National Cat Lady Day isn't just for the ladies. Answers to 5 burning questions about cats

Jenny Porter Tilley, Indianapolis Star
·2 min read
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It's National Cat Lady Day.

Notice the word "crazy" isn't included in that title. Not only would that be an offensive way to denote a mental health crisis, but also, loving cats doesn't imply a lack of sanity.

Whereas having a dog is more like having a child, cats are more like roommates. Some of us just prefer their selective, aloof nature (and it's not just the ladies, either).

To celebrate the day, below are answers to five questions about our favorite felines.

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Why do cats 'make biscuits'?

Experts say kneading, or "making biscuits," could be a remnant of kittenhood kneading habits that provide a comfort similar to nursing. Cats paws also have scent glands, according to Purina, so it may serve a territorial purpose. Or it could mean a female cat is going into heat.

Where can you see big cats in Indiana?

You won't see scenes at the Exotic Feline Rescue Center in the Netflix series "Tiger King" — and that's probably a good thing. The nonprofit in Center Point has been taking care of exotic animals for decades and now boasts more than 100 cats.

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Which Indiana cats are the most famous?

Garfield is probably the highest profile feline celebrity from Indiana. The orange, lasagna-loving feline was created in the late 1970s by Marion native Jim Davis.

There's also Lil Bub, the internet sensation from Bloomington. She was born with several genetic anomalies and an extreme case of dwarfism, according to her owner, and died in 2019 of a severe bone infection.

Lil Bub: 'The purest, kindest and most magical living force'

Where can you adopt a cat in Indiana?

In Indianapolis, try the Humane Society of Indianapolis or Indianapolis Animal Care Services for adoptable cats. Below are locations in surrounding areas.

Should you get a cat?

Yes.

USA TODAY trending reporter Natalie Neysa Alund contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: National Cat Lady Day 2023: Answers to 5 kitty questions