A Happy & Healthy cat means less worry for pawrents & less burden on the pocket, as we all know how expensive vet bills can be. Let us look at 6 ways to keep Your Cat Happy and Healthy!

1. Balanced Nutrition:

It is important for your cat(s) to consume a complete, well-balanced diet (Refer to previous article: "How to choose a good diet for my cat").

General rule of thumb is to feed brands that are mid to high range, avoid brands in supermarkets or colorful kibbles (meaning lot of additives) & preferably feed more wet than dry. It is important to read ingredient labels & understand nutritional requirements for cats of different ages.

Offer your cat(s) the right portion size according to weight to prevent overeating or obesity, & look out for food allergies (diarhoea, itchy skin), sensitivities or possible medical conditions.

2. Interactive Playtime:

It is very important to play with your cat(s) on a daily basis. I know this can be hard to keep to with our busy lives, but putting your cat(s) on a fixed schedule that includes play time helps keep your cat(s) mentally & physically stimulated.

Have a variety of play time with feather wands, laser pointers, treat-dispensing gadgets & interactive toys to keep your cat(s) engaged & mentally active. Regular physical exercise can prevent obesity & promote a healthier lifestyle for your cat(s).

3. Cat-Proofing Your Home:

Cat-proofing your home enables your cat(s) to roam the house safely, play & jump without any risk of falling from height. Create safe & comfortable areas for your cat(s) to retreat to when they need space, take naps or just to be away from everyone else. Research in detail a list of common household items, such as detergents, cleaners & plants that can be harmful to cats & remove all potential hazards.

4. Regular Vet Visits:

Many owners tell me their cat(s) have not been to the vet for years, however, just like we humans do health screenings, similarly your cat(s) should have regular checkups too. These visits can help catch potential health issues early, saving you & your cat(s) from more significant problems & additional money spent in the future. If your vet catches any illnesses early, they may be able to address it with a change of diet or medication before it gets worst.

Pawrents should sterilize their cat(s), vaccinate every 2-3 years (annual not advised for indoor cats), do flea/tick control & dental care.

5. Grooming & Hygiene:

Maintaining your cat(s)'s coat, nails, teeth & overall hygiene, helps keep your cat(s) clean & healthy. Wiping down their paws & bum regularly helps reduce bacteria. If you are unable to groom your cat(s), you can seek help from a home based groomer or get their nails trimmed during vet visits. Brushing your cat(s)'s coat regularly prevent matting, reduce shedding & strengthen the bond between you & your cat(s). (Refer to previous article: "How to Groom your Cat").

6. Understanding Your Cat's Behavior:

No 2 cats are identical, even breed cats. As a pawrent, you need to know your cat(s). Cats rarely do anything without giving signals first. You need to be able to observe your cat’s body language, communication & learn how to decode your cat's feelings. Whether your cat wants to cuddle, or wants to be left alone & pushes your hand away or nips it, these are signs you need to interpret & understand, ultimately leading to a happier and healthier relationship.

Downloadable Infographic Below & on our Instagram Page @thecatwhisperersg.

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