Illustrative Photo by Ludvig Hedenborg - Pexels.com
A cat walking in circles around you probably wants your attention. Walking at your feet and rubbing them is a typical feline greeting that you may see in both your house cat and street cat.
We should keep in mind that rubbing and pacing is normal feline behavior, but unusual squirming, spinning, and a strange gait could be a vestibular disorder or something worth checking out with a vet.
Behavioral reasons why cats circle their owners
• Greeting
Meowing animals are excited when they see their owner. If your cat circles around you when you get home, stand still and enjoy the attention. A cat using this greeting will likely have its tail raised, arched back, and if you pet it, it will most likely lie on its back on the floor and begin to rub itself so that you continue to pet it. Purring will likely be “on” as well.
• Dominance
The cat does not see its owner as a master or superior. Gal animals are considered the equals of humans, which means that a particularly bossy cat can exhibit dominant behavior. Maybe the purring friend is just trying to show you who’s boss at home.
Health problems that can lead to unusual circling in cats
• Vestibular disease
Vestibular disease attacks the vestibular system located in the cat’s inner ear. Gallic animals rely on their ears to maintain a sense of balance and coordination. A cat with vestibular disease often walks in circles, unable to maneuver in a straight line.
• Ear infections
Feline ear infections usually affect the outer ear, usually due to ear mites. The most common symptom of mites is discharge from the ear along with itching.
Also, mites can affect your cat’s sense of balance. In addition to the discomfort caused, bacterial inflammation can spread to the inner ear, so it must be treated in time.
Head trauma
In the case of a blow to the head, if your cat has been playing wildly or has fallen somewhere, it may suffer a concussion. This will leave the pet friend disoriented and confused.
High blood pressure
Excess blood will “rush” to the brain when a cat has hypertension (high blood pressure). This makes the meowing friend feel confused. He will walk in circles and lack basic coordination in his gait, appearing more clumsy than usual.
In conclusion, if your purring friend greets you at the door and rubs against you, he is most likely just saying hello and happy to see you! In such a situation, there is nothing to worry about except to greet the cat with lots of hugs. In case you notice unusual singing of the purring friend and disorientation – it is best to consult a veterinarian.
Brussels, March 11, Protests have been held in favour of Bandi Singh and the farmers in Belgium, where the european capital is located. Giving details of the protest, European Sikh Organisation (ESO) chief Binder Singh said “the manner in which farmers demanding their rights have been tortured in India is intolerable”. He said “pellet guns, chemical gases were used on common human beings and the use of which is strictly prohibited”.
He said that Bhai Amritpal Singh and his associates, who were propagating Sikhism, were “locked up in Assam, thousands of miles away from Punjab, and the Sikhs were told to be third-class citizens. Now they are on a hunger strike against the atrocities being committed on them and their parents and other sangats are on hunger strike in their favor, but the government is not paying attention to them”.
Singh also said that the ESO has “brought these things to the notice of the European Parliament and if these issues are not resolved soon, then the issue of Bandi Singh and the farmers will be raised before the European Commission”. “In order to bring to the notice of the Government of India and the State Government the issue of Bandi Singhs and the demands of the farmers, we have organized a major protest in the ground of Gurdwara Sahib in Belgium so that they can resolve their issue immediately”.
A large number of women, children, youth and elderly people from the UK including Bhai Tarsem Singh Khalsa, Bhai Raman Singh, President of Gurdwara Sahib Bhai Karam Singh have joined the protest to express their protest.
Just brought home your new feline friend? Congratulations on welcoming a new member to your family! To ensure a comfortable, safe, and happy environment for your cat, having the right supplies is crucial. From basic necessities to enrichment tools, this guide will cover all the necessary supplies every cat owner needs to provide the best care for their beloved furball. Let’s dive in and make sure you have everything you need to keep your cat purring with contentment!
Now, before bringing your new feline friend home, it’s necessary to set up your space with all the necessary supplies. For a comprehensive list of items to have on hand, check out Everything That a First-Time Cat Owner Needs.
