How to keep your cat mentally healthy and happy
Of course you want your cat to be healthy and happy. It is easy to take care of this. You only need to arrange a few basic things.
What is most important for my cat?
Attention and love are two important things a cat needs. Cuddle your cat regularly and play with her every day. How much attention your pet needs varies per cat. This depends both on the breed and on the individual character of your cat.
Besides attention, you make your pet healthy and happy with:
- good, quality food
- her own spot
- stimulating toys
- a clean living environment
- sufficient exercise
Do I always need to give my cat attention?
Cats are very independent and most are loners, but this varies considerably by breed and animal. Some prefer to sit next to you all day for cuddles, while others want plenty of time for themselves. But one thing is certain: if you give your cat no or too little attention, she will become lonely and unhappy.
Your cat often shows how much attention she needs herself. If she has had enough of playing or being petted, she walks away.
What food makes my cat happy?
Cats are very picky about their food. If you don't give them their preferred food, they often simply leave it. So test different types of food to discover what your cat finds tasty. Ask for advice at your store. Preferably choose premium food. Your cat will then get all the necessary nutrients in the right proportion. This keeps her healthy and she will feel great.
May I give my cat snacks?
Many cats get excited as soon as they receive a snack. Feel free to give your cat one occasionally. Some cats are prone to obesity. With them, be extra careful with treats. In that case, rather give a cat biscuit as a reward and deduct that from her daily meals.
Does my cat need her own spot?
Cats have a great need for rest and like to withdraw occasionally. Therefore it is important that they have their own spot, for example a basket or cushion. Make sure it is a place where your pet is not disturbed by all sorts of noises or commotion. Do you have multiple cats? Then give them all their own spot.
Do toys make my cat happy?
Cats need to be sufficiently stimulated to play. This prevents boredom and is in their nature. By playing, your cat also trains her muscles and develops more skills. Make sure to have toys for climbing and chasing. Don't give everything at once. This keeps it exciting and your cat stays curious.
How do I make my kitten happy?
Buy your kitten a soft stuffed animal. She has just left her nest and finds everything very exciting. A stuffed animal reassures her. At night, place a hot water bottle in her basket wrapped in one of your shirts. The bottle replaces the warm brother or sister she used to snuggle up to, and through the shirt she gets used to your scent.