Caring for Your Cat

Caring for Your Cat

Because a Happy Cat Means a Happy Home

Caring for a cat is a lifelong partnership built on trust, comfort, and routine.
From nutrition to playtime, small things make a big difference. Whether you’ve just adopted your first kitten or share your home with a senior feline, here’s how to keep your cat healthy, safe, and content every day.

🐾 Dot says: “We cats don’t ask for much — just good food, a clean litter box, and love on our own terms! ”

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1. Feeding Your Cat

  • Choose high-quality, complete cat food suitable for their life stage: kitten, adult, or senior.
  • Provide fresh water at all times — many cats prefer running water, so a cat fountain can help.
  • Avoid feeding dog food or human treats like chocolate, onions, grapes, or garlic — they can be toxic.
  • Limit dry treats and stick to healthy snacks.
  • Feed at consistent times — cats thrive on routine.

2. Routine Health Care

Keeping up with preventive care keeps your cat happy and saves you from future vet bills.

  • Vet visits: At least once a year for a health check and vaccinations.
  • Parasite control: Use flea and worm treatments regularly.
  • Vaccinations: Protect against Feline Flu, Feline Enteritis, and Feline Leukaemia.
  • Neutering: Strongly recommended to prevent unwanted litters and reduce
    roaming, marking, and certain cancers.

Find a trusted vet near you in our Services Directory

3. Grooming & Hygiene

Brushing:

  1. Short-haired cats: once a week.
  2. Long-haired cats: daily brushing to prevent mats and hairballs.
  3. Teeth: Introduce tooth brushing early if possible (cat-safe toothpaste only).
  4. Ears & eyes: Check weekly for redness, dirt, or discharge.
  5. Claws: Trim if overgrown — ask your vet for guidance.

Grooming isn’t just hygiene — it’s bonding. Talk softly and keep sessions positive.

4. Litter Box Care

Cats are naturally clean. A good litter setup prevents most “accidents.”

  • One litter tray per cat, plus one extra.
  • Keep trays in quiet, low-traffic areas.
  • Scoop daily, wash weekly.
  • Avoid strong-smelling cleaners.
  • If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, consult a vet — it might be a medical issue.

5. Enrichment & Play

Play is vital for your cat’s mental and physical wellbeing.

  • Provide scratching posts, climbing areas, toys, and puzzle feeders.
  • Rotate toys often to keep interest.
  • Play daily — even 10 minutes makes a difference.
  • Offer safe outdoor access or create indoor “cat zones” with vertical spaces.

🐱 Dot says: “ Playtime keeps our paws sharp — and our hearts happy! ”

6. Rest & Comfort

  • Cats sleep up to 16 hours a day. Give them safe, cosy sleeping spots.
  • Some love high perches; others prefer quiet corners.
  • Never disturb a sleeping cat — it’s sacred time!

7. Keeping Cats Safe

Keep cats indoors or in safe outdoor enclosures.

  • If outdoors, ensure neutering and microchipping (recommended even if not required by law).
  • Use reflective collars with quick-release clips.
  • Keep windows and balconies cat-proofed.
  • Secure harmful substances (cleaners, antifreeze, plants like lilies).

8. Building Trust & Connection

  • Respect their space — let cats approach you first.
  • Use gentle tones; avoid loud noises or rough handling.
  • Learn their body language: tail flicks, ear positions, slow blinks.
  • Reward calm, friendly behaviour with treats or affection.

🐱 Dot whispers: “ If I blink at you slowly, I love you. Blink back! ”

9. Health Emergencies

Be prepared:

  • Know your nearest 24-hour vet (find under Services → Vets).
  • Have a secure carrier ready for transport.
  • Keep your cat’s medical details handy.
  • If your cat stops eating, is lethargic, or hides for over 24 hours, call a vet immediately.

Helpful Links

8. Helpful Links

  • Post a Rehome Listing
  • Meet Our Rescues
  • Animal Welfare & Advertising Rules
  • Report a Concern