Food and Water Essentials
Water is a fundamental necessity for your cat’s health and well-being. Ensure your cat always has access to a clean and fresh water source by placing water bowls in easily accessible areas around your home. In the context of food, choose a high-quality cat food that meets your furry friend’s dietary needs.
Bedding and Comfort
With a well-chosen bed and cozy blankets, your cat will have a comfortable spot to rest and relax. Bedding should be soft, washable, and placed in quiet corners or areas where your cat likes to lounge. Providing a sense of security and comfort through bedding will help your cat feel safe and content in their new environment.
Health and Hygiene: Keeping Your Kitty Clean and Content
Litter Box Solutions
Keeping your cat’s litter box clean is vital for their health and happiness. You must scoop the box daily and completely change the litter weekly to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. For multiple cats, having one litter box per cat is ideal.
Grooming Tools and Tips
To keep your cat’s coat shiny and tangle-free, invest in a good quality cat brush or comb. Regular grooming not only helps in removing loose fur but also prevents hairballs. Trimming your cat’s nails regularly is also important to avoid any accidents or scratches. After grooming, reward your cat with treats to make the experience positive for them.
Cat brush or comb
Nail clippers
Treats for positive reinforcement
Playtime and Exercise: Essentials for a Happy Cat
Keep your feline friend happy and healthy by providing them with ample opportunities for playtime and exercise. According to A Cat’s Basic Needs, engaging your cat in activities that promote physical and mental stimulation is crucial for their overall well-being.
Toys for Fun and Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation is imperative for cats to prevent boredom and encourage their natural hunting instincts. Invest in a variety of interactive toys such as feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders to keep your cat entertained and engaged.
Scratchers and Climbing Structures
Scratchers and climbing structures are vital for your cat’s physical health and enrichment. With proper scratching posts and cat trees, you can protect your furniture from being shredded while providing your feline companion with a designated area to stretch, scratch, and climb. Make sure to place these structures strategically around your home to encourage vertical exploration and prevent behavioral issues like inappropriate scratching.
Extra Touches: Beyond the Basics
After checking off the vitals for your feline friend, it’s time to explore some extra touches that can enhance your cat’s life. For a comprehensive list of must-have supplies and vitals for your cat, be sure to visit Must Have Supplies and Essentials for Your Cat.
Health Supplements and Treats
The health and well-being of your cat are vital, and that’s where health supplements and treats come into play. The market is filled with a variety of nutritious supplements that can help support your cat’s overall health. Additionally, treats are a great way to reward good behavior or simply show your furry friend some love.
Technology Gadgets for Cats
One fun way to amp up your cat’s environment is by incorporating technology gadgets that cater to their natural instincts. From interactive toys to automatic feeders, there are plenty of options to keep your cat entertained and stimulated even when you’re not around. These gadgets can also promote exercise and mental stimulation for a happy and healthy cat.
Extra: When selecting technology gadgets for your cat, opt for ones that are safe, durable, and easy to clean. Remember to supervise your cat during playtime with gadgets to prevent any accidents or mishaps.
Conclusion
Drawing together these must-have supplies for cat owners ensures that you are fully prepared to keep your feline friend happy, healthy, and entertained. From imperative items like food and litter to helpful tools like a scratching post and cat carrier, having a well-stocked supply of cat imperatives will make both you and your cat’s life easier and more enjoyable. Remember to customize the supplies based on your cat’s individual needs and preferences to create a loving and nurturing environment for your beloved pet.
As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, divisions and differences within the European Union are intensifying over how to respond to Russian aggression. At the heart of these debates is France’s proposal to send Western forces to Ukraine, an initiative strongly supported by some neighboring countries of kyiv, but widely rejected by other European actors, notably Germany.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently argued for sending Western troops to Ukraine at a conference in Paris bringing together European leaders. The proposal sparked mixed reactions within the EU, illustrating divergent views on how to respond to the Ukraine crisis.
France is striving to build a coalition with the Baltic countries to support this initiative. This move was welcomed by the Baltic countries, which feel particularly vulnerable in the face of a possible escalation of Russian aggression in Ukraine. At the same time, France has also sought to strengthen its ties with Ukraine by offering military and economic support.
