• About
  • Articles
    • Animals
      • Bees
        • Bees Used for Landmine Detection
        • Honeybee Facts
        • How to Help Endangered Bees
        • Loss of Bees Threatens Global Food System
        • Plants That Attract Bees
      • Birds
        • Bird Expressions Gallery
        • How to Attract Birds to Your Garden
        • Hummingbird Feeders
        • Hummingbird Gardening
        • Plants That Attract Birds
          • Plants That Attract Bluebirds
          • Plants That Attract Buntings
          • Plants That Attract Bush Tits
          • Plants That Attract Cardinals
          • Plants That Attract Catbirds
          • Plants That Attract Chickadees
          • Plants That Attract Doves
          • Plants That Attract European Robins
          • Plants That Attract Finches
          • Plants That Attract Grosbeaks
          • Plants That Attract Hummingbirds
          • Plants That Attract Jays
          • Plants That Attract Juncos
          • Plants That Attract Mockingbirds
          • Plants That Attract North American Robins
          • Plants That Attract Nuthatches
          • Plants That Attract Orioles
          • Plants That Attract Pine Siskins
          • Plants That Attract Sparrows
          • Plants That Attract Tanagers
          • Plants That Attract Thrashers
          • Plants That Attract Thrushes
          • Plants That Attract Titmice
          • Plants That Attract Towhees
          • Plants That Attract Warblers
          • Plants That Attract Waxwings
          • Plants That Attract Woodpeckers
          • Plants That Attract Wrens
        • What to Put in Bird Feeders
      • Butterflies
        • Butterfly Gardening
        • Butterfly Plants
        • How to Make a Butterfly Feeder
      • Cats
        • Big Cats and Small Wild Cats
          • Chinese Public Supports Tiger Trade Ban: 2008 Poll Shows Majority in China Against Legalizing Tiger Products
          • How to Help Endangered Wild Cats
          • How to Reduce the Risk of Cougar Attacks
          • Rare White Lion Cubs Born
          • Social Structure of Feral Cat Colonies
          • The African Black-Footed Cat: Felis Nigripes, One of the Smallest Wild Felines in the World
          • The Endangered Florida Panther
          • The Endangered Scottish Wildcat: Efforts to Save the Tiger of the Highlands
          • The Rarest Wild Cats in the World
          • White Tiger Facts
          • Why Lions Have Manes
          • Why Tigers Are Endangered
          • Wild Cats of Canada: the Bobcat, the Lynx, and the Cougar
        • Cat Breeds
          • 10 Unusual Cat Breeds
          • Abyssinian Cat Breed Profile
          • American Bobtail Cat Breed Profile
          • American Curl Cat Breed Profile
          • American Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • American Wirehair Cat Breed Profile
          • Balinese Cat Breed Profile
          • Bengal Cat Breed Profile
          • Birman Cat Breed Profile
          • Bombay Cat Breed Profile
          • British Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Burmese Cat Breed Profile
          • California Spangled Cat Breed Profile
          • Cat Breeds That Get Along Well with Dogs
          • Chartreux Cat Breed Profile
          • Chausie Cat Breed Profile
          • Colourpoint Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Cornish Rex Cat Breed Profile
          • Donskoy Cat Breed Profile
          • Egyptian Mau Breed Profile
          • Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Guide to Cat Breed Personality Traits
          • Guide to Cat Breeder Terminology
          • Guide to Cat Coat Colours, Patterns, and Markings
          • Guide to Cat Fur, Face, and Body Types
          • Himalayan Cat Breed Profile
          • How Many Cat Breeds Are There?
          • Javanese Cat Breed Profile
          • Korat Cat Breed Profile
          • Kurilian Bobtail Breed Profile
          • LaPerm Cat Breed Profile
          • Maine Coon Cat Breed
          • Manx Cat Breed Profile
          • Mythical Cat Breeds, Frauds, and Hoaxes
          • Nebelung Cat Breed Profile
          • Norwegian Forest Cat Breed Profile
          • Ocicat Breed Profile
          • Oriental Shorthair Cat Breed Profile
          • Persian Cats: What Prospective Adopters Need to Know
          • Peterbald Cat Breed Profile
          • Pixie-Bob Cat Breed Profile
          • Ragamuffin Cat Breed Profile
          • Ragdoll Cat Breed
          • Russian Blue Cat Breed Profile
          • Savannah Cat Breed Profile
          • Scottish Fold Cat Breed Profile
          • Siamese Cat Breed
          • Siberian Cat Breed Profile
          • Singapura Cat Breed Profile
          • Snowshoe Cat Breed Profile
          • Sphynx Cat Breed Profile
          • Tonkinese Cat Breed Profile
          • Toyger Cat Breed Profile
          • Turkish Angora Cat Breed Profile
          • Turkish Van Cat Breed Profile
        • Cat Care
          • Adopting a Cat
          • Alternatives to Declawing
          • Are Poinsettias Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
          • Bad Breath in Cats and Dogs
          • Best Cat Toys
          • Can I Give My Cat or Dog Aspirin or Tylenol?
          • Cat Aggression Treatments
          • Cat Boarding Kennels: How to Choose the Best
          • Cat Fences and Enclosures
          • Cat or Dog Sprayed by a Skunk: How to Remove Skunk Odour
          • Cat Urine: How to Clean It and Get Rid of the Odour
          • Children and Cats
          • Clingy Cats: How to Reduce Separation Anxiety
          • Common Cat Allergies: Substances That Cause Allergic Reactions in Cats
          • Disaster Preparedness for Cats and Dogs
          • Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet?
          • Feliway for Cats
          • Foods That Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Free and Low-Cost Spay-Neuter Clinics
          • Halloween Cat Sacrifices: Real Danger or Urban Legend?
          • How to Brush a Cat’s Teeth
          • How to Cat-Proof a Home
