Cats are a popular choice for their striking appearance, and they make good companions. They also have relatable body language. For example, just like human beings, cats slowly blink their eyes to indicate trust.
This guide will explore what life with cats entails, from breed differences and body language to diet, grooming, and long-term care.
Do You Really Want to Be a Cat Parent?
Cats are independent and clean. However, they still crave their parents’ attention and care. Before bringing one into your home, consider the following factors:
Expected Costs
Cat maintenance isn’t free. To start, you’ll need to expend some funds on adoption, cat food, bowls, grooming tools, litter box essentials, a collar, and even toys, like a scratching post. Once you’re settled, additional expenses will come into play:
- Routine Costs: Treats, new toys, litter, shampoo, dental care, and vet visits.
- Unexpected Bills: Injuries, illnesses, or special dietary needs can lead to sudden veterinary costs. A reserve fund makes these easier to manage.
Long-Term Commitment
Cats often live around 15–20 years or longer. You’ll need to provide a safe, comfortable home for every stage of life, from kittenhood to senior years.
Time and Daily Attention
Regular exercise improves the physical and mental well-being of cats. Can you set aside at least 15–30 minutes a day to play interactive games (like hide-and-seek) with them?
You’ll also need to groom your cats regularly. This involves brushing their coats, and trimming their nails. More importantly, they need fresh food and clean water every day to stay healthy.
Patience and Adaptation
Some cats bond right away; others take weeks or months to feel comfortable. You’ll need to take your time to understand their unique needs and build trust.
How Cats Differ Across Breeds
Cats share many features in common, but breeds vary in size, shape, coat, temperament, and even ear structure. These differences influence grooming and health needs.
Purebred and Mixed-Breed Cats
Purebred, also referred to as pedigree cats, are required to meet specific registry standards for appearance and behavior. This explains why it's easy to guess their physical makeup.
They are also more prone to hereditary diseases due to their narrow genetic pool. Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and Cornish Rex are examples of pedigree cats.
Mixed-breed cats (or crossbreeds), on the other hand, aren't limited to specific looks due to their diverse genetic variations. This is why they often have fewer breed-specific health issues.
Eye Color
Most kittens are born with blue eyes, which change to a different color as they grow. The typical adult eye colors are green, yellow, copper, amber, and orange.
Coat Colors
Genetics plays a more significant role in coat color than breed does. For instance, Russian Blues are known for their solid blue-gray coats, while Bengals have spotted or marbled tabby patterns. Here are a few examples for context:
- Solid: One color (e.g, black, white, or gray).
- Tabby: Stripes, swirls, or spots.
- Tortoiseshell: A combination of black, orange, and sometimes white (almost always female).
- Calico: Orange, white, and black patches (typically females).
- Bicolor: White with another color.
Ear Shapes
Ear shapes vary according to breed and can sometimes signify health issues.
- Upright: This ear stands upright and tall. It's the most common form for many breeds and typically comes with no health risks.
- Folded: It bends downward and forward, giving Scottish Fold cats a rounded teddy bear look. The gene responsible for the fold can affect cartilage, sometimes leading to conditions like osteochondrodysplasia.
- Curled: This ear curls backwards, and it's found in most American Curl cats. There are no conclusive health implications.
- Tufted: It carries clusters of long hair extending from the tips or inner edges, notably in Maine Coon, Pixiebob, and Siberian cats. The tufted areas protect the felines against dust and cold when they're outside. They could easily trap debris and moisture, leading to an ear infection.
Textures
Cats come with a range of coat textures. Burmese cats have short and sleek coats, while American Short Hair has a medium coat. Ragdolls are known for their long and silky coats, whereas Sphynx is hairless.
It's worth mentioning that these textures can significantly impact the grooming routine. For instance, hairless cats need regular bathing to manage body oils, while long-haired breeds benefit from consistent brushing to prevent tangles.
Sizes
Felines are generally classified as small, medium, or large in size. Size varies based on factors like breed, age, genetics, and/or sex. For clarity, you can check these out:
- Large breeds: Maine Coon and Siberian cats; some males can weigh 20–25 pounds.
- Medium breeds: Siamese, American Shorthair, and Bengal (about 8–15 pounds).
- Small breeds: Singapura, Devon Rex, and Munchkin (around 4–8 pounds).
Note that these are only estimates; some cats may fall outside the typical range.
Temperament
Although breeds can influence cat personality, their environment can also play a significant role.
- General Traits: Cats are generally inquisitive, independent, and playful hunters.
