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Do Your Cats Like Bubbles? (Or Should It Be Avoided?)

If you have seen your cat respond to some bubbles before you may have been happy, or curious if all cats appreciate them.

Do cats like bubbles?

Most cats do like bubbles. However, some are not too bothered. The initial reaction by most is quite exciting, but after a while, they tend to move on with their day. They are a good quick game for your cat as long as the ingredient is safe.

So, now you know that most cats do. But, what are catnip bubbles? Are these bubbles safe for your cat? How can you make some cat-safe bubbles for your cat? Keep reading for these answers, and so much more.

 

Why do cats like bubbles?

Cats are natural hunters and respond naturally to any movement. When bubbles float in the air they are just high enough to be grabbed so your cat will fancy its chances of catching them.

Also, cats are naturally curious creatures, as you may have seen. So, they will wonder what these weird floating objects are. And, even if it’s just out of curiosity they will try and grab or claw them.

Their reaction is not from toddlers’ first experiences with bubbles they always garner great responses from young children in the same way cats respond.

What are bubbles?

According to Wikipedia, a bubble is one substance within another, for example, gas trapped in some liquid. For example, a bubble of soap, boiling water vapor, etc. They are naturally created or manufactured as fun activities for kids or even pets.

If you are like me bubbles always bring up great memories from your past such as playing on a warm sunny day with bubbles being blown by your relative. They usually invoke great positive memories. But, there are other types of bubbles, that are designed for cats.

What are catnip bubbles?

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Catnip bubbles are a manufactured product designed for cats. They are a bubble liquid-based solution that has catnip extract in it to keep cats entertained. An example of this is Bubble Nip (Click here to see the reviews, on Amazon #Ad).

These bubbles are designed specifically for cats which makes them more reliable than using a random bubble pack designed for kids. For example, this Bubble Nip claims to be non-toxic and safe for cats.

Are bubbles safe for pets?

If you choose the right bubbles then they are generally safe. For cats, it’s best to choose one that is designed for cats (Click here to see the price, on Amazon #Ad) to play it safe. Also, it is quite easy to make your bubble solution at home if you have any concerns (More on this later).

Before using anything with your cats it’s better to check that it is safe for them. And, now you know how you can help to make things when choosing bubbles for your cat.

How do you make cat Bubbles?

Making your cat bubbles is quite straightforward. And, you can customize it as much as you see fit. But here is what you need to get started:

• Non-toxic dishwasher liquid
• Water
• Bubble wand
• Plastic bottle

Once you have the ingredients simply mix some of the dishwasher liquid with the water in a plastic bottle. The trick is to not put too much of the liquid in, or it will get too bubbly. Grab the bubble wand, dip it into the solution, and blow it near your cat.

I do not want to overcomplicate it, it is as simple as that. If you do customize it just make sure that the ingredients are cat-safe to avoid any irritation, etc.

Why are most of these bubbles spheres?

When you play with bubbles they may have some weird shapes but they will usually resort back to a round spherical shape. This is because this has this shape has a small surface area for the volume contained in it.

These shapes that you may have seen are often only for a moment before the bubble is released and seals itself. Then it is likely to resort back to the stereotypical round shape that we know and love.

I remember seeing some displays of professional bubble blowers creating various shapes and designs. The frustrating thing is they never last long before they are sealed, floated, and then popped by the atmosphere.

This is why getting these moments on camera is such a good idea. And, if you can get your cat on camera with some bubbles then go for it.

What soap makes the best bubbles?

The best soap for bubbles is dishwashing liquid. But, when it comes to cats you need to be a bit more cautious. The dishwashing liquid needs to be non-toxic for them. You can also add some catnip oil or extract to make it more fun for your cat.

If you have been wondering what you should use for your cat’s bubbles you will have learned some good ideas to get you started.

Is Catnip essential oil safe for cat bubbles?

Catnip essential oil is commonly used by many cat owners. It will typically make your cat happy and enjoy its time with you. This is the reason it is often used in cat bubble mixture to add more enjoyment to the game.

If you have heard about the effects of catnip you may have wondered if it was OK to use in your cat bubble mix, So, now you know going forward.

