Providing a healthy diet
A healthy diet is one of the most important things you can provide for your cat. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat to acquire certain vital nutrients. According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, cats need a high amount of protein from animal sources, moderate fat, and minimal carbohydrates in their diet [1]. Unlike dogs and humans, cats lack specific metabolic pathways and cannot synthesize certain essential amino acids like taurine on their own. Taurine is only found naturally in animal protein and it is critical for heart and eye health [2].
Look for high-quality cat foods that list a named meat source like chicken, beef, or fish as the first ingredient. Avoid generic ingredients like “poultry meal” or “meat by-products.” Read the nutritional information on the label and make sure the food meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for proper cat nutrition.
Feed your cat scheduled meals instead of leaving food out all day. This allows you to monitor how much your cat is eating and adjust amounts accordingly. Weigh your cat regularly to catch weight changes early. Obesity can lead to many health problems in cats.
Grooming
Grooming is an important part of cat ownership. Proper grooming helps keep your cat clean, free of mats, and healthy. Here are some key grooming tips:
Brushing
It’s recommended to brush your cat’s coat at least once a week. This helps remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Use a brush designed specifically for cats, working in the direction of hair growth. Pay close attention to any tangles or mats. Removing them will make brushing easier and more comfortable for your cat. You can find quality cat brushes at most pet supply stores [1].
Nail Trimming
Trimming your cat’s nails every 2-3 weeks prevents overgrowth and splitting. Use cat-safe nail clippers for a precise trim. Only clip the sharp tip, avoiding the pink quick inside nails. Reward your cat with treats during and after nail trims. Introducing nail trims early helps kittens accept them more easily [2].
Ear and Eye Cleaning
Check your cat’s ears weekly for dirt and wax buildup. Use a cotton ball dampened with ear cleaning solution to gently wipe the outer ear. Their eyes should also be wiped daily with a soft cloth to remove discharge. This helps prevent infections. Contact your vet if you notice redness, swelling or foul odors [3].
Litter boxes
Having enough litter boxes is important for keeping your cat happy and preventing accidents outside the box. The general rule is to have one more litter box than the number of cats in your home. Scooping the litter box daily helps keep it clean and reduces odors. Using the right type and depth of litter is also key. Clumping clay litter that is 3-4 inches deep is ideal for allowing cats to dig and cover their waste. Proper litter box care is essential for good cat ownership, though it can be time consuming. Cats can be picky about the cleanliness of their litter box, so daily scooping and completely changing the litter every 1-2 weeks is recommended (Devices, methods and systems for abating odors from household …).
Enrichment
Providing enrichment for an indoor cat is essential to their health and happiness. Enrichment refers to mental and physical stimulation that allows cats to engage in natural behaviors. Without proper enrichment, cats can become frustrated, anxious, or depressed.
There are many ways to enrich your cat’s environment. Providing interactive toys allows cats to hunt, pounce, and play. Rotate toys frequently to prevent boredom. Good options include feather wands, laser pointers, treat balls, and interactive feeders. Adding scratching posts and cat trees gives cats a place to climb, scratch, and perch up high (Best Friends).
You can also enrich your cat’s environment with food puzzles, like hiding kibble around the house or placing their food in a maze feeder. This allows them to “hunt” for their meals. Puzzles and sensory toys provide mental stimulation.multiple levels, scratching posts, and dangling toys provide places for climbing, scratching, perching, and playing.
Rotate toys frequently to prevent boredom. Consider setting up a catio or leash walking to allow safe outdoor access. Providing daily playtime with interactive wand toys or laser pointers is also important. With proper enrichment, your indoor cat can lead an active, enriched life.
Vet Care
Regular vet care is crucial for cats to live long, healthy lives. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), annual exams allow vets to spot health issues early when they’re most treatable. Annual exams should include a full physical exam, dental exam, heartworm test, and bloodwork. Vaccinations are a key part of vet care and should be kept up to date based on your vet’s recommendations, but core vaccines include rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia virus (“Pet Grooming Tips: Vet Care for Cats and Dogs in Fall River,” https://anchoranimalhospital.com/pet-grooming-tips-vet-care-for-cats-and-dogs-in-fall-river/).
