Cats are recognized for their low-maintenance nature. Fluffy dedicates an amusingly large portion of the day to sleeping, which is not only charming but also simplifies things for you. She will also groom herself and does not require walks or training. However, you’ll need to do a bit more for your furry friend to ensure her happiness than just filling her food bowl and changing her litter. Pets possess emotional and mental needs that are akin to those of humans. Continue reading as a local veterinarian from Oshawa, ON shares valuable tips for ensuring your feline companion remains happy, healthy, and contented.

What are some ways to keep an indoor cat happy?

By keeping your feline companion indoors, you are certainly making a wise choice. Naturally, Fluffy might have a different purrspective on the matter. Cats are undeniably adventurous creatures, frequently enjoying the outdoors and engaging in typical feline activities. These include digging in flowerbeds, leaving pawprints on your windshield, presenting you with the occasional dead mouse on the porch, and, naturally, ignoring your calls to come inside. While that might be enjoyable for your cat, it regrettably puts her at risk of various dangers from cars, weather, wild animals, parasites, chemicals, and more. It is enough to say that your adorable pet will be considerably safer indoors.

That being said, it is indeed true that indoor cats do not receive as much stimulation or exercise. To keep Fluffy entertained, you’ll need to take a few steps. While toys and playtime are undoubtedly the gold standards, there are additional activities you can engage in as well.

Elevated Areas: Provide your cat with some vertical space. Kittens certainly lack a broad perspective from the ground level! Fluffy enjoys ascending to a higher vantage point, allowing her to survey her kingdom and her loyal subjects (That’s you.). Cat towers are excellent for this! You can also provide your feline companion with shelves or steps, or even go the extra mile and install a catwalk.

Window Seat: Our feline companions love gazing out of windows and observing local wildlife, all the while basking in the sun and daydreaming of their fierce hunting instincts. Actually, if you don’t provide your furry voyeur with a cozy place, she will likely create her own, even if it involves navigating through your blinds. That can pose significant risks of choking or entanglement. (It will also damage your blinds!)

Purrniture: Cats enjoy having various surfaces to curl up on, hide in, play with, and, naturally, relax upon. Fluffy is not particularly selective about where to sleep. She will thoroughly enjoy and benefit from a good bed, but she is also perfectly happy to curl up on your lap or sprawl out on the coffee table.

Plants: Plants can truly enhance the coziness and warmth of your home, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both people and pets. Fluffy might also take pleasure in nibbling on specific plants, like Spider plants. Just choose safe ones.

What Does It Take To Make Cats Happy? 

It is quite simple to jest about our feline rulers for their perceived coldness, aloofness, and, admittedly, their somewhat excessive penchant for hunting small creatures. Don’t be fooled, though. Fluffy is quite emotional and requires love to achieve true happiness.

We will begin with the essentials: nutritious food, fresh water, and a tidy litter box. Entertainment and stimulation are also important.

Proper veterinary care is also essential. Fluffy will not be very happy if she is sickly or in discomfort. Wellness care will safeguard your feline companion from harmful parasites and diseases, while regular examinations will assist you in monitoring your adorable pet’s overall health. And while your pet may not be happy about the trip into the clinic, she’ll be healthier and happier after. Happy pets are healthy pets!

Small gestures can have a significant impact. Providing your feline companion with toys, and treats, and arranging cozy blankets for her to rest on are all simple actions that can help get that little motor running. Spending time playing with your pet is essential for strengthening your bond and will certainly earn you some affection.

Don’t underestimate the importance of having conversations with your cat. Your pet might not understand your words, but she will certainly recognize that you are engaging with her and giving her your attention. Plus, the sound of your voice will undoubtedly soothe and comfort your pet.

How can you determine if your cat is happy?

While your veterinarian should be the primary authority regarding your pet’s body condition, you can gain insight by observing Fluffy’s appearance and behavior overall.

Every cat has unique characteristics. If your feline companion tends to be a bit of a curmudgeon by nature, she may not be inclined to sit on your lap or cuddle. However, she should still remain relatively alert and active, and may follow you around or ‘chat’ with you. Curiosity is undoubtedly a positive indication. Purrs, snuggles, silliness, and a generally cheerful and relaxed demeanor are all good signs.

Kitties often tend to be more discreet about their discomfort, so it may be necessary to observe them more attentively. Below are several indicators that a cat may be feeling unhappy or stressed:

• Excessive grooming
• Hiding
• Litter box Challenges
• Meowing in varying frequencies or styles
• Excessive eating Abstinence
• Refusal to Eat Irritability/Aggression
• Excessive attachment
• Pacing

It is important to remember that these may all signal potential medical concerns, some of which could be quite serious.

What Steps Can You Take to Bring Joy to an Unhappy Cat?

There is no single, universal answer to this question. Each cat possesses its own unique characteristics. A timid cat placed in a bustling home with multiple pets might feel overwhelmed in a crowded house, and could thrive best in a serene environment with just one or two people and no other animals. A sociable cat might be lonely if she is the sole pet left alone for extended periods while her owners are at work. Ask your Oshawa, ON vet for more information. 

Schedule an appointment at your Oshawa, ON pet hospital

Do you have inquiries regarding your cat’s health or care? Reach out to us today at your local pet hospital in Oshawa, ON. We are always available to assist you!