          • How to Encourage a Cat to Be More Affectionate
          • How to Give a Cat a Bath
          • How to Groom a Cat
          • How to Help Fat Cats Lose Weight
          • How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat
          • How to Introduce a New Cat to a Resident Cat
          • How to Keep Cats and Dogs Safe During Winter
          • How to Play with a Cat
          • How to Prevent Cat Conflicts in Multicat Households
          • How to Prevent Hairballs in Cats
          • How to Protect Your Pets from Pet Thieves
          • How to Remove Glue, Paint, Oil, Varnish, Gasoline, Tar, or Grease from Cat Fur
          • How to Start an Animal Shelter
          • How to Stop a Dog from Attacking a Cat
          • How to Stop Cats from Catching Birds
          • Hypoallergenic Diets for Cats and Dogs
          • Indoor Cats: Can They Be Happy?
          • Living with Cat Allergies
          • Microchipping, Tattooing, GPS, and Collar ID for Cats and Dogs
          • Moving with Cats
          • Myths About Spaying and Neutering
          • Natural Anxiety Remedies for Cats and Dogs
          • Natural Flea Control for Cats and Dogs
          • Onions Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Pet-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
          • Pet-Safe Plants
          • Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs
          • Propylene Glycol Antifreeze Safer for Pets
          • Reasons to Keep Cats Indoors
          • Retirement Homes for Cats and Dogs
          • Spaying and Neutering Facts: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
          • The Benefits of Play Therapy for Cats
          • The Declawing Information Page
          • Tips for Finding Lost Pets
          • Travelling with a Cat
          • Your Life Can Improve With the Right Pet
        • Cat Charities
        • Cat Expressions Gallery 2
        • Cat Facts
          • Ailurophobia: Fear of Cats
          • Are All White Cats with Blue Eyes Deaf?
          • Are Cats and Dogs Colour-Blind?
          • Black and White Cat Facts and Photos
          • Black Cat Facts and Photos
          • Black Cats Less Likely to Be Adopted
          • Calico and Tortoiseshell Cat Facts and Photos
          • Can Cats See in the Dark?
          • Careers with Dogs and Cats
          • Cat and Dog Adoption and Euthanasia Statistics
          • Cat Coat Colour Linked to Temperament
          • Cat Colour Gallery
          • Cat Myths Debunked
          • Cat Statistics
          • Cat Statistics: How Many Cats Are There?
          • Cat Years and People Years
          • Cats and Dogs Hurt by Recession
          • Debunking Anti-Cat Arguments
          • Declawed Cats More Likely to Be Surrendered to Shelters
          • Descriptive Terms for Cats
          • Do Cat People and Dog People Have Different Personalities?
          • Do Cats Dream?
          • Glossary of Cat Words
          • Health Benefits of Cat Ownership
          • How Do a Cat’s Senses of Smell and Taste Compare to Those of a Human?
          • How Fast Can a Cat Run?
          • How Long Cats Live
          • How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep Each Day?
          • How Powerful Is a Cat’s Hearing?
          • Hypoallergenic Cats
          • Impacts of Cats and Dogs on the Environment and Wildlife
          • Naturally Occurring Cat Breeds, Cross-Breeds, and Recent Mutations
          • Negative Cat Stereotypes Debunked
          • Neoteny – Why Adult Cats Retain Kitten Qualities
          • Polls Show Large Majority Against Declawing Cats; Majority Also Favours Anti-Declaw Laws
          • Reasons to Adopt an Adult Cat
          • Reasons Why Cats and Dogs Are Surrendered to Shelters
          • Study: Owning a Cat Cuts Heart Attack Risk by 30%
          • Tabby Cat Facts and Photos
          • The Social World of Feral Cats
          • Tortoiseshell Cats Are Nearly Always Female
          • Which Animals Hunt Cats?
          • Which Are More Intelligent – Cats or Dogs?
          • Which Are More Popular, Cats or Dogs?
          • Which Cat Breeds Are the Most Intelligent?
          • Which Make Better Pets – Cats or Dogs?
          • White Cat Facts and Photos
          • Why Are Female Cats Called Queens?
          • Why Are Male Cats Called Toms?
          • Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
          • Why Do Cats’ Eyes Glow in the Dark?
        • Cat Food and Nutrition
          • Can You Feed a Cat Dog Food? Can You Feed a Dog Cat Food?
          • Can You Feed Cats Tuna Made for Humans?
          • Cat Food Overview: Wet Food, Semi-Moist Food, Dry Food, and Raw Diets
          • Health Risks Associated with Vegan Diets for Cats
          • High-Carbohydrate Diets Are Bad for Cats
          • Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
          • How Much Food Does a Cat Need? How Much Should You Feed a Kitten?
          • How Often Should You Feed Kittens and Adult Cats?
          • Is It Safe to Feed Cats Milk?
          • Is It Safe to Feed Cats Raw Eggs?
          • Natural Diets for Cats, Home-Made Cat Food
          • Should You Feed a Cat Wet Food or Dry Food?
          • Vegan and Vegetarian Dogs and Cats
          • Veterinarian Statements on Vegan and Vegetarian Diets for Cats
          • What to Feed a Kitten
          • What to Feed a Pregnant Cat
          • Why Cats Are Natural Carnivores
          • Why Cats Need a High-Protein Cat Food
          • Why Won’t My Cat Eat?
        • Cat Health
          • Abdominal Swelling/Bulging Stomach in Cats
          • Aggression as a Sign of Illness in Cats
          • Arthritis in Cats
          • Bobcat Fever (Cytauxzoonosis)
          • Can I Get Toxoplasmosis From My Cat? Do I Need to Give up My Cat if I Get Pregnant? Do Cat Parasites Really Affect Personality?
          • Cat and Dog Symptoms: Third Eyelid Showing
          • Cat Coughing, Dog Coughing: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat Drooling: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat Having Accidents Outside the Litter Box: Medical Causes
