STOP Guessing: 10 Rules to Keep Your CAT Healthy and Happy

This guide is entirely about keeping your CAT healthy. As a cat owner, you want what's best for your pet, but it's easy to miss the things that are truly vital for their well-being beyond just food and a clean litter box.

A healthy cat needs the right tools. They need proper grooming with a high-quality cat brush to keep their coat clean and skin healthy. They need daily exercise with stimulating cat toys to stay lean and sharp. The right cat accessories are not luxuries—they are essential tools for giving your cat a great life.

We've cut out the fluff. Here are 10 straightforward, no-nonsense tips you need to follow to ensure your cat doesn't just survive, but truly thrives. Let's get straight to it.

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1. Feed Them a High-Protein Diet

 

Cats are carnivores. This means they need meat to survive. Look for cat food where the first ingredient is a real meat source like chicken, fish, or beef. Wet food is often better than dry food because it has more protein and moisture, which is critical for your cat's health. Avoid foods with a lot of corn, wheat, or soy fillers, as they are not ideal for your cat's digestive system.

 

2. Make Daily Grooming a Habit

 

A matted, dirty coat is not just ugly; it's painful and can hide skin problems. Daily brushing removes loose fur, prevents painful mats, and reduces hairballs. It's also a great way to bond with your cat and check their body for lumps, bumps, or pests. This is why a high-quality cat brush isn't a luxury—it's a necessary tool for every cat owner.

 

3. They Need to Play Every Single Day

 

A bored cat is an unhealthy cat. Without daily play, cats can become overweight, anxious, and destructive. You need to simulate their natural hunting instincts for at least 15-20 minutes every day. Use interactive cat toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or toy mice. This keeps their body active and their mind sharp. An investment in good toys is an investment in your cat's sanity (and your own!).

 

4. Provide Constant Access to Fresh Water

 

Cats are notoriously bad at drinking enough water, which can lead to serious kidney problems. Their water bowl should be wide enough so their whiskers don't touch the sides, and it should always be clean and full. Consider a cat water fountain, as the moving water encourages them to drink more. Pro tip: Keep the water bowl in a different location from their food bowl, as cats naturally dislike having their food and water sources together.

 

5. Give Them a Vertical World

 

Cats feel safer and more confident when they can survey their territory from up high. A cat tree or condo is one of the best things you can buy for your pet. It gives them a place to climb, scratch, and sleep, which reduces stress and saves your furniture. A simple window perch can also provide hours of entertainment as they watch the world outside.

 

6. Keep the Litter Box Spotless

 

This is a simple rule: if the litter box is dirty, your cat won't want to use it. This can lead to them holding it in (which causes health issues) or having accidents around your home. You should have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Scoop it at least once a day, and completely change out the litter regularly.

 

7. Don't Skip Annual Vet Visits

 

Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness. A yearly check-up with the vet is essential for catching problems early before they become serious and expensive. This is the best way to stay on top of vaccinations, parasite control, and get professional advice on your cat's health.

 

8. Take Their Dental Health Seriously

 

Cat dental disease is extremely common and can be very painful. Bad breath isn't normal; it's a sign of a problem. You can improve their dental health with dental treats, water additives, or by brushing their teeth with a special cat-friendly toothbrush and paste.

 

9. Create a Safe Space with Scratching Posts

 

Scratching is a natural, healthy, and necessary behavior for cats. It's how they stretch their muscles and mark their territory. If you don't provide them with a sturdy scratching post, they will use your sofa or chairs. Place several good posts around your home to encourage positive scratching habits.

 

10. Watch for Small Changes in Behavior

 

You know your cat better than anyone. If you suddenly notice they are hiding more, eating less, drinking more water than usual, or their litter box habits have changed, it's often the first sign that something is wrong. Pay attention to these small clues and contact your vet if you are concerned.