Essential Do's and Don'ts of Owning a Cat
Being a responsible cat owner involves much more than offering food and a cozy place to nap. Cats have complex physical and emotional needs that require attention throughout their lives. Understanding the do’s and don’ts of cat ownership ensures a healthy, happy feline companion. Below, we break down key best practices based on guidance from veterinary and animal welfare experts.
Feeding and Nutrition
- Do: Feed high-quality, age-appropriate cat food. Cats are obligate carnivores and need nutrients like taurine from animal-based proteins.
- Do: Serve measured meals 2–3 times daily to avoid overfeeding and weight-related issues.
- Don’t: Offer cow’s milk—many cats are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive issues.
- Don’t: Allow treats to exceed 5–10% of daily caloric intake.
Hydration
- Do: Provide fresh, clean water daily, using wide, shallow bowls or fountains to encourage drinking.
- Don’t: Overlook hydration—adequate water intake aids in preventing urinary tract problems.
Litter Box Maintenance
- Do: Supply one litter box per cat, plus one extra, placed in quiet, accessible locations.
- Do: Scoop daily and sanitize the box weekly with mild soap.
- Don’t: Use heavily scented litters or harsh cleaners, which may deter use.
- Don’t: Ignore inappropriate elimination—it may signal a medical issue requiring veterinary attention.
Grooming and Nail Care
- Do: Brush short-haired cats weekly and long-haired cats daily to reduce shedding and hairballs.
- Do: Trim nails every 2–4 weeks with proper tools.
- Don’t: Bathe unless necessary; use only cat-specific shampoo when doing so.
Scratching and Declawing
- Do: Provide materials like sisal scratching posts to satisfy natural scratching behavior.
- Do: Trim claws regularly or consider non-invasive alternatives like nail caps.
- Don’t: Declaw. It can cause long-term pain and behavioral issues. Humane alternatives are encouraged.
Play and Enrichment
- Do: Engage your cat daily with interactive toys and food puzzles for at least 15–20 minutes.
- Do: Provide vertical spaces like cat trees and window perches.
- Don’t: Leave cats understimulated, especially indoor ones—they require mental and physical outlets.
Indoor Safety
- Do: Keep cats indoors to protect them from traffic, predators, and disease.
- Do: Cat-proof your home by removing toxic plants, string, and chemicals.
- Do: Offer secure resting areas and always verify appliance safety before use.
- Don’t: Let cats roam freely outdoors—it shortens lifespan and increases risk.
Health and Veterinary Care
- Do: Schedule annual vet visits including dental exams, weight checks, and vaccinations.
- Do: Spay or neuter by five months to prevent behavior and health issues.
- Do: Use veterinarian-prescribed medications only, and monitor for unusual symptoms like lethargy or appetite loss.
- Do: Maintain flea, tick, and parasite prevention all year.
- Don’t: Delay care if symptoms of illness emerge—early intervention can be life-saving.
Vaccinations and Identification
- Do: Administer core vaccines like rabies and FVRCP; additional ones depend on health and lifestyle.
- Do: Use breakaway collars with ID tags and microchips for secure identification.
New Cats and Acclimation
- Do: Introduce new cats gradually, isolating them initially and supervising all interactions.
- Don’t: Force interactions—let bonding occur naturally over time.
Travel and Housing
- Do: Always transport your cat in a secure carrier and never loose in a vehicle.
- Do: Provide cozy bedding and quiet spaces to rest safely in the home.
Supplies Checklist
- Premium cat food and treats
- Food and water dishes (non-plastic preferred)
- Litter box, litter, and scoop
- Cat brush or comb
- Scratching post or pad
- Cat carrier
- Bedding
- Interactive and self-play toys
- Flea, tick, and parasite medications
- Collar with ID tag and microchip
Conclusion: Owning a cat is an enriching, lifelong commitment. By respecting your cat’s needs and avoiding harmful practices, you ensure a long, loving relationship built on trust and care.