          • Cat Howling: Why Do Some Cats Howl, Especially at Night?
          • Cat Limping, Dog Limping
          • Cat Not Grooming/Dull Coat/Dry Skin in Cats
          • Cat Symptoms Overview
          • Cat with Blood in Stool: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat with Blood in the Urine: Causes and Treatments
          • Cat with Red Eye or Eyes
          • Cat with Sores and Bald Patches/Hair Loss in Cats, Dog with Sores and Bald Patches/Hair Loss in Dogs
          • Cat-Related Health and Safety Myths
          • Cats Reduce Risk of Kids Developing Asthma
          • Causes of Breathing Problems in Cats
          • Causes of Increased Appetite in Cats
          • Causes of Itching in Cats and Dogs
          • Causes of Weight Loss in Cats
          • Charities That Help with Vet Bills
          • Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) – Kidney Disease in Cats
          • Constipation in Cats
          • Dental Diets for Cats
          • Depression in Cats
          • Diarrhea in Cats and Dogs
          • Endocrine Diseases in Cats: Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism, and Others
          • Essential Fatty Acid Supplements for Dogs and Cats
          • Eye Discharge/Runny Eyes in Cats and Dogs
          • Feline Calicivirus (FCV) in Cats
          • Feline Epilepsy: Cat Seizures/Convulsions
          • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
          • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Cat Herpes or Cat Flu)
          • Fever in Cats and Dogs: Causes and Treatments
          • FLUTD in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
          • Fundraising Ideas to Pay Large Vet Bills
          • Glucosamine-Chondroitin Supplements for Dogs and Cats with Arthritis
          • Heart Disease in Cats: Cardiomyopathy, Endocarditis, Myocarditis
          • Heartworm Infection in Cats and Dogs
          • Holistic Cat and Dog Care
          • Hookworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Human Pregnancy and Toxoplasmosis
          • Illnesses That People Can Catch from Cats
          • Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Cats
          • Intestinal Worms in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
          • Is Catnip Addictive or Dangerous?
          • Loss of Appetite in Cats
          • Lungworm Infection in Cats and Dogs
          • Poisoned Cat: Symptoms and Treatment
          • Required Vaccinations for Cats and Kittens
          • Ringworm in Dogs and Cats
          • Roundworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Signs of Pain in Cats
          • Skin Lumps and Bumps in Cats and Dogs
          • Sneezing and Nasal Discharge in Cats and Dogs
          • Tapeworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Using Pumpkin to Treat Constipation and Diarrhea in Cats and Dogs
          • Whipworms in Cats and Dogs
          • Why Cats Pull Out Their Fur: Psychogenic Alopecia in Cats
          • Why Cats Vomit
          • Why Does My Cat Drink So Much and Pee So Often? Causes of Increased Thirst and Urination in Cats
        • Cat History
          • Cat History: Cats in Ancient Egypt
          • Cat History: Cats in Warfare
          • Cat History: Famous Ship Cats
          • Cat History: From Wild Cats to Domestic Pets
          • Cat History: The Black Plague
          • Cat Superstitions, Myths, and Proverbs
          • Famous Cat Lovers
        • Cat Psychology, Behaviour, and Communication
          • Can Cats and Dogs Be Friends?
          • Do Cats Feel Love and Other “Human” Emotions?
          • Do Cats Have Psychic Abilities?
          • Do Cats Like Music?
          • Guide to Cat Communication: Vocalizations and Body Language
          • How Smart Are Cats?
          • The Flehmen Response: Why Cats “Grimace” with Their Mouths Open
          • What Causes Cats or Kittens to Eat Dirt, Kitty Litter, or Plastic, or Lick Photographs?
          • Why are cats afraid of cucumbers?
          • Why Cats Fight
          • Why Cats Purr: How Purring Speeds the Healing Process
          • Why Do Cats “Sulk”?
          • Why Do Cats and Dogs Eat Grass or Houseplants?
          • Why Do Cats Go Crazy for Catnip, Valerian, and Mint?
          • Why Do Cats Gravitate to People Who Fear or Dislike Them?
          • Why Do Cats Have Accidents Outside the Litter Box?
          • Why Do Cats Hiss?
          • Why Do Cats Knead or Paddle with Their Paws?
          • Why do cats love boxes?
          • Why Do Cats Make Chattering Sounds When They See Birds Through a Window?
          • Why Do Cats Play with Their Prey?
          • Why Do Cats Play with Water?
          • Why Do Cats Roll on Their Backs to Greet People?
          • Why Do Cats Rub Against Things?
          • Why Do Cats Scratch Things?
          • Why Do Cats Suddenly Make Mad Dashes Around the House?
          • Why Do Some Cats and Dogs Eat Soap?
          • Why Do Some Cats Attack When Being Petted?
          • Why Do Some Cats Become Anxious or Phobic?
          • Why Do Some Cats Like Shoes, Socks, Feet, Bleach, or Chlorine?
          • Why Do Some Cats Prefer Dirty Water to Fresh Tap Water?
          • Why Does My Cat Pee on the Bed or My Clothing?
          • Why Some Cats Suck on Fabric, Wool, or Hair
        • Cat Training
          • Can You Train a Cat Not to Hunt?
          • How to Encourage a Cat to Use a Scratch Post
          • How to Keep Cats off Counters and Furniture
          • How to Keep Cats out of Plants
          • How to Leash-Train a Cat
          • How to Litter Train a Kitten
          • How to Stop a Cat from Attacking a Dog
          • How to Stop Cats from Fighting
          • How to Train a Cat or Kitten
        • Famous Cats
          • Cat Called to Jury Duty
          • Cat Placed Under House Arrest
          • Cat Record Breakers
          • Cats That Have Adopted Animals of Other Species
          • Christopher the Guardian Angel Cat
          • Cloned Cats