- Breed Tendencies: Maine Coons are generally calm and affectionate, whereas Siamese cats are known for their vocal, active nature.
- Environmental Influence: A quiet household tends to encourage reserved cats, while a busier home may make them livelier.
Do Cats Need Baths?
Most cats are excellent self-groomers, keeping their fur clean and tidy without much help. However, there are times when a traditional bath can be necessary for their health and comfort. Here are some situations where a bath might be helpful:
Mobility Issues
Senior cats (usually 8+ years old) may develop arthritis or other conditions that limit their flexibility, making it difficult to reach certain areas for grooming.
Safety or Emergency
A bath is essential if your cat comes into contact with something unsafe to ingest. Chemicals, oils, and even the pollen of true lilies can be dangerous if licked off.
Hygiene Mishaps
Sometimes cats can’t fully clean themselves, especially around the rear end. In these cases, a bath can help maintain hygiene when wipes aren’t enough.
Long Coat Care
Long-haired breeds may require occasional baths to prevent painful mats and tangles that can trap dirt and debris.
Low Energy
Cats that are lethargic due to illness or age may not groom themselves thoroughly, making bathing necessary at times.
Wound Care
If your cat is recovering from an injury, your veterinarian may recommend bathing as part of treatment. In these cases, it’s crucial to follow veterinary instructions exactly.
Skin Conditions
Cats with fleas, allergies, ringworm, or other skin issues may need medicated baths. Again, follow your veterinarian’s guidance carefully.
Weight Challenges
Overweight cats may struggle to reach certain areas of their bodies, making occasional baths helpful for proper grooming.
Creating a Feline-Friendly Home
Cats thrive in environments where they can rest, explore, and feel secure. Below are some essentials to include when setting up a space for your little ones:
Sleeping Areas
Cats enjoy sleeping, and they prefer quiet, cozy spots. A cave-style bed or sleep sack works well for kittens, a heated bed suits adults, and a window hammock is perfect for long sunbathing sessions.
Hideouts
Every cat needs a place to retreat when they feel scared. Cardboard boxes or fabric tunnels provide a simple and effective hiding spot.
Vertical Spaces
Cats feel safe when they can view their surroundings from above. Wall shelves or cat trees allow them to climb, jump, and observe like the hunters they are.
Litter Boxes and Cat Litter
Felines have an instinct to cover waste. Providing a clean box designed for cats (like this Sifting Litter Box) encourages this natural behavior while ensuring a hygienic environment. You may try different types of Cat Litter to see if your cat has a preference as well as what works best for your household.
Scratching Posts
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. It helps them stretch their claws, shoulders, and back muscles while also providing a healthy outlet for stress.
Many cats enjoy scratching tall surfaces like Sisal Rope posts or wooden boards. Offer a dedicated post to prevent potential damage to your furniture.
Toys
Keep your cat entertained and mentally sharp with a variety of toys. Puzzle feeders challenge their problem-solving skills, wand teasers encourage active play, and simple items like ping pong balls or paper rolls can provide hours of fun. A mix of interactive and independent toys helps keep your feline friend happy, healthy, and engaged.
Keeping Your Cat's Enclosure Clean and Comfy
A clean environment improves your feline's physical health and overall well-being. To get started, here are basic steps you can follow:
Sanitize the Surroundings
Start by moving your cat and items like toys and food bowls away from the area. Remove any debris, fur, and dust to make the space easier to clean. For hard-to-vacuum spots or small items, lint rollers can be especially helpful for picking up stray fur.
Afterward, disinfect the entire enclosure with cat-friendly cleaning supplies like diluted white vinegar and lemon juice. Focus on areas where your cats spend more time, such as perches. Allow it to dry completely before putting your cat back.
Wash Items With Non-Toxic Products
Wash the bedding and toys with a mild detergent to avoid irritation. Beware of ingredients that may trigger allergies. After washing, you can sun-dry the washed items.
Use a Breathable Bedding Material
After cleaning, replace the bedding. Avoid materials that are:
- Heat-trapping (synthetic foams and fillers)
- Dusty
- Dyed
- Silk or satin
- Non-absorbent
- Strong-smelling
Artificial foams may release chemicals that affect breathing and digestion. It’s important to choose bedding that keeps your cat’s respiratory system healthy.
Safe bedding options include:
- Cotton: Easy to clean and hypoallergenic, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Fleece: Lightweight and quick-drying, ideal for cats who enjoy snuggling.
