We usually associate dementia with humans, but cats can develop feline dementia, or cognitive dysfunction, as they get older, too.

The symptoms of dementia in cats, like confusion and sleep problems, mirror those experienced by humans.

Increased vocalization, particularly meowing, is also common in cats with dementia, as is a change in appetite.

A new study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience has found that the brains of cats with dementia change in a similar way to those of people with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. This may help us to better study dementia in humans, the researchers have said.

Scientists found a build-up of the toxic protein amyloid-beta in the brains of cats with dementia, something also found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. This helps us learn how the protein leads to age-related brain dysfunction and memory loss in cats.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh examined the brains of 25 cats after they’d died, including cats who’d shown signs of feline dementia. They found build-ups of amyloid-beta within the synapses, connections between brain cells, of senior cats and cats with dementia.

They also discovered that astrocytes and microglia, both support cells found in the brain, ‘ate’ the synapses affected. Known as synaptic pruning, the process is important when the brain is developing but can contribute to synapse loss in dementia.

Synapses allow messages to travel between brain cells and are important when it comes to keeping the brain healthy. When they’re affected, it’s likely to lead to memory and cognitive issues.

The findings will help us both understand and learn to manage dementia in cats, but dementia in humans, too. Previously, scientists have had to rely on rodent models, but rodents don’t naturally develop dementia. So, studying cats who’ve died with dementia could aid research and help develop treatments.

Dr Robert McGeachan, study lead from the University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: "Dementia is a devastating disease – whether it affects humans, cats, or dogs. Our findings highlight the striking similarities between feline dementia and Alzheimer's disease in people.

“This opens the door to exploring whether promising new treatments for human Alzheimer's disease could also help our aging pets.”

Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, Personal Chair of Feline Medicine at the same vet school, added: "Feline dementia is so distressing for the cat and for its person. It is by undertaking studies like this that we will understand how best to treat them. This will be wonderful for the cats, their owners, people with Alzheimer's and their loved ones. Feline dementia is the perfect natural model for Alzheimer's, everyone benefits."

Read next: 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

Cats hate water, right? In popular culture, the life of a feline consists of eating fish, chasing mice, fighting with dogs, and running from the sight of water.

While some cats do love water, even going for a swim, there is some truth to the stereotype. If you’ve ever tried to give your kitty a wash and ended up covered in scratches despite promises of the best cat treats, you’ll be able to testify.

So, why do cats hate water, and what can we do to help keep them clean? Dr Aimee Warner, resident vet at Waggel, has all the information we need.

It’s partly due to the way cats evolved, as Dr Warner explains. “When we see a cat 'overreacting' to water, we're witnessing millions of years of evolution in action,” she explains. “Their ancestors survived by avoiding water, and that programming is so strong it overrides logic. Understanding this changes everything about how we approach feline hygiene."

Domestic cats are descended from the African wildcat, which tends to live in desert climates where there isn’t a lot of water. The reason cats are so adept at grooming themselves is so they don’t have to depend on water.

So, do cats need baths? Well, when cats get wet, their fur doesn’t provide as much insulation, and so can make them feel colder and more vulnerable. They can’t regulate temperature as well, and can’t move as quickly. They lose their natural scent markers, too. As Dr Warner adds, "It's not stubbornness. It's genuine distress. Their nervous system is telling them they're in danger."

So, here’s what she recommends instead of battling at bath time:

• Opt for daily brushing instead: If you spend five minutes a day on brushing, you’ll remove dirt and distribute natural oils more than less frequent baths. Make sure you choose the right brush for your feline, so use a slicker brush (like this one on Amazon) for long hair and a rubber brush (like this one) for short hair.
• Spot-clean: Use cat-friendly wipes and dry shampoos (like this one) to tackle specific areas, like dirty paws or faces. You can keep your cat clean without getting their entire body wet.
• Utilize positive reinforcement: If you take things slow and reward your cat, they’re more likely to grow to enjoy brushing. By building their trust over time, you’ll make things like nail trimming or checking their teeth easier, too.
• Keep water for emergencies only: Make sure you reserve bath time for emergencies. For example, if your cat gets into a dangerous substance, is very unwell, and a bath would help, or they’ve soiled themselves to the point where it could pose a health risk.

"Sometimes safety trumps comfort," Dr Warner says. "If your cat gets into something dangerous, quick action matters more than their preferences. But we can minimise the stress."

If you must bathe your cat, she recommends keeping the room warm, using shallow lukewarm water and a non-slip surface, putting on a calm voice, and wrapping them in a warm towel straight after.

"Save the water battles for true emergencies," Dr Warner summarizes. "Your cat will be healthier, happier, and your relationship will be stronger when you work with their instincts instead of against them."

Read next: How to give a cat a flea bath

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

Lethargy in cats is something I have encountered frequently in my 14 years as a veterinary surgeon. It is a very common reason for owners to bring their cats into the clinic, often describing them as “not themselves,” “not quite right,” or just “more sleepy than usual.” Because cats naturally enjoy long naps, it can sometimes be tricky to tell if they’re just resting or if there’s an underlying problem.

In veterinary practice, I’ve seen cases where lethargy was caused by something minor, like a mild viral infection, and others where it was the first sign of a life-threatening condition. Cats are masters at hiding illness, so subtle changes in their behavior or activity levels can be important clues.

The key to helping your cat is recognizing what’s normal for them and spotting changes early. This article will explain what lethargy in cats really means, the symptoms to watch for, the possible causes, and how you can help your cat feel better, as well as when it’s essential to seek veterinary attention.

What is lethargy in cats?

Lethargy in cats refers to a noticeable decrease in energy, enthusiasm, or willingness to engage in normal activities. A lethargic cat may spend more time sleeping, show less interest in play, grooming, or eating, and may seem generally “sluggish” or weak.

It’s important to remember that cats normally sleep for 12–16 hours a day, so sleep alone isn’t a cause for concern. The difference with lethargy is that your cat’s overall responsiveness and interest in their environment changes, even during the hours when they’d usually be active.

Symptoms of lethargy in cats

While lethargy itself is a symptom, you may also notice:

• Decreased appetite: Eating less than usual or not eating food altogether. If you're wondering why your cat isn’t eating, it can often be linked to an underlying illness causing lethargy.
• Reduced grooming: Coat may become dull, greasy, or matted.
• Less interest in play: Your cat won't play and even favorite toys may be ignored.
• Sleeping in unusual places: Particularly hiding away more than normal. A common query is why is my cat hiding?, as this can be a key sign of pain or stress.
• Slow or stiff movements: Reluctance to jump or climb.
• Changes in vocalization: Quieter than usual or, in some cases, more vocal.
• Weight loss: This can be gradual or sudden.
• Changes in toileting habits: You might notice things like urinating outside the litter tray.

If you notice lethargy alongside other signs like breathing difficulty, persistent vomiting, or collapse, this is an emergency and you should contact your vet immediately.

Causes of lethargy in cats

Lethargy in cats can be caused by a wide range of issues, including:

• Infection: Viral (e.g., feline calicivirus) or bacterial infections can be a huge drain on your cat’s energy.
• Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and worms can cause anemia or general unwellness.
• Pain or injury: Cats in pain may avoid movement and rest more than usual. Learning the subtle signs of pain in cats is crucial for early detection.
• Anemia: A low red blood cell count can leave your cat weak and tired.
• Heart disease: Reduces the body’s ability to circulate oxygen efficiently.
• Kidney disease: Common in older cats and can cause toxin build-up in the blood.
• Liver disease: Affects metabolism and energy levels.
• Endocrine disorders: Such as diabetes mellitus or hyperthyroidism.
• Cancer: Certain cancers can cause fatigue, either directly or through secondary effects.
• Toxin ingestion: Poisoning can cause sudden onset lethargy.
• Stress or emotional changes: Cats can withdraw and rest more when anxious or depressed.

How can I help my lethargic cat?

The first step is to monitor your cat closely and seek veterinary advice. While mild lethargy that resolves within 24 hours may be due to something minor, anything that persists or worsens needs investigation.

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, and may include:

• Veterinary examination and diagnostic tests: Your vet may recommend blood tests, urine tests, imaging (X-ray or ultrasound), or other checks to identify the cause.
• Parasite control: Regular flea, tick, and worm treatment can prevent lethargy caused by infestations. Ensure you are using the best flea treatment for cats to rule this out.
• Supportive care: This might involve fluids, nutritional support, and pain relief.
• Specific medication: Such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, insulin for diabetes, or heart medications.
• Lifestyle adjustments: For chronic conditions, adjustments to diet, environment, and routine can improve comfort and energy.

Lethargy in cats is a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. While it may be due to something minor, it can also be the first sign of serious illness. The safest approach is to get your cat checked by a vet, especially if the change is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms.

By knowing your cat’s normal behavior and acting promptly when something seems wrong, you can help ensure they get the care they need – and hopefully get them back to their lively, affectionate selves as soon as possible.

Read next: Cat sleep positions

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Can cats drink oat milk? It’s a question I encounter increasingly in my veterinary practice. As more households embrace plant-based diets, many animal lovers wonder whether their cats can share in that trend. With over 14 years of experience as a vet, I've advised many pet owners about human foods and the surprising risks they can pose to our feline friends.

While oat milk might seem like a harmless, dairy-free option, it's important to remember that cats aren’t small humans. They are obligate carnivores with digestive systems finely tuned for protein and fats, not plant-derived sugars. So before you pour a little into a saucer for your whiskered companion, it helps to know what’s safe, and what’s not.

In this article, I’ll explain the realities of feeding oat milk to cats and discuss some better alternatives. While you're here, you might also want to learn more about what cats should drink.

Can cats drink oat milk?

Cats can drink oat milk without it causing them any immediate harm. Because it is a plant-based product, oat milk does not contain lactose. This is important, as many cats struggle to digest lactose properly, which is why cow’s milk often leads to uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, or diarrhea.

By comparison, oat milk is far less likely to upset the digestive system. However, just because something is safe does not mean it is useful or beneficial. Oat milk offers no meaningful nutritional value to cats.

As obligate carnivores, cats have very specific dietary requirements that come almost exclusively from animal proteins. Oat milk does not provide these. It is very low in protein, it does not contain essential amino acids such as taurine, and it lacks the healthy fats that support a cat’s overall wellbeing.

Instead, it is relatively high in carbohydrates, which cats do not process efficiently. If given regularly, these extra calories can contribute to gradual weight gain, particularly in indoor cats that are less active and therefore more prone to obesity. For these reasons, while an occasional sip of oat milk is unlikely to cause any problems, it should not form a part of a cat’s regular diet.

How much oat milk can cats drink?

If you do decide to give your cat a little oat milk, it should only ever be regarded as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

A very small amount is more than enough – around a teaspoon or two, offered no more than once or twice a week. It is important to make sure the oat milk is plain and unsweetened, as flavored varieties often contain added sugars, preservatives, or artificial sweeteners.

Some sweeteners, such as xylitol, are highly toxic to cats and must be strictly avoided. To be safe, it's worth familiarising yourself with a list of human foods that are poisonous to cats.