          • Colby Nolan – The Cat with an MBA Degree
          • Famous Cats: Cats with Jobs
          • Famous Cats: Feline Entertainers
          • Famous Cats: Great Feline Achievements
          • Giant Cat Prince Chunk Finds Loving Home
          • Hero Cats
        • Foster Kitten Photo Diary
          • Adult Cats Acting as Foster Parents
          • Bif and Buddies
          • Casper and Cadence
          • Chilly and Lilly
          • Five New Furballs: Serenity, Quest, Sherpa, Coda, and Cayoosh
          • Foster Kittens: Farley and Friends
          • Foster Kittens: Jenga, Eclipse, Valhalla, and Callahan
          • Foster Kittens: Max, Zack, and Roxie
          • Foster Kittens: Sage Bounces Back
          • Foster Kittens: The Dynamic Duo
          • Foster Kittens: The Fab Five
          • Foster Kittens: The Fantastic Five
          • Foster Kittens: The Fluffasaurus Rex and Friends
          • Foster Kittens: The Great Kitten Storm of 2012
          • Foster Kittens: The Saga of the Little Savages
          • Foster Kittens: The Space Crew
          • Foster Kittens: The Tumultous Triad
          • Gizmo’s Gang
          • Sir Shady, the Earl of Grey, Princess Fluffington and the Countess Hissyfit
          • Tesla and Tyax
          • The Checkerboard Kittens: Picatso, Pablo, Catisse, and Catson
          • The Comeback Kittens
          • The Foster Fosters
          • The Friendly Five
          • The Greatcoat Kittens
          • The Hoarder House Kittens: Rowdy, Scrappy, Ally, and Cory
          • The Lake Kittens: Duffey, Alta, and Skaha
          • The Mini-Me Kittens
          • The Star Wars Kittens
          • The Sunshine Kittens
          • The Sunshine Kittens: Golden, Raya, and Sola
        • Kitten Fight Club Gallery
        • Pet Product Reviews
          • 10 Pet Insurance Providers Ranked: Complete 2018 Comparison Guide
          • Reviews of Corn-Based Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Paper-Based Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Pine-Based Cat Litter
          • Reviews of Silica Crystal Cat Litters
          • Reviews of Wheat-Based Swheat Scoop Cat Litter
          • Save Money on Pet Supplies with Groupon Coupons
        • Pet Therapy
          • Animal-Assisted Therapy Providers
          • Pet Therapy Resources
          • Prison Cats
        • Pregnant Cats and Kittens
          • Answers to Frequently Asked Kitten Questions
          • At What Age Can Cats Start Having Kittens?
          • Can a Litter of Kittens Have More Than One Father?
          • How Can You Tell if a Cat Is in Heat?
          • How Long Does a Cat’s Pregnancy Last?
          • How Many Kittens Can Cats Have?
          • How Old Should Kittens Be When They’re Adopted Out?
          • How to Care for Cats During Pregnancy, Labour, and Birth
          • How to Care for Orphaned Kittens
          • How to Safely Remove Fleas from Kittens
          • How to Socialize a Kitten
          • Kitten Development and Care: Birth to 2 Weeks
          • Kitten Development and Care: Week 13 and Up
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 3 and 4
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 5 and 6
          • Kitten Development and Care: Weeks 7-12
          • What Are the Signs of Pregnancy in Cats?
          • When Do Kittens’ Eyes Change Colour?
          • When Do Kittens’ Eyes Open?
          • Where to Adopt Kittens
          • Why Are Kittens Born with Blue Eyes?
          • Why Do Mother Cats Move Kittens?
          • Why Does a Male Cat Bite a Female’s Neck While Mating?
          • Will Handling Newborn Kittens Cause the Mother to Reject Them?
          • Will Tom Cats Kill Kittens?
        • The Cat Expressions Gallery
      • Dogs
        • 7 Great Ways to Care for Your Pet Dog
        • Amazing Dogs
          • Dogs Detect Cancer in People
          • Ginny – the Dog Who Rescued Cats
          • Seizure-Alert Dogs
          • Specially Trained Dogs Assist People with Parkinson’s Disease
        • Dog Care Articles
        • Dog Facts
          • Are Pit Bulls More Likely to Attack Than Dogs of Other Breeds?
          • Canine Aggression: What Causes Dogs to Attack?
          • Dog Breeds That Get Along with Cats
          • How Long Do Dogs Live?
          • How Old Is My Dog in Human Years?
          • The Effects of Pit Bull Bans: Does Breed-Specific Legislation Reduce Dog Attacks?
          • Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Attack?
        • Dog Health Articles
        • Dogs and Cats
        • Miscellaneous Dog Articles
      • Nutritional Health for Your Rabbit Friends
      • Predators of the Heart
      • Sharks
        • How to Reduce the Risk of Shark Attacks
        • Shark Finning Endangers Marine Ecosystems
        • Sharks Rarely Attack
    • Fitness
      • Can I do cardio and strength training on the same day? Should I do cardio or weights first?
      • Exercise Enhances Learning Ability
      • Fitness Resources
      • How Much Exercise Do People Need?
      • How Often Should I Change My Workout Routine?
      • How to Get Motivated to Start Running
      • Strength Training
        • Does Strength Training Cause Women to Bulk Up?
        • How Do I Get an Abdominal ‘Six-Pack’?
        • How Long Should a Strength Training Workout Be? And How Can You Tell if You’re Overtraining?
        • How to Start Strength Training
        • Sports and Bodybuilding Supplements
        • Strength Training for Weight Loss
        • Strength Training Health Benefits
        • Strength Training: Can I train successfully on a vegetarian or vegan diet?
        • Strength Training: Do I need to go to the gym, or can I get good results working out at home?
        • Strength Training: How can I get really big (without steroids)?
        • Strength Training: How Long Should I Rest Between Sets?
        • Strength Training: How Many Days a Week?
        • Strength Training: How Many Repetitions?
        • Strength Training: How Many Sets?
        • Strength Training: How should I warm up and cool down? And should I stretch before and after workouts?
