MSI Press Blog

  There’s an old bit of cat lore that says a purring cat can help a human heal — that the vibration of a purr can soothe pain, calm the heart, maybe even help bones knit faster. I’ve always filed that under “sweet, probably exaggerated, but not entirely wrong.” And then I broke my ribs. The ER doctor told me six weeks. Jack told me six nights. Every night, he slept on me — all night — warm, heavy, purring into my bones. And somehow, my ribs healed far faster than anyone expected. Maybe it was coincidence. Maybe it was physics. Maybe it was love. But I know this: his presence changed the way my body held pain. I breathed deeper. I slept better. I didn’t brace as much. My nervous system settled because his nervous system was settled on top of mine. And that got me thinking about the reverse . Last night, Tissou had a painful bladder flare — blood, discomfort, restlessness, all the signs that make a cat parent’s heart drop. She was miserable. So she climbed onto me and slept for hours...

  There is a day on the calendar called Respect Your Cat Day , as if respect were something we might consider offering… once a year… if we remember. Your cat would like to clarify: respect is not seasonal. It is ongoing. Preferably immediate. And ideally delivered with snacks. Respect Is Not the Same as Affection Humans tend to equate love with touch. We scoop, cuddle, kiss, restrain, and call it bonding. Cats have a different definition. Respect, in cat terms, means: Not picking them up when they didn’t ask Not interrupting a nap of obvious importance Not assuming that a belly display is an invitation rather than a philosophical statement Affection may be welcome. But consent is everything. Respect Their “No” Dogs often negotiate. Cats do not. A flicking tail, a rotating ear, a sudden stillness—these are not minor signals. They are full sentences. Ignoring them is the human equivalent of someone continuing a conversation after you’ve clearly walked away. Respecting your c...

Most cats are self-cleaning marvels. Their tongues are tiny scrub brushes, and their grooming rituals are Olympic-level. But every so often, life throws a curveball—mud, fleas, sticky messes, or medical needs—and suddenly, bath time becomes unavoidable. Let’s break down the why, how, when, and how often of bathing cats, plus a few ninja tricks to keep everyone sane. 🐱 Why Bathe a Cat? Emergency messes: Oil, paint, or toxic substances that can’t be licked off safely. Medical needs: Flea treatments, skin conditions, or vet-directed hygiene. Long-haired breeds: Sometimes grooming alone isn’t enough to prevent mats. Senior or ill cats: They may lose the ability to groom effectively. 🕒 When & How Often? Regular baths? Not usually necessary. Most healthy cats never need a routine bath. Occasional baths: Long-haired cats or those with medical issues may benefit every few months. Emergency baths: As needed—when self-cleaning isn’t safe or effective. 🛁 How to Bathe a Cat ...