Having a cat in your home can be a source of joy, it’s a lovely feeling to be greeted at the door by your kitty when you get home (even if it is mostly because they are looking for their dinner!) and everyone loves a purring cat on their lap while they are relaxing on the sofa.
If you want to make sure that your cat is as happy as they make you feel, then there are a few things that you should do:
Let Them Scratch
It’s really important that your cat is able to scratch regularly because it keeps their claws in good condition. If they can’t scratch then their claws will get too long and this may mean that they not only get stuck in carpets and soft furnishings, but that they also feel quite uncomfortable.
Cats know that they need to scratch and if you don’t provide a good quality scratching post for them to get to work on then they are likely to use your sofa! Be sure to provide them with a thick post with a wide base that they can’t tip over, and if you find them scratching where they shouldn’t be then gently pick them up and place them on the post to show them what you want them to do.
Feed Them A Balanced Diet
Cats will generally keep asking for food, and eating the food, until they are sick. They have no concept of moderation! If you want your cat to be happy and healthy then keeping them at a healthy weight is important, so be sure that you are feeding them the right amount relative to their size, breed and how active they are. Your vet can help you to determine this if you aren’t sure.
It’s also important that you are feeding your pet a good quality pet food that is giving them the nutrients that they need. According to this carbohydrates for cats article from Diamond Pet cats prefer to eat several small meals throughout the day which favors a reduced but regular intake of carbohydrates, as long as their diet is also providing plenty of protein.
Treat Them For Fleas and Worms
Preventative treatment for fleas and worms not only means that your cat is protected from the diseases that these parasites carry and the damage that they can do, your home is also protected from becoming infested with fleas and you are protected from inadvertently catching worms. It’s a win winwin to flea and worm your pet!
Train Together
There is a misconception that cats cannot be trained in the same way that dogs can. In fact, a lot of cats enjoy training with their owner and it can even improve your bond with them. If you employ the right methods then your cat can be trained to use the toilet, shake hands, come on command, beg, and more.
If you want to train your cat then remember that you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. In other words, do not punish your cat. You will only frighten it and make it distrustful of you. Instead, you should praise and reward the behavior you are looking for with treats.
Toys!
Cats are highly intelligent and they are designed to hunt. Presuming that you don’t want a house full of dead mice and birds, keep your cats hunting instincts satisfied by not only providing lots of toys but by spending time playing with them too. Not only will this keep them happy, it’s fun for you and it will help to improve your bond with them.
