Mayer Veterinary Hospital – How To Keep Your Cat Healthy
As a cat owner, you know that your cat is more than just a pet. He or she is a member of your family and brings much love and happiness to your daily life. So it is only natural to want to offer the same to your furry companion. And the most important thing to consider is your cat’s safety. The only way that you can provide a safe and happy environment is to keep your cat indoors at all times. This eliminates risks like vehicles and predators. But it also means that you will need to make extra effort to ensure that your home is a cat-friendly environment.
Personal Space
Cats are very territorial creatures, especially if you have other pets. Even friendly cats will want to have a haven or place to retreat to from time to time. It is a place that they will feel safe and completely calm. If you have multiple cats, each should have its own space, litter box, and feeding area to remain relaxed and happy indoors.
Proper Diet
Just like the human members of the family, your cat needs healthy food and plenty of water to remain healthy and happy. Healthy food and proper exercise will go hand in hand to keep your kitty in good shape and good spirits. Excess weight and obesity can lead to severe issues, including a higher risk of feline diabetes. And when it comes to water, cats prefer it to be moving. So placing water in a large bowl with a fish tank bubbler or even a small fountain will make your cat happy.
A Cozy Cat Nap Locale
Cats prefer a cozy place to nap and sleep. It provides a feeling of safety. If you have multiple cats, they will likely appreciate their own sleeping quarters, which might be a cat bed or just a blanket to cuddle into inside a box. If you have other types of pets, your cat might prefer an elevated place to sleep. It will keep away canine family members and small children who do not understand that cats like naps as much as grownups do.
Exercise and Entertainment
In nature, cats remain very active as they hunt for food. And while the activity is essential to keeping them trim and in good health, it also provides a great deal of entertainment and stimulation. If all your cat does is walk to a food bowl, neither of those needs is being met. Scratching posts are beneficial for stretching muscles and climbing. Also, large boxes are as beloved by cats as they are small children. It provides a place to explore and hide for hours of enjoyment. Catnip stuffed toys, laser light pointers, balls, and treat feeding toys are all ways to engage your cat and provide exercise.
Know When to Call Your Vet
Just like humans, your cat may get a scrape or cut that will eventually heal with a little extra attention. However, there are a few occasions that warrant a call to your veterinarian, including:
- Discharge from the eyes or nose
- Loss of energy
- Unusual lack of sociability
- Lackluster coat appearance
- More shedding
- Loss of appetite
- Drinking more or less than normal
- Changes in litterbox usage
- Difficulty breathing, shallow or rapid breaths
- Change in overall appearance
If you are concerned about your cat’s health or want to have them checked out, call us to schedule an appointment.
By addressing each of these areas, you will provide everything that your cat needs to lead a happy and healthy life inside your home.