        • Strength Training: Should I Do a Full-Body Workout or a Split Routine?
        • Strength Training: Should I Use Free Weights or Machines?
        • Strength Training: What should I eat before and after my workout?
      • Stretching Techniques
        • Basic Stretching Techniques
        • PNF Stretching
        • Risky Stretches That May Cause Injuries
        • Stretching for Sports and Flexibility
      • Weight Loss
        • How to Reduce Fat in Your Diet
        • Probiotics for Weight Loss
        • Why Most Dieters Fail
    • Food and Nutrition
      • Antibiotics in Food and Farming
      • Coffee
        • Is Coffee Harmful to Your Health?
        • The Health Benefits of Coffee
      • Cooking Tips
        • 10 Tips for Healthier Baking with Whole Foods
        • Cooking and Baking Ingredient Substitutions
          • Baking Substitutes: Dairy Products
          • Baking Substitutes: Eggs and Mayonnaise
          • Broths, Juices, Alcoholic Beverages, Sauces, and Condiments
          • Cooking and Baking Substitutions: Herbs and Spices (Including Onion and Garlic)
          • Fat Substitutions: Low-Fat and Vegan Options
          • Raising Agent Substitutions
          • Substitutes for Flours, Other Grains, and Bread Products (Including Gluten-Free Options)
          • Substitutions for Chocolate, Raisins, and Peanut Butter
          • Types of Sugar, Liquid Sweeteners, Natural Sugar Substitutes, and Low-Calorie Sugar Alternatives
            • Liquid Sweeteners / Sugar Substitutes
            • Low-Calorie and Calorie-Free Sugar Substitutes
            • Types of Sugar and Sugar Substitutions
        • How to Choose, Store, and Prepare Garlic
        • How to Choose, Store, and Prepare Onions
        • Low-Fat and Fat-Free Baking Substitutes
        • Meat Safety
        • Slow Cooker Cooking Tips
        • Slow Cooker Safety Tips
        • Tips for Baking Bread with Whole Wheat Flour and Other Whole Grains
      • Food Facts
        • An Apple a Day: The Health Benefits of Apples
        • Anti-inflammatory Foods
        • Aphrodisiac Foods
        • Artificial Sweeteners Cause Weight Gain and Health Problems
        • Battery Cage Chickens
        • Best Natural Sources of Calcium
        • Chocolate’s Health Benefits
        • Egg Labels: Free-Range, Organic, and Omega-3
        • Food and Beverage Caffeine Contents
        • Health Benefits of Tomatoes and Other Lycopene-Rich Foods
        • How Long Baked Goods, Dry Ingredients, Canned Goods, Condiments, Fruits, Vegetables, Meats, Eggs, and Dairy Products Keep
        • How much protein do I need? Will eating too much protein make me fat?
        • How to Store Fruits and Vegetables
        • How to Tell if an Egg Is Bad (Do Bad Eggs Really Float?)
        • Leafy Green Vegetables Protect Against Osteoporosis
        • Natural Food Sources of Probiotics
        • Nutrition Guidelines for Fitness: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats
        • Nutrition: Free Range vs. Battery Cage Eggs
        • The Best Antioxidant Foods
        • Whole Grains for Health
      • Herbs and Spices
        • Basil Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Black Pepper Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cardamom Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Chili Pepper Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cinnamon Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cloves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Cumin Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Dill Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Fenugreek Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Ginger Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Mustard Seed Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Nutmeg Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Oregano Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Parsley Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Peppermint Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Rosemary Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Sage Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Tarragon Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Thyme Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
        • Turmeric Health Benefits and Cooking Uses
      • Recipes
        • Cheddar and Chive Cornbread
        • Fast, Easy, Delicious Custard Pie
        • Free Gingerbread House Templates and Recipes
        • Healthy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
        • Herb Bread (Bread Maker Recipe)
        • Honey-Sweetened Berry Pie Recipe
        • Honey-Sweetened Challah Bread (Bread Maker Recipe)
        • Pumpkin Muffin Recipes
        • Slow Cooker Swiss Steak
      • Supplements
        • How Much Vitamin C Should You Take?
        • Should You Take a Probiotic Supplement? Probiotic Health Benefits
        • Vitamin D Facts and Natural Sources
        • Vitamin E Facts
        • Zinc Facts
      • Tea and Health
        • Green Tea Aids Weight Loss
        • Health Benefits of Caffeinated Tea
        • How to Increase Tea’s Health Benefits
    • Gardening
      • 10 Ways to Create a More Environmentally Friendly Garden
      • All About Basil: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking with Basil
      • All About Chives: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Chives, Storing Chives, and Cooking with Chives
      • All About Mint: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking with Mint
      • All About Sage: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Sage, Storing Sage, and Cooking with Sage
      • Beets: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Beets, Storing Beets, and Cooking with Beets
      • Carrots: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking
      • Causes of Cracking in Tomatoes
      • Choosing Containers for Container Gardening
      • Composting FAQ
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Metaphorical Platypus

