A cat's nose is not just an olfactory organ, but a very complex and highly accurate instrument with which to study the world around them. While the kittens have not opened their eyes, they rely only on their scent: the smell determines the location of the nipples of their mother, her warm side, her brothers and sisters and in general her lair.
The nose also helps us, the owners of fluffy "motors" to determine their condition - our pet is sick or healthy, above all, by the condition of their spout.
What kind of nose does a healthy cat have?
Many inexperienced pet owners are wondering whether there should be a wet nose in a cat or is it abnormal and speaks of a cold or other disease? We hasten to assure you that the nose of a healthy cat should be just a little damp and cool. To the touch it is slightly slippery.
If the cat only woke up, actively played or experienced stress, its nose can become warm - this is normal and does not talk about the disease. But if it remains dry and hot several hours later, it is worthwhile to measure the temperature of the animal. If it is increased and there are, in addition, other symptoms of the disease, you need to contact the veterinarian.
It also happens that the nose, on the other hand, is too cold and has a pale shade. This may indicate a hypothermia, systemic diseases, shock, poisoning , a sharp drop in body temperature. This condition also requires a referral to a specialist.
Now that you know which nose should be in a healthy cat, pay attention to its condition in order to sound an alarm in time, if it is not what it should be.
Is it necessary to constantly "monitor" the cat's nose?
The cat itself monitors the condition of its spout. If in hot weather it becomes dry, she licks it with her tongue, moisturizing her mucous membranes. If the nose becomes dirty after walking and sniffing the items of interest, it will certainly be washed, using the tongue and paws.
And yet the owner must periodically inspect the nose of the pet. Touching it with the back of your hand can tell you whether everything is normal with the health of the kitty.
Sometimes there is a need to help the cat and clean her nose. To act must be very carefully, so as not to cause aggression on the part of the animal and not to frighten it. If a cat smells something that has settled in her nose and does not give rest, or if her nose is stuffed, you need to clean it with cotton buds, preferably with a stopper. Movements should be directed from the inner edge to the outer edge. If your actions do not help and the cat can not breathe, it can be caused by more serious causes, so it's better to see a doctor.