For this reason, always read the label carefully before offering any to your pet. Keeping it simple, plain, and in very modest quantities is the safest way to ensure that this occasional indulgence does not put your cat’s health at risk.

What kind of milk can cats drink?

Here’s a guide to feline-friendly 'milks' that are safe to give to your cat.

1. Lactose-free cat milk: This type of milk is specially formulated for cats and is a far safer option than standard cow’s milk. Because the lactose has been removed, it is much easier for cats to digest and is far less likely to cause stomach upset. Many brands also add in extra nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, to provide a small nutritional boost. Even so, it should still be given in moderation as a treat rather than a dietary staple.

2. Goat milk (lactose-reduced): Goat milk naturally contains slightly less lactose than cow’s milk, which means it may be gentler on a cat’s digestive system. Some cats may tolerate it better, but it is by no means an essential part of their diet. If your cat is already eating a nutritionally complete cat food, goat milk offers no additional benefit, so at best it should be viewed as an occasional indulgence.

3. Kitten milk formula: Commercially prepared kitten milk replacers are specifically designed for orphaned kittens or those who are unable to nurse from their mother. They are carefully balanced to provide the right levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients that a growing kitten requires. Once a kitten has been weaned onto solid food, however, these formulas are no longer appropriate or necessary.

4. Plain, unsweetened plant milks (such as oat or almond milk): While these are generally safe in tiny amounts, they do not provide anything useful for a cat nutritionally. In fact, they are largely empty calories and can be surprisingly high in carbohydrates, which cats have little need for and can easily contribute to unwanted weight gain. If offered at all, they should be limited to very rare, very small sips only.

What is the closest thing to cat milk?

The gold standard is always commercial kitten formula, such as KMR or Cimicat, which is scientifically tailored to meet the high protein, fat, and calorie needs of growing kittens. Unlike oat milk or other human options, it truly resembles natural feline milk in composition.

Do cats need milk?

The short and simple answer is no, they don’t. Once kittens have been fully weaned from their mother, which usually happens somewhere between eight and 10 weeks of age, they no longer have any biological need for milk in their diet. At this stage, their digestive systems mature and adapt to process solid food, and their nutritional requirements can be fully met by eating a complete and balanced kitten food.

As for adult cats, water is the only liquid they genuinely need to stay healthy and hydrated. Despite the common image of cats happily lapping up a saucer of milk, this is more of a cultural myth than a nutritional necessity.

Many cats are actually lactose intolerant, which means that drinking cow’s milk can result in unpleasant digestive upsets such as diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort. Even specially formulated lactose-free milks or plant-based alternatives, while usually safer for the digestive system, are not required and do not offer any significant nutritional value.

What they can do, however, is add extra calories that your cat doesn’t really need. These “hidden” calories may seem harmless, but over time they can contribute to gradual weight gain.

Obesity is unfortunately one of the most common health issues I see in practice, and it can lead to serious secondary problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. For that reason, it’s far better to stick with fresh water as the only drink your cat has access to, and keep milk – of any kind – off the menu. Learning how to tell if your cat is obese is a key skill for any owner.

While cats can drink oat milk in small quantities, it adds no real nutritional benefit and is best treated as an occasional novelty – not a regular part of their diet.

Your cat’s hydration and health are best supported by fresh water, a balanced feline diet, and occasionally, a specially formulated cat milk treat. If you're curious to explore more safe feeding habits or treat ideas, make sure to read up on foods your cat shouldn't eat for more insight.

Read next: Should cats drink milk and should kittens drink milk?

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Pica in cats is a surprisingly common, yet often misunderstood, condition where our feline friends develop a tendency to eat non-food items. As a small animal vet with 14 years of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of cats nibbling on weird and wonderful things, including wool, plastic, cardboard, and even shoelaces!

While it might seem quirky or amusing at first, pica can be a serious concern – both from a medical and behavioral point of view. Many owners are unaware their cat has pica until something goes wrong – this could be a blockage, persistent vomiting, or a mysterious disappearance of socks.

Over the years, I’ve had numerous cases come through the consult room door with cats needing x-rays, endoscopy, or even surgery after swallowing something they shouldn’t have. Understanding pica early can make all the difference when it comes to preventing complications.

What is pica in cats?

Pica is the term used to describe the act of eating non-food substances. In cats, this can include a wide variety of materials – from fabric, wool, and plastic to rubber bands, string, paper, and even cat litter. The key difference between pica and normal chewing is ingestion – it’s not just a bit of playful mouthing; cats with pica actively eat these inappropriate items.

This behavior is not limited to kittens, although it often begins when cats are young. It can persist into adulthood and may escalate if not addressed. Some breeds, like the Siamese, seem more predisposed, possibly due to their inquisitive and intelligent nature.

It’s important to note that pica isn’t just “bad behavior.” It can be a sign of an underlying medical, dietary, or psychological issue – and it’s something that needs veterinary attention.

Symptoms of pica in cats

The symptoms of pica can vary depending on what your cat is eating, how often they do it, and whether it’s causing secondary health problems. Look out for the following:

• Chewing or swallowing non-food items (e.g. wool, plastic bags, cardboard, cables)
• Frequent vomiting – especially if non-digestible items are present
• Lethargy or loss of appetite – signs of a possible blockage
• Changes in bowel movements – diarrhea, constipation, or no feces at all
• Abdominal pain or sensitivity
• Unusual interest in specific materials – seeking out and repeatedly chewing one type of object
• Pica behavior triggered by stress - for example, moving house, new pets, or changes in routine

If your cat is showing any of these signs, particularly if they are eating foreign objects or displaying gastrointestinal symptoms, it’s time to get in contact with your vet. Make sure to read up on the important health symptoms you shouldn’t ignore so that you are aware of what to look out for.

Causes of pica in cats

Pica in cats can have a wide range of causes – both physical and psychological. Here are the most common:

• Nutritional deficiencies: Some cats may instinctively try to make up for missing nutrients by eating strange items. A poor-quality diet or unbalanced homemade food can be to blame. Read our top tips on how to improve your cat’s diet.
• Medical issues: Conditions like anemia, gastrointestinal disease (such as inflammatory bowel disease or parasites), or dental disease may lead to pica.
• Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to pica. Siamese and Burmese cats are classic examples.
• Early weaning: Kittens taken away from their mother too early may develop wool-sucking or fabric-chewing behaviors that evolve into pica.
• Stress or anxiety: Major life changes causing stress, boredom, or lack of environmental enrichment, can trigger compulsive behaviors, including pica.
• Attention-seeking: If a cat learns that eating odd things gets a strong reaction from their owner, it may repeat the behavior.
• Compulsive disorder: In rare cases, pica may form part of a feline compulsive behavior condition, similar to OCD in humans.

Getting to the root cause is vital, and often requires a combination of physical examination, lab tests, and a thorough behavioural history.

How do you treat pica in cats?

Treatment for pica in cats will depend entirely on the underlying cause, but here are the key strategies:

• Veterinary assessment: This should always be the first step. Your vet may suggest blood tests, fecal analysis, x-rays, or an ultrasound to rule out physical causes like anemia, parasites, or blockages.
• Dietary review: Ensure your cat is on a complete, balanced diet appropriate for their age and health status. Your vet or a qualified pet nutritionist can help.
• Environmental enrichment: Boredom is a common trigger for pica. Make sure you are providing lots of interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and high spaces to climb and explore. Make sure to schedule lots of regular play sessions to give your cat focused attention.
• Stress reduction: If your cat’s behavior is linked to anxiety, pheromone diffusers (like this one from Amazon), safe hiding spots, and routine-building can help. In some cases, anti-anxiety medication prescribed by a vet may be needed.
• Remove temptation: Keep objects your cat is drawn to out of reach. This includes string, hair ties, plastic bags, electrical cords, and fabric items. Use child locks or storage boxes if needed.
• Positive reinforcement: Never punish a cat for pica. Instead, reward alternative behaviors like playing or using a scratching post.
• Referral to a behaviorist: If your cat’s pica is severe or doesn’t respond to basic management, a referral to a veterinary behaviorist may be the next step.

Prevention is key, and early intervention can stop the behaviour from becoming a long-term habit.

Is pica fatal in cats?

Pica in cats isn’t always life-threatening – but it definitely can be. The main danger is that your cat could ingest something that causes a gastrointestinal blockage, which can be fatal without prompt surgery. I’ve seen cats require emergency procedures after swallowing things like hair bands, ribbon, string, and even chunks of rubber matting.

Other risks include choking, toxic exposure (if they chew on harmful materials), and damage to the teeth or digestive tract. Chronic pica can also be distressing for owners and lead to strained relationships with their pets if the behavior isn’t understood.

If your cat has already swallowed something they shouldn’t have – particularly string-like items – do not try to pull it out. Instead, contact your vet immediately. These cases are classed as emergencies. In milder cases, pica can be managed successfully with lifestyle changes, behavioral support, and close monitoring. The sooner it’s addressed, the better the outcome for your cat.

Pica in cats is more than just a quirky habit – it’s a complex behavior that often stems from medical, dietary, or emotional needs. With the right diagnosis and support, many cats can overcome or manage their pica safely. If you suspect your cat may be displaying signs of pica, don’t ignore it – speak to your vet and take action early.

A little awareness goes a long way when it comes to protecting your curious cat from their own mischievous appetite.

Read next: Weird cat behaviors explained and why cats eat hair

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Cats love nothing more than basking in the sun, but unfortunately, they can still overheat. While they are generally less prone to heatstroke than dogs, it's still important to be aware of the signs and put preventative measures in place.

Below, you'll find five easy ways to keep your cat cool in the summer, recommended by Dr Joanna Woodnutt, who has nine years of experience as a qualified vet. While these are great steps to help prevent overheating, you'll need to take further action if your cat shows signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

It can be helpful to invest in products like pet cooling mats that significantly reduce your cat's body temperature, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune – many of these ideas use things you already have around the house.

How to cool down your cat

1. Ice cubes

One of the easiest ways to cool down your cat is by putting a few ice cubes in their water bowl (which will also encourage them to drink and paw at them out of curiosity). You'll save money in the long run by making your own using molds – just remember to fill them up the night before the heatwave hits!

2. Freeze cat treats

If you're struggling to get your cat to touch their water bowl, you could freeze their treats for a little extra encouragement. This only works with purée-style snacks, and it's worth double-checking whether they're suitable for freezing before offering them to your feline.

3. Make frozen treats

If your regular treats aren't freezable, and you don't fancy splashing out on any new ones, you could always make some homemade popsicles using ingredients you already have in your cupboards. Mix drained tuna (in spring water, not brine) with a splash of water in a tray or mold, freeze, and serve!

4. Cooling mat

While you should never wrap your pet in a wet towel, you could offer a frozen one on the floor that they might like to lie on – or, even better, use a pet-specific cooling mat.

5. Use a fan

If you don’t have air conditioning at home, using a fan is a great alternative. You don't need to splash out on a standing one either – I've seen some budget-friendly handheld models for under $10 on Amazon, which work great for humans too. Your cat probably won't appreciate a strong gust of wind in their face, so start at a distance to help them get used to the sound and sensation.

