Cat Glossary

An official lineage certificate issued by cat registries such as CFA or TICA. It records the breed and registration numbers of both parents and grandparents, certifying the cat as purebred.

An electronic identification tag implanted under the skin at the back of the neck. Mandatory for dogs and cats in Japan since June 2022, the roughly 2 mm chip stores a 15-digit ID that links to owner information.

The critical window between 2 and 9 weeks of age when kittens adapt to various environments, people, animals, and sounds. Shorter than in dogs, experiences during this period strongly influence a cat's adult temperament and adaptability.

A vaccine that protects against multiple feline diseases—such as calicivirus, viral rhinotracheitis, and panleukopenia—in a single shot. The initial series starts around 8 weeks of age, with annual boosters recommended.

Keeping a cat exclusively indoors. This greatly reduces risks of traffic accidents, infectious diseases, and getting lost, and is associated with a longer average lifespan. Environmental enrichment is important to prevent boredom.

A territorial marking behavior in which unneutered male cats spray urine on walls and furniture. The odor is very strong; neutering can significantly reduce or eliminate this behavior.

A vertical indoor structure that encourages climbing. Cat towers satisfy a cat's instinct to seek high places, help relieve stress and lack of exercise, and often include scratching posts—making them essential for indoor cats.

The act of a cat licking its own fur to keep it clean and tidy. Grooming aids in temperature regulation, skin hygiene, and relaxation. Owner-assisted brushing is sometimes called 'hand grooming.'

A condition where ingested fur accumulates in the digestive tract and can cause blockages. Regular brushing and hairball-control food help prevent it. Persistent vomiting or loss of appetite warrants veterinary attention.

Short for Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a serious disease caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus. It predominantly affects young cats. Recent advances in antiviral treatments have improved outcomes.

Purchasing a kitten directly from the breeder without going through a pet shop. This eliminates middleman costs, often resulting in fairer prices, and allows buyers to see the parent cats and living conditions firsthand.

A government registration system required for businesses involved in selling, breeding, or exhibiting cats. Under Japan's Animal Welfare Act, registration with the prefectural or city government is mandatory, and the registration number must be publicly displayed.