Cat care tips: How to keep your furry friend happy and healthy

Having a cat as a pet offers a wonderful experience. Watching them purr and nap on your lap or play around your home can bring great joy. Their affectionate nature and low-maintenance needs make them ideal companions. If you’re considering bringing a cat into your home, it’s essential to understand how to provide proper care and attention to ensure they lead a happy and healthy life.

Attention and environment

Cats need a lot of attention and are often more active at night. Spend quality time with your cat to keep them engaged and entertained. Make sure to remove toxic plants and secure loose wires in your home. Provide a comfortable and safe space for your cat to relax.

Cat diet

What you feed your cat is crucial for their health. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require animal-based products to get the necessary nutrients. Their natural diet includes protein, moderate fat, and low carbohydrates. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids, usually eliminating the need for supplements. Consult a vet before adding any supplements to their diet.

Cat food comes in various types:

Dry food: Contains 6-10% moisture and includes ingredients like meat, grain, fish meal, and vitamins. Store unused portions in a cool, dry place and avoid using expired food.

Semi-moist food: Contains about 35% moisture and primarily includes meat and meat byproducts.

Canned food: The most expensive option, with 75% moisture, helps keep cats hydrated.

Read ingredient lists carefully and choose food based on your cat’s preferences. Some cats like dry food, while others prefer canned or a mix of both. Homemade cat food can be complicated, so commercially prepared, nutritionally balanced food is usually best unless your vet recommends otherwise.

Kittens, adults, and senior cats have different nutritional needs. Ensure their diet meets their specific requirements and establish a feeding schedule. Never mix different foods and always monitor their food and water intake.

Clean drinking water

Clean drinking water is vital for your cat’s health. Just like humans, cats need water to prevent common health problems like urinary tract infections and kidney diseases. Consider a pet fountain if your cat prefers flowing water to encourage hydration.

Cleanliness

Cats are naturally clean animals and groom themselves by licking. Regular brushing helps maintain their coat, especially if your cat has long hair. Brush short-haired cats weekly and be gentle around sensitive areas like their face, belly, and chest. If brushing stresses your cat, try again later when they’re calmer.

Trim your cat’s nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and damage. Avoid cutting the inner pink area of the nail, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If you’re unsure, consult a professional groomer.

If your cat’s coat feels oily, give them a bath with cat-specific shampoo. Regular grooming strengthens your bond with your cat, but ensure you’re in a good mood to avoid stressing them.

Cat litter training

Young kittens need help learning litter box habits. Start litter training at about four weeks old with kitten-friendly supplies, including a low-sided litter box and appropriate litter.

Keep an extra litter box and choose a type of litter your cat finds comfortable. Place the litter box in a well-lit, accessible location, not in an enclosed space.

Introduce your kitten to the litter box after naps, meals, and drinks. Reward them with treats for correct use. Clean the litter box regularly and try different types of litter if needed. If problems persist, consult a vet, as medical issues could be affecting their behaviour.

Additional tips

Provide a scratching post to satisfy your cat’s natural scratching instincts and protect your furniture. Use a cat carrier for safe and comfortable travel.

Health care

Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations are essential for your cat’s health. Core vaccinations include the rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, and FeLV vaccine. Ensure your cat is happy and healthy by providing toys, love, attention, and affection.

Compiled by Shruthi Mol D. K.