9 easy ways to make your cat happy

If you’re a cat owner, you know they are generally charming, low-maintenance, inquisitive pets. Our feline friends are a wonderful addition to any household so it makes sense to think about the ways we can give back and ensure they’re happy. 

Just like humans, cats have a range of emotions that can include boredom, sadness and even loneliness. Thankfully, our furry mates are easy to keep happy if you know how.

1. Feed your cat well. 

The right diet is super important for the health of your cat. Look for quality cat food in your favourite pet shop and make sure to buy something suitable for your cat’s age.

• If you don’t know which brand to go with, talk to your vet. They will be happy to advise you on the correct food choices for optimal health.
• For the correct size portions, follow the instructions on the food packaging. 
• Limit the amount of treats you give them. Cats are always on the hunt for good food and will beg for their favourite snack. Only give a treat once in a while to avoid the potential for obesity.
• Don’t leave meat or fish out unless you’ve made it impossible for them to get to. Cats can jump high and aren’t known for following rules. If you aren’t in the room, those chicken thighs on the bench might end up in your cat’s belly.

2. Play with your cat

Just like humans, boredom can cause cats to feel depressed so it’s important to make time to play with your cat each day. Try different types of toys that allow your cat to stalk, chase, pounce and kick. You could even create an indoor jungle gym where they can jump and climb as well. When you’re not at home, leave out ‘toys’ like paper bags or cardboard boxes. 

If they become tired of their old toys make sure to rotate them from time to time so that they seem ‘new’ and more interesting to your cat. And remember, playing with your cat is a fantastic way to keep them entertained.

3. Provide views of the outdoors

Watching birds and lizards darting around outside can provide cats with hours of entertainment. A cosy spot by the window on a cat perch is a perfect place for them to soak up some sun and have a snooze. Placing a bird feeder in front of their outlook is guaranteed to make great viewing and entertain them for hours. A window with a view is the best cat TV and will keep your furry friend happy and content. 

4. Use preventive cat medications

No one likes fleas, ticks, mites or heartworms, especially our cats. Even if your cat is strictly indoors they can still suffer from these pests so talking to your vet about the best preventive plan for cat parasites is important. A flea free cat is a content cat and will keep your household healthier, too. 

5. Let them scratch and climb

Scratching is a very important aspect of feline behaviour and cats love stretching and scratching as it’s good for their claws. If you don’t want your furniture to suffer, get your cat a scratching post so they can scratch away to their heart’s content. In the wild, cats are natural climbers that pursue prey in trees. A cat tree they can climb or ‘cat shelves’ along the walls of your home are a cat’s idea of heaven.  

6. Snuggle time

Some people assume that because cats are self-sufficient, they’re fine spending a lot of time on their own. This may be the case for some of the day however, they still want you to keep them company and give them attention. We know not all cats like to cuddle, but the ones that do will really appreciate a daily snuggle routine, so take the time to settle down on the couch to enjoy some quality time with your kitty.

7. Train together

Cats are clever creatures and can be trained to do tricks just like dogs, plus the mental and physical stimulation is great for them. Teaching your cat to sit is easy, and training them to sit on stools instead of counters will make you and your cat much happier.

An added bonus is that training will strengthen the relationship between you and your cat, which will certainly make your feline buddy happy. 

8. Use Catnip

Catnip is a plant that contains a natural oil which has a unique effect on cats and acts as a natural cat pheromone. When cats rub on or chew catnip, it produces a mild natural high that is both harmless and temporary, but is pleasurable to cats. Not all cats are affected by catnip, and it has no effect on kittens under six months of age, but if your cat does respond to it, it can be another way to help keep your cat stimulated. Plus, it’s always funny to watch them get silly rolling around in it. 

9. Consider another cat

Cats are social animals, and it may be worth thinking about getting another cat to keep your furry friend company. Not everyone can be home all day to love on our cats, so having a buddy to run and play with can go a long way in keeping cats engaged and happy. Cats love to play, and provided they are properly introduced and have the right places to eat, hide, play and toilet, a companion cat can be a wonderful tonic for your cat. Check out the local animal shelter to see what feline friends they have to offer, there are always so many seeking homes and you may just be that home they’re looking for. 

If you’re looking for some quality cat time why not check out our ads for cat sits here: https://www.aussiehousesitters.com.au/house-sitting-pet-sitting-jobs/search