However, this initiative faces obstacles within the EU. While Poland has joined the French proposal, Germany and other European countries remain reluctant to send NATO troops to Ukraine, fearing an escalation of the conflict.
In this context of tensions and divisions, France and Moldova recently signed a defense and economic cooperation agreement. This agreement provides in particular for the placement of a French military representative in Moldova, as well as training and weapons supply programs.
The aim of these initiatives is to strengthen Western support for Ukraine and its neighbors facing Russian aggression. However, debates persist within the EU over how best to respond to this crisis, highlighting the divisions and tensions across the European continent.
MEPs on the International Trade Committee endorsed the extension of trade support for Ukraine and Moldova in the face of Russia’s war.
MEPs approved on Thursday, by 26 votes, with 10 against and 1 abstentions, a proposal to renew the temporary suspension of import duties and quotas on Ukrainian agricultural exports to the EU for another year, from 6 June 2024 to 5 June 2025, to support Ukraine amidst Russia’s continuing war of aggression against the country.
The legislation empowers the Commission to take swift action and impose any necessary measures should there be significant disruptions to the EU market, or to the markets of one or more EU countries due to Ukrainian imports. It also provides for an emergency brake for particularly sensitive agricultural products, namely poultry, eggs, and sugar, meaning that if imports of these products surpass the average 2022 and 2023 volumes, tariffs would be re-imposed.
The liberalising measures are conditional on Ukraine’s respect for democratic principles, human rights, the rule of law, and its sustained efforts to fight corruption and organised crime.
Moldova
In a separate vote on Thursday, MEPs agreed that all duties on imports from Moldova should be suspended for another year, by 28 votes, 2 against and 6 abstentions.
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Sandra Kalniete (EPP, LV), rapporteur for the Ukraine file said: “As we have just passed the second anniversary of the onset of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the proposal is a strong signal of the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine and its people. The extension of the EU’s trade measures will ensure Ukraine can continue to export its agricultural products to the EU – a crucial lifeline for the Ukrainian economy. At the same time, the proposal includes solid safeguards ensuring our farmers will not be overwhelmed by a sudden surge of imports. The Commission will be able to re-introduce tariffs or take any other necessary measures if it finds imports of specific products lead to market disturbances. It is a good balance between continuing our vital support to the Ukraine and the necessary protection of our markets.”
Next steps
Parliament is expected to vote on its first reading position during next week’s plenary session. If Parliament adopts its first reading position, the Council will then formally approve the regulation, and it will enter into force after being published in the EU Official Journal.
Background
The EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, has ensured that Ukrainian businesses have preferential access to the EU market since 2016. In the immediate aftermath of the start of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU put in place autonomous trade measures (ATMs) in June 2022, which allow duty-free access for all Ukrainian products to the EU market. These measures were extended by one year in June 2023 and are set to expire on 5 June 2024.
On 31 January 2024, the EU Commission proposed that import duties and quotas on Ukrainian and Moldovan exports should be suspended for another year. Russia has deliberately targeted Ukrainian food production and Black Sea exporting facilities to undermine the country’s economy and threaten global food security.
Total EU imports from Ukraine amounted to €24.3 billion in the 12 months to October 2023 compared to pre-war levels in 2021 of €24 billion, according to the Commission.
Many families considering adding a furry member to their household often wonder which dog breeds would be the best fit for their unique dynamics. Finding a dog that is friendly, loving, and great with kids is necessary when choosing the perfect companion for your family. In this informative post, we will explore the top 10 dog breeds that are known for their adaptability, playfulness, and loyalty, making them ideal choices for families of all sizes and ages. Whether you are looking for a small and energetic pup or a gentle giant that loves to snuggle, there is a dog breed on this list that is sure to steal your heart and become the perfect addition to your family.
Even Best Family Dogs can come in large packages! Friendly giants are perfect for families looking for big, lovable companions who are great with kids. These breeds are known for their gentle nature and loyal personalities, making them excellent choices for households with children.
Labrador Retriever: The Playful Companion
The Labrador Retriever is a favorite among families for a reason. Known for their playful and energetic personalities, Labs are always up for a game of fetch or a swim in the pool. Their friendly nature and patience make them ideal partners for children of all ages.
