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Cats often get painted with a certain reputation: mysterious, sly, and maybe even a little too clever for their own good. They’re known for their stealthy walks, piercing eyes, and that knack for slipping into a room unnoticed. But behind that cool, cunning exterior, cats are also full of quirks that make them endlessly fascinating (and often downright adorable). From their dream-filled naps to their one-of-a-kind nose prints, these whiskered companions are brimming with surp

When you think about caring for your cat, you probably picture cozy naps, playtime, and tasty treats. But what about their teeth? Cats are often seen as low-maintenance pets, but they still need regular care to stay healthy, and dental health is a big part of that. Just like us, cats need dental care to stay healthy, and neglecting it can lead to more than just bad breath. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in cats, and it can cause pain, trouble eating, a

Just like humans, cats come in all shapes and sizes. Not only can different breeds vary in color, size, and coat type, but they also differ in personality traits and temperaments. Many people assume that only dog breeds come with distinct personalities, but cats do too. While these traits aren’t 100% guaranteed, certain breeds are known for their signature quirks. Here’s a closer look at some popular cat breeds, and their personalities. Maine Coon - The Gentle Giant Known for

Throughout history, cats have been surrounded by myths, legends, and superstitions. For some, they’re seen as mysterious omens, while for others, they’re cherished as symbols of good fortune. Japan - The Beckoning Cat You’ve probably seen the little waving cat statue outside shops and restaurants. That’s the Maneki-neko. In Japan, this kitty is believed to bring in good fortune, and even the paw it raises has meaning. Left paw up? That’s for welcoming customers. Right paw up?

Cats’ whiskers aren’t just for looks, they’re powerful sensory tools. They help cats make sense of the world. From hunting to expressing emotions, these special hairs are one of the reasons cats move with such grace and confidence. What are Whiskers Really? Whiskers, or vibrissae, aren’t typical hairs like we as humans have, or even the other hairs that cats have on their body. They’re deeply embedded into a cat’s skin, connected to a dynamic network of nerves and blood vesse

If it feels like your cat spends most of the day napping, you're not imagining things. The average cat sleeps between 12 and 16 hours a day, and some cats (especially kittens and seniors) may nap for even longer. But why do they need so much sleep? And what does their favorite sleeping position say about them? Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? Cats are biologically wired to be efficient predators. In the wild, big bursts of energy like chasing, pouncing, and hunting, require lots of

We’re excited to share that our founder, Liz Gilbert Schaffer, was featured in CatCon’s 2025 event coverage this weekend! As one of the largest cat-centric conventions in the world, CatCon brings together feline lovers, innovative products, and thought leaders in the pet space. The event is known for celebrating people who are doing something different—and we were honored to see both Liz and Travel Gravel included in the story. The CatCon article spotlighted the origins of T

Bringing a rescue or foster cat into your home is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s not always love at first sight. Many rescue cats come with a history of trauma, neglect, or simply a lack of socialization. Earning their trust takes time, patience, and a whole lot of quiet compassion. Whether you're fostering temporarily or welcoming a rescue as a forever companion, here’s how you can start building a bond that’s rooted in safety, respect, and mutual love. Give Th

Bringing a bit of green into your home is great for you, but not always great for your cat. Many common houseplants and flowers can be toxic to curious kitties. Luckily, there are plenty of safe and beautiful alternatives that let you keep your space vibrant and pet-friendly. Not all houseplants are off-limits for cat households, in fact, some are totally safe and even thrive in the same cozy spaces our cats do. Whether you're after something lush and tropical or compact and

If the mere sight of the carrier sends your cat sprinting under the bed, you’re not alone. For most felines, the carrier = bad news: a trip to the vet, weird car smells, or a noisy adventure they didn’t exactly sign up for. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little understanding , you can turn the carrier from a dreaded box of doom into something your cat actually tolerates or even enjoys. Why Cats Hate the Carrier It only comes out before “bad” things. If your cat on