Carrots: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Growing, Storing, and Cooking

Container Carrots

Container-Grown Carrots

Carrots are a great addition to the home garden. They’re nutritious, tastier than store-bought carrots, low-maintenance to grow, quick to mature, and tough enough to withstand cold temperatures. They’re also very productive because they can be grown relatively close together, and they can be stored for longer than many other vegetables.

When thinking of carrots, most people picture the standard orange, tapering type, but carrots are available in a variety of hues, ranging from deep purples and reds to pale yellows and whites, and in many shapes and sizes, including long, medium, short, finger, and ball-shaped (the long variety are the ones most commonly found in supermarkets). In addition, you can select varieties for flavour characteristics (such as added sweetness), pest-resistance, ability to thrive in particular climates, or higher beta-carotene content.

Because they’re colourful, quick-growing, and fun to harvest, carrots are a great choice for children’s gardens. However, the seeds are tiny, so it may be better to purchase pelleted seeds or seeds attached to seed tape to make them easier to handle when gardening with kids.

What are the health benefits of carrots?

Carrots in Orange and Purple

Orange and Purple Carrots

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, a potent antioxidant, and they also provide potassium, vitamins B, C, E, and K, and calcium pectate, a type of fiber that can help to lower cholesterol. Carrot varieties that produce deep, dark colours provide additional beneficial antioxidants. Red carrots contain lycopene, an antioxidant also found in tomatoes, and purple carrots have anthocyanins, which also provide colour to other nutritional superfoods, such as blueberries.

Research indicates that eating carrots regularly may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and glaucoma (optic nerve damage caused by pressure inside the eye, which can lead to blindness).

When should I plant carrots?

Carrots prefer cooler temperatures. They do best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 Fahrenheit. Warm days and cool nights produce the sweetest carrots.

As a general rule, plant spring crops 2-4 weeks before the last frost (typically the early spring) and for a fall crop, plant 8-12 weeks before the first frost (usually the mid to late summer). The temperature should be at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 Celsius) when you plant. You can start planting earlier and continue growing later in the season if you provide protection, such as a cold frame or polytunnel.

In mild climates, you can enjoy carrots year-round if you succession sow them. However, some varieties will grow bitter in hot temperatures (about 80 Fahrenheit or 27 Celsius).

Where should I plant carrots?

Plant carrots directly in the garden in a sunny spot (they don’t transplant well, so starting them indoors is not recommended).

How far apart should I space carrot seeds?

Aim to leave at least 1-2 inches of space between seeds, and thin to 3-4 inches later on. If planting in rows, leave a foot or more of space between them. Wider spacing will usually produce bigger carrots.

It can be tricky to get appropriate spacing to start with because carrot seeds are so tiny. You may end up planting them more densely and having to do more thinning later on, which can disturb the roots of neighboring seedlings. If you’d like to make the planting process easier, you can purchase pelleted seeds or seeds attached to seed tape (these cost more than regular seed).

How deep should I plant carrot seeds?

Plant carrot seeds 1/4 deep.

How long do carrot seeds take to sprout?

If conditions are good, carrot seeds will sprout within 6-21 days. The closer the temperature is to ideal for sprouting (65-75 Fahrenheit/18-24 Celsius), the faster the seeds are likely to sprout.

It’s important to maintain consistent moisture after planting. Some gardeners provide shade by putting a cloth over a polytunnel or planting carrots in a furrow and placing a board or blanket over them until they sprout to make it easier to keep the soil moist.

A popular strategy when growing carrots is to plant a nurse crop of radishes in the same rows because they mature quickly, loosen up the soil, suppress weeds, mark rows for the slower-sprouting carrots, and shelter carrot seedlings when they emerge. The radishes are harvested while the carrots are still in the early seedling stage, so they don’t compete at the later stage when the carrots are producing bigger roots.

Can I grow carrots in the shade?

While full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) is ideal, carrots can grow in partial shade (at least 2-3 hours of direct sun per day).

What type of soil do carrots need?

Supermarket Carrots

Long, Thin Supermarket Carrots

Carrots do best in loose, deep soil. Loosen the soil and remove any roots or rocks before planting, because obstacles can cause carrots to fork or become otherwise twisted and misshapen. A sandy, loam-type soil is ideal. Acidic, compacted, and heavy clay soils yield poor results.