Signs your cat is too hot

If your cat has heat exhaustion, they might show the following signs:

• Lethargy
• Drinking more
• Hiding away
• Seeking shade/cool areas

In this situation, you need to try to cool them down before it develops into heatstroke. If your cat has heatstroke, they might show these signs:

• Glazed
• Wobbly
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Panting
• Drooling
• Sweaty feet
• Diarrhea

This is an emergency, and you will need to soak their fur thoroughly with water, keep them in a cool room next to a fan or air conditioning, and call your vet to let them know you're on the way.

Read next: Dehydration in cats and what cats should drink

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

Gingivitis in cats is one of the most common dental problems seen in general practice, yet it’s often misunderstood or missed by owners until the condition becomes severe. As a small animal vet with 14 years of experience, I’ve helped lots of cats with dental disease, and gingivitis is almost always where it starts.

Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gums, and while it may seem mild at first, it can lead to significant discomfort and more serious oral health issues if left untreated. The good news is, with the right management and care, it can often be controlled and even reversed.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about gingivitis in cats – from the early warning signs to the best treatment options – with practical advice from clinical experience. Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you protect your feline friend’s pearly whites.

What is gingivitis in cats?

Gingivitis in cats is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) that surround and support the teeth. It’s typically caused by a build-up of plaque – a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles – on the surface of your cat’s teeth. If not regularly removed, this plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which further irritates the gums and worsens the inflammation.

In the early stages, gingivitis may just affect the gumline. Owners may notice redness, swelling, and bleeding around the teeth. But if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the structures supporting the teeth, like ligaments and bone, become damaged. This stage is often irreversible and can lead to tooth loss.

Some cats also develop a more severe form of gum disease called stomatitis, where inflammation extends deeper into the mouth and causes widespread pain.

How do I tell if my cat has gingivitis?

Cats are incredibly stoic creatures, and they often hide signs of pain. That’s why gingivitis can easily go unnoticed until it’s quite advanced. Look out for these common signs:

• Red, swollen gums, especially around the base of the teeth
• Bleeding gums are often noticed during eating or when chewing on toys
• Bad breath (halitosis) is a telltale sign of oral bacteria
• Drooling or saliva with traces of blood
• Difficulty eating, chewing on one side, or dropping food
• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
• Decreased appetite or weight loss
• Changes in behavior, such as being more withdrawn or irritable

What causes gingivitis in cats?

There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it’s a combination of factors. Here are the most common:

There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it’s a combination of factors. Here are the most common:

• Dental plaque and tartar: These are the number one causes. If plaque isn’t removed through regular cleaning, it calcifies into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection.
• Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS): This is an immune-mediated condition where the cat’s immune system overreacts to plaque, causing severe and painful inflammation in the gums and mouth.
• Viral infections: Viruses like feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) can all contribute to gingivitis and stomatitis. Luckily, some of these can be vaccinated against. Vaccinations are very important for our pets.
• Tooth resorption: A common and painful condition in cats where the tooth structure breaks down, exposing sensitive dentin and leading to secondary gum inflammation.
• Poor oral hygiene: Just like in humans, cats need regular dental care. Lack of brushing, dental diets, or professional cleaning leads to rapid plaque accumulation.
• Genetic predisposition: Some breeds, such as Abyssinians, Siamese, and Persians, are more prone to dental issues, including gingivitis.
• Diet: Soft or wet food diets don’t provide the abrasive action needed to help keep teeth clean, which can contribute to plaque build-up.

How do you treat gingivitis in cats?

The treatment for gingivitis in cats depends on the underlying cause and severity. Here's how it is typically managed:

• Professional dental cleaning: A full dental scale and polish performed under general anaesthesia is usually the first step. This allows your vet to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and assess each tooth for disease.
• Tooth extraction: If teeth are loose, damaged, or contributing to chronic inflammation, they may need to be removed. Cats can do very well without several or even all of their teeth, and it often significantly improves their quality of life.
• Medical treatment: Anti-inflammatory medication (such as corticosteroids or NSAIDs), antibiotics, or immune-modulating drugs may be used, particularly in cases like FCGS. Your vet will tailor a treatment plan based on your cat’s individual needs.
• Ongoing dental hygiene: At-home care is crucial for long-term success. This includes keeping your cat’s teeth clean, brushing your cat’s teeth with a pet-safe toothpaste, offering dental chews or diets, and regular vet checks.

Can gingivitis be treated at home?

Mild cases of gingivitis can sometimes be managed at home with daily tooth brushing and dental-friendly products. However, once tartar is present, it can only be removed professionally. Never attempt DIY dental scaling – this can cause pain and damage the teeth.

Home care is essential after professional treatment to prevent recurrence. There are many products that help, including:

• Pet toothbrushes and pet toothpaste, learning how to brush your cat’s teeth can make a huge difference.
• Dental diets (like Hill’s t/d)
• Water additives
• Dental gels and sprays

What happens if you don't treat gingivitis in cats?

If left untreated, gingivitis in cats can progress to periodontal disease, leading to:

• Chronic pain
• Tooth loss
• Oral infections that can spread to other parts of the body
• Poor general health due to inflammation
• Weight loss and reduced quality of life
• Increased veterinary costs in the long term

Early intervention is always best. Even if your cat isn’t showing obvious signs, regular dental checks can help catch issues before they become serious.

Read more here on fascinating facts about cat’s teeth or four ways to prevent gingivitis that I'd wish I'd known sooner

Edited by Megan Milstead.

This page was last updated in July 2025 by Emma Chandley.

Before my cat Nala was diagnosed with gingivitis, I had no idea how important it was to brush her teeth. The idea of sticking a mint-flavored toothbrush in her mouth sounded like a recipe for disaster – and a painful bite!

Gingivitis, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by a buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar, with symptoms like swollen, red gums and bad breath. Old age, crowded cat teeth, and autoimmune diseases can be contributing factors, as well as a lack of proper dental care or conditions like diabetes in cats.

Thankfully, Nala's vet told us that she didn't have any underlying health conditions and that it's just something that can happen as a cat gets older. We had her teeth professionally cleaned, and were advised to keep on top of her dental health with regular toothbrushing sessions.

I was skeptical that Nala would let me go near her mouth with a toothbrush, but after gradually introducing it to her (and lots of positive reinforcement with the best cat treats), I managed to brush them for short sessions.

Why should you brush your cat's teeth?

Since gingivitis can cause pain and discomfort for your cat, it's important to address it sooner rather than later, before it develops into a more serious dental problem. It might also be a sign of an underlying health condition, so regular check-ups are essential.

Learning how to brush your cat's teeth is a big part of it, but Dr Coder says you should always check with your vet first to determine if there are any other issues that need to be treated beforehand.

She explains: "Gingivitis can be an indicator of more serious disease, or left untreated, can lead your cat to develop other dental problems, so always work with your veterinarian to provide your cat the best oral care possible.

"If your cat has gingivitis, be sure to check with your vet to ensure there is not a more serious problem in her mouth. Often, there is plaque, tartar, or infection under the gums that must be treated or removed before you can start home care.

"There are also some disease processes that cause severe gingivitis in the absence of actual tooth problems. Once the underlying cause has been treated, prevention of disease can be assisted with at-home care."

How to brush your cat's teeth

Don't worry if you've never brushed your cat's teeth before – Dr Coder has shared her top tips for making things easier:

1. Get your cat used to the toothbrush
Before you do anything, you'll want to get your cat accustomed to the toothbrush by touching their face and mouth with it. Alternatively, you could dip a cotton swab in tuna water and use treats as rewards to make the experience more enjoyable.

2. Choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste
Never give your cat human toothpaste, as it contains toxic ingredients like fluoride. You can buy pet-friendly toothpastes – some even come in flavors like chicken and beef, which can make the process more enjoyable.

Dr Coder says: "Use products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) that have been evaluated by veterinary professionals to ensure safety and efficacy."

3. Start slowly
It's OK if you can't brush your cat's mouth completely; just start slowly with one or two sections at a time.

Dr Coder says, "Work your way up to the full mouth if you can, but even if you can only get one part done each session, it is still better than not brushing at all."

4. Reward your cat
Last but not least, be sure to reward your cat with food or treats after each brushing session – even if it didn’t feel like you got much done!

Cats are masters at hiding pain, and I had no idea that Nala was secretly suffering from gingivitis – and I’m not alone, upto 85% of cats live with dental disears and many owners are unaware. That’s why regular check-ups and frequent brushing are always important to keep their teeth and gums in tip-top condition.

Want to learn more? Read our expert guides on stomatitis in cats and keeping cat teeth clean. Or if you're planning on getting your feline's teeth professionally cleaned, check out these top tips for keeping your cat calm at the vet

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

Every cat parent wants the best for their feline friends, and the way animal healthcare is evolving is allowing us to take even better care of them.

From everyday decisions like buying the best cat food for senior cats to deciding on more complex treatments and surgeries, we always have their best interests at heart.

However, even the most experienced cat parent may not know that joint issues are surprisingly common in cats, with up to 40% experiencing joint stiffness and a huge 90% of cats over the age of 12 developing joint changes, such as arthritis. We often don’t realize that anything’s wrong, either, because cats conceal discomfort so well.

That’s why YuMove, the UK’s number one vet-recommended joint supplement brand has launched C.A.T.S.C.A.N, which is a tool that will help us detect the hidden signs of joint stiffness in our cats without even leaving the house in a global first.

Created in conjunction with veterinarian and TikTok ‘petspert’ Cat the Vet, it works as a virtual CT scan – simply look at your cat and work your way through the checklist.

"A cat with occasional joint stiffness isn’t living their best life – these are creatures built to climb, chase, catch, and move with grace,” says Fiona Hope, YuMove CEO. “The signs can be hard to spot, but with the C.A.T.S.C.A.N, we’re giving owners the confidence to recognize them early and get their cats the help they need."

Here’s how to do the C.A.T.S.C.A.N at home

• C – Coat and claws: Cats with joint stiffness can find grooming themselves more difficult, so look for greasy or matted fur, particularly around the hips, as well as overgrown or brittle claws – they may scratch less.
• A – Activity changes: If your cat seems less mobile or has changed their routines, perhaps not following you upstairs, it might be because of their joints rather than simply older age.
• T – Tummies: As cats age, they often move less and then gain weight – potentially making them overweight. This can put more pressure on their joints, catching them in a vicious cycle.
• S – Sleeping more: If your cat sleeps more and tends to wake only for meals, it may be because of their joints.
• C – Climbing issues: If cats seem slower or more hesitant to jump, it might be a sign that they’re experiencing joint changes.
• A – Accidents: A cat who has started missing the litter tray or having accidents, it might mean that they need more joint support.
• N – Not themselves: Slight personality changes can indicate joint issues. So, if your cat is more anxious, clingy, or irritable, or just seems a little ‘off’, this might be why.

