- PET HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS-
Keeping Your Indoor Cat Happy & Healthy
We ' ve all heard the myth- cats are low-maintenance pets. Not so, according to veterinarian Dr. Jillian Orlando, owner of Carolina Veterinary Behavior Clinic in Raleigh, North Carolina. It ' s her contention that " cats require just as much effort on the owners’ part to ensure they get adequate enrichment in their lives as a dog would ". And many animal specialists agree.
So how do you keep your cat happy and stimulated?
1) Use Interactive Toys: In the wild, cats are food hunters. But they love to play, too- and that ' s why having toys on hand that imitate the hunting sequence will keep your kitty involved. Cats chase, stalk, catch and bite- so why not introduce a plush mouse or a toy with feathers? Colorful objects that you pull with a string or items that move are also a good way to break your cat ' s languor. But be careful! Don ' t leave toys that contain items that can be ingested( like string) available when you are not around.
2) Enhance Hunting Instincts: As mentioned above, hunting is a natural process for your feline- so why not make mealtime a way to expend energy? Try hiding food in different locations in your home to keep kitty wondering. And some cat toys mimic the foraging process, such as the KONG Active treat ball cat toy or the SmartCat Peek-A-Prize toy box. Even cutting holes into a shoe box and putting kibble inside will be a treat! Once you teach your cat to search for food, make it a game- catnip toys are great for this.
3) Vertical Space: One of most important things you can do to keep your cat alert and active is to provide elevated perches and cat shelves- safe hiding spots and comfort for your feline while they watch from above. It ' s another part of the natural hunting instinct that needs to be satisfied. Cat houses or condos provide protection while allowing the animal to observe. Some pet owners even install shelves that allow their pet to navigate rooms while entirely elevated- they jump from shelf to shelf. Products are fun and plentiful, and available at pet stores or online.
4) Cat Scratchers: A behavior that drives many owners crazy, the act of scratching, is an inherent part of feline behavior. Scratching helps cats spread scent and mark their environment physically- and it keeps their nails strong and healthy. But scratching can destroy carpeting and furniture. What to do? Provide your pet with cat scratchers- vertical works best; a surface they can really dig their claws into, like rope, cardboard, sisal, and inexpensive carpeting. Food rewards and verbal praise can be used to encourage use of products like the Frisco cat scratching post or the Catit lounge scratcher. Add catnip and you will have one happy cat!
5) Litter Box- Optimized: The cat commode should be one that makes the cat happy- not the owner. Cute covered boxes with scented litter may be best for you- but most cats want a large, open box placed in a warm place- and unscented litter.
6) Bring Your Cat Outside: With the proper precautions, outside exposure could be a win-win for you and your kitty. Many people have created so-called " catios "- indoor / outdoor cat enclosures- that let your best friend enjoy bird watching and fresh air. Outdoor exposure can lead to problems like fleas and ticks, so many owners choose to instead put a bird feeder outside a window where your cat can perch and watch.
7) Cat-Safe Grass: Indoor cats can also be stimulated with safe plant material they can eat, like catnip and wheat grass. A pot of each will keep your kitty busy, and they will hopefully avoid other houseplants you may have.
To sum up- cats are natural-born hunters. Boredom can lead to poor health- upper respiratory infections, obesity, bladder inflammation, and dental disease. If you want to keep them happy, make your home a cat playground. It ' s good for them, and when they ' re content, it ' s good for you, too!
6 Pawsitively Pets-- December