Mammal
Cat
- Space
- Indoor room to climb, scratch and hide
- Daily time
- 30 to 60 minutes a day
- Company
- Fine alone or with a well-matched cat
- Lifespan
- About 12 to 18 years
Indoors, outdoors or in between
Many vets and welfare groups in the US recommend keeping cats indoors, since outdoor cats face traffic, fights, disease and predators, and they hunt birds and other wildlife. An indoor cat needs a richer home to stay content. Window perches, cat trees, a screened catio or supervised harness walks all help.
Setting up the litter box
A widely used guideline is one litter box per cat plus one extra, placed in quiet spots on each floor of the home. Most cats prefer large, uncovered boxes with unscented, clumping litter about two inches deep. Scoop at least once a day and wash the box regularly. A cat that stops using the box may be stressed or unwell, so mention it to your vet.
Scratching and climbing
Scratching is normal behavior. It keeps claws healthy and marks territory. Offer a sturdy, tall post covered in sisal, and a flat scratcher, near where the cat sleeps and near the furniture it targets. Shelves and cat trees give a cat height, which helps it feel safe.
Play every day
Two or three short sessions with a wand toy, letting the cat stalk, chase and catch, use up energy and reduce problem behavior at night. End each session with a catch and a small meal or treat. Puzzle feeders give indoor cats a reason to hunt for their food.
Feeding a cat
Cats are obligate carnivores and need nutrients found in animal tissue, such as taurine. Feed a commercial food labeled complete and balanced for the cat's life stage, measured to keep a healthy weight. Many cats drink little, so wet food, a water fountain or several water bowls around the home can help. Cow's milk upsets many cats' stomachs, and dog food lacks what cats need.
Grooming and claws
Short-haired cats groom themselves well but benefit from weekly brushing. Long-haired cats need daily brushing to prevent mats. Trim claw tips every few weeks, or ask your vet clinic to show you how.
Vet care
Book a first checkup soon after the cat arrives, then regular visits on the schedule your vet suggests. Cats hide pain well, so subtle changes matter: eating less, hiding more, grooming less, or changes in the litter box.
A cat, especially a male cat, that strains in the litter box and passes little or no urine needs a vet the same day. A blocked bladder can become life-threatening within hours.
Plants and items that harm cats
True lilies and daylilies are extremely dangerous to cats. Small amounts of any part of the plant, even pollen or vase water, can cause kidney failure. Keep them out of homes with cats. Other risks include human pain relievers, some essential oils, string, ribbon and hair ties. The ASPCA keeps a searchable list of toxic and non-toxic plants that is worth checking before you buy houseplants.
Cat care: questions
Why does my cat bring me toys at night?
Cats are most active around dawn and dusk. A play session and a meal before bed often settles them for the night.
Should I get a second cat?
Some cats enjoy company and others prefer to live alone. If you add a cat, introduce them slowly over days or weeks, starting with separate rooms.