Golden Retriever: The Gentle Soul
Any family would be lucky to have a Golden Retriever as a member. These gentle souls are known for their sweet demeanor and affectionate personalities. Goldens are incredibly loyal and easy to train, making them a popular choice for families.
Soul Golden Retrievers are not only friendly but also intelligent and patient, which makes them great companions for families with children. Their calm demeanor and love for playtime make them a perfect fit for an active household. With their beautiful golden coats and loving eyes, Golden Retrievers are sure to capture the hearts of everyone in the family.
Energetic Pals
Beagle: The Merry Little Hound
It’s hard not to smile when you see a Beagle with its happy-go-lucky attitude. This merry little hound is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it a perfect companion for families. Beagles are energetic and playful, which means they’ll keep the kids entertained for hours. Their small to medium size makes them a great fit for both apartments and houses with yards.
Boxer: The Fun-Loving Protector
Hound Boxers are the fun-loving protectors every family needs. These loyal and energetic dogs are fantastic with children, making them excellent family pets. Boxers are known for their playful and goofy personalities, which can bring a lot of joy and laughter into a household. With their strong build and powerful jaws, Boxers also make great protectors who will do anything to keep their loved ones safe.
Merry Boxers are always up for a game of fetch or a long walk in the park. They excel in obedience training and are eager to please their owners. Their protective instincts make them great watchdogs, but their playful nature ensures they’ll never be too serious or aggressive.
To start off our list of intelligent companions, the Poodle stands out as a smart aristocrat among dog breeds. With their hypoallergenic coat and high intelligence, Poodles are quick learners and adaptable to various environments. They love being part of family activities and will charm you with their playful antics. Their exceptional intelligence makes training a breeze, whether it’s basic commands or fun tricks.
Border Collie: The Eager-to-Please Whiz
Whiz! The Border Collie is known for being an eager-to-please whiz when it comes to intelligence. These dogs are incredibly smart and excel in activities that challenge their minds, such as agility training and herding exercises. Border Collies thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy having a job to do. Their herding instincts make them great with kids, as they are gentle and protective. However, their high intelligence and energy levels require ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavior issues.
Loyal Guardians
After researching the 15 Best Family Dogs, it’s clear that certain breeds stand out as loyal guardians for families. These dogs are not only great companions but also protect their loved ones when needed. For a comprehensive list of family-friendly dogs, check out 15 Best Family Dogs To Bring Home.
German Shepherd: The Courageous Friend
With their unmatched loyalty and courage, German Shepherds make excellent family guardians. These noble canines are known for their intelligence and their willingness to protect their family members. They are highly trainable and excel in various roles such as watchdogs, therapy dogs, and loyal companions. German Shepherds are a popular choice for families seeking a devoted and protective furry friend.
Bulldog: The Lovable Watchdog
Lovable and devoted, Bulldogs are affectionate companions that also double as excellent watchdogs. Despite their tough exterior, Bulldogs are gentle and loving with children, making them ideal family pets. They may have a stubborn streak, but their loyalty and protective nature towards their family make them a popular choice. Bulldogs are known for their sturdy build and distinctive wrinkled face, adding to their charm.
Small but Mighty
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Affectionate Lapdog
Lapdog All hail the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a breed known for its affectionate nature and love for cuddling up in laps. These small but mighty pups are gentle, friendly, and fantastic with children, making them an ideal addition to any family looking for a loyal companion.
Boston Terrier: The American Gentleman
Lapdog The Boston Terrier, often referred to as the “American Gentleman,” is a small but sturdy breed that is full of charm and character. With their tuxedo-like coat and friendly demeanor, these dogs are excellent with kids and get along well with other pets. They are truly a delightful addition to any family looking for a loving and loyal companion.
Small Boston Terriers are known for their compact size and charming personality. Their affectionate nature and playful demeanor make them wonderful companions for families with children. Despite their small stature, they are brave and protective, always ready to defend their loved ones. However, their flat faces can sometimes lead to breathing difficulties, so it’s important to keep them cool and comfortable, especially in hot weather.
