You love your cat, right? So, of course, you want what’s best for them. Caring for a cat involves a lot more than just providing food, litter and a little love. If you really want your feline companion to thrive, you have to commit to providing them with everything they need to be happy and fit. Here are 5 tips from an experienced Woodland vet on how to help your cat live a long, happy and healthy life.
Type of Food – Not all cat foods are created equal. Some contain fillers and other unnecessary ingredients that are simply not good for your feline companion. To really keep your cat at his or her healthiest, you should ask your Woodland vet to recommend a food that is designed to support your kitty’s specific needs. It may be a bit more expensive, but think of it as an investment in your cat’s ongoing good health.
Wet or Dry Food? – In addition to the type of food you use, you also have to determine what consistency is best for your cat. There has been a long standing debate over which is healthier – wet food or dry food. It’s really ultimately up to you and your Woodland vet to figure out which one would be best suited for your particular cat. Once you decide, stick with it.
Don’t Overfeed – Obesity is a growing problem in companion animals, and one of the main causes is overeating. But your cat can’t feed herself, so it’s your job to control how much food she eats on a daily basis. You may want to feed several small meals a day, or one or two bigger ones. Free feeding is typically not a good idea, since it allows all-day access to food and can encourage overindulgence. Again, work with your Woodland vet to figure out exactly how much and how often you should be feeding your feline companion.
Exercise – A happy, healthy cat is fit, both mentally and physically. Keep your kitty active by providing plenty of toys, climbing towers, activities and interaction with you. The more active your cat, the more balanced he or she will become. If you have a particularly lazy cat that doesn’t seem to want to play, talk to your Woodland vet. He or she can suggest different tips and tricks to get that cat moving and active again.
Skip the Table Scraps – Some cats love a taste of whatever their owner is eating, but table scraps aren’t good for a number of reasons. Not only can they contribute to obesity, since human food is not designed to support cat health, but they can actually make your cat sick. Some foods, like chocolate, are downright toxic to cats and can even cause death. If you want your cat to stay happy and healthy, avoid sharing your food with them and stick to kitty-approved food and treats.