Planning a city adventure with your favorite travel buddy? If you don’t have a car (or just prefer a lower-cost way to get around), public transportation might seem like the perfect solution. But before you and your cat hop on the next train, tram, or bus, there’s one important question to ask: Are cats actually allowed? From strict “carrier only” rules to surprisingly chill subway systems, every city does things a little differently. This guide breaks down the pet policies i

Cats are curious creatures—and even indoor cats can slip out unexpectedly. While collars and ID tags are helpful, they’re not foolproof. That’s where microchipping comes in: a simple and effective way to make sure your cat can always find their way back to you. What is Microchipping? A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that’s inserted just under your cat’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It holds a unique identification number that's r

Your cat may not speak your language, but that doesn’t mean they’re not constantly communicating. From flicks of the tail to subtle ear shifts, your cat uses body language to express how they’re feeling—and tuning into those signals can help you build a stronger, more respectful bond. A Tail Tells All A cat’s tail is one of the easiest ways to gauge their mood. A high, gently swaying tail usually signals confidence and contentment, especially if it comes with an upright postu

Mealtime and playtime aren’t just part of the daily routine, they’re opportunities to spark curiosity, encourage movement, and bring joy to your pet’s day. That’s where interactive toys come in. They’re more than just entertainment—they’re tools that support a more enriched, balanced lifestyle. Brain-Boosting Fun Puzzle feeders turn routine meals into mini‑adventures. They challenge your cat to problem-solve, turning every bite into a reward they’ve earned. Whether it's flipp

Catnip might seem like magic, but there’s real science behind your cat’s wild reaction. For most cats, it’s a harmless and fun way to add a little extra enrichment to their day. What is Catnip Nepeta cataria— more commonly known as Catnip—is an herb that comes from the mint family. It’s native to parts of Asia, Europe, and parts of Africa; but it has made its way across the world throughout the years. Catnip wasn’t used just for pets. Historically, its leaves were brewed int

If your ideal getaway includes your four-legged co-pilot, you're not alone. More and more pet parents are choosing to bring their pets along for the ride — and thankfully, a growing number of airlines are welcoming them in the cabin. Whether you're hopping across states or crossing continents, it’s important to know which carriers make pet travel a breeze and what to expect before you board. In the U.S., several major airlines allow pets to travel in the cabin, though the rul

From hunting in the wild to eating from kitchen counters, cats’ diets have come a long way. Let’s explore how they’ve evolved—and the benefits of the different types of food available today. A Look at Feline Diet History Before cats were curling up on our couches, they were solitary hunters, surviving off what they could catch—mainly small mammals, birds, and insects. In ancient Egypt, they were revered for their prowess in controlling pests. Over time, as humans settled into

Cats are more than just adorable companions—they're natural hunters, curious explorers, and playful spirits. But did you know that play isn't just fun for your feline friend? It's essential for their health and happiness. Let's dive into the science behind interactive play and how it benefits your cat's well-being. Let’s start with the physical side of things. Regular play helps your cat stay active, agile, and in shape. Those wild pounces, high-speed chases, and epic wrestli

Cats have been part of our world for thousands of years, and in that time, they've gone from wild hunters to our favorite couch companions. Their journey through history is full of surprises—and it just makes us love them even more. One of the first places they really made a name for themselves was ancient Egypt. Back then, cats were basically VIPs. They kept homes free of pests, sure—but they were also considered sacred. Egyptians believed they had a connection to the divine

There's nothing better than exploring the world, but leaving your cat behind can make it harder to enjoy. Luckily, in 2025, there’s hundreds of incredible travel destinations with options of cat-friendly hotels. Let’s take a look at some of the top-rated places for you and your cat to see the world in comfort! Equinox Hotel — New York, New York New York City is one of the most traveled-to destinations in the world. And while Times Square doesn’t seem like a place for cats, th