How to keep your cat healthy: tips and advice

Cats are not only cute pets but also loyal companions that bring a lot of joy into our lives. It's important to take good care of your cat so that she can lead a long, happy, and healthy life. A healthy cat is a happy cat, and that's what we all strive for. In this article, we'll discuss why it's so important to keep your cat healthy and give you various tips to achieve that.

Why is it important to keep your cat healthy?

A healthy cat not only has a better quality of life but also a longer lifespan. According to statistics, cats live on average between 12 and 15 years, but many cats can even live up to 20 years or more if properly cared for. Good health contributes to their happy and playful behavior, which in turn adds to the joy they bring into our lives.

Moreover, an unhealthy cat can lead to various health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, and kidney diseases. This increases the risk of serious health problems and can shorten your cat's lifespan. By keeping your cat healthy, you can minimize these risks.

Additionally, a healthy cat results in less stress and long-term costs. Veterinary treatments can be expensive, and by keeping your cat healthy, you can avoid many of these costs. Now, let's look at the different ways to keep your cat healthy.

1. Nutrition: Choose the right food

Good nutrition is essential for your cat's health. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need meat to survive. Choose high-quality cat food specifically formulated for your cat's nutritional needs.

Cats with a balanced diet are 30% less likely to suffer from obesity and other related health problems.

How to choose the right cat food?

• Read the ingredient list: Look for food where meat is among the first ingredients. Avoid products with a lot of fillers like corn or soy.
• Choose the right type of food: There are different types of cat food, such as dry, wet, and homemade food. Dry food can help maintain healthy teeth, while wet food provides extra hydration. It can be good to use a combination of both.
• Tailored nutrition: Some cats have specific dietary needs, depending on their age, weight, and health condition. Consult your veterinarian about the best feeding options for your cat.

2. Regular vet check-ups

Regular visits to the vet are crucial for your cat's health. Just as humans go to the doctor for check-ups, your cat needs them too.

Why are vet check-ups important?

• Preventive care: Veterinarians can detect diseases early before they become more serious. This can significantly extend your cat's life expectancy.
• Vaccinations: Make sure your cat receives all necessary vaccinations. Vaccinations protect your cat against serious diseases such as feline distemper and feline calicivirus.
• Parasite control: Veterinarians can also advise on controlling fleas, ticks, and worms, all of which can be harmful to your cat's health.

3. Exercise and play

Cats are naturally active animals that need exercise to stay healthy. Research has shown that cats who are active for at least 30 minutes daily are 50% less likely to be overweight. It is therefore important to spend time playing with your cat and encouraging her to move.

Cats who are active for at least 30 minutes daily are 50% less likely to be overweight.

How do you ensure enough exercise?

• Toys: Provide a variety of toys, such as balls, mice, and scratching posts. This keeps your cat active and prevents boredom.
• Interactive playtime: Play regularly with your cat using, for example, feather wands or lasers. This stimulates her natural hunting instinct and keeps her moving.
• Outdoor activities: If it's safe, let your cat roam outdoors too. This can promote movement and mental stimulation. Make sure she is closely supervised.

4. Hydration: Ensure sufficient water

Adequate hydration is essential for your cat's health. Water plays an important role in maintaining good kidney function and healthy digestion.

Cats who regularly receive wet food are 40% better hydrated than cats who only receive dry food.

How do you ensure your cat drinks enough?

• Fresh water: Make sure your cat always has access to fresh and clean water. Change the water daily and preferably use a water fountain. Cats find them more attractive and they have several advantages over a standard water bowl.
• Wet food: As mentioned earlier, wet cat food can contribute to your cat's hydration. This is especially important for cats who don't like to drink.
• Try adding flavor: If your cat doesn't drink enough, you can try adding some meat broth (without onions or salt) to the water to make it more appealing.

5. Healthy weight: Keep your cat at a healthy weight

Obesity is a growing problem among cats. A healthy weight is crucial for your cat's overall health.

How do you keep your cat at a healthy weight?

• Portion size: Make sure you feed the correct portion size, depending on your cat's size and age. Follow the guidelines on the food packaging and consult your veterinarian.
• Limit treats: Limit the number of treats you give your cat. Treats should not account for more than 10% of the daily caloric intake.
• Active playtime: Ensure your cat gets regular exercise. This not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also keeps her muscles and joints strong.

6. Oral health: Take care of your cat's teeth

Oral health is an often-overlooked aspect of overall cat health. Dental problems can lead to pain, infections, and other health issues.

70% of cats over three years old suffer from dental problems.

How do you take care of your cat's oral health?

• Brushing teeth: It's important to brush your cat's teeth regularly. Use special cat toothpaste and a toothbrush suitable for cats.
• Oral care products: There are also special snacks and toys that promote oral health, such as matatabi sticks. These can help remove plaque and tartar and also have more benefits.
• Vet check-ups: Have your cat's oral health checked regularly during vet visits. This can help detect dental problems early.

7. Social interaction and mental stimulation

Cats are social animals that need interaction with their owners and other pets. Social isolation can lead to stress and behavioral problems. Research has shown that cats who have regular social interaction experience less stress and are less likely to have behavioral problems. This demonstrates that social health is just as important as physical health.

How do you ensure social interaction?

• Play with your cat: Take time every day to play with your cat and give her attention. This strengthens your bond and keeps your cat happy.
• Other pets: If you have other pets, ensure a safe and harmonious environment. This can help with your cat's social interaction.
• New experiences: Introduce new toys or change the environment to mentally stimulate your cat.

8. Ensure a safe environment

A safe environment is essential for your cat's health and well-being. This helps to prevent accidents and injuries.

How do you ensure a safe environment?

• Safe home: Make sure your home is cat-proof. Remove toxic plants, ensure safe windows and balconies, and keep dangerous objects out of reach.
• Outdoor conditions: If your cat goes outdoors, make sure she is safe. Supervise her and provide a safe outdoor area.
• Identification: Make sure your cat is microchipped and wears a collar with a name tag. This increases the chance of her return if she gets lost.

9. Stress reduction

Stress can have a major impact on your cat's health. Chronic stress can lead to behavioral problems and health issues such as cystitis.

How do you reduce stress in your cat?

• Quiet environment: Provide a calm and stable environment. Avoid loud noises and sudden changes.
• Hiding places: Offer your cat hiding places where she can feel safe. These can be cat houses or high places.
• Toys and activities: Keep your cat mentally stimulated with toys and activities. This helps to reduce boredom and stress.

10. Regular grooming

Regular grooming is important for your cat's health. This includes brushing the coat, clipping the nails, and cleaning the ears.

How do you groom your cat?

• Coat care: Brush your cat's coat regularly to prevent mats and remove loose hair. This also helps to reduce hairballs.
• Nail care: Trim your cat's nails regularly with a nail clipper to prevent overgrowth and splitting. Be careful and use a special nail clipper for cats.
• Ear care: Regularly check your cat's ears for dirt and infections. Use a soft cloth to clean the ears.