10 tips to become the best cat owner

Our feline friends deserve nothing less than the best, but how do you make sure your purr princess is getting the royal treatment they deserve? Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or you’re looking for ways to level up your pet parent game, here are the top 10 tips on how to be a great cat owner. 

How to be a good cat owner 

1. Make their environment comfortable 

Creating a comfortable space for your feline friend to call home is extremely important, especially when they’re on new turf. Set up a number of cozy corners for cat naps and make space for them up high so they can watch the world go by. 

Fill these chill-out zones with soft blankets to make them extra comfy, and make sure everyone in the household knows not to disturb your kitty cat when they’re enjoying a bit of “me time”. 

2. Remove potential hazards 

Owning a cat for the first time means taking a close look at everything they may be exposed to. Medication, poisonous plants, and cleaning products are among the common household items that could pose a risk to your fluffy feline. Either remove them completely from the home or store them well out of reach to reduce the chance of accidents.

Pay special attention to poisonous foods in the kitchen - tomatoes, chocolate, and coffee are all dangerous for cats to eat.

3. Spend quality time with them 

The dos and don’ts of owning a cat can vary depending on the individual, so how can you be a good cat owner if you don’t even know your furry friend? Spending time getting to know your purr pal will help you understand their needs and deepen your bond with one another. Discovering their behavioral traits and hidden quirks will also help you to notice when something’s afoot. 

Playtime is a great way of building a connection with your kitty cat, and there are lots of interactive toys for the two of you to have fun with - throw them a jingling mouse, entice them with a feather wand, or get them to chase a laser pointer. 

4. But give them space

Quality time together doesn’t necessarily mean snuggling up on the sofa every night - some cats are more comfortable simply sharing the room with you. One of the biggest tips for new cat owners is to let your furry friend warm up to you in their own time - don’t rush the process. 

5. Find a trusted cat sitter 

Even the best cat owners have to go away from time to time, and it’s important to find someone you trust to take care of your furry feline while you’re off exploring, rather than opting for lonely, noisy and unfamiliar boarding for cats. Our verified pet sitters are cat lovers just like you, and give your fluffy friend all the care and attention they need in the comfort of their own home. This means nothing has to change for your furry family; they can enjoy all the same sights, smells, and sunny snoozing spots they’re used to, leaving you to relax with peace of mind on your travels. 

6. Keep their space clean

No one likes a dirty living space! Clean your purr pal’s food and water bowls regularly and pay special attention to your cat’s litter box - this should be cleaned daily to make sure they continue using this rather than another (cleaner) spot. 

7. Provide them with stimulating cat toys

Keep your furry friend entertained mentally and physically with a variety of exciting toys. 

• Feather wands and laser pointers are perfect for interactive play and strengthening your bond. 
• Treat-dispensing toys can be used to stimulate their natural hunting instincts.
• Scratching posts and pads allow cats to flex and sharpen their claws without taking out their energy on your furniture. 
• Cat trees are excellent outlets for physical activity, allowing kitties to climb, jump, and explore across various levels. 
• Tunnels and cardboard boxes make great places for hiding. 

Be sure to change up these toys regularly so your furry feline doesn’t get bored.

8. Feed your cat high-quality food

Cats are obligate carnivores which means they get all the nutrients they need from animal proteins like meat and fish. Your vet will be able to recommend an appropriate diet rich in protein and filled with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to keep your feline friend happy and healthy. 

In addition to high-quality cat food, make sure they have access to clean, fresh water from a bowl or water fountain at all times. 

9. Help them with grooming

While many cats are perfectly capable of taking care of their own grooming, some (particularly long-haired breeds) may need a helping hand. 

Regular grooming sessions with your purr pal will not only help keep on top of all that fuzz, but also allows you to check for any health concerns. Check for signs of disease or pain as you brush their fur and teeth, trim their claws, and clean their ears, ensuring their overall well-being and catching any potential health problems early. 

10. Keep their health in tip-top shape

That leads us nicely onto the final tip for becoming the best cat owner… monitoring their health. 

• Help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight by feeding them a nutritious diet.
• Make sure they’re up to date with vaccinations as well as worming and flea treatments.
• Get them microchipped.
• Book regular check-ups at the vet.
• Consider spaying or neutering your cat.
• Pay attention to any unusual behavior.

From meeting their everyday needs to giving them all the love, care, and attention they deserve, these tips for owning a cat will help you become ULTIMATE pet parent! And if you want to learn more about how to be a good cat owner, check out our post on 14 life hacks every cat parent should have up their sleeve.