Cats are not as independent and self-reliant as once thought. National Happy Healthy Cat Month was initiated to dispel that myth, and bring awareness to and educate of the elements that make up a well-balanced cat life. With over 500 million domestic cats in the world, it’s important to know that a cat requires all the same components that a dog does, just in different ways. Balanced nutrition, exercise, grooming assistance, and lots of love, all when provided by you make a happy healthy cat!
So how can you tell if your cat is already happy and healthy? There are definite signs that show when a cat is happy. According to PetMD, purring when close to you, kneading you or a soft object, exhibiting a friendly attitude, and normal eating, sleeping and litter box habits are just some ways that your cat will show you it is happy. Signs that a cat is healthy include clear eyes and clean ears, normal breathing and pink gums, a shiny and clean coat, and normal litter box habits. Following are Sit & Stay Pet Care Services’ 11 tips to having a happy healthy cat!
Good nutrition can add years to your cat’s life and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Make sure you feed your cat high quality food.
Cats are obligate carnivores and require high amounts of protein in their diet. A vegetarian cat is not recommended.
It is a common idea that cats can be adopted to be the mouser of the house. Check out these pros and cons. Always feed your cat balanced nutrition, even if it eats mice.
Provide both vertical and horizontal scratching posts. This helps to keep them off of the furniture and allows them to stretch their muscles.
Clip the tips of your indoor kitty’s nails when necessary. As they get older it may become more difficult for them and nails can become embedded. Rubbing your cat’s feet when they are a kitten can help them adjust to having their feet touched as they mature.
Brush your cat’s teeth a few times a week to aid in healthier gums and less cavities.
Brush your cat’s coat to stimulate their skin and remove loose fur. The less fur they lick, the less wet fur balls you’ll be cleaning off the carpet!
Give your cat lots of love! “The fact is that cats are incredibly social animals and they require the same level of care and attention that we lavish on our dogs,” according to National Today.
Monitor your cat’s litter box behavior to watch for excessive or abnormal use. Going too often could be a sign of a Urinary Tract Infection, while going outside of the box could mean they are stressed, sick, or the box is in need of cleaning. Keeping a clean litter box helps reduce the possibility of illness.
Flea and tick prevention is a vital part of keeping your cat healthy and happy because parasites carry disease and can also carry other parasites, too! Excessive flea bites could cause anemia, which can be fatal, and fleas eaten by cats may also infect them with intestinal tapeworms.
Providing the right environment and care for your feline companion can extend their life and contribute to their well-being. Having a happier and healthier cat can reduce vet bills, relieve your worrying over them, and add to the enjoyment of your relationship and time together!
Additional Reading
For 30 Fun Cat Facts, check out this link!
How to recognize stress in your cat.
Signs to detect hyperthyroidism in cats.