The dummies’ guide to taking care of cats

Food

You can feed your cat a mixture of wet and dry food. Some research indicates that dry food helps keep their teeth clean- so this is an added bonus! Try to purchase varieties that are free from nasties and well balanced nutritionally. Shop the delicious cat food range at Webbox today.

Water

It kind of goes without saying; cats need fresh, clean water to stay healthy. Refresh their water supply at least twice a day and make sure it’s accessible to them. It’s also worth noting if your feline is drinking less than usual as this may be a sign of a problem. 

Groom

Yes, cats self-groom but that doesn’t mean their coats don’t need extra care from their owner. Combing through your cat’s fur regularly will help get rid of all the dead hair and also help you keep an eye out for any lumps or bumps that may need looking into. 

Litter

Make sure you keep your pet’s litter tray clean. You wouldn’t want to go in an unhygienic environment and neither does your cat! You can purchase a wide variety of cat litters in a range of fragrances in order to keep your home smelling fresh. 

Behaviour

Keep an eye on your cat’s behaviour and overall demeanor at all times. Every cat is different and behaves in a slightly different way, but if your cat is acting out of character, it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. 

Teeth

Yes, you need to brush your cat’s teeth. They may not like it, but being gentle and taking your time can help make the experience less of an ordeal. Buy a toothbrush specifically designed for cats and maybe opt for one that you can place over your finger for easier maneuverability. You can also invest in dental cat chew toys, which are great for oral hygiene. 

Spay or neuter

Spaying or neutering your cat can help prolong its life. Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast tumors, while neutering prevents testicular cancer and some prostate problems. If your cat is super feisty and often gets into trouble with the other neighbourhood cats, neutering can also help reduce their aggressive instincts. Who wouldn’t want a more harmonious existence?

Bedding

Just like humans, cats need a soft and cosy place to rest their perfect heads. Buy your cat a durable bed and wash it regularly to keep it hygienic and free from excess hair, especially if your cat goes outdoors. 

Vaccinations

Keep up to date with your cat’s vaccinations in order to prevent diseases. We know they don’t like them but a small amount of pain could save them a lot of suffering in the long term. Contact your vet to find out what vaccinations your fur baby needs. 

Fleas

Cats get fleas sometimes, it’s just a fact of life. You can buy easy-to-use preventative kits in order to repel them and also buy flea treatment kits to treat an infestation. It’s important to remember that if your cat gets fleas, all your furniture will need treating, as well as a thorough clean to get rid of any eggs. 

Insurance

Pet insurance is just one of those things; you think you don’t need it until you do. As a cat owner, it’s important to have a policy to fall back on should your pet ever fall ill. You don’t want to be left in a situation where you can’t afford to get your cat the care they need.

Handling

When you pick up your cat, it’s important to handle them properly. Lift them by placing one of your hands behind its front legs and lift its hindquarters with your other hand. 

Identification

Not only will a collar look cute and give your feline friend a bit of personality, a collar with your address and phone number on it is vital in case your cat ever goes missing. You can also go one step further and get your cat microchipped.

Toys

Buying your cat plenty of toys to play with has a number of benefits. They will help keep them busy and entertained and also stop them from destroying your furniture. A scratching post in particular will work wonders. 

Treats

It’s important to keep treats to a minimum. As much as it’s hard to say no sometimes (especially when they give you that cute little look), should only make up around 10% of your fur baby’s overall diet. 

Sleep

Cats sleep for 12-16 hours a day, so if your cat seems to be snoozing a lot of the time, it’s usually not a cause for concern. Cats need plenty of sleep to rest their muscles and recharge, but if your cat seems confused or is difficult to rouse, it is worth taking them to see your local vet. 

Love

Yes, cats might not be quite as cuddly as dogs (and to be honest, their fierce independence is one of the reasons we love them so much!), but many cats still love to receive affection from their owners. Pet them gently and give them a scratch behind the ears and under their chin. 

So there you have it; the dummies’ guide to taking care of cats. Ultimately, as long as your cat has loving, caring and attentive owners, we have no doubt they will live long and healthy lives!