How do you extract catnip oil for bubbles?

If you want to go ahead and add some catnip oil to your bubble mix one of the first things to consider is how you will extract this oil in the first place, right? Well, here are some steps you can follow to do this:

01. Prepare the catnip

Before you can extract the catnip you need to prepare them. This is easily done by gathering a selection of these plants, including their leaves, stems, etc. Chopping them up and putting them to the side for the next step.

02. Cooking them in a pressure cooker

Now that you have prepared the catnip you need to cook them in a pressure cooker. Usually, this will be for about 50-60 minutes. So, occupy your time elsewhere while they steadily cook.

03. Letting them sit.

At this stage, you should have some of the oil extracted now. But, it is important to let it sit for some time before gathering it. Wait until it is cooled down and safe to touch.

You should now have some essential oil to use for your cat’s bubbles. You shouldn’t need too much so don’t go overboard.

Cats tend to respond to catnip in different ways. But, with bubbles they are not eating it it is mainly just popping on their body as they come in contact with it. So, it is unlikely to have the same effect as if you gave them the catnip directly.

What are bubbles made from?

Most bubbles are made from a combination of soap and water. When the mix captures air it creates the spherical bubble that you are likely to have seen before.

When you see a basic bubble toy, like those small containers of bubble mix and a dippable plastic rod that you blow, this captures the air you blow into it to form those bubbles you may have seen before.

How do I know if the soap I use is safe for my cat?

It is known to be safer to use non-toxic dishwashing liquid for bubbles. Catnip oil can also be used within the mix. But, this is best added in moderation.

The good thing about dishwashing liquid is it tends to create small bubbles. For cats, this is advantageous. Why? Because it limits your cat’s consumption of the dishwashing liquid in the solution.

What soaps do I need to avoid?

It is best to avoid any fragranced hand soaps. This can cause skin irritation or, if ingested, cause your cat to feel sick. Real soaps can be OK, but there are occasions when they can cause vomiting or diarrhea if swallowed.

Therefore, to be safe, it’s best to avoid these. If you want to be safe it is best to consider buying some purpose-made cat bubbles. These have been formulated specifically for cats.

What should I do if the bubbles make my cat sick?

If your cat is sick from the bubbles consumed it is worth contacting your vet straight away for advice, or the ASPCA, if they are available in your country, to get their professional advice.

You may find out it is not serious. But, rather than taking the matter into your own hands, such as trying to make it vomit and clear its stomach, you should let the professionals take over.

What do catnip bubbles do to cats?

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Catnip bubbles tend to get cats active. As opposed to catnip on its own, that can have different effects. For example, some cats act hyperactive, while others get lethargic.

For whatever reason, maybe because the bubbles are fun and floating in front of them, it tends to make them get active and have fun.

Can cats eat bubbles?

No. Cats should not eat bubbles. As they chase them they are likely to get some in their mouth. The problem is, depending on the amount they consume, and what they are made out of, can cause them some digestion issues.

Therefore, as discussed earlier, it’s important to be careful with the ingredients you use. Or, purchase a purpose-made bubble solution that is formulated with cats in mind.

Why do cats meow at bubbles?

Some cats may meow at bubbles because they are either confused or unwilling to play with them at that time. For you to work out the exact reasons, you need to monitor its overall body language.

This is important, to look at its body language because it could even be having fun and just be expressing it weirdly.

What are good alternatives to bubbles?

If you are worried about using bubbles with your cat or keen on other options, then in this section I will reveal some great alternatives:

Interactive cat toys

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These interactive toys are great because they have flashy lights, and lots of movement and generally keep your cat active, excited, and engaged.

The other benefit is, that it’s easy to simply turn it off and pack it away when you want to give your cat some quiet time. 

A simple ball of string

Don’t underestimate the basics. And, a ball of string is a great example of this. If you are on a budget, or just prefer to keep things simple, a simple ball of string can help to keep your cat active.

Kittens, in particular, seem to love chasing some string that is dragged along the ground in the hands of its owner. And, because the string is typically long, you can keep your hands away from your cat’s claws or teeth.