Cat care can be straightforward once you have the right equipment in place.
And have made a few initial decisions about feeding and cleaning routines.
But there are times in your pet’s life when they will need more than just a food bowl and a litter box to stay happy and healthy.
Most cats arrive into their new homes as kittens.
And although gorgeous and great fun, they do need some special attention.
Kitten Growth And Development
From 8 weeks old a kitten is ready to go to their new home.
They’ll need to be introduced to their pad a room at a time.
And will need regular small meals, an obviously placed litter box and plenty of toys.
You can find out all about kittens in our detailed kitten care guide here.
But no tiny friend stays that way forever. And when your cat starts to grow up, they’ll still need you in lots of ways.
Raising A Happy Cat
Confident cats make the best pets.
And we build confidence in our pets through socialization, play and a consistent environment.
If your cat is longer furred, they’ll also need to get used to being groomed from a young age.
Cat Grooming and Bathing
Most cats are great at keeping themselves clean, but some need a bit more help.
Especially those with longer coats.
Some cats also need additional special upkeep too.
Like a regular tooth brushing for those with over crowded teeth.
Others may need their ears cleaned out, either due to infection or in rare cases on a regular basis.
Litter Box
All indoor cats need to be litter trained to stay clean.
And many outdoor cats need a litter box on a temporary basis when their owners are away, or they are undergoing veterinary care.
Cats are quite particular about where they do their business.
For example, most of them are reluctant to share their box and might avoid using it if they are forced into it.
Keeping your cat clean in the house means finding the right box and litter for them, and any friends they might have sharing the home.
There are also a range of cat litters to choose from.
Whether you want one that holds that smell in tight, or doesn't tread all over the house.
And having the right cleaning accessories all helps too!
Cat Carriers
Every cat will need to be transported at some point.
You might get away with bringing a kitten home in a cardboard box, but that same kitten will grow quickly.
And by the time they are an enthusiastic adult, routine veterinary trips and cattery stays will require some proper travel equipment.
Cat Collars
Outdoor cats benefit from collars.
Not only to let other people know your cat isn’t a stray, but to help you display a tag on them too if they get lost.
You can also use them to alert the worried wildlife to your cat’s presence!
Climbing Cat Toys
Cats love to be up high.
In fact, many cats feel most secure and comfortable when they are raised up off the ground.
These different styles of cat furniture will help your pet to feel safe in your home.
Enriching Cat Toys
Cat toys should all provide an outlet for one or more of your pet’s natural behaviors.
It’s the best way to keep them entertained for longer.
Interactive Cat Toys
Cat toys that you and your cat can play with together are brilliant fun.
But must be carefully designed to keep you at a reasonable distance from their teeth and paws.
Because when your cat is playing, she’ll really get into it!
Toys For Cat Breeds
Some breeds have temperaments that make them better suited to a certain style of toy.
Cat Care
Caring for your cat is about so much more than feeding them and clearing out their litter box.
Although the importance of those tasks can’t be underestimated!
You also need to consider the different challenges they will face as they grow.
And how to help them turn into the sort of companion you’ll be happy to share your home with for years to come.
