The Purr-fect Cat Care Guide

Are you thinking of adding a furry feline to your family? Cats are amazing companion animals, all with their own unique personalities – some prefer to be independent and nonchalant, while others love nothing more than lots of attention and a good cuddle on your lap. No matter what their traits may be, it’s important to ensure that they have an environment that helps them thrive and grow up to be a big, bold, and much-loved member of the family. We have some tips to help you and your feline friend get off to the best start!

Help Them Keep That Coat in Shape

Cats are renowned for being very conscientious groomers, but that’s not to say that you don’t need to give them a helping hand at times. Regular grooming helps remove dead hair from your cat’s coat which means less fur is ingested while it preens itself – ultimately, this should mean less hairballs! It’s always important to keep in mind the breed of your cat as longer haired cats will need more regular grooming to prevent matting. Grooming can also give you a chance to detect any changes to your cat’s body, such as lumps, bumps or fleas, which can then be flagged with your vet. If you are considering getting your cat groomed, get in touch with our Grooming Room here at the USPCA.

Understand Their Litterbox Habits

Cats are characterised by their need for cleanliness. If you find that your cat has started to do his or her business outside of their litter box, it may be them giving you a clear sign that they are unhappy with the condition of the litter tray. Best practice is to scoop out any wastes daily and then carry out a full clean and refill at least once a week. If the litter tray is clean and they are still refusing to use it, we would recommend paying a visit to your vet as this could be a sign of a medical condition needing treatment.

Keep Them on Their Toes

For indoor cats especially, it’s important to ensure that their mind and bodies are stimulated regularly. In a bid to avoid boredom and keep your pet active, introduce plenty of toys and accessories to keep them entertained, such as wand toys, towers, scratching posts, and bouncy balls. When selecting your cat’s toys, keep in mind objects that will encourage plenty of climbing and running, and that also tap into their hunting skills. The USPCA Pet Supplies Shop has lots of great items to provide your cat with hours of entertainment, meaning that they will have less time to sink their claws and teeth into your sofa.

Make sure to also set aside plenty of time to play and cuddle with your cat as this will help strengthen your bond in the long-term!