A healthy cat equals a happy cat! In celebration of National Cat Health Month, we’re thrilled to share vital tips to ensure your feline family members thrive. Whether you have an energetic kitten or a wise senior cat, these 10 essential guidelines will help you provide the best care and keep your cat in excellent health.
1. Regular Cat Grooming is Key
You might think, “Cats groom themselves, right?” While it’s true that cats are meticulous groomers, your assistance can significantly elevate their health and hygiene. Cats with short, medium, and long hair all benefit from regular brushing. This practice effectively removes loose fur, minimizing shedding around your home and preventing the formation of uncomfortable hairballs in your cat’s digestive system. Beyond the practical advantages, regular grooming sessions provide a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the bond you share with your feline companion!
2. Fresh Water Should Always Be Available
Just like humans, adequate water intake is crucial for your cat’s overall well-being. Proper hydration is essential to keep your cat feeling comfortable and happy, and it plays a significant role in preventing common feline health issues such as urinary tract infections and kidney disease. Many cats exhibit particular preferences when it comes to their water. If you’ve observed your cat drinking from the faucet or playing with their water bowl, it’s likely they prefer moving water. This is a natural instinct for many cats! You can cater to your cat’s preference for fresh, flowing water and encourage them to drink more, thereby boosting their hydration, by investing in a pet fountain.
3. Ensure Accessible Potty Places for Your Cat
Is one litter box enough? Perhaps not! A general guideline is to provide one litter box per cat in your household, plus one extra. Therefore, if you have two cats, ideally, you should have three litter boxes. This arrangement ensures that there’s always an alternative available, particularly if your cat decides against using their usual box for any reason. Furthermore, consider the placement of the litter box. Ensure it’s located in a spot that is consistently accessible to your cat and where they feel secure enough to be vulnerable when they need to relieve themselves.
4. Maintain a Clean Litter Box Environment
Nobody enjoys using a dirty restroom, and cats are no exception. Many cats will seek out alternative places to eliminate (like your carpet… or even your pillow!) if their litter box isn’t cleaned regularly. For a traditional litter box, aim to scoop waste at least once a day and perform a complete cleaning of the entire box at least once a week. If you’re not fond of scooping (and who is?), a self-cleaning litter box can be a game-changer. It eliminates the unpleasant chore for you while providing your cat with the consistently clean litter box they deserve. If you observe your cat suddenly going outside the litter box, particularly when it’s clean, it’s advisable to consult with your veterinarian – this behavior can sometimes indicate underlying medical problems.
5. Train Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post
Scratching is a natural, healthy, and essential behavior for cats. Unfortunately, this instinctive behavior can sometimes lead to damage in our homes. Providing your cat with appropriate scratching surfaces, such as carpet, sisal, or cardboard scratching posts, allows them to shed the old outer layers of their claws naturally. This not only helps protect your furniture from unwanted scratches but also enables your cat to stretch their muscles and maintain their claws in excellent condition. While it may take some patience to introduce your cat to a scratching post or board, the effort is well worth it. Both your cat and your furniture will appreciate it!
6. Always Use a Cat Carrier for Car Travel
Does your cat need a check-up at the vet? Or are you planning to bring them along on a trip? Always transport your cat in a secure carrier specifically designed for pets. Allowing your cat to move freely within the car can be a significant distraction while driving, potentially leading to accidents that could harm both you and your feline companion. A carrier ensures their safety and your peace of mind during travel.
7. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight for Your Cat
Just like humans, dogs, and many other animals, cats are susceptible to various health issues if they become overweight. And similar to us, the cornerstones of maintaining a healthy weight for your cat are proper diet and regular exercise. To establish a healthy diet plan, consult with your veterinarian about the best food choices for your cat’s specific needs, age, and health condition. If your vet recommends a dry food (kibble) diet, you might consider using an automatic pet feeder to help maintain a consistent feeding schedule and manage portion control effectively. Regarding exercise, cat toys are a fantastic and enjoyable way to keep your cat mentally stimulated and physically active. By tapping into your cat’s natural predatory instincts, many cat toys provide an outlet for their inner tiger while also helping them stay trim and fit.
8. Consider Spaying or Neutering Your Cat
Reproductive diseases can pose serious health risks for both male and female cats. Spaying female cats prevents uterine infections and ovarian cancers, and it significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors. Neutering male cats prevents testicular cancer and can alleviate certain prostate problems. Neutering also diminishes a male cat’s urge to roam and venture outside, thereby lowering the risk of them getting lost or injured away from home. And of course, spaying and neutering plays a crucial role in controlling the cat population and reducing the number of homeless cats in shelters. In general, a spayed or neutered pet is typically a healthier and happier pet overall, but your veterinarian can provide personalized advice on what is most suitable for your individual cat.
9. Choose a Veterinarian Who is Cat-Friendly
Did you know that some veterinarians specialize exclusively in treating feline patients? It’s essential to recognize that cats are not simply small dogs. Consequently, their veterinary needs differ from those of dogs. A veterinarian who specializes in feline health and behavior can be an invaluable partner in ensuring your cat remains healthy and happy throughout their life. You can locate a feline veterinarian in your area by visiting the American Association of Feline Practitioners.
10. Schedule Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Even if your cat appears to be perfectly healthy, it’s crucial to take them for veterinary check-ups at least once a year. These annual visits provide your veterinarian with an opportunity to detect any potential health issues in their early stages, administer necessary vaccinations, and perform dental cleaning to maintain your cat’s oral hygiene. Your vet can also assess whether your cat is maintaining a healthy weight. And of course, if your cat exhibits any signs of illness or you notice changes in their appetite, litter box habits, or activity levels, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian promptly.
These tips are just the foundational elements of cat care. Providing our feline companions with health, safety, and happiness is a continuous commitment. However, we know that every effort is worthwhile when we consider the boundless love and companionship our cats give us every day. In return for your dedicated care, your cat will reward you with a lifetime of affection and joy.
Written by
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Rob Hunter
PetSafe® Brand Copywriter
PetSafe® Expert](/blog/author/rob-hunter/)