Don’t add much nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the soil before planting, or you’ll end up with lush leaves at the expense of root development, or hairy roots. Mixing in an inch of well-aged compost before planting will improve growing conditions. Worm compost is particularly good for carrots.

Can I grow carrots in a container?

Carrots can be grown in containers as long as they’re deep enough. The smaller finger and ball varieties can manage in as little as 6 inches of soil, but most carrot varieties need deeper containers (8 inches at the absolute minimum, and preferably more, depending on the variety).

How big do carrots plants get?

Carrots can grow up to around 18 inches tall, though plants are typically 6-12 inches tall.

What ongoing care do carrots need?

Keep the soil consistently moist. Carrot seeds need moisture to sprout, and dry soil or inconsistent watering can cause carrots to split or become hairy (but don’t water so much that the soil becomes waterlogged, particularly shortly after planting, as this may move seeds around so that you end up with clumps of carrots growing in a few spots rather than even spacing; water the seeds with a spray bottle or sprinkler hose to avoid this problem).

Weed regularly when carrots are in the early stages of growth. Carrot seedlings don’t compete well with weeds. Once carrots grow larger, their dense foliage suppresses weeds.

Thin to 3-4 inches when your carrot foliage is around 4 inches high (you can eat the thinnings in salads). Water after thinning.

Mulch with compost, grass clippings, or seedless straw when the plants are around 6 inches tall to suppress weed growth and conserve moisture. Mulching also prevents the shoulders of the carrots from being exposed to the sun, which causes them to turn green and inedible due to their bitter flavour.

Should I fertilize carrots?

Carrots aren’t heavy feeders, and too much nitrogen-rich fertilizer can actually be a problem, as it encourages the plants to put their energy into producing lush greens rather than big roots.

Using a soil with some added fertilizer and compost when planting is usually sufficient. You shouldn’t have to add additional fertilizer unless you’re planting in very nutrient-poor soil, and you definitely don’t want to add fresh manure, as it will cause the carrot roots to become forked and hairy.

A liquid kelp or other fertilizer that has less nitrogen and more potassium and phosphorus can be added if your soil is very nutrient-poor.

How long do carrots take to grow?

Carrots mature in 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the variety.

When do I harvest carrots?

Carrots are usually harvested throughout the summer and fall, though this can be extended into the spring and winter in milder climates or with some cold protection such as a cold frame or polytunnel.

Though you can harvest them at any stage, carrots are best gathered when they are an inch in diameter or less, as this is when they are at peak flavour. If you leave them in the ground beyond this, they may become woody. On the other hand, if you pull them up too early, they won’t be as flavourful, because they haven’t had time to store much sugar (the sweet baby carrots available in supermarkets are either carved from mature, large carrots or they’re small-root varieties harvested at maturity).

A fall crop of carrots can be left in the ground until you want to use them. However, you’ll need to dig them up quickly in the early spring, before they become tough and woody. An early spring crop of over-wintered carrots can have very good flavour because the cold weather causes them to convert some of their starch into sugar. If you plan to overwinter your carrots, provide some protection (for example, a leaf or straw mulch).

Be careful not to damage the carrots when you’re pulling them up, as damage causes them to rot more quickly.

Why didn’t my carrot seeds sprout?

Carrot seeds may fail to sprout if the soil dries out or the seeds are too old (carrot seeds keep for a relatively short time compared to those of other vegetables). Also, birds and other creatures like to eat carrot seeds. If you suspect that your seeds are being eaten, you can keep pests out with row covers.

Slugs will also gobble up newly emerged seedlings, so your carrots may have sprouted and been eaten before you saw the emerging seedlings. See Natural, Non-Toxic Ways to Deal with Garden Slugs for tips on getting rid of these pests.

Why are my carrots so small and spindly?

Carrots need the right growing conditions to produce surplus energy that they can store in their roots. Root growth will be stunted if the plant suffers from too much competition due to failure to weed or thin the plants to the appropriate spacing (3-4 inches). Insufficient light, water, or nutrients can also cause this problem.

Why are my carrots splitting?

This problem is typically caused by overly soggy soil, excessively dry soil, or inconsistent watering.

Why are my carrots forking?

If your carrots are growing in multiple directions (for example, carrots that look like pairs of legs), the roots have probably come into contact with stones or fresh manure, which causes them to split into two new growing points.

Why are the tops of my carrot roots green?

This is caused by the tops of carrot roots (the shoulders) being exposed to sunlight, which renders the exposed portions inedible (the rest of the carrot is fine – just cut the green portion off when preparing). Pile soil up over the carrot shoulders or use mulch to cover them to prevent this problem.

Why are my carrots bolting (producing flowers) early?

Carrots won’t usually bolt until their second year of growth, but if they’re exposed to low temperatures (below 50 degrees Fahrenheit/10 degrees Celsius) for a couple of weeks or more) followed by warmer days when still small, the plants are tricked into reacting as though spring has come. Once the plants have bolted, the carrots will not have good flavour or texture.

Why are my carrots pale yellow instead of orange?

There are naturally yellow carrot varieties, but if you’re growing an orange type and the carrots are very pale, temperatures may be too warm or cold, or the soil may be too waterlogged. Carrots that are paler than they should be usually have poor texture and flavour.

Why are there holes in my carrots?

The culprit is often carrot rust fly larvae, which tunnel into carrot roots, creating rust-coloured lesions that make carrots inedible, though carrot weevils may also be the problem.