If, after giving your feline a C.A.T.S.C.A.N, you feel like they might have joint issues or you have any other concerns, it’s best to consult your vet. They can help you explore the next steps to keep your cat as happy and healthy as possible.

As Cat the Vet explains: “This tool makes it easy for anyone in the household to pick up on those subtle shifts in behavior that might otherwise be dismissed as aging or personality changes. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it might be time for a check-up."

Read next: 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

Sometimes, without realising it, we upset our beloved kitty companions by doing things cats dislike. You may think that your feline friend adores being dressed up in that cute little lion costume or loves being cradled in your arms like a baby, but believe it or not, there are lots of things we do that our cats just can't stand. Ooops!

While we are all trying hard to be the best cat owner to land us in our cat's good books, we may be clueless about the fact that moving the furniture around or washing all their bedding at once is going to stress them out.

Cats are unique creatures, and just like us, they all have their own likes and dislikes. Some cats may love meeting new people while others may find it incredibly anxiety-inducing. Some may find embarking on an adventurous road trip a real thrill, while others may feel queasy at the very thought of getting in a moving car!

However, while there are always outliers, most cats fall in the middle, which means they tend to all wish their owners would stop doing certain things. To find out if you're guilty of committing a crime against your feline friend, here's a list of all the things cats dislike...

20 things cats dislike

1. Washing all their bedding at once

When it comes to cleaning your cat's bedding, it makes sense to wash it all at once, right? After all, it's a lot more efficient to do a big load of laundry than to wash things separately. But while that's a great idea where we humans are concerned, it's likely to upset your feline friend.

There are lots of funny things cats do, and kneading their bedding is one of them. It's one of those behaviors that's both super cute and also serves several purposes, one of which is to transfer their scent that's held in their paw glands onto objects that are important to them. Washing your cat's bedding all at once removes their familiar scent and can stress them out. The best way to avoid this? Make sure you only wash one item at a time.

2. Forgetting to empty their litter box

You may have invested in the best cat litter box, but do you remember to empty it every day? If it slips your mind from time to time, rest assured, you're not alone! Most of us have busy lives, and some days it's hard to stay on top of all the household tasks that need to be done.

But when it comes to things your cat hates, a dirty litter box is definitely near the top of the list. Most cats are fastidious about cleanliness, and they have a strong sense of smell, so regular cleaning (including scooping and putting in fresh litter) will help prevent unwanted behaviors like inappropriate elimination around the house.

If you're worried that you might keep forgetting, an automatic cat litter box is a great option, as this will do the job for you – problem solved!

3. Exposing them to certain smells

They may smell good to us, but there are certain scents that cats can't stand. In fact, some of the smells our kitty companions hate the most are the ones we tend to be the most drawn to – things like the fresh and clean scent of citrus, which can be overwhelming for cats and cause irritation to their system.

Other scents they tend to dislike are perfumes and colognes, household cleaning products, essential oils (which can be very toxic for cats), menthol, and scented litter. While it's impossible to eradicate every smell your feline friend hates, using natural cleaning products, minimizing how often you wear fragrances, and avoiding burning scented candles can all help to make life easier for your cat.

4. Picking them up for a cuddle

When it comes to ways to be the best cat owner, avoiding picking your kitty up and cuddling them will likely earn you some serious brownie points. Yes, there are some cats that might enjoy being picked up, but the majority of cats don't enjoy feeling trapped and prefer to give and receive affection in their own way.

While some cats will tolerate a hug and wait for it to be over, others may try to paw at you or meow in an attempt to get you to put them down. With cats, it's always best to let them come to you – many will enjoy hopping up on your lap for a snuggle when they choose it, and others cats will show their love in different ways.

5. Taking them to the vet

There are few places that evoke terror in a cat more than a vet clinic, and yet taking your kitty for regular check-ups is essential for their health and wellbeing. Each cat will have their own tolerance level when it comes to these trips – some do fairly well at the vet and manage to stay relatively chilled out, while others find the whole experience highly stressful.

Thankfully, there are lots of ways to keep a cat calm at the clinic, including using treats to help make the experience a positive one and making sure their carrier is a safe and comfortable space. If your cat struggles with high anxiety, speak with your vet, who may be able to prescribe medication for your kitty to make those trips a little easier on you both.

6. Giving them medicine

There are some things you only know if you're a cat owner – like how painful it is to try to get your feline friend to take their medication! Trying to get tablets down their throat is the worst, but even liquid medication in their food will often be rejected if your kitty is particularly picky.

It's important to remember your cat doesn't understand what's happening or that being given medication is for their own good. All they see is us humans trying to force them to ingest something that doesn't taste very nice.

When it comes to tablets, gently hold your cat's mouth shut to encourage them to swallow and reward them with one of the best cat treats afterwards. For liquid medications, try mixing it with a wet food that has a strong smell (like fish) as this will help mask the taste of the medication.

7. Insisting they join you on the family vacation

Traveling with pets sounds like a lot of fun – after all, what could be better than hitting the road with your beloved feline friend and having an adventure together? Well, while it may sound exciting in theory, the reality is that most cats aren't fond of being uprooted from their familiar surroundings, and they're even less keen on being bundled into a carrier and placed in a moving car!

Although there are a few outgoing cat breeds that are known for being relaxed travellers and keen explorers (we're looking at you, Bengals), most prefer to stick close to home.

New places can be stressful for cats, and many find car travel to be anxiety-inducing, so if your kitty falls into these camps, it's better to leave them behind with a trusted sitter while you enjoy your vacation.

8. Putting them in the cattery

If your cat hates long car rides, then you might think the best thing to do when you're away is to book them into a cattery. Doing this has a lot of benefits, the most obvious one being that you know they're safe and being well looked after.

However, just like taking them away with you on vacation, leaving them behind in a cattery also has the same major drawback – they likely won't be very happy about it. Granted, some laid-back and relaxed cat breeds will be completely unaffected by the temporary change in living situation, but other cats may find it very stressful to be moved out of their familiar surroundings.

The best way to deal with this is to ensure you pack some of their favorite belongings, such as a much-loved cat toy, a comforting blanket, and an item of your clothing that smells strongly of you. All of these things can help your feline friend feel more at home.

9. Applying their flea treatment

Regularly applying one of the best flea treatments for cats is vital for ensuring your kitty is protected against pesky parasites. But boy oh boy, can we all come to dread those monthly treatments! The mere sound of a pipette being released from its foil packaging is enough to send some cats scarpering for cover. We can't say we blame them, having a wet blob applied to the back of your neck is no fun at all.

Some cats are better than others at tolerating topical flea treatments, so if you find you're spending hours chasing your kitty around the house, you might want to consider one of the best cat flea collars instead.

These are easy to apply and most offer protection for at least six months – just be sure to get one that has a quick release mechanism, as this will allow the collar to slip off your cat if they get it stuck on something when they're outdoors.

10. Feeding them at unpredictable times

Being the creatures of habit that they are, one thing almost all cats hate is not being fed on time. You can buy them the best cat food in the world, but if you don't serve it up at the same time each day, your feline friend will be less than pleased.

If you observe your kitty, you'll likely notice that they have a fairly set routine each day. They'll eat at particular times, want to play or be groomed at a certain time, and tend to stick to a predictable sleep schedule. If these things get thrown off, it can cause them to feel stressed. Try to feed your cat at roughly the same time each day, or invest in an automatic pet feeder that will take care of it for you.

11. Exposing them to loud noises

Does your cat run and hide every time you get the vacuum cleaner out? Do they head indoors the minute you start mowing the lawn? If there's one thing cats can't stand, it's loud noise. That's partly due to the fact that they have very sensitive hearing and partly because they associate loud noises with danger.

One way to help your cat with sounds they find particularly scary is to desensitize them slowly. If the vacuum cleaner freaks them out, try finding a clip on YouTube and playing it very softly to begin with. You can reward your cat with treats and then gradually increase the volume until they feel less anxious. They may still leave the room when you vacuum, but the sound itself hopefully won't induce the same heightened reaction as before.

12. Bathing them

While there are some cat breeds that like water, most cats prefer playing with it to being given a bath. If you have a cat that's almost hairless (like the Sphynx), then regular bathing is essential to keep their skin in good condition. However, aside from that, cats are fastidious cleaners and only require a bath if they've got themselves excessively dirty or they've got something stinky or toxic on their fur.

13. Making changes around the house

Cats value predictability, stability, and routine, so when you make changes around the house, it can cause them to feel stressed and anxious. While things like moving your cat's litter tray, bed, or food and water bowls may seem like something minor, to your kitty, these changes can be very disconcerting.

It's understandable that there are going to be times when you need to rearrange the furniture, renovate areas of your home, or change the brand of food or litter you use. However, introducing your cat to changes slowly can help make those adjustments more comfortable for them.

14. Direct eye contact

Direct eye contact is something that most cats find very threatening. That's because in the kitty kingdom, cats only stare at each other when they're about to engage in a fight. However, that doesn't mean you can't look at your feline friend!

One of the signs cats love you is what's known as the slow blink, where they briefly close their eyes before opening them again. This type of eye contact is welcomed by cats, so next time they give you a slow blink, why not try doing one back? This is a wonderful way to communicate to your kitty just how much you love them.

15. Introducing them to strangers

Friendly cat breeds with big personalities, like the Burmese and Maine Coon are often excited to meet new people, but many quieter and more reserved breeds, like the Russian Blue and Korat, can find being introduced to new people intimidating.

Many cats are shy and wary around those they don't know, preferring to stick close to their owners. Being forced to say hello to strangers or interact with them is something a lot of cats hate, so it's worth paying attention to your cat's body language and behavior next time someone new enters the house, as this will give you an idea of how they're feeling.

16. Neglecting play time

Are you guilty of forgetting to play with your cat? While having a few of the best interactive cat toys lying around is brilliant for those moments where you just don't have time to stop and engage with your feline friend, it's important not to forget about spending quality time together as cat play is really important.

Cats hate it when we forget about play, as it's something that offers them a lot of mental and physical stimulation. And it's not just your cat that benefits from playing together – those sessions are great for giving your own wellbeing a boost and for deepening the bond you share with your kitty companion.

17. Getting them a feline 'friend'

While some cats can be quite social, most are happy in their own company or spending time with their favorite humans. Introducing another cat into the home can cause a lot of upset, and needs to be done with a great deal of thought and care.

If you plan on having a multi-pet household, make sure you provide plenty of resources to prevent fighting. A good rule of thumb is one resource per cat plus one extra, so if you have two cats, you'll want three litter boxes, three beds or hammocks, and three scratching posts.

18. Not giving them enough attention

Do you know what cats hate even more than constant attention? Not enough attention! Think of your feline friend as being straight out of Goldilocks and the Three Bears – except instead of searching for the perfect bowl of porridge, they're wanting to find the affection sweet spot. Not too much. Not too little. Just right.

It's not always easy to gauge your cat's mood, but if they're rubbing up against your legs, following you around the house, or trying to jump onto your lap, chances are they're wanting you to show them some love.

