Making a few New Year’s resolutions to improve your cat’s lifestyle means you’ll both reap the benefits of a fresh start!
Most of us make a few New Year’s resolutions: exercise more, lose weight, improve our eating habits. While our cats don’t care less whether it’s a new year or not, we can also make some resolutions for them, to help ensure their health and safety and improve our relationship with them.
1. If it’s been a while since your cat has had a vet visit, schedule an appointment. Be sure to write down any questions you may have. If she is older than seven, request a complete blood work and urinalysis.
2. Vaccinations are a hot topic. Protocols have changed over the years and your cat’s lifestyle is a big factor in determining which vaccines they need. For example, an indoor cat or one with health problems should be vaccinated at a minimum, if at all. Like your vet on titers instead of annual boosters.
3. Read the labels of the cat food you buy and look for the ingredients. Is this the best nutrition you can provide? Consider eliminating or reducing low-end kibble – it’s a major cause of obesity, diabetes and urinary problems. Feed a variety of high quality, whole meat foods to avoid tantrums and prevent deficiencies.
4. Make time every day to play. Playing keeps your cat physically fit and mentally stimulated, redirects its energy constructively and helps prevent obesity. A high-energy cat can benefit from clicker training and even agility training. Regular play during the day can help your cat sleep through the night.
5. Groom your cat for 15 minutes once or twice a week. This is an opportunity to assess his overall health and reduce hairballs and matting. Make it a positive experience by offering treats and lots of praise. Regular grooming also reduces your own stress levels and helps strengthen your bond with your cat.
6. If you have a cat outside, consider the risks of letting it roam. Coyotes can be found in all parts of the country these days, even in relatively urban areas. Even though there are no hostile wildlife to contend with, there is traffic. If you have an indoor cat, think about how you can improve its environment. In either case, an outdoor enclosure (“catio”) and/or leash training can be part of the solution.
7. Learn how to clip your cat’s nails safely instead of risking scratches or snags, or resorting to declawing, an inhumane procedure that can cause behavioral problems and arthritis. If your cat won’t let you clip its nails, ask your veterinarian for help.
8. Look into obtaining health insurance. Veterinary expenses for serious illnesses or accidents can put a big dent in even the most carefully maintained budget. Having health insurance for your cat can mean the difference between treatment and euthanasia.
9. Make sure your cat has ID. Microchipping is a quick and easy way to find a lost cat. All the care in the world doesn’t prevent accidental escapes, and a chip will help ensure its safe return.
10. Grow catnip or catnip in a pot on the windowsill. Cats like to munch on greenery and it can save your houseplants. Rub dried catnip on scratching posts to encourage their use.
11. Contribute in some way to an animal welfare organization or your local shelter. Donate your time. Make a donation. Sign up to feed a wild colony. Or better yet, adopt a kitten or cat that needs a loving home. Am I to say that two is better than one?
12. Keep advancing your cat care education, through magazines like Animal wellbeing, or with a book on the subject. You will be surprised at what you can learn. Some good book choices are Your cat by veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins, and The Complete Guide to Holistic Cat Care by Celeste Yarnall and veterinarian Dr Jean Hofve. cat sense by John Bradshaw offers a wonderful insight into cats, their interaction with us and each other. If your cat has a chronic condition, it’s a good idea to learn everything you can from reputable sources so you can have knowledgeable conversations with your vet.
Our cats give us so much unconditional love. We can return that love to them by resolving to pay a little more attention to their well-being. Here’s hoping the New Year finds you snuggled up with a happy, healthy feline!