You can reduce the risk of attracting these pests by removing damaged foliage and thinnings immediately. Row covers and mulching can also provide protection.

Some gardeners plant rows of onions between rows of carrots to repel the pests, grow carrot rust fly-resistant varieties, or use carrot rust fly netting.

Grow your carrots in a different spot each year in case there are still carrot rust fly maggots in the soil.

Why are my carrots woody, hairy, and bitter tasting, with discoloured foliage?

Pests called leafhoppers spread a bacterial disease called aster yellows that causes this problem. The carrot roots look twisted or stunted and hairy, and portions of the leaves are discoloured, taking on a brownish, reddish, or yellowish hue.

You can reduce the risk of this disease by enriching soil with compost, growing carrots far away from fruit or nut trees and grapevines (which often host the bacteria), and using row covers to keep leafhoppers out. Hairy or misshapen roots can also be caused by too much nitrogen in the soil (often the result of over-fertilizing), and brown discolouration of foliage can  be caused by a fungal infection, which is more likely to occur after a period of high humidity.

Why did my carrot seedlings disappear?

Earwigs and slugs can eat a whole bed of carrot seedlings in a single night.

How do I store carrots, and how long will they keep?

Cut off the top greens and store carrots in the refrigerator. They should keep for around two weeks. If any carrots have been damaged (scraped, broken, etc.) during harvest, use them immediately, as they’ll go off far more quickly.

Some people store carrots in a box of sand (builder’s sand, not beach sand) in an unheated shed or garage, where they will keep for up to 6 months in the right conditions. Roots should not be touching one another, as this encourages rotting.

If you’d like to freeze your carrots for long-term storage, you’ll need to cut them up and blanch them before placing them in a sealed freezer bag or container. The National Center for Home Food Preservation provides detailed instructions for blanching and freezing carrots.

You can also leave carrots in the ground throughout the winter in mild climates. They’ll continue to grow slowly and can be harvested as needed. If the ground is likely to freeze, protect them with mulch.

How do I save seeds for carrots?

Carrots are biennials, which means that they set seeds in their second year. If you don’t pull them up during the first year of growth, they’ll produce flowers that attract beneficial pollinators to your garden.

If you want to save seeds, don’t collect them from the earliest-flowering plants, because you won’t want to grow varieties that bolt early. Let seed heads ripen on the later-flowering plants until they turn brown, cut them off, and dry them indoors for a week or so in paper bags. Then crush them to release the seeds and save the largest seeds for planting. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.

If you plan to save carrot seeds, keep in mind that different carrot varieties will cross-pollinate, and Queen Anne’s Lace (wild carrot) will also cross-pollinate with carrots within half a mile.

Carrot seeds only keep for around 3 years, in good storage conditions, and they’re best used within a year of collection.

Should I peel carrots?

The outer part of the carrot tends to have the highest concentration of beneficial nutrients, so giving carrots a good wash but not peeling them is recommended for maximum health benefits.

Are carrot greens edible?

Yes, carrot greens are edible and highly nutritious. For carrot top recipes, see the Carrot Museum’s Carrot Tops page.

There are poisonous plants that look like wild carrot. If you’re going to consume carrot tops, make sure you have the right plant. Also, it’s possible to be allergic to carrot greens, in the same way a person might be allergic to dairy, wheat, or pollen. This doesn’t mean that the plant is dangerously toxic however; this is a risk that can occur with many different foods. For a good discussion of this, see Linda Ly’s Are Carrot Tops Toxic? (The Short Answer: No) on Garden Betty.

How do I cook carrots?

Carrots are delicious raw, on their own or with dip, or sliced or grated into salads. However, they’re sweetened by cooking, and there are plenty of great carrot recipes for main courses, side dishes, snacks, and desserts. See the carrot pages on Eating Well and Cooking Light for a selection of recipes.

For more vegetable and herb gardening articles, see the main Gardening page. For food articles and recipes, see the main Food and Nutrition page.



References:

  • Cornell University. (2006). Growing Guide: Carrots. Gardening.Cornell.edu.
  • Day, S. (2010). Incredible Edibles: 43 Fun Things to Grow in the City. Richmond Hill, ON: Firefly Books.
  • Edwards Forkner, L. (2012). The Timber Press Guide to Vegetable Gardening in the Pacific Northwest. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
  • Haase, J. (2009). From Seed to Table: A Practical Guide to Eating and Growing Green. London, ON: Insomniac Press.
  • Halsall, L. (2012). Small Plot Big Harvest: A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Fruits & Vegetables in Small Spaces. New York, NY: DK Publishing Special Markets.
  • Herriot, C. (2010). The Zero-Mile Diet: A year-Round Guide to Growing Organic Food. Madeira Park, BC: Harbour Publishing.
  • Jabbour, N. (2012). The Year-Round Vegetable Gardener. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing.
  • McGee, R. M. N., & Stuckey, M. (2002). McGee and Stuckey’s the Bountiful Container. New York, NY: Workman Publishing.
  • Moss, W. (2012). Any Size, Anywhere: Edible Gardening. Minneapolis: Cool Springs Press.
  • The George Mateljan Foundation. (2016). The World’s Healthiest Foods: Carrots. WHFoods.com.
  • Tozer, F. (2013). The New Vegetable Growers Handbook. Santa Cruz, CA: Green Man Publishing.
  • World Carrot Museum. (n.d.). Carrot Questions and Answers and Carrot Nutrition. CarrotMuseum.co.uk.
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