19. Dressing them up

You may think your kitty looks absolutely adorable in that little knitted sweater, but chances are they're not enjoying the experience one bit. While some hairless breeds will absolutely benefit from a jacket in the winter to help keep them warm, cats with fur don't require clothing.

If you do decide to put a costume on your cat, make sure you pay attention to their body language. If it's clear they're not comfortable wearing an outfit or if the outfit is restrictive and doesn't allow for a normal range of movement, remove it immediately.

20. Treating them like a baby

We know that your feline friend is your baby, but if there's one thing cats hate, it's being treated like one. Being picked up and cradled in your arms in the same way you'd hold a newborn is not something cats generally enjoy. This position feels very restrictive to them, and it may cause your kitty to behave in ways they wouldn't normally – such as scratching or biting you as a way to let you know they want to be put down.

Try to avoid cradling your cat, speaking to them in a baby voice, and putting your face too close to theirs – trust us, your feline friend will thank you for it, and you'll likely notice that backing off just a bit and respecting their boundaries actually brings the two of you closer together.

Read next: 32 ways to build more fun into your cat’s routine

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

Taking your cat to the vet isn't always the easiest task, but it's an important part of being a responsible pet parent. Whether it's for a vaccination or treatment, vet visits are a crucial hurdle that your cat needs to conquer.

Car journeys, unfamiliar environments, and encounters with new people and pets can be a scary combination for your feline friend, often triggering anxiety and unwanted behaviors like scratching or biting. However, things like pheromone sprays can make the experience much easier for everyone.

There are plenty of other ways you can help your cat feel more comfortable, which Dr Rebecca MacMillan has shared below. She's a qualified vet with more than a decade and a half of experience working with cats – here are her top five recommendations:

How to keep a cat calm at the vet

1. Training

According to Dr MacMillan, training is one of the best ways to help a cat who is scared of vet trips. While this might take a bit of practice – and more time than other methods – it will have excellent results in the long run and doesn't have to cost you a penny.

Dr MacMillan says, "Try practicing gentle examinations at home to desensitize them to the process. You can make it more realistic by performing it on a high table with a non-slip surface, slowly checking them all over. Just remember to praise and reward them throughout."

2. Make their carrier a safe space

Since cats are creatures of comfort, being restrained in an unfamiliar environment isn't their idea of fun. That's why it's recommended to leave the best cat carrier out all the time, so they can have a sniff and get used to it.

Dr MacMillan says, "Allowing them to become accustomed to their cat carrier can also help greatly. They will be less likely to be fearful if they are familiar with their carrier before a vet visit.

"When your cat travels in the carrier, always cover it with a blanket or towel as your cat will feel less vulnerable if they can stay hidden. I always recommend that owners invest in a top-opening cat carrier. Dragging a reluctant cat out of the small doorway of a front-loading carrier is stressful for everyone."

Here are some more tips on how to get a reluctant cat into a carrier and how to get a scared cat to the vet.

3. Synthetic pheromones

When it comes to calming a cat during periods of high anxiety, synthetic pheromones are a game-changer and approved by vets. You can buy these in a range of forms, like plug-in diffusers and collars, but we'd suggest a spray in this case for portability.

Dr MacMillan says, "Synthetic pheromone products can be helpful agents for calming stressed cats. Try spritzing this inside their cat carrier or on the blanket covering it.

"There are also a variety of supplements available on the market that may be useful for your cat, but it can be trial and error. Some include ingredients like milk proteins, which act on the calming centers of your cat’s brain, without sedation."

4. Make it a positive experience

This might go without saying, but try to make your cat's experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Everyone knows that the fastest way to a feline's heart is through the best cat treats, so make sure you have plenty on hand for the big day.

Dr MacMillan says, "You could also take some favorite treats or pieces of cooked chicken with you so that you can continue to praise your pet during their vet appointment, to make it a positive experience."

5. Prescription medication

Lastly, you might want to consider prescription medication if your cat is undergoing an invasive procedure or is struggling with anxiety. These medications need to be prescribed by a vet, of course, but can be super helpful if nothing else works.

Dr MacMillan says, "If your cat is particularly anxious when attending their appointments, then speak to your vet! Vets may prescribe medication for your cat to take ahead of their appointment, which can make the experience much more pleasant for everyone."

Want more expert advice? Read ways to destress your cat and how to be a good cat owner

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

Cats can suffer from many of the same health conditions as we do, but high blood pressure is one we don’t often think about when it comes to our animals.

However, it’s relatively common, and affects senior cats in particular. In fact, one in five cats over the age of nine has high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and we often simply won’t realize that our cats are affected. It can’t be managed solely by giving them the best cat food for senior cats, so what else can we do?

Well, with May being Feline Hypertension Awareness Month, Jimmy Bratley, veterinary practitioner for Feliway, has explained what we need to do about the condition and how we can help our beloved cats.

High blood pressure in cats is often referred to as the “silent killer” because of a lack of early physical symptoms, but it’s potentially life-threatening. While it’s relatively common in older cats, and is treatable with medication, 82% of senior cats don’t receive blood pressure checks.

"Signs associated with feline hypertension can be insidious and vague, especially to start with,” says Bratley. “The clinical signs we see associated with this condition relate to the organs that are damaged due to the persistently elevated blood pressure, known as target organ damage.”

He explains that damage to the central nervous system as a result can result in behavioral changes, potentially including the following:

• Disorientation
• Lethargy
• Sleeping more
• Increased vocalization
• Being unco-ordinated or ‘wobbly’

Meanwhile, the eyes are sometimes also affected, leading to blindness, as are the kidneys, which can mean your cat is more thirsty, urinates more frequently, and may lose weight or eat less.

High blood pressure in cats can’t be managed with diet, according to Bratley, as he explains that the evidence suggests restricting salt alone won’t help bring blood pressure down.

“Hypertensive patients should be fed a good quality veterinary formulated diet, without excessive salt, that factors in other patient-specific factors, such as underlying or concurrent diseases and palatability,” he says. “Fundamentally, their condition will only be adequately controlled using anti-hypertensive medication."

To get your cat’s blood pressure checked, you can take them to a vet. The process is similar to that of taking the blood pressure of a human, but of course with adjustments that take into account the smaller size and different body of a cat.

For more advice on caring for older felines, here are 32 tips for taking care of senior cats

If you were to list health conditions that affect cats, diabetes might not be near the top of your list. While it’s a relatively common condition for humans, with millions in the US alone affected, we don’t often think diabetes in cats.

However, it’s estimated that as many as one in 100 cats could have diabetes, requiring special diets and medication. Cat diabetes is reminiscent of Type 2 diabetes in humans, where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t respond properly to the insulin produced.

That’s why some cat parents in the UK are raising awareness of the condition and how it can affect cats. Emma Damen’s cat, Woody, was diagnosed in 2023 after she noticed that he was drinking constantly and losing a lot of weight. She was unaware at the time that these are common signs a cat is diabetic.

"He lost all the muscles in his back legs – it was horrible to see – his legs were shaking," she told BBC News. “He had a blood test, and the vets called us back to say he had diabetes. I had never heard of diabetes in cats."

Damen, who described caring for Woody as a “full-time job”, was unable to insure Woody and so couldn’t claim back the cost of his medication, food, and blood tests, which cost up to £80 (more than $100) a month.

The cat mom, who lives in the town of Andover in the south of the UK, added, “I don't think anyone realizes the impact it does have on your life. I have to inject him twice a day at specific times, otherwise he will be poorly. I have my alarm on my smartwatch, so I don't miss it.”

Stacey Goddard, who lives in nearby Bishop’s Waltham, compared caring for her diabetic cat, Buddy, to “having three children,” but added: “He is family, so I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Buddy was adopted by Goddard in 2017 and diagnosed with diabetes a year later after she noticed that he was very lethargic, sleeping all day, and not eating much. He needs injections twice a day, keeps to a strict diet, and wears a monitor that monitors his sugar intake.

Among the most common symptoms of diabetes in cats are increased appetite, drinking a lot of water, increased urination, and weight loss.

In more advanced stages, cats can develop weakness in their rear, a form of diabetic neuropathy, and can become unwell with diabetic ketoacidosis, a metabolic condition. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, lethargy, and death.

If you’re concerned that your cat may be showing signs of diabetes, speak to your vet. With the right care, your feline can still go on to live a happy, relatively healthy, life. For more advice and support, head to Diabetic Cat International’s website and the Feline Diabetes Support Group on Facebook.

Knowing the signs that your cat is diabetic might just save their life. Diabetes mellitus is not just a human condition – our feline companions can also suffer from it. In fact, diagnoses of diabetes in cats are increasing, especially among older and overweight cats. Nearly 1% of cats are affected by this chronic condition.

Vet, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, explains how diabetes affects the cat: “Insulin is a hormone that helps us to absorb glucose and use it in cells around the body for energy, allowing them to carry out normal processes like growth and repair.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common signs of feline diabetes so you can recognize the red flags before the condition progresses. Being informed could save your cat’s life – and improve their quality of it.

What is diabetes in cats

“Feline diabetes occurs when a cat’s pancreas no longer produces enough insulin or because their body has become resistant to the effects of insulin."

Dr. MacMillan goes on to say, “A diabetic cat is not able to control its blood glucose (blood sugar) levels properly, leading to hyperglycemia. A cat with hyperglycemia has dangerously high levels of glucose in their blood with not enough getting to their cells."

This can affect nearly every organ over time. While a diabetes diagnosis sounds alarming, many cats go on to live healthy, happy lives with proper treatment, diet, and monitoring. While some cats can go into remission with super-prompt treatment, most will require lifelong management.

Unfortunately, because cats are masters at hiding discomfort, the early signs often go unnoticed. As Dr MacMillan warns, “It is important to be aware of the symptoms of diabetes as cats can become seriously unwell if their condition is left untreated.”

10 signs that your cat is diabetic

1. Increased thirst

In a cat with diabetes, the pancreas cannot secrete sufficient insulin to control their blood sugar. This means the glucose draws water into the urine, causing the cat to become thirsty as they try to keep up with the fluid loss.

Monitor your cat if you think they are drinking a lot of water. You may notice they need their water bowl filling more often, or they are desperate to drink from puddles or even toilet bowls.

Cats tend to get the majority of their fluid from wet food, so if they seem much more thirsty than is normal for them, it could signal something is amiss.

The medical terms for excessive thirst is polydipsia.

2. Increased urination

Increased urination (polyuria) is a telltale sign of feline diabetes. The high blood sugar levels means that the large glucose concentration in the urine will pull excessive amounts of water with it, leading to a larger volume and increased peeing.

A cat owner may notice that the litter tray has more wet patches, or the cat may have accidents.

The increased urination makes the cat prone to dehydration and very thirsty.

3. Increased hunger

“Cats with diabetes feel like they are starving!” says Dr Rebecca MacMillan. “Their body is not able to make proper use of the food they are eating, so their organs are not receiving enough energy. This sends signals telling the cat to eat more.”

Because of the glucose deprivation, the body will use up fat and protein, which will also lead to increased appetite. This insatiable hunger is called polyphagia.