Final Words
To wrap up, choosing the right dog breed for your family is an important decision. The top 10 best dog breeds for families offer a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion, a playful friend for your children, or a furry best friend to share your adventures with, there is a perfect match waiting for you. Consider the size, temperament, energy level, and needs of each breed to ensure a happy and harmonious relationship with your new four-legged family member. Bear in mind, a dog can bring immense joy and love to your home, so choose wisely and enjoy the special bond that only a dog can offer.
Thousands of people, with an estimated 15,000 attendees according to the Government Delegation, gathered at the iconic Cibeles square in Madrid this Saturday to demand the resignation of the President, Pedro Sánchez, and to protest against the amnesty for those involved in the ‘procés’. The demonstration saw the presence of leaders from the Popular Party (PP), Vox, and Ciudadanos, along with other prominent figures from the opposition to the Government, such as the former leader of UPyD, Rosa Díez, and the former Vice President of the European Parliament, Alejo Vidal-Quadras.
The atmosphere at Cibeles was charged with emotion as protesters voiced their discontent with the current government’s handling of the political situation in Spain. Calls for Pedro Sánchez to step down echoed through the square, with signs and banners expressing frustration and anger towards the perceived lack of accountability.
The issue of amnesty for those involved in the ‘procés’ has been a contentious one, sparking debates and divisions across the political spectrum. Critics argue that granting amnesty undermines the rule of law and sends a message of impunity, while supporters view it as a step towards reconciliation and political stability.
The presence of leaders from the PP, Vox, and Ciudadanos at the protest underscored the unity among opposition parties in their demand for change. Rosa Díez and Alejo Vidal-Quadras, prominent figures in Spanish politics, added weight to the demonstration, symbolizing a broader coalition of voices calling for action.
As the protest unfolded, chants of “¡Dimisión, dimisión!” (Resignation, resignation!) reverberated through the crowd, reflecting the growing frustration and dissatisfaction with the current government’s policies and decisions. The gathering at Cibeles served as a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and demand accountability from those in power.
The demonstration at Cibeles highlighted the deep-seated divisions and tensions within Spanish politics, with calls for change and reform resonating among a significant portion of the population. The coming days will reveal the impact of this protest on the political landscape and whether it will lead to concrete actions or further polarization in the country.
In conclusion, the protest at Cibeles was a powerful display of public discontent and a call for accountability in Spanish politics. With thousands of voices united in demanding change, the pressure on Pedro Sánchez and the government is palpable. The aftermath of this demonstration will undoubtedly shape the political discourse in Spain in the days and weeks to come.
In a recent expose by journalist Steve Eisenberg for RELIGACTU, the Mission Interministérielle de Lutte contre les Dérives Sectaires (MIVILUDES) in France finds itself engulfed in a deep financial scandal that has shaken the nation.
The scandal unfolded in two stages, with the first revelation coming from the Cour des Comptes, which issued a damning report on the management of MIVILUDES’ project funding and the distribution of grants to anti-sectarian associations. According to the President of the Cour des Comptes, Pierre Moscovici, “the analysis of the fund management procedures reveals serious deficiencies. These shortcomings became even more apparent during the national project calls launched in 2021, the first of which was intended for the ‘fight against sectarian drifts’.”
President Moscovici highlighted numerous irregularities in the management of public funds, including incomplete grant applications being approved, missing mandatory supporting documents, lack of fund control and monitoring, failure to request refunds for projects not executed, overpayments to certain associations, and more. As a result, the Cour des Comptes has referred the matter to the public prosecutor for further investigation, with the Chamber of Contentious Matters now tasked with judicial oversight. Moscovici emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the Chamber will investigate, potentially prosecute, and condemn those responsible, calling it a “serious matter.”
The following day, Le Monde shed light on the events leading to the Chamber of Contentious Matters’ involvement. In an article titled “One Year After the Marianne Fund Scandal, Scrutiny on MIVILUDES‘ Management,” journalist Samuel Laurent confirmed that a series of complaints had been filed against MIVILUDES and several anti-sectarian associations for alleged misappropriation of public funds, breach of trust, conflict of interest, and forgery. These complaints were lodged by an association known as CAPLC (Coordination of Associations and Individuals for Freedom of Conscience).
