dog would be 60. A 10-year-old dog would equate to a 70-year-old human.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

This formula might not be completely accurate for every dog breed, as different dogs age at different rates, while the formula was determined based on data from Labs. Still, it’s a very interesting and informative contrast to the old unscientific 7-year rule!

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Over 100,000 Dogs Are Killed Each Year Riding in Truck Beds

Country songs are known for their sense of Americana—distant train whistles, love for family, broken hearts and a dog in the back of a pick-up.

Romantic imagery for sure, but unfortunately, our bubble has to burst.

The pick-up is not the best place for the dogs to ride.

Photo Credit: Pexels

Since the cabs of pick-up trucks might only be a front bench seat, dogs are often shown the bed of the truck for a trip.

But though it seems convenient, American Humane strongly cautions against letting dogs hang out in the back of pickups, stating that an estimated 100,000 dogs die in accidents yearly riding in truck beds.

100,000 dogs! That’s so many!

One obvious reason is that dogs jump, especially if they are curious or scared. Even if they are trained or have calm personalities, if there’s an accident, they can fall or jump out of the bed and get seriously injured or cause other collisions.

Photo Credit: Flickr

The bed of a truck can be much colder or hotter than the cab, where the temperature is controlled. Since there’s no protection back there, wind can also blow debris around getting into dogs’ ears, noses, eyes and mouths. In the heat of summer, metal beds can burn paws.

Even leashing or crating the dog while they are in the bed can causes more problems than protection. Dogs can be strangled if they are thrown from a truck while leashed. If a dog is confined in a crate, it could prevent them from escaping in case of an accident.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Some dogs love being back there. Other dogs may get anxious at the noises and confusion of the road.

It turns out, there are really a lot of reasons to keep them out of the bed of the truck. And your dog is your best friend, right? So keep them safe – and in the truck next to you.

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These Huge Dogs Clearly Think They’re Still Little Puppies

I love big dogs. They’re cuddly, snuggly, and they make great companions.

Buuuuut, sometimes, these gentle giants don’t understand how massive they are and for some reason, they think they’re lap dogs.

And that’s definitely the case with these giant puppers.

1. No, you really aren’t.

I’m a lap dog! from aww

2. Big dog in the house.

She insists on being a lap dog from aww

3. Might be a polar bear.

He may look like a bear but he identifies as a lap dog from aww

4. Missing out.

5. That dog is HUGE.

My dog thinks he’s a lap dog when my grandma stops by from aww

6. He’ll never understand…

My friends retriever will never understand he’s too big to be a lap dog. from aww

7. He has no idea.

My gf volunteers at a rescue, this guy thinks he’s a lap dog from aww

8. Your legs will fall asleep.

9. It’s working out…for him…

He decided that he identifies as a lap dog. from aww

10. Awwwwww, look at that.

Two years to the day from aww

11. Don’t tell him that.

This is Otis. He thinks he’s a lap dog. I don’t have the heart to tell him otherwise from aww

12. A gentle giant.

This puppy still thinks he’s a lap dog. Otis the 90 lb 7 month old Newf pup! from aww

13. A human chair.

14. A massive guy.

170 pound lap dog from aww

15. Not a baby anymore.

She isn’t a baby anymore, but she’s still my lap dog…I’m 6 1/2 feet tall from aww

Do you have a huge dog that thinks they’re a little, itty bitty thing?

If so, share some pics in the comments!

The post These Huge Dogs Clearly Think They’re Still Little Puppies appeared first on UberFacts.

These Huge Dogs Clearly Think They’re Still Little Puppies

I love big dogs. They’re cuddly, snuggly, and they make great companions.

Buuuuut, sometimes, these gentle giants don’t understand how massive they are and for some reason, they think they’re lap dogs.

And that’s definitely the case with these giant puppers.

1. No, you really aren’t.

I’m a lap dog! from aww

2. Big dog in the house.

She insists on being a lap dog from aww

3. Might be a polar bear.

He may look like a bear but he identifies as a lap dog from aww

4. Missing out.

5. That dog is HUGE.

My dog thinks he’s a lap dog when my grandma stops by from aww

6. He’ll never understand…

My friends retriever will never understand he’s too big to be a lap dog. from aww

7. He has no idea.

My gf volunteers at a rescue, this guy thinks he’s a lap dog from aww

8. Your legs will fall asleep.

9. It’s working out…for him…

He decided that he identifies as a lap dog. from aww

10. Awwwwww, look at that.

Two years to the day from aww

11. Don’t tell him that.

This is Otis. He thinks he’s a lap dog. I don’t have the heart to tell him otherwise from aww

12. A gentle giant.

This puppy still thinks he’s a lap dog. Otis the 90 lb 7 month old Newf pup! from aww

13. A human chair.

14. A massive guy.

170 pound lap dog from aww

15. Not a baby anymore.

She isn’t a baby anymore, but she’s still my lap dog…I’m 6 1/2 feet tall from aww

Do you have a huge dog that thinks they’re a little, itty bitty thing?

If so, share some pics in the comments!

The post These Huge Dogs Clearly Think They’re Still Little Puppies appeared first on UberFacts.