4. Weight loss

Often, despite an insatiable appetite, diabetes is a common cause of weight loss in cats. This is due to the fact that glucose from food eaten is not processed effectively and does not reach the cells.

This means that the body starts to burn up other energy sources, such as protein and fat, triggering weight loss.

5. Poor coat condition

A luxuriant coat is often a cat’s most impressive feature. However, with feline diabetes, the coat is likely to suffer. It may turn rough, oily, or dull, and may show dandruff.

A poor coat may be due to nutrient deficiencies as the cat is unable to absorb as much from his food as he should due to his compromised system.

He may also be dehydrated due to excessive urination, while lethargy may mean he has less energy for daily grooming to keep his coat in tiptop condition.

6. Urinary infections

Cats with diabetes are prone to urinary tract infections.

“An abnormal amount of sugar (glucose) is excreted through the kidneys into the urine, providing optimum conditions for bacteria to multiply,” explains Dr Rebecca MacMillan.

“This can lead to symptoms like blood in the urine, starting to urinate, visiting the litter box multiple times, and urinary accidents.”

Add to this the fact that a diabetic cat has a weaker immune system, and therefore they are more susceptible to infections in general.

7. Muscle wasting

Muscle wasting – also called atrophy – occurs in diabetic cats due to their inability to convert glucose to energy. Instead, their body breaks down proteins and fats to compensate. This leads not only to them losing weight, but decreasing muscle mass.

Bear in mind that diabetes is more common in overweight to obese cats, so it isn’t always straightforward to spot the muscle wastage.

8. Vomiting

Many cats vomit fairly frequently due to ingesting hair while grooming, and this regurgitation is rarely a cause for concern. However, vomiting in cats can be a symptom of feline diabetes, indicating that their blood sugar regulation is not under control.

It may signal that they are developing the life-threatening condition of diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of the disease when the blood sugar remains dangerously high, and the liver goes into overdrive.

9. Weakness or gait changes

As diabetic cats struggle to control their blood sugar – and therefore energy output – naturally, weakness is a common symptom. You may notice that your cat has become less active and playful, seeming uncharacteristically disinterested.

Weakness may also be due to muscle atrophy, diabetic neuropathy, and hunger, which are related symptoms.

Vet Dr. Rebecca Macmillan explains what causes the change in gait, where a cat will walk on his heels and ankles, rather than paws: “High levels of sugar in the blood can lead to chronic nerve degeneration in a cat’s hind legs. This nerve damage causes weakness and changes the cat’s mobility, including a flat-footed stance.”

10. Collapse

Collapse can occur if the blood sugar is not sufficiently controlled. It may be due to either high or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia). Diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of diabetes, can also lead to collapse.

In a diagnosed diabetic cat, watch out for vomiting as well as the other symptoms that show the blood sugar is fluctuating. It is considered a medical emergency.

What to read next? Diabetes in dogs

It’s no secret that cats are very good at cleaning and grooming themselves, and this adds to the idea that cats are quite self-sufficient.

However, one vet has warned that more cats than we think struggle with dental issues that often go undetected. Because we often assume that our cats are looking after their own mouths, eating the right food, and cleaning themselves, we don’t brush our cats’ teeth.

However, recent research has indicated that 85% of cats aged three and above in the UK live with dental disease, such as stomatitis – around 1.8 million cats have decayed teeth but don’t show any symptoms.

According to the Royal Veterinary College, periodontal disease is the most common illness to be diagnosed in UK cats, with 15.2% of cats affected. However, this figure could be higher, as most cases aren’t diagnosed – cats have a great ability to suppress chronic pain, so it’s vital to keep cat teeth clean.

Dr Aimee Warner, resident vet at UK-based pet insurance company Waggel, explains that while many dog owners also forget about dental care, “dogs let you examine their mouths or show signs of discomfort, but cats are masters at hiding pain.

“Many owners have no idea their cat is suffering from painful dental conditions until the disease is advanced. By the time obvious symptoms arise, the damage is already extensive and costly to treat.”

Dental issues can impact our felines’ overall health, too. They can potentially lead to kidney, liver, and heart disease when mouth bacteria enter the bloodstream.

So, Dr Warner recommends scheduling twice-yearly dental assessments, even if your cat seems fine otherwise, and keeping an eye out for subtle signs of dental pain like pawing at the mouth, dropping food, bad breath, and reduced grooming.

Watch out for changes in eating habits, too, as this can often be the first indication that there’s something wrong, and consider incorporating dental-specific diets and treats.

If you have any concerns at all, you should speak to your vet. Dr Warner urges us to trust our instincts when it comes to our cat's teeth, particularly as the first signs can be very subtle.

She sums up: “Cats are genetically programmed to conceal pain – in the wild, displaying weakness puts them at risk. This means your cat may have been suffering in silence for months or years before showing visible signs of dental disease.

“Regular veterinary examinations are crucial as they can spot problems your cat is instinctively trying to conceal from you. Preventative dental treatment does more than save you money over the years; it prevents unnecessary suffering and can add years to your pet's life and quality to those years."

Want to learn more? Here are eight facts about cat teeth, plus some kitten teething advice from a vet

Is it cruel to keep a cat indoors? If you’re a cat owner trying to decide what’s best for your furry friend, this is a question that might be playing on your mind. It’s common to think of cats as outdoor explorers, climbing trees and wandering through their environment with ease and independence.

In today’s world, with the growing risks of traffic, territorial fights with neighboring cats, and other urban dangers, it’s no surprise that more owners are opting to keep their cats inside.

As a practicing vet with over 13 years of experience, I’ve worked with countless cats in my job. This includes indoor, outdoor, and those who’ve transitioned from one lifestyle to the other. Each cat is unique, and their needs can vary, but what remains constant is this: cats must have their emotional, physical, and behavioral needs met, no matter where they live.

Below, we’ll look at whether indoor living is harmful or helpful, whether cats get sad when kept inside, and how to make indoor environments as cat-friendly as possible. We’ll also cover how to care for outdoor cats transitioning to life indoors. For tips on boosting your cat’s wellbeing, don’t forget to check out our guide to the best cat toys for indoor cats.

Is it cruel to keep a cat indoors?

Keeping a cat indoors is not inherently cruel, but it can become problematic if their basic needs aren’t met. Whether or not indoor living suits your cat depends on their personality, health, and the type of home environment you’re offering.

Pros of indoor cats:

• Fewer injuries: Indoor cats are less likely to be hit by cars or attacked by other animals, which are common causes of injury in outdoor cats.
• Lower risk of disease: Staying indoors reduces exposure to infectious diseases such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), which are often spread through contact with other cats.
• Less exposure to parasites: Indoor cats are far less likely to pick up fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms compared to those that roam outside.
• Protection from poisons: Toxic plants, antifreeze, pesticides, and other hazards are common outdoors. Indoors, your cat’s environment is much safer and easier to control.
• Avoiding getting lost or stolen: Cats that go outside risk getting lost, trapped, or even stolen. Keeping them indoors removes this risk entirely.
• Longer lifespan: Studies show that indoor cats tend to live longer, primarily due to reduced risk of trauma and disease.

Cons of indoor cats:

• Boredom and behavioral problems: Without enough stimulation, cats may become anxious, withdrawn, or destructive.
• Lack of physical exercise: Outdoor cats stay active through natural movement. Indoor cats are more prone to a sedentary lifestyle, which increases the risk of obesity, joint issues, and related health problems.
• Lack of mental stimulation: Cats are natural hunters and explorers. Without opportunities to express these instincts, their quality of life can suffer.
• Litter box dependence: Unlike outdoor cats, who often toilet freely outside, indoor cats rely entirely on litter trays. If trays aren't cleaned regularly or if the environment isn’t suitable, this can lead to inappropriate toileting behaviors.
• Reduced autonomy: Some cats enjoy choosing their own routine and may find the restricted nature of indoor life frustrating, especially if they’ve previously had access to the outdoors.

So, is it cruel to keep a cat indoors? No, but it does require a commitment to creating a stimulating, enriched environment. With the right care, indoor cats can live content and happy lives.

Do cats get sad being indoors?

Some indoor cats can experience sadness or frustration, particularly if they’re not getting the mental and physical enrichment they need.

Cats are intelligent, curious animals that thrive on variety, play, and interaction. Common signs a cat may be feeling low or under stimulated indoors include:

• Hiding or withdrawing from family life
• Overgrooming or other self-soothing behaviors
• Unexplained irritability or aggression
• Lethargy or a lack of interest in play
• Overeating or changes in appetite

That said, certainly not all indoor cats are unhappy. Many are relaxed, affectionate, and confident in their indoor territory.

The key is offering a lifestyle that meets their instinctive needs. This can mean things like regular interaction, spaces to climb and hide, playtime, and environmental changes to keep things interesting.

How to keep an indoor cat happy

Making life indoors rewarding and exciting for your cat is possible. Here are some vet-approved ways to keep your feline friend mentally and physically stimulated:

• Daily play sessions with the best cat toys: Use wand toys, balls, or small moving toys to mimic hunting. Rotate toys regularly to keep interest levels high.
• Climbing and exploration: Cats love vertical space. Install cat trees, shelves, or cat hammocks around the home so they can climb, perch, and watch the world go by.
• Interactive feeders and puzzles: Stimulate their brains with puzzle toys that make them work for food. This mimics natural foraging behavior.
• Hideouts and resting areas: Cats need quiet, secure places to nap where they feel safe and can relax. Offer cozy cat beds, boxes, or tents placed in quiet corners out of the way of the hustle and bustle of the home.
• Scratching posts: Scratching is essential for both physical and emotional health. Provide a mix of vertical and horizontal scratchers to suit their preference.
• Safe outdoor alternatives: If possible, consider building a secure catio or using a harness and lead for supervised outdoor exploration.

A variety of textures, smells, sounds and toys can go a long way in preventing boredom in cats and keeping your cat’s mind engaged. Remember, indoor cats rely entirely on you for stimulation, so mix things up regularly and pay attention to what they enjoy most.

Is it cruel to turn an outdoor cat into an indoor cat?

Transitioning an outdoor cat to indoor life isn’t automatically cruel, especially if the change is necessary for their health or safety. In fact, many cats adjust well with the right support. There are many good reasons owners may be considering the change, these include:

• Moving to a new home near busy roads
• Conflict with neighborhood cats
• Concerns about theft or poisoning
• Illness, injury, or old age

To help your cat make the switch, follow these steps:

1. Make the indoors exciting: As mentioned above, set up enrichment stations with toys, scratching posts, and climbing areas to mimic outdoor variety.
2. Use a gradual approach: Let them spend increasing amounts of time inside while maintaining a routine. Gradual changes reduce stress. You might also want to consider putting them on a harness for the first time.
3. Offer views and fresh air: A secure window perch, open windows with screens, or a small catio can help ease the transition.
4. Keep to a routine: Cats are creatures of habit. Stick to regular feeding and play schedules to offer a sense of stability.
5. Use calming aids: Synthetic pheromone diffusers (like this one on Amazon) can support relaxation and ease anxiety during the transition.

