In some cases, a few extra steps by the owner can save the animal’s life. While there will always be factors beyond our control, there are precautions we can take to protect our cats from illness, stress, disease and dangerous situations. Here are 11 things you can start doing for your cat today to help her live a longer, healthier and happier life.
Go to the vet.
Regular wellness exams and routine lab tests can help veterinarians detect and treat many life-threatening health problems. They are especially important for cats, who are very good at hiding when they are sick or in pain. Taking your cat to the vet on a regular basis will also ensure that she is up to date on all recommended vaccinations, treating your cat for fleas and ticks, and treating your cat for heartworm.
Don’t be afraid to shop around until you find a vet that you and your cat like. Having a good relationship makes it easier for the doctor and staff to help your cat. They know her medical history and basic temperament and can usually diagnose over the phone to determine if a strange new behavior needs immediate treatment.
The cat stays at home.
Keeping your cat at home is one of the easiest ways to help her live a long and happy life. She’s less likely to be exposed to trauma, such as being hit by a car, or to toxins, such as a puddle of delicious antifreeze. She’s also less likely to encounter disease-carrying pests and parasites. “When cats leave our home, we lose our ability to protect them.
That said, you must make sure that your house is a safe space for your cat. Beware of houseplants, some popular houseplants, including lilies, are highly toxic so it’s a good idea to consult a list of poisonous plants. If your cat wants to eat green food, then try planting some wheatgrass. “Cats love it. “Pet grass offers kittens a safe alternative to potentially dangerous houseplants.
You should also be careful about cats around open windows during the warmer months. Keep screens closed and make sure they are secure enough that your cat won’t fall through them.
Feed them properly (and watch them eat)
To help your cat live her best life, she needs a high-moisture, species-appropriate diet. Feed her wet and dry cat food, because dog food alone is not enough. Cats are natural carnivores and need a lot of meat in their diet.
If you have more than one cat, feed them separately and monitor how much each cat consumes. Not eating can be a sign of dental pain or a medical condition. “Do not allow free-feeding,” she says. “It can lead to weight gain, making it less likely you’ll notice a problem right away.”
Measure their weight.
Doctors agree that overweight cats are unhealthy cats. Gaining a few pounds can lead to a host of health problems, including liver problems, diabetes and arthritis. Being overweight also puts unnecessary stress on the animal’s joints and organs.
Feed your cat as recommended by your veterinarian. Exercise and playtime should also be part of your cat’s routine, Morgan says.
Weigh your cat once a month and call your vet if you notice any dramatic changes.
Encouragement of mental stimulation
Doctors say that in addition to helping cats stay slim, exercise and play can prevent stress and keep cats happier and healthier. Indoor cats definitely live longer, but they need to be able to exhibit typical cat behaviors like hunting, pouncing and interacting.
Interactive games help cats tap into their natural instincts. Remember, they’re predators in the wild, Morgan says. “If you play your cat with something like a laser, be sure to give them something tangible to ‘kill’ and ‘eat’ at the end of the chase. “Cat toy mice are a feline favorite, as are cat toy balls.
Other natural behaviors of cats include climbing and scratching. Give your cat plenty of horizontal and vertical play space. Scratching posts can help them release stress while protecting your sofa. Give indoor cats a place to interact with nature, whether it’s a cozy cat perch or a well-designed “catio”.
Groom your cat daily
Regular brushing will not only keep your cat’s coat shiny, it will also allow you to familiarize yourself with his body and immediately recognize any changes in shape, texture or softness. If you notice any new lumps, bumps, or sore spots, call your veterinarian, as they could be a sign of any number of painful and potentially serious medical conditions.
Clean the litter box every day
Another part of your daily cat care ritual should be cleaning the litter box discreetly. This will make your house smell fresher and allow you to immediately notice any changes in bowel habits. Call your veterinarian if your cat has diarrhea, blood in the urine or stool.
Stimulate their water instincts
Cats need fresh, clean water at all times. You probably know that. But what you may not realize is that the way you provide water can help your cat stay better hydrated.
Because cats originated as desert animals, they are particularly fond of water. They don’t like their whiskers to touch the sides of the cat bowl. Switching to wide, flat food and water bowls prevents whisker fatigue, a stressful state for cats.
A cat waterer is also a good solution. Be sure to change the filters often.
Don’t Neglect Dental Care
Dental problems can lead to a host of medical issues – from painful lesions to abscesses to infections. If left unchecked, dental disease can also lead to kidney and heart problems, Morgan said.
Doctors say cleanings, x-rays, and even extractions may be necessary to keep your cat’s mouth and body in tip-top shape.
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms
As the saying goes, “A little prevention is worth a lot of cure.” Doctors say it’s best to be on high alert for changes in your cat’s behavior before assuming that new symptoms will go away on their own.
If your cat is exhibiting excessive vomiting, which can be a sign of intestinal problems, kidney problems or pancreatitis, call your veterinarian. Coughing, sneezing and breathing problems could be signs of asthma or heart disease. And urinating outside the litter box could mean a urinary tract problem or bladder pain, which can lead to blockages or even death.
Microchip for cats
Sometimes, no matter how hard we try to keep them indoors, they still find their way out. A door or window might accidentally open, or a cat might run past your legs as you walk in.
Microchip all pets, even indoor pets. Make sure your registration and contact information is up to date. This ensures that anyone who finds an escaped pet knows how to find you, and could be a lifesaver if your pet ends up in a shelter You want to create some clues so they don’t get arrested.