Of particular concern were substantial grants (over half of the 2021 project funding of one million euros) awarded to two associations whose presidents also sat on MIVILUDES’ Steering Committee: UNADFI (National Union of Associations for the Defense of Families and Individuals) led by President Joséphine Cesbron (whose husband also serves as UNADFI’s lawyer, raising suspicions of conflict of interest), and CCMM (Center Against Mental Manipulations) led by President Francis Auzeville.
Moreover, projects funded that never materialized should have triggered grant reimbursements. Instead, MIVILUDES renewed the grants the following year, despite being aware of the irregularities. The article in Le Monde cited internal sources confirming repeated warnings about the legal risks posed by such irregularities to the CIPDR’s management and the Secretary of State’s office.
In response to the allegations, MIVILUDES President Donatien Le Vaillant defended the organization’s actions by stating that a reform of the grant allocation process had been initiated since November 2023. However, this response comes after alerts dating back to 2021, raising doubts about its effectiveness in quelling the controversy and avoiding criminal convictions.
The unfolding scandal has cast a shadow over MIVILUDES and raised serious questions about the management of public funds and conflicts of interest within the organization. As investigations continue and legal proceedings loom, the future of MIVILUDES remains uncertain amidst the turmoil.
Le Monde’s reporting has brought to light a scandal that has rocked the foundations of MIVILUDES and sparked a national debate on accountability and transparency in public institutions.
As of today, the tech giants Apple, Alphabet, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, and ByteDance, identified as gatekeepers by the European Commission in September 2023, are required to adhere to all obligations outlined in the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA, designed to enhance competition and fairness in digital markets within the EU, introduces new regulations for key platform services like search engines, online marketplaces, app stores, online advertising, and messaging. These regulations aim to empower European businesses and consumers with new rights.
Gatekeepers have been proactively testing measures to align with the DMA prior to the deadline, soliciting feedback from external parties. Effective immediately, gatekeepers must demonstrate their compliance with the DMA and detail the steps taken in compliance reports. These reports, available to the public on the Commission’s dedicated DMA webpage, also require gatekeepers to provide independently audited descriptions of consumer profiling techniques, alongside non-confidential versions of the reports.
The Commission will meticulously review the compliance reports to evaluate the efficacy of the implemented measures in meeting the DMA’s objectives. This assessment will consider feedback from stakeholders, including insights shared during compliance workshops where gatekeepers present their strategies.
Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, overseeing competition policy, emphasized the transformative impact of the DMA on online markets. She highlighted the Act’s role in fostering openness and competitiveness for small businesses while offering consumers more affordable choices. Vestager expressed confidence in the DMA’s potential to reshape digital market dynamics to benefit all European participants and users.
Commissioner Thierry Breton, responsible for the Internal Market, underscored the significance of today as a milestone for the European digital landscape. Breton emphasized the DMA’s stringent obligations and enforcement mechanisms, including sanctions for non-compliance. He noted positive shifts in the market landscape, such as the emergence of alternative app stores and enhanced user control over data, attributing these changes to ongoing dialogues with gatekeepers. Breton warned of severe penalties, including the possibility of breaking up non-compliant companies, underscoring the Commission’s commitment to upholding the DMA’s principles.
The implementation of the DMA represents a pivotal moment in the regulation of digital markets, signaling a concerted effort to promote competition, fairness, and user empowerment within the European digital ecosystem.
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree pardoning 52 convicted women, it was reported on 08.03.2024 today, on the eve of International Women’s Day, TASS writes.
“When making the decision to pardon, the head of state was guided by the principles of humanity. The pardoned women are mostly those with minor children, pregnant women, and also women who have relatives participating in the special military operation,” the statement said.
Later, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov explained that the pardon was related to discussions in December at the Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights (CSC), an advisory body to the Russian president. At this meeting, the issue of amnesty for certain categories of women was raised, he specified.
“Today’s decree was signed in the context of the deliberations of the CSC meeting,” Peskov said.