With time, most cats adapt and may even come to prefer the comfort and security of indoor life. Keeping a cat indoors isn’t inherently cruel. It all comes down to how their environment is managed.

With plenty of stimulation, opportunities for play, and focused attention, indoor cats can lead safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Every cat is different, so the best choice will depend on their personality, health, and your home setup. Your vet will always support you in making informed decisions that prioritize your cat’s wellbeing.

You might also want to read about the pros and cons of indoor vs outdoor cats, discover the best indoor cat breeds and our top picks of the best outdoor cat enclosures. Or, learn how to set up the perfect catio and how far do cats roam

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Obesity in cats can have major consequences on their health and quality of life and can result in conditions like cancer, arthritis, and diabetes.

With more than 60% of cats in the US being obese, this is a growing problem that pet owners should take seriously – especially as it can significantly reduce a cat's lifespan by up to 10 years.

Sometimes, our feline friends just don't know how to say no to the best cat food or best cat treats, leading to overfeeding by well-meaning owners. This, combined with a lack of exercise, contributes to inevitable weight gain.

If you want to learn more about obesity in cats – including the causes, treatment, and how much your cat should really weigh – vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan has explained everything you need to know below.

How much should my cat weigh?

While most average domestic short-haired cats should weigh around 4kg, a cat's ideal body weight depends on its breed and sex, explains Dr. MacMillan.

Every pet parent knows that weighing an animal is no easy feat, which is why it can help to have one of the best scales for pets to make the job easier and more accurate. To help your cat build positive associations with the scale, try rewarding them with their favorite toy after each measurement.

Dr. MacMillan says: "I always tell owners that regularly body condition scoring their cat is the best way of determining whether they are maintaining an ideal bodyweight or not."

Body condition scoring is a way of assessing your pet's body fat and giving it a score from one the nine. This is based on how your pet looks and feels and is compared to a chart (which we'll get into later).

When is a cat considered obese?

There are two ways to tell if your cat is obese: a high body condition score or if they are more than 20% above their ideal body weight.

Dr. MacMillan says, "Your cat’s body condition can be given a number from one to nine, with one being severely emaciated and nine being morbidly obese. A normal cat with a healthy weight should be a four or a five."

Here’s a simple breakdown of what these scores look like, according to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association's guide:

Under ideal

Ideal

Over ideal

Dr. MacMillan adds, "Overweight and obese cats lose their natural body shape. Instead of having a clearly defined waist just behind their ribcage, an overweight cat will appear rounded. Try looking at your cat from above and the side to see if you can clearly identify an abdominal tuck or their waist.

"Obese cats will develop fatty deposits in their lower abdomen, sometimes referred to as ‘fat pads’. You will also struggle to feel the ribs easily in an overweight cat, and if they creep into obesity, it can be a struggle to feel their spine properly, too. In morbidly obese cats, their head almost appears too small for their body due to the amount of fat deposits in their abdomen, trunk, and limbs."

How do you treat obesity in cats?

If your cat is obese, they need to be treated through a carefully controlled weight loss program design for cats, according to Dr. MacMillan. This involves gradually reducing their calorie intake and introducing gentle activity and exercise into their routine.

She says: "It is important not to overdo things, as dramatically cutting a cat’s food could lead to undesirable begging or scavenging behavior, as well as putting your cat at risk from a dangerous condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease).

"Slow, steady, and sustainable is key. Most veterinary practices run weight loss clinics to help guide owners through the changes they need to make. This will help give you and your cat manageable targets and advice on how to make weight loss a success."

If your cat is suffering from other health conditions, such as pain from arthritis, it can be a good idea to treat those at the same time to help them move more freely and encourage weight loss.

What is the life expectancy of an obese cat?

While a healthy cat’s lifespan can be up to 15 years, some obese cats may only live five to 10 years, and being overweight could reduce their lifespan by around two years.

Dr. MacMillan adds: "Obese cats are at greater risk of serious health issues such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, urinary disorders, and heart conditions. I also see many overweight and obese cats who are struggling with painful joints due to the abnormal pressure put on them."

What causes obesity in cats?

The main cause of obesity in cats is an inappropriate diet that exceeds their daily calorie allowance. However, genetics, activity levels, and neuter status can contribute towards weight gain.

Dr. MacMillan says, "Weight gain is more likely in sedentary cats, not only because they are not exercising as much but also because boredom can drive them to eat more. This is why house cats are more likely to be overweight than outdoor cats."

How do you prevent obesity in cats?

1. Follow feeding guidelines
If you're unsure how much to feed your cat, take a look at their food manufacturer's guidelines, which will tell you the amount based on their ideal body weight.

2. Measure their food
Dr. MacMillan advises measuring your cat's food with kitchen scales, as opposed to by cups or a hand, which can be inaccurate: "Even minor variations could cause weight gain over time."

3. Stop topping up their food bowl
Since many cats are unable to self-regulate, avoid topping up their food bowl when it looks empty. Free feeding can lead to overeating and weight gain, which is why scheduled feeding can be a better choice.

4. Be cautious with treats and tidbits
Treats and tidbits might feel insignificant and small, but they all add up to their daily calorie allowance and can result in unwanted weight gain.

5. Encourage activity
To keep your cat physically and mentally healthy, ensure you're engaging in regular play sessions with the best interactive cat toys. Dr. MacMillan also advises using the best cat puzzle feeders to slow down their eating and get them to work for their food.

6. Vet check-ups
Dr. MacMillan says, "Regular check-ups with the vet will help to ensure your cat is maintaining a healthy body weight. They will weight your pet on the scales but also assess their body condition score, giving you some reassurance that they are doing OK."

Read next: How to improve your cat's diet and how to tell if your kitten is overweight

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

Spring is finally here, and with the winter behind us it’s that time of year when we start to think about giving the house a good clean and maybe doing some redecorating too.

But while it can be good for us to change things around, whether you’re using one of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, simply rearranging furniture, or doing some painting, our pets don’t always like it when things are different.

Cats in particular much prefer routine and the status quo – whether it’s sticking to the best cat food or keeping the kitchen layout the same – and spring cleaning can cause them anxiety.

So, Jimmy Bratley, veterinary practitioner for Feliway, has offered five tips so we can ensure our homes are clean while also keeping our feline friends happy and worry-free – let’s take a look.

1. Take it slow when moving furniture
“If possible, make changes gradually,” advises Bratley. “Don't move everything all at once, or they will get confused. Make the changes gradually over a period of time so that your cat has longer to adjust.”

2. Create their new environment carefully
If you need to move your cat’s resources, try putting additional ones in a new location first, before moving the originals, to let them get used to both.

“You can then remove the original ones without them noticing too much,” says Bratley, “And they'll know where they need to go to eat, drink, scratch their posts, nap, or use the litter box.”

3. Allow them to explore
Let your cat explore slowly – they’ll want to inspect the new furniture and leave their own scent. Put one of the best scratching posts near the furniture to redirect them just in case they might be tempted to smell as well as scratch!

4. Keep them cozy
“Try and keep a cushion or a blanket they are comfortable with, nearby or on the new furniture,” recommends Bratley. “This will hold familiar smells for them and make them more at home with the changes.”

5. Clean away from your cat
Your cat will thank you if you do your best to clean when your cat isn’t in the room. The noise and activity that comes with cleaning can cause cats stress – the vacuum cleaner in particular is often unpopular with our kitties!

Above all, it’s important that we keep our cats safe, so check labels to find pet-safe cleaning products and opt for natural alternatives, such as baking soda and vinegar, when practical to avoid harsh chemicals. Always store cleaning products out of your cat’s reach, too!

One aspect of cleaning that we cat parents don’t enjoy but need to do is sorting the litter tray. Thankfully, these vet-approved cat litter hacks will make life easier for you.

The ongoing bird flu outbreak continues to concern officials with the New York City Health Department issuing warnings to cat parents not to feed their pets raw cat food from Savage Cat Food.

This comes after three cats were infected with bird flu over the past two months, with all three cases potentially connected to the company’s food, according to officials. The lot number for the packages concerned is 11152026.

NYC Health Department Acting Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said, via FOX 5, “We strongly encourage New Yorkers whose cats are experiencing illness after consuming Savage Cat Food products or other raw meat or dairy products to contact their vet.”

Health officials reported that one cat fell ill after eating Savage Cat Food, displaying signs of bird flu in cats, including fever, appetite loss and respiratory difficulties. It was confirmed to be bird flu, and the cat later died as a result.

Another cat also died due to the virus after showing symptoms of fever, respiratory difficulties and liver disease. Testing indicated that the cat was infected with a strain of bird flu related to the one found in Savage Cat Food. Per the officials, the cat didn’t actually consume the food themselves but was exposed to a sick cat – the third cat who fell ill.

This cat developed a fever after eating Savage Cat Food but went on to survive. This cat wasn’t tested for bird flu, but it’s thought that they had the virus given that the other cat exposed to them tested positive.

The Health Department has been in contact with cat owners, veterinary staff and Savage Pet Food.

Meanwhile, officials in New Jersey have also confirmed that bird flu has been detected in a number of outdoor cats in Hunterdon County, and Wild Coast Raw food has been recalled following cases of bird flu in Oregon and Washington as part of the ongoing outbreak.

If you have any concerns about your own cat, it’s important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. As well as fever, loss of appetite and respiratory difficulty, symptoms to watch out for include lethargy, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the ears and nose, and neurological issues like tremors and seizures – take a look at these 11 signs to take your cat to the vet, too.

To minimize the risk of bird flu, avoid feeding your cats raw food or unpasteurized dairy products. Looking to swap your cat’s food? Here’s our guide to the best dry cat foods on the market.

Bird flu has been in the news a lot in recent weeks with cats in the Pacific Northwest falling ill and in some cases sadly being euthanized.

The outbreak began back in March 2024 in dairy cattle, but this year the US Food and Drug Administration has had to recall raw cat food products following the deaths of cats in Oregon and Washington who had bird flu. Indeed, feeding cats raw meat and milk can increase the risk of bird flu, as can contact with sick or dead birds and wildlife.

With bird flu being quite rare – dozens of cats have been diagnosed since March 2024 out of millions kept as pets in the US – we don’t always know as much as we’d like to about it. If you’re hoping to find out more about bird flu, you’re not alone.

We’ve put together this guide to the symptoms, causes, risks, and treatment options, with some all-valuable advice from our in-house vet, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan. Together, we can help keep ourselves and our beloved felines as safe and healthy as possible

How do cats get bird flu?

First of all, what is bird flu? Also known as avian influenza, it’s a disease caused by the influenza A virus. It primarily affects birds but can affect other animals, including humans, cats, and cattle, depending on the strain. One strain of the virus, H5N1, can affect mammals, and this is the strain that’s the subject of the current outbreak.

"The risk of most cats getting bird flu is small, as common garden birds have a lower risk of being infected than wildfowl like ducks, gulls, swans or geese,” explains Dr. MacMillan, which goes some way to explain why it’s so rare.