- Microfiber: Resistant to stains and odors, suitable for messier cats.
- Hemp: Durable, hypoallergenic, and antimicrobial.
- Bamboo: Cooling and antibacterial.
- Polyester: Resistant to wrinkles and shrinking.
Choose an Absorbent Litter Box
Cats instinctively use litters to bury their urine and feces. Therefore, it's essential to select a high-quality product. The following options could work:
Clay Litter
Clay litter has long been a staple in many cat homes, but it comes with important drawbacks that cat parents should consider. Mining clay can disrupt natural habitats and requires energy-intensive extraction, and because the litter is not biodegradable, it adds substantially to landfill waste.
Clay litter can produce dust that may irritate pets with sensitive respiratory systems. For a gentler, more eco-friendly option, many cat parents turn to plant-based litter (such as Recycled Pelleted Paper Cat Litter) which is low-dust and typically much easier to manage.
Silica Litter
When made with amorphous silica, silica litter for cats is considered safe and dries out feces, limiting bacteria growth. It also helps control unpleasant odors, making daily scooping easier.
Pelleted Pine Cat Litter
Pelleted Pine Cat Litter is lightweight and has low dust. Since it’s made from pine trees, it naturally fights odors and absorbs well. It comes in clumping and non-clumping varieties.
Biodegradable
Biodegradable litter is made from eco-friendly materials that are 100% biodegradable. Hemp Pelleted Cat Litter is a great option for trusted absorption and managing odors effectively.
How Often Should I Clean My Cat's Items?
Follow this simple routine:
- Scoop litter every day to reduce odor.
- Clean the litter box weekly.
- Wash food and water bowls daily to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Change bedding regularly to maintain a hygienic, cozy resting area.
How to Understand Cats’ Moods
Cats prefer organized environments, but they also rely on body language to communicate their state of mind. Once you recognize these signals, you can better understand what they want and how they feel. Start with these basics about their common body language and the moods they represent:
Tail Signals
Some tail cues include:
- Upright tail with a slight curve at the tip (like a question mark or hook): Confidence and friendliness.
- Lightly twitching tail tip: Playfulness and excitement.
- Rapid or forceful tail flicking: Anger or irritation.
- Puffed-up tail: Indicates the cat feels threatened and would like to be left alone.
Ear Positions
Examples are:
- Forward-facing ears: Alert.
- Ears pinned back: Stress, fear, or aggression.
Eye Cues
These include:
- Slow blink: Trust, affection, and relaxation.
- Widened or dilated pupils: Happiness. When paired with a crouched body and flattened ears, it signals fear.
How to Build Trust and Bond With Your Cats
Taking consistent steps to interact with your felines can help build a stable relationship. Here are some suggestions to help you get started:
Respect Their Personal Space
Hold out your hand and observe how your cats respond. If they rub their head and cheeks against it, it indicates they are open to interacting.
Not every cat is comfortable with the same type of touch. Some like to be stroked on the head, back, or cheeks, while others may feel uncomfortable if you touch their underbelly or tail.
Spend Quality Time With Your Cats
Engage in activities your cats enjoy. Some respond positively to petting near the tail base, while others prefer grooming. You can engage in regular brushing sessions with cats who enjoy grooming.
Reward Them With Their Favorite Treats
Treats can be a valuable reinforcement tool. Generally, up to 10% of daily caloric intake may come from treats, unless otherwise directed by a veterinarian. Options include chew treats and catnip-infused varieties. Provide them as rewards for interaction or to encourage play.
Cat Diet Basics
A feline diet can vary based on their breed, age, and existing health conditions. Generally, they can consume these types of foods, including:
Common Cat Food Options
The most usual cat food options include:
- Wet food: This option contains a high amount of water, ensuring optimal hydration and supporting kidney health.
- Dry food: Has less water and contributes to dental health by helping to remove tartar buildup around the gum line.
- Semi-moist food: Middle ground between dry and wet food.
- Homemade diet: Usually prepared using vet-approved recipes.
Essential Nutrients For Cats
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they depend on nutrients from animal-based products. Their diet should contain:
Protein: Essential for muscle development and organ health. Felines need up to 30% protein in their diet.
- Taurine: Critical for vision and heart health.
- Fats: Minimize inflammation and improve coat condition.
- Vitamins & minerals: Support dental health, metabolism, and bone strength.
- Water: Promotes hydration.
Foods to Use Occasionally as Treats
Remember to give treats in small portions to prevent health issues. Good options include:
- Small portions of cooked beef, chicken, turkey, tuna, or salmon without artificial seasonings.
