GabyAnimal psychologist Ann Quinn, a senior lecturer at the Sydney School of Veterinary Science in Australia, has shared five simple tips to help your cat live a healthier and happier life. According to Quinn, about one-third of Australian households have at least one cat. However, it’s common for people to misinterpret feline behavior. The more we learn about cats, the more we realize they are complex creatures with unique preferences and abilities, capable of learning. By observing your pet’s behavior and trying to understand its body language, you can make your furry friend’s life calmer and more joyful.
Pay attention to your cat’s body language
Body language and vocalizations are the primary tools of feline communication. A slow blink often indicates a positive emotional state in the animal. In contrast, cats that are unhappy or don’t want to be touched will freeze, back away, flatten their ears, and hiss. When they feel cornered, they may scratch or bite. It’s better to let cats approach you on their own terms rather than forcing interaction. When a cat walks toward its owner with its tail held high, it’s sending a friendly signal. However, if it’s swishing its tail back and forth, it’s a sign of irritation. Quinn believes that cats should always have the option to decline interaction, even physical contact. Don’t pet your cat if you can see it doesn’t want to be touched and is eager to leave.
Provide a healthy environment for your cat
The American Association of Feline Practitioners and the International Society of Feline Medicine have outlined five principles for a healthy cat environment: a safe space where cats can hide when frightened; separate key resources (food, water, litter boxes, scratching posts, play areas, and sleeping zones) that allow animals to comfortably engage in their daily activities; opportunities for displaying predatory behavior, such as play that mimics hunting; positive, consistent, and predictable communication between the cat and its human, respecting the animal’s choices and knowing how to interact; and respecting the cat’s feelings by protecting it from unwanted stimuli (sharp smells and loud noises) while providing desired sensory stimulation (like catnip).
Keep the litter box clean
This may not be the most pleasant task, but it is a crucial responsibility for pet owners. Cats prefer to use a clean litter box, even if they are the only cat in the house. They enjoy spending time in the litter box, usually favoring a spacious container. Remember that the litter box should be located away from food and water bowls. Poor hygiene in the home can even lead to urinary issues in your pets, as reported by Science Alert. If you are changing the type of litter, experts recommend doing so gradually to help your cat adjust to the change.
Read the tension in the room
This advice is especially relevant for those who have more than one cat. Tension between household cats is so common that owners often overlook it, especially since animals don’t always resolve conflicts through aggression. A prolonged stare is a sign of tension between cats. They may also block access to the litter box or doors to prevent other cats from using them, which can lead to chronic fear, stress, or anxiety. Recognizing tension between household cats and knowing how to manage it can improve the well-being of all residents in the home—both animals and humans. When you love your cat, there may be a temptation to enhance the joy in your home by bringing in another pet. However, this is not always necessary. If your cat interacts well with people and trusts them, it is not lonely.
Make your cat’s life safe
Ann Quinn noted that about 65 percent of cat owners in Australia keep their pets indoors at all times. However, indoor cats should not roam freely without supervision, even within your private property. The outdoors can lure domestic cats with unfamiliar sounds and smells, but it also poses numerous dangers. Cats are very intelligent. Contrary to popular belief, they can even be trained. This process can be mutually beneficial for both cats and humans. But most importantly, your cat should feel that its choices and its “feline essence” are respected. It’s essential to pay close attention to your cat’s needs and try to see the world through its eyes. By doing so, your beloved pet will become happier.