The risk of getting bird flu increases if your cat eats raw meat or unpasteurized milk, or has exposure to farm animals who are infected. Exposure to people who work on farms with infected animals, and their clothing, can also increase the risk – we don’t know whether human-to-cat transmission definitely happens, but two cats in Michigan who lived in homes with dairy farm workers caught the infection last year, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggesting that it could be a possibility.

To reduce the risk, avoid feeding raw cat food and unpasteurized dairy products, and make sure you thoroughly cook any meat before you give it to your cat. As much as you can, keep your cat away from livestock and poultry, particularly if you live in an area with a bird flu outbreak – if your cat is currently an outdoor cat, you might consider keeping them inside.

Do your best to avoid contact with sick or dead birds or wild animals yourself, and wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with poultry, livestock, or wild animals. Change your clothes and shoes and wash any exposed skin after interacting with sick or dead animals, and before you interact with your cat.

There are currently no commercial vaccines against bird flu for cats, but it’s hoped that there may be one in the future.

Signs of bird flu in cats

Dr. MacMillan outlines some common signs, as follows:

• Loss of appetite/not eating
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Circling
• Twitching
• Blindness
• Seizures
• Breathing issues
• Discharge from eyes and nose

However, she explains, “These signs are not specific to bird flu and are not in themselves diagnostic. Your vet may be suspicious but would need to perform some tests to work out what is going on.”

If you are concerned that your cat may have bird flu, contact your vet for advice and limit your cat’s exposure to you, your family, and other pets. This is particularly important if you have any immunocompromised loved ones.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the risk of cat-to-human transmission is low, but could increase with more prolonged exposure to infected cats, so it’s best to be cautious. If anyone does become ill, it’s important to report it to your local public health official.

How is bird flu diagnosed?

Diagnosing bird flu in cats can be tricky, and you can expect your vet to explore your cat’s history to work out if they could have been in contact with sick birds or raw milk or meat before performing a physical exam to look for common signs of bird flu.

Your vet may collect samples to send to a laboratory to confirm that your cat has bird flu or to rule out other potential causes. Sadly, bird flu is often only diagnosed after a cat has died from the virus.

Can bird flu in cats be treated?

There’s no specific cure for bird flu in cats, but your cat may require a stay at the vet to receive intravenous fluids if dehydrated, as well as antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. If seizures are a symptom your cat presents with, anti-seizure medication may be given, too.

Your cat will need to be kept in isolation and staff will wear protective equipment when handling them, to both reduce the risk to them and minimize the chance of the virus spreading to other patients. Your vet will need to report the case of bird flu to a state animal health official, too.

Unfortunately, bird flu can be life-threatening, and almost seven out of 10 (67%) affected cats die, per the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health. While we can’t totally eliminate the risk of bird flu – particularly with no commercial vaccines available – it’s important that we try our best to keep our cats from becoming infected in the first place.

Above all, if you have any concerns about bird flu, it’s best to contact your vet straight away.

If you’d like to find out more about feline health, take a look at our list of the most common illnesses in cats. And, here are five diseases you could catch from your cat or dog.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

Can cats eat catnip? Given how much some of our feline friends love this green stuff, it's a question you may well be asking if you have a kitty companion in the family.

The good news is, catnip is perfectly safe for your cat, so if they accidentally consume a small quantity – or deliberately enjoy nibbling on it as a tasty treat – it won't do them any harm.

Most cats prefer getting the euphoria hit that catnip offers through playing with the best catnip toys, but for some cats, eating it produces a calming effect similar to chamomile.

According to expert vet, Dr Rebecca MacMillan, eating large volumes of catnip may cause mild digestive disturbances, but because it's non-toxic it won't do any further harm. Below, she explains whether it's okay to feed your kitty catnip and what to do if it causes problems.

Can cats eat catnip?

Is catnip bad for cats? Not at all. For many felines, it provides a wonderfully pleasurable experience but you may be wondering whether your cat can eat it or if they should stick to simply playing with catnip-filled toys.

"It is safe for cats to eat catnip in small amounts," says Dr. MacMillan. “As with all things though, it is best not to allow them to overindulge. Catnip should only be offered in moderate amounts as an occasional treat.

“Some cats enjoy eating fresh catnip leaves whereas others will nibble at dried catnip. Equally, some cats will have no interest in eating it at all and simply enjoy smelling it."

For these reasons, it's best to stick to feeding your cat the best cat food and only offer them small amounts of catnip now and again if they seem to enjoy it.

What happens if a cat eats catnip?

Many pet parents wonder what catnip does to cats and the truth is that the effects can vary from cat to cat. Some will become super playful, others will get completely blissed-out, happy and affectionate, and a small number of cats may become aggressive.

"If eaten in small amounts you shouldn’t notice any more than catnip’s normal euphoric effects," Dr. MacMillan explains.

"However, if your cat eats large amounts of plant material then it could lead to digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Catnip is not toxic if consumed, but it can cause mild irritation to your cat’s stomach. Always speak to your vet if you have any concerns about your cat."

The good news is that whatever mental or physical changes catnip brings about in your cat won't last. Most cats will sleep off the effects of catnip very quickly and be absolutely fine when they wake up.

Are cats supposed to eat catnip or just smell it?

Your feline friend may choose to eat catnip for a variety of reasons. For some cats, nibbling on this green grass provides them with a source of enrichment and they simply find it a fun thing to do. For others, they may eat it as a way to help reduce anxiety and help themselves to feel calmer.

However, according to Dr. MacMillan, most cats don't choose to eat catnip.

"Cats generally just enjoy the smell of catnip and enjoy rolling on it and rubbing against it," she explains. "So, I usually suggest that owners just use catnip in their pet’s toys or play areas, rather than trying to feed it to them in a meal."

Why does my cat throw up after eating catnip?

Thankfully, most of the time, your kitty experiencing an upset stomach after ingesting catnip is typically nothing to worry about.

"If small amounts of catnip are eaten, then there are usually no symptoms," says Dr. MacMillan. "However, cats aren’t designed to eat large amounts of plant material so too much catnip could cause them to vomit. Cats that have overindulged might also experience diarrhea, as well as the usual short-lived mood-enhancing properties of the plant.

"If your cat is experiencing severe gastrointestinal symptoms or behavioral changes then always consult your vet for advice, in case there is something else going on."

Read next: Can kittens have catnip? and What is silver vine? Or, learn if catnip gets cats high and about valerian for cats.

Edited by Megan Milstead.

New York City’s bodega cats could be in line for increased protection under proposed new measures to regulate their care.

These iconic felines are loved by the city’s residents, but animal welfare advocates claim too many are malnourished, ill, or abandoned, not getting the best cat food and care they need.

An online petition proposes removing the fines for keeping a cat in a food business and replacing them with both a certification program and a fund for vet bills.

There are currently more than 8,350 signatures on the petition, which reads: “Bodega cats have long been an iconic part of New York City’s soul – they keep shops pest-free, brighten our streets, and offer comfort to communities. Yet outdated health codes and inconsistent care practices leave many of these cats at risk and burden small business owners with unfair fines.”

Dan Rimada, the founder of the @BodegaCatsofNewYork page on Instagram, launched the campaign, which would include a $30,000 Bodega Cats Support Fund. It would be funded through a discretionary funding request in City Council and would launch in 15 bodegas as a trial. Money would also be raised through participating bodega owners each contributing $150 in annual fees.

Around $20,000 of the funding would be managed by nonprofits and fund neutering, vaccines, and emergency healthcare, with the rest spent on stipends for rescuers.

Tiff Winton, who has helped save a number of abandoned cats in NYC, tells the New York Post, “As much as bodega cats are beloved in New York, most of them are abused and neglected.”

The voluntary certification program would require bodega owners to take a free online training course about responsible pet care and food safety, and an online reporting portal would let locals and rescue groups flag any concerns. Repeat issues could lead to inspections and potentially certification revocation.

Winton explains, “There needs to be some sort of process that holds bodega owners accountable. If you have a dog, you have to get a license for it…but there’s no regulations for [cats], nobody is watching if anyone is taking care of them.”

The city health department directed the New York Post to the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets for comment. It said it “has not been approached about this effort” thus far.

If you have cats yourself, here are 32 ways to save money as a cat owner. Or if you would like to help animals like bodega cats, take a look at these reasons to volunteer with an animal rescue.

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has issued another raw cat food recall amid the ongoing bird flu outbreak in the US.

Almost two weeks after the first voluntary recall of Wild Coast Raw food, two cats in different households in Washington tested positive for bird flu. One cat was euthanized, while the other had to spend time under veterinary care.

Two lots of raw food products from Wild Coast Raw came under the voluntary recall, but it’s not known whether the cases in Washington are linked to the recalled items or not.

Now, Wild Coast has recalled further products, identified by lot numbers #22653, #22641, #22639, and #22672, all with a best-buy date of December 2025, along with #22660 and #22664 – as they all share similar production dates. The recalled products are all in small round white plastic containers with green labels.

Two of Christine Knopp’s 11 cats had to be euthanized after eating raw pet food, with another requiring a stay in intensive care. All of the cats who had eaten raw pet food later tested positive, with only one, who was kept apart from the others and fed canned food, remaining negative.

Knopp, who lives in Portland, Oregon, and breeds and shows Cornish Rex cats, has fed her pets raw cat food for years, and believed that the Wild Coast food was being testing for bird flu.

She told The Guardian, “I’ve since learned, I don’t think there’s really a safe way to trust if someone says they’re testing it,” she said. She’s now switched to canned food for all of her cats.

The USFDA, meanwhile, told cat parents: “People who fed pets the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu in their pets, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs like tremors, stiff body movements, seizure, lack of coordination, or blindness. People with pets exhibiting these signs after feeding this product should contact their veterinarian.”

Here are 11 more signs to take your cat to the vet, too, because it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

No human infections have been identified as a result of handling the recalled products, but people should wash their hands after handling raw pet food and sanitize contact surfaces.

“People who handled contaminated products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, seizures, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and/or vomiting,” per USFDA advice.

Looking to swap your cat’s food? Here’s our guide to the best dry cat foods on the market

Did you know that cats can have asthma?

We usually think of asthma as being a ‘human’ condition, but feline asthma exists and is often triggered by allergies to things like dust or cat litter – so even making sure you’re using the best cat litter could help. And one cat parent has taken to TikTok to let others know how she found out her own cat has the condition.

The account @lifewithmaple_ posted a video of a cat, Maple, in which she’s coughing repeatedly as you may expect a cat to do if they had a hairball. However, nothing comes out.

Text overlaid onto the clip reads, “Cat owners, this is what feline asthma looks like,” while the cat parent adds in the caption, "I thought she had a fur ball but after looking more into it, thanks to TikTok we found out Maple has asthma. In case you don't know what it looks like, here you go.”

Indeed, coughing is one symptom of feline asthma. If you’re asking questions like, ‘Why is my cat coughing?’ it’s important to know that any irritation to their lungs or airways can cause coughing, with irritants and allergens sometimes causing asthma.

Cat panting can be a sign of asthma too, while shortness of breath, an extended neck and hunched posture