Parasite prevention is also important. Your vet can recommend monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medications tailored to your cat’s needs and location. Pet insurance can be invaluable to cover vet costs in case of illness or injury. According to Reddit users, preventive vet care for cats helps avoid costly issues down the road (“What do I need to know taking my 15 year old cat to the vet…”, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskVet/comments/lbq2sn/what_do_i_need_to_know_taking_my_15_year_old_cat/). Keep up with regular vet visits to catch issues early and keep your cat happy and healthy.
Safety
Cat-proofing your home is an important part of keeping your feline friend safe. Make sure to check for any small holes or cracks your curious cat could get stuck in (https://www.petco.com/content/petco/PetcoStore/en_US/pet-services/resource-center/caresheets/cat-proofing-your-home.html). Block access to dangerous areas like balconies, rooftops, and upper story windows. Secure loose wires and hide electrical cords to prevent chewing and electrocution hazards.
Install baby locks on cabinets with toxic chemicals or medications. Use brackets to secure unstable bookcases and shelving units. Keep the toilet lid closed and keep baths and sinks empty to prevent drowning. Place ozone-based odor removers out of reach since they can be toxic to cats (https://www.rover.com/blog/cat-proof-home/).
Make sure your cat always wears a breakaway collar with ID tags containing your contact information. Microchipping your cat is also recommended in case the collar is lost. This will ensure your cat can be identified and returned if they ever slip outside.
Socialization
Socializing your cat from a young age is crucial for them to develop positive relationships with other pets and people. Kittens go through a prime socialization period between 2-7 weeks old where exposure to novel sights, sounds, smells, and gentle handling helps them become well-adjusted cats according to Purina (https://www.purina.com/articles/cat/kitten/training/kitten-cat-socialization). For adopted and adult cats, be patient and take things slowly when introducing them to new pets and people. Let the cat approach on their own terms and use treats and play to create positive associations according to The Feline Rescue (https://felinerescue.org/cat-ownership-and-socialization/). Socialization is an ongoing process, so continue exposing your cat to friendly visitors and pets throughout their life.
Training
Training is an important part of being a responsible cat owner. With proper training, you can teach your cat important skills and behaviors. One of the most effective cat training methods is clicker training. The clicker marks the exact moment your cat performs the desired behavior, allowing you to positively reinforce actions like coming when called, sitting, spinning, etc. Start by loading the clicker by pairing it with treats, then gradually shape behaviors by clicking and rewarding small steps.
Other valuable training includes harness and leash walking. With patience and treats, most cats can be trained to walk on a leash and explore the outdoors safely. Introduce the harness slowly and in a positive manner. Another training goal can be getting your cat comfortable with a carrier through positive associations and short trips around the home. A cat who is relaxed in a carrier will be less stressed for vet visits.
Consistent, reward-based training establishes clear communication between you and your cat. You’ll strengthen your bond while ensuring your cat’s behavior aligns with your household rules and routines. Work in short, positive sessions and make sure to patience as you help your cat learn new skills.
The Importance of Playtime for Cats
Playing with your cat on a regular basis is crucial for their health and wellbeing. Interactive play sessions provide mental stimulation, allow cats to act out their natural hunting behaviors, and help prevent boredom. According to The Importance of Play for Cats, play strengthens the bond between cat parents and their feline companions.
Dedicate at least 15-30 minutes per day for interactive play with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or toys on strings that you can drag around and dangle in front of your cat. This type of play allows them to pounce, chase, and capture their “prey.” Solo toys like balls, mice, and treat puzzles are also important for occupying your cat when you are busy. Rotate toys to prevent boredom and incorporate new toys periodically to keep things interesting.
Additionally, many cats enjoy playing with catnip. The herb has a stimulating, euphoric effect on cats. Fill toys with dried catnip or grow catnip plants for your feline to roll in and nibble on. This will encourage active play. Just be sure to replenish catnip toys and plants regularly since the effects wear off over time.
Love
To be a good cat owner, make sure you build a loving bond with your cat. Quality time is important for establishing trust and affection. Spend time every day playing, petting, grooming or just sitting near your cat. Observe your cat’s body language to understand their mood and desires, and always respect their space when needed. A blog on the Banfield website discusses some ways to bond with your cat through quality time, such as:
“Give your kitty dedicated one-on-one affection time every day…Sit or play with them using toys or a string…Offer praise, petting or a treat when they show signs of enjoying your company.” (Source)
According to Daily Paws, tuning into your cat’s unique personality and sharing positive interactions is key: “Understanding your cat’s love language and making quality time together a daily habit can significantly deepen your bond.” (Source: Daily Paws)