top of page

How To Keep Cats Happy & Healthy

Updated: Sep 18

Discussing The Best Ways To Keep Your Cat Happy And Healthy in Honor Of Happy Cat Month


The month of September is widely celebrated by pet owners everywhere as Happy Cat Month. Happy Cat Month is a time to celebrate our feline friends and ensure they're living their best lives. Cats are known for their independence, but they still need our help to stay happy and healthy. Whether you’re a new cat parent or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you provide the best care for your cat.


Provide mental stimulation
Provide mental stimulation

1. Provide Mental Stimulation

Cats are intelligent creatures that need regular mental exercise to stay sharp. Boredom can lead to behavioral issues or even depression. Engage your cat with puzzle toys, interactive games, or food-dispensing toys. Rotating toys and introducing new ones periodically keeps things exciting.


Pro Tip: A simple laser pointer or feather wand can provide hours of entertainment and exercise!


To learn more about some of the best rated interactive toys for cats, click here. 


2. Ensure Regular Vet Visits

Routine veterinary care is crucial for keeping your cat healthy. Even if they seem fine, regular checkups can help catch issues early. Talk to your vet about vaccinations, dental health, and preventive treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Early detection of diseases like kidney disease or diabetes can greatly extend your cat’s lifespan.

Provide a balanced diet
Provide a balanced diet

3. Feed a Balanced Diet

Providing high-quality, nutritious food is essential for your cat’s health. A well-balanced diet will support their immune system, coat, and overall energy levels. Consult with your vet to determine the best diet for your cat’s age, weight, and health conditions. Remember to always provide fresh water, as cats can be prone to dehydration.


Pro Tip: Wet food can help increase water intake, especially if your cat doesn’t drink much from their bowl.


For a complete guide to proper cat nutrition & diet, click here. 


4. Keep Them Active

Even though cats can sleep for up to 16 hours a day, they still need regular exercise to stay fit. Encourage playtime by setting aside time each day for interactive play. Scratching posts, climbing trees, and window perches provide opportunities for activity and exploration.


Provide dental care
Provide dental care

5. Grooming and Hygiene

Cats are excellent at grooming themselves, but they still need a little help. Regular brushing helps reduce hairballs and mats, especially for long-haired cats. Dental care is often overlooked, but brushing your cat’s teeth or providing dental treats can help prevent dental disease.


6. Create A Comfortable Environment

Cats thrive in environments where they feel safe and secure. Set up cozy napping spots, keep their litter box clean, and provide hiding spaces where they can retreat when they need some alone time. Cats also love to perch high up, so consider adding cat shelves or tall cat trees.


Pro Tip: A sunny window seat can be your cat's favorite spot to watch birds and squirrels!

Provide socialization & bonding
Provide socialization & bonding

7. Promote Socialization And Bonding

While cats may be independent, they still enjoy social interaction with their humans. Spend time petting, talking to, and bonding with your cat. Understanding your cat’s body language can also help you respect their boundaries and know when they need space or affection.


To learn more about cat body language, click here. 


8. Regular Checkups On Mental And Emotional Health

Changes in behavior, such as hiding, loss of appetite, or aggression, may be signs of stress or illness. Addressing any mental or emotional issues early on can prevent long-term problems. Feliway diffusers and calming products can help reduce anxiety, especially in multi-cat households.


A Happy Cat Means A Happy Life

Keeping your cat happy and healthy takes some effort, but the rewards are worth it. By ensuring they receive the right care, mental stimulation, and love, you can enjoy a strong bond with your feline companion for years to come. This Happy Cat Month, take the time to appreciate the joy and companionship your cat brings and make their happiness a priority!

Looking for a professional cat sitter?
Looking for a professional cat sitter?

Looking For A Professional Cat Sitter?

Cats tend to thrive off of routine and structure. Simple changes in their environment or schedule can really throw them off. If you lead a busy life and are not home very often, it's time to consider hiring a professional pet sitter.


When it comes to pet sitting, there is no better choice in the Tucson, AZ area than Pura Vida Pet Care! Here at Pura Vida Pet Care, our core values are professionalism, convenience, attention to detail, and trustworthiness. Pet care isn’t simply our job, it’s our passion and every pet sitter on our staff genuinely cares about your pets’ health, happiness, and safety. 


We offer a wide variety of services including routine dog walking, in-home pet sitting, pet concierge services, and more! Give us a call today at 520-954-8896 or click here to request a quote. We look forward to hearing from you!


Comments


bottom of page