- Well-cooked eggs.
- Feline-friendly pureed or cooked veggies like pumpkin, peas, and carrots.
- Catnip and commercial treats.
Foods Cats Can’t Have
Certain foods are harmful to cats:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Grapes and raisins
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Raw dough and bones
- Milk and dairy products
Common Cat Health Issues and How to Prevent Them
As a cat parent, it's essential to look out for warning signs of common illnesses. This way, you can contact the vet promptly and improve the prospects of recovery. Read on for more details about diseases that often affect cats:
Fleas
Fleas can be treated effectively if discovered early. Here are signs your cat has been infested:
- Frequent scratching
- Inflamed skin
- Hair loss
- Hot spots on the skin
- Tiny black dots
An untreated infestation can cause anemia. You can prevent it by:
- Always keeping your cat indoors.
- Rinsing their bedding in hot, soapy water every week.
- Disinfecting floors, rugs, and furniture.
Feline Obesity
A cat is considered obese when it weighs 20% more than its expected body weight. Excessive treats and dry foods can contribute to obesity. Symptoms of feline obesity include:
- Visible weight gain
- Messy hair coat
- Difficulty running, jumping, or climbing
- Infrequent bowel movements
- Collar keeps getting tighter
You can prevent these signs by:
- Providing measured portions of food
- Limiting carbohydrate intake
- Using treats sparingly
- Encouraging exercise
- Weighing your cats regularly
Dental Diseases
The most common forms of dental disease in cats are preventable or treatable. These include tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Tartar usually accumulates from trapped food.
Watch for signs like:
- Excessive drooling
- Bad breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Teeth chattering
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
Preventive measures include:
- Avoid tough foods
- Regular dental cleaning and oral examinations for early detection
- Use oral rinses
- Apply plaque prevention gel
- Daily toothbrushing
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is common among adult cats. A genetic disorder can cause it, ingestion of toxic substances like rat poison, or underlying medical conditions such as lymphoma.
Most cats will exhibit the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- High blood pressure
- Fever
- Constipation
- Reduced social interaction
- Sore mouth
Precautionary measures are:
- Increased water intake
- More wet food
- Weight control
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
FLUTD often occurs in cats who are overweight or frequently eat dry foods.
FLUTD symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Bloody urine
- Crying when urinating
- Dehydration
- Moodiness
- Vomiting
You can minimize your cat’s chances of getting FLUTD by:
- Providing fresh water at all times
- Providing access to a clean litter box
- Seeking your vet’s advice about the best diet for your cat
What to Expect During Cat Pregnancy
Understanding how to care for pregnant cats is crucial to ensure the birth of healthy kittens. Start by detecting the signs that come with each stage of pregnancy.
Understand How Gestation Works
A cat's pregnancy usually lasts 63–65 days. It’s divided into three trimesters, each spanning at least 20 days:
- First trimester (Day 1–21): Increased appetite and pinker nipples.
- Second trimester (Day 21–42): Larger belly and clingy behavior.
- Third trimester (Day 42–63): Increased grooming around the belly and nesting to prepare a secluded spot for kittens.
Contact Your Vet for Nutrition Needs
Feed your pregnant cat with high-quality commercial kitten food or growth formulation. Underfeeding can cause abortion or stillbirths, while overfeeding may increase the risk of prolonged labor. It's best to consult your vet for guidance on the correct food type and proportions.
Prepare a Kittening Area
Once you've figured out that your pregnant cat is about to give birth, create a kittening spot for her. An ideal place would be:
- Quiet
- Free from harsh sunlight
- Warm and draft-free
- Semi-enclosed (e.g., a cardboard box)
- Comfortable with absorbent bedding
- Equipped with food, water, a litter tray, and other essentials
Feeding Baby Cats
The nutritional needs of kittens change over time. Here's how:
- Weeks 0 to 4: Kittens should drink their mother’s milk to get nutrients. You can try a kitten milk replacer if the mother isn't available. Avoid cow’s milk as it may cause illness.
- Weeks 4 to 8: Begin gradual weaning onto wet food.
Final Thoughts for Feline Parents
Understanding the essentials of parenthood provides a strong foundation for building a healthy and loving relationship with your cat. From pregnancy to adulthood, each stage comes with specific nutritional, health, and environmental needs.
By paying attention to these basics and supporting natural behaviors such as climbing, scratching, and hunting, you create the conditions for your cat to thrive.
