Cats are the perfect companions for us humans. Who wouldn’t want a serial cuddler that doesn’t judge you (not too obviously, at least), an endless source of amusement, and a great listener all in one? But some things about our feline friends don’t always make life easy. From the constant shedding to the litter box odors, it can be challenging to keep up with the needs of our furry confidants.
While cats are perfectly capable of taking care of themselves for most of their daily needs, it’s not like they can avoid shedding, keep their litter box clean, or ignore their nature and not scratch the furniture just to please us. Especially if we don’t provide them with a scratcher to do it! As responsible cat owners, we need to learn how to help our kitties through any issues they may have.
If you’re thinking about bringing a new furry friend into your home and could use a little help to take care of a cat, we’re here to give you a paw! We’ve investigated and rounded up tons of cat hacks and tips to learn how to tend to your cat’s every need like a pro, so you can make sure they’re happy in their forever home!
#1
Get them neutered. To ensure all cats have a safe and happy home, one of cats protection’s key aims is to champion neutering as a way to keep the cat population under control.
Image source: cats.org.uk
#2
If your cat lets you touch its paws, it means that they love and trust you.
#3
To end a game of chase with the laser, give your cat a treat to give them a sense of accomplishment and a job well done.
Image source: rauanimalhospital.com
#4
If you don’t let your cat outside, it’ll avoid any number of random dangers the world can throw at it.
#5
When you move to a new place, unpack the litter box first. Then “unpack” the kitty and put her next to the litter box so he/she knows where it is… Cats use the litter box as a “home base” and start exploring from there.
Image source: ruforealz
#6
Talk to your cat. It helps to build a rapport, and he/she will respond to more tones of your voice.
#7
Hang an inexpensive bird feeder outside a window and be sure you have a chair or table near the window so they can sit and watch the birds. It will entertain them every day!
Image source: soaringrooster
#8
Teaching your cat to come when called is not only handy but could save his life. If he escapes outside, you can call him back home.
#9
It is recommended that you play with your cat for 15 to 20 minutes before bedtime so that they can let out all their excess energy. This pre-bedtime play session will make the cat calmer and help them sleep better through the night.
#10
Got feral cats in the backyard? Keep ‘em warm this winter. Provide some food and shelter for feral or stray cats.
#11
If you find that your cat has a propensity to sit on your book or keyboard or in front of your monitor as you attempt to use it, place an open box on your desk big enough for your cat. If there’s one thing cats love more than sitting on keyboards, it’s sitting in boxes.
#12
Touch it’s ears, paws, and belly frequently to get it acclimated to those areas being handled.
Image source: MemerDreamerMan
#13
It’s a good idea to get two cats, especially if you’re out of the house during the day. Not only will your cat be less lonely, but they’re also less likely to get destructive if they have someone to play with during the day.
#14
When petting a cat, watch the tail. A tip flip is annoyance, a tail thump means get away, and a twitch from the base means you’re about two seconds from getting bit. Stop as soon as you see any of these, and your cat will respect you more and tolerate more petting in the future.
Image source: njbrun01
#15
Store-bought toys look fun to us humans, but most cats are perfectly happy to swat around things like bottle caps, pipe cleaners, and old playing cards.
#16
Give your cat running water. Some cats like flowing water and the filter helps keep the water fresh.
Image source: preventivevet.com
#17
Every pet owner should consider pet insurance. Even if you believe you have enough money to cover veterinary costs, pet insurance could still save you thousands of dollars if your pet gets sick or injured.
#18
If you’re bringing a cat into a home with other pets or another pet into a home that already has a cat, don’t just put them together and hope everything works out. Cats tend to be very territorial, and they also need time to adjust to a new environment.
#19
From an early age, touch your cat’s feet and toes often. If they get used to having their toes handled, it is much easier to cut their nails later.
Image source: old.reddit.com
#20
A great way to keep your indoor cat active, particularly if you live in a smaller home, is to put up some shelves or towers for them to climb.
#21
It’s time to stop spraying cats with water! Your cat starts to associate the unpleasant experience with you, and not necessarily his actions with the punishment.
#22
Place pinecones in potted plants, because they’re uncomfortable for your cat to step on and will keep them out.
#23
Keeping your cat at home is the safest and least unsettling option when you go on holiday as they’re less likely to be stressed and will be more content in their own environment.
Image source: cats.org.uk
#24
Leaving treats hidden around the house when leave. It means that cat looks forward to leaving instead of being anxious because he gets to go on a treasure hunt.
Image source: MeowsTheHouseDown
#25
Avoid letting the cat play with your hands. Letting your cat play wrestle with your hands teaches them that biting and scratching is an acceptable behavior.
#26
Store dry cat food in a plastic pitcher or cereal container. Leaving your cat’s food in the opened bag runs the risk of letting it get stale.
#27
If your cat goes crazy for catnip, consider growing your own. Catnip is relatively easy to grow in pots, and it’ll give you an endless supply of fun. Make sure to keep the pots out of kitty’s reach until you’re ready.
#28
Providing a cat-friendly climbing alternative not only protects your collectibles, but it affords items which may be destined for the landfill, a new purpose in life.
#29
You can build your own cat tent with some basic items that you’ll already have at home. Using wire coat hangers make a frame like a tent, with two hangers crossing each other over the top and place an old t-shirt over the frame.
Image source: instructables.com
#30
Safeguard your sofa. Setting up decoy scratching posts, you can give cats a place to mark, stretch, and trim their nails, without damaging your belongings.
Image source: petmd.com
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