Mary Allen
A healthy, happy cat needs more than quality cat food and vet check-ups. They also need to take care of their mental health. These five tips show you how to do this.
The welfare of a cat does not stop with feeding and occasional visits to the vet, but only begins there. A happy cat needs a lot of love, attention, and a species-appropriate, stimulating environment. Here’s what you can do for your kitty’s mental health:
Happy Cat Needs a Scratching Post
A scratching post is important so that the velvet paw can live out its natural need to scratch and climb. After all, you certainly don’t want your kitty to get his claws on the sofa or wallpaper, or throw down fragile objects when climbing through the bookshelves. A scratching post does not completely prevent such mishaps, but at least your furniture is less affected. Make sure the scratching post is big enough for your lucky cat and also sturdy. Toys on long strings can be dangerous if a kitty gets caught in them. It is best to shorten the cords or remove them entirely.
Games & Activities for Cat Happiness
In general, play and occupation are indispensable for the mental health of the velvet paw. Design the environment for your furry friend to be safe but varied so that it doesn’t get boring. This is especially important for indoor cats, as they don’t have the opportunity to make new discoveries on forays through the garden. But even those who are outside are happy if they can find play opportunities in their cozy four walls.
Changes? Only If It Has To Be!
Cats generally do not like major changes such as moving, vacationing, or extensive renovation work in the house or the arrival of new human or animal family members. Unfortunately, most of them cannot be avoided. Therefore, plan such events well in advance, break down the change into smaller steps, and do not rush anything.
Mental Health Thanks to Society
Cats not only need toys, but they also need playmates or at least company. Indoor cats are usually happier when they have a fellow cat by their side. Outdoor cats can make new friends outside. Nevertheless, as a human caregiver, you should also deal with the cat and not leave it alone too often. This can create a beautiful relationship between you and your kitty.
Stress & Hectic?
A happy cat is a kitty who is left alone. Very few house tigers appreciate disturbances to their peace. Sometimes it is unavoidable to disturb the fur nose, for example when the vacuum cleaner is used, house cleaning is announced or visitors are announced. Ideally, the velvet paw is used to such occasional irritation from an early age. Nevertheless, keep them to a minimum if possible. That means don’t yell at your cat, let her sleep and doze, avoid frantic movements and stomping around her.