Inaccurate Information on the Web
Misinformation is not a new concept however with the creation of the internet and social media, it is more prominent than ever. One of the great things about the internet is that everyone has a voice but that also means that it can be hard to decipher accurate information. Since everyone can share their thoughts and ideas, it becomes increasingly more difficult to find people with reputable information especially if the information is spread via social media.
A common issue many see on the internet today is political misinformation. Social media plays a large role in spreading misinformation by using algorithms to show people what they want to see. This also increases party polarization further separating political parties. Even political heads will post things to push their agenda. While unfortunate, it does not seem like the spread of misinformation will stop anytime soon.
EBSCO Rise of Misinformation (International)
Let’s Talk About AI
My Thoughts on AI and Misinformation
AI is changing how we view the internet. When we see things on the internet now we have to consider if it is human made or not. Quite frequently I find myself watching something on social media when I open the comments to see someone saying the content is AI. As AI improves, it is more important than ever to make sure you do research to find reputable information.
Interactions With Different AI Models – How to care for a cat
Conversation Title: how do you take care of a cat
Agent: ONEchat
[09/13/2026 21:35:03 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
how do you take care of a cat
Response:
- Food: Feed complete, age-appropriate cat food and provide fresh water daily. Don’t give cats onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes/raisins, alcohol, or caffeine.
- Litter box: Provide one box per cat, plus one extra if possible. Scoop daily and wash it regularly.
- Vet care: Schedule an initial checkup, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, and spaying/neutering. Seek veterinary help if your cat stops eating, has trouble breathing, or seems severely ill.
- Grooming: Brush regularly; trim claws carefully every few weeks. Avoid declawing.
- Exercise and enrichment: Offer scratching posts, toys, hiding spots, climbing areas, and daily play.
- Safety: Keep the cat indoors or use a secure enclosure/leash. Microchip it, use a breakaway collar, and keep toxic plants, medications, chemicals, and exposed cords away.
- Affection and routine: Give gentle attention, respect its boundaries, and keep feeding and cleaning schedules consistent.
[09/13/2026 21:36:11 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
can I have sources
Response:
Here are reliable sources:
- ASPCA — General Cat Care: feeding, water, grooming, litter boxes, scratching, identification, veterinary care, and safety.[doc1]
- ASPCA — Cat Care Hub: enrichment, nutrition, grooming, common diseases, and behavior guidance.[doc2]
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine — Vaccinations: information about feline vaccines and disease prevention.[doc3]
- Cornell Feline Health Center: veterinary health information and research-based cat-care resources.[doc4]
Conversation Title: how do you take care of a cat
Agent: ONEchat
[09/13/2026 21:53:39 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
how do you take care of a cat
Response:
Here are the essentials:
Food & Water
- High-quality cat food (wet, dry, or both)
- Fresh water daily
- Feed once or twice daily depending on age/health
Litter Box
- Clean daily, change litter regularly
- One box per cat, plus one extra
- Keep in quiet, accessible location
Veterinary Care
- Annual checkups (twice yearly for seniors)
- Vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Spay/neuter
Exercise & Play
- Interactive toys and playtime daily
- Cat trees or climbing spaces
- Window perches for stimulation
Grooming
- Brush regularly (especially long-haired cats)
- Trim nails or provide scratching posts
- Dental care as recommended by vet
Environment
- Safe, enriched space with hiding spots
- Scratching surfaces
- Temperature control
- Minimize stress
Health Signs to Watch
- Changes in eating/drinking/litter habits
- Lethargy, vomiting, or behavioral changes
- Dental issues
Socialization
- Regular interaction and affection
- Some cats need more attention than others
Cats are generally independent, but consistent care, veterinary attention, and enrichment keep them healthy and happy. Specific needs vary by age and health status.
[09/13/2026 21:53:59 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
can I have sources
Response:
Here are the key sources:
Feeding & Nutrition
Provide high-quality cat food with taurine—cats are obligate carnivores requiring animal-based proteins[doc1]. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times, and treats should make up no more than 5-10% of their diet[doc1].
Litter Box
Place the box in a quiet, accessible location[doc1]. Scoop solid wastes at least once daily, and dump/wash the entire box at least once weekly[doc1].
Grooming
Brush regularly to reduce shedding and prevent matting[doc2]. Trim nails every 2-4 weeks to keep them blunt[doc1].
Veterinary Care
Adult cats should have yearly wellness exams[doc2]. Include vaccinations, parasite prevention, spaying/neutering by five months of age, and dental care[doc1][doc2].
