TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR CAT HAPPY

Tips for Keeping your cat happy 

Studies have been performed that showed the connection between a feline-friendly house hold and healthy cats.  The technical name for this theory is “MEMO” = Multimodal environmental modification.  This basically means that small changes in your cat’s household can result in happier cats with a decreased incidence of health issues (including abnormal behaviour and urinary problems). Here is a list of things that you can do to make your cat(s) happier and healthier:

• Feed a diet that consists mostly or entirely of canned food.  Ideally this food should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates.  This type of diet closely mimics a “natural” feline diet (e.g. rodents) and also increases water intake. 
• Have multiple sources of fresh, cold water around the house to maximize water intake.  Increased water intake has been shown to decrease the occurrence of lower urinary tract disease in cats.  Recirculating water fountain bowls are another way to encourage water intake.
• Litter boxes:
  • Have the same number of litter boxes as the number of cats in the house PLUS ONE
  • Clean each box daily
  • Use unscented litter
• Have climbing “trees” and perches for your cat to play and relax on.
• Have multiple different types of scratching posts – vertical and horizontal.  Often made of carpet and cardboard.
• Spend at least 10 minutes with your cat 1-2 times daily – they values human interaction and bonding time.  This can include play time (e.g. laser pointer, ball throwing) and/or just “relaxing” together (brushing cat, rubbing, etc).

These are just a few small things that can make a big difference in your cat’s quality of life and overall general health. 

Recommended Websites with Information for keeping your cat happy and healthy:

The Indoor Cat Initiative: http://vet.osu.edu/indoorcat.htm

Tips of feeding canned diets: http://www.catinfo.org