Cat Facts

January 22, 2026

compiled by Nancy Kerr

M is for …

Magnetic Tomography also known as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique (no radiation) used to create detailed images of a cat’s internal structures. It is particularly useful for evaluating the brain and spinal cord. It is preferred by veterinary neurologists due to its accuracy and informative capabilities in diagnosing neurologic conditions.

Mange is caused by microscopic mites that invade the skin of otherwise healthy animals. This results in skin irritation which includes itching, hair loss, and inflammation. Cats are very susceptible to several types of mange, including canine scabies, feline scabies (notoedric mange), ear mites (otodectic mange), walking dandruff (cheyletiellosis), and trombiculosis. Demodicosis is not considered mange, but it is also caused by mites. All forms of mange are highly contagious.

Metastasis is the spread of cancer in a cat from its original site to other body parts. This in turn leads to new tumors which can significantly affect a cat’s health. If lung cancer spreads to another organ, the resulting tumor is referred to as metastatic lung cancer.

Microchip is a tiny electronic chip (about the size of grain of rice) that is implanted just beneath the skin, typically between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by veterinary clinics or animal shelters and cannot be lost like collars or tags. Veterinarians will normally implant the microchip when a cat is being altered; however, it can be implanted while a cat is awake.

Metritis is a uterine infection that typically occurs within a week after a female cat gives birth. It is characterized by inflammation of the endometrium (lining of the uterus) due to bacterial infection. The condition can also develop after a miscarriage or non-sterile artificial insemination.