Handling & Housing
Pick up cats by supporting both front and back legs, not by the scruff[doc1]. Cats should be kept indoors since outdoor cats have shorter lifespans and face risks from cars, predators, and disease[doc1].
Scratching Posts
Provide a sturdy post at least 3 feet high covered with sisal, burlap, or bark to satisfy natural scratching needs[doc1].
Signs of Illness
Watch for changes in appetite, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, or changes in litter habits[doc2].
Sources: ASPCA[doc3][doc1], Dial A Vet[doc2], Virginia Tech Veterinary Teaching Hospital[doc4]
Conversation Title: How do you take care of a cat
Agent: ONEchat
[09/13/2026 22:02:12 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
How do you take care of a cat
Response:
Taking care of a cat involves several key aspects to ensure they stay healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
1. Nutrition
- Food: Provide high-quality commercial cat food (wet, dry, or a combination) appropriate for their age (kitten, adult, senior), health, and activity level. Avoid foods toxic to cats, such as onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and grapes.
- Portion Control: Follow feeding guidelines on the food packaging and adjust based on your cat’s weight and activity level. Obesity is a common issue in cats.
- Fresh Water: Always provide clean, fresh water. Consider a cat fountain if your cat prefers running water.
- Treats: Use treats sparingly (no more than 10% of their daily calories) and opt for healthy options.
2. Litter Box Care
- Location: Place the litter box in a quiet, accessible location. Avoid high-traffic or noisy areas.
- Type: Use a litter box that’s large enough for your cat to turn around in. Some cats prefer covered boxes, while others like open ones.
- Litter: Choose a litter your cat likes (clumping, non-clumping, silica, etc.). Avoid strongly scented litters if your cat is sensitive.
- Cleaning: Scoop waste daily and change the litter completely at least once a week. Wash the box with mild soap and water during litter changes.
- Number of Boxes: The general rule is one litter box per cat plus one extra (e.g., 2 boxes for 1 cat, 3 boxes for 2 cats).
3. Grooming
- Brushing: Brush your cat regularly to reduce shedding and hairballs. Long-haired cats (e.g., Maine Coons, Persians) need daily brushing, while short-haired cats can be brushed weekly.
- Bathing: Most cats don’t need baths, but if necessary, use a cat-specific shampoo and warm water. Avoid getting water in their ears or eyes.
- Nail Trimming: Trim your cat’s nails every 2-3 weeks using cat-specific nail clippers. Be careful not to cut the quick (the pink part inside the nail).
- Dental Care: Brush your cat’s teeth regularly with cat-specific toothpaste. Dental treats and toys can also help maintain oral health.
- Ear Cleaning: Check ears weekly for dirt, wax buildup, or signs of infection (redness, odor). Clean with a vet-approved ear cleaner and a cotton ball (never use Q-tips).
4. Health Care
- Veterinary Visits: Schedule annual check-ups for adult cats and bi-annual visits for senior cats (7+ years). Kittens need more frequent visits for vaccinations and deworming.
- Vaccinations: Keep your cat up to date on core vaccines (rabies, feline distemper, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus) and non-core vaccines (e.g., feline leukemia) based on your vet’s recommendation.
- Parasite Prevention: Use monthly flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. Deworm your cat as recommended by your vet.
- Spaying/Neutering: Spay or neuter your cat to prevent unwanted litters, reduce roaming, and lower the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues.
- Signs of Illness: Watch for changes in appetite, weight, energy levels, litter box habits, or behavior. Common signs of illness include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, coughing, sneezing, or excessive scratching. Contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.
5. Exercise and Play
- Toys: Provide a variety of toys (wand toys, balls, laser pointers, puzzle feeders) to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated.
- Scratching Posts: Cats need to scratch to maintain claw health and mark territory. Provide scratching posts or pads (vertical and horizontal options).
- Climbing and Perches: Cats love to climb and observe from high places. Cat trees, shelves, or window perches are great additions to your home.
- Playtime: Aim for at least 10-15 minutes of interactive play per day. This helps prevent obesity and boredom.
6. Environmental Enrichment
- Safe Outdoor Access: If you want your cat to experience the outdoors, consider supervised outdoor time or a secure “catio.” Never let your cat roam freely outside, as it increases risks like traffic, predators, and disease.
- Window Views: Set up a perch or bed near a window so your cat can watch birds and squirrels.
- Hiding Spots: Cats love cozy hiding spots. Provide boxes, tunnels, or cat beds in quiet areas.
- Companionship: If your cat is social, consider adopting a second cat for companionship. However, some cats prefer to be the only pet in the household.
7. Behavior and Training
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or playtime. Avoid punishment, as it can create fear and aggression.
- Litter Box Training: Most cats instinctively use a litter box. If accidents happen, clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors.
- Scratching Training: Redirect scratching to appropriate surfaces (e.g., scratching posts) and discourage scratching furniture by using double-sided tape or aluminum foil on the furniture.
- Socialization: Expose kittens to people, pets, and new environments early to help them grow into well-adjusted adults.
8. Safety
- Toxic Plants: Keep toxic plants (e.g., lilies, poinsettias, philodendrons) out of reach.
- Hazardous Items: Secure loose wires, small objects (e.g., rubber bands, strings), and chemicals (e.g., cleaning products, antifreeze).
- Windows and Balconies: Ensure windows and balconies are secure with screens or guards to prevent falls.
- Microchipping: Microchip your cat and ensure they wear a collar with an ID tag in case they get lost.
9. Senior Cat Care
- Diet: Senior cats may need a diet lower in calories but higher in fiber and easily digestible proteins.
- Mobility: Provide ramps or steps to help older cats reach their favorite spots if they have arthritis or mobility issues.
- Regular Vet Visits: Senior cats need more frequent vet visits to monitor for age-related conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid issues.
10. Love and Attention
- Bonding: Spend quality time with your cat daily through petting, grooming, or simply sitting together.
- Respect Their Space: Cats need alone time. Let them come to you and avoid forcing interaction.
- Routine: Cats thrive on routine. Try to feed, play, and interact with them at the same times each day.
When to Call the Vet
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat shows any of the following signs:
- Not eating or drinking for 24+ hours
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Lethargy or weakness
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Labored breathing
- Seizures or collapse
- Injury or trauma
Taking care of a cat is a long-term commitment, but the love and companionship they provide make it all worthwhile! Let me know if you’d like more details on any specific aspect.
[09/13/2026 22:02:51 +00:00] Abigayle Crumley (acrumley):
can I have some sources
Response:
Here are some authoritative and up-to-date sources for cat care guidelines in 2026:
1. Comprehensive Cat Care Guide (2026)
Source: Animal Generator – Complete Guide to Cat Care in 2026
What’s Covered:
- Nutrition: How to choose high-quality cat food, wet vs. dry food, portion control, and life-stage feeding (kitten, adult, senior).
- Preventive Health Care: Vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, and recognizing signs of illness.
- Grooming: Brushing techniques for different coat types, nail care, and ear cleaning.
- Environmental Enrichment: Creating vertical spaces, interactive play, and litter box best practices.
- Behavior and Communication: Decoding body language, addressing common behavioral challenges, and building a strong bond with your cat.
This guide is written by a veterinarian and reflects the latest best practices in feline care.
2. Cat Healthcare Guide (2026)
Source: Whop – The Best Cat Healthcare Guide 2026
What’s Covered:
- Preventive Care: Modern approaches to vaccinations, vet visits, and parasite prevention.
- Nutrition: What to feed your cat at every life stage and what to avoid.
- Behavior and Wellbeing: Understanding stress, anxiety, and common behavioral issues.
- Grooming and Hygiene: Tips for keeping your cat clean and comfortable.
- Early Warning Signs: How to spot illness before it becomes serious.
- Safety: Indoor and outdoor safety tips to create a secure environment.
This guide is designed for both new and experienced cat owners and is updated for 2026.
3. Cat Care Buying Guide (2026)
Source: Pet Health Authority – Cat Care Buying Guide
What’s Covered:
- Nutrition: How to choose high-quality cat food and supplements, with a focus on transparency and natural ingredients.
- Supplements: Vet-recommended products for joint health, calming, and overall wellbeing.
- Seasonal and Age-Related Care: Adjusting care for senior cats and seasonal changes.
- Vet-Quality Standards: How to identify safe, effective products backed by scientific research.
- Calming Anxious Cats: Natural solutions for stress and anxiety, such as pheromone diffusers and herbal supplements.
This guide includes product recommendations and practical tips for selecting the best care items for your cat.
Analysis and Reflection
All three AI models gave accurate information on how to take care of a cat. I found that using Mistrial Large 3 gave the most accurate and detailed information compared the other models. None of the models provided sources initially which added to the number of tokens used for each. Additionally, the sources provided from Mistrial Large 3 were not sources that I would typically use as both encouraged buying products. The Open AI model (GPT 5.6 Luna) offered the most helpful and on task sources which I found surprising considering it used the least tokens. I think you could use these models for basic knowledge of a topic you are still learning similar to Wikipedia but I would not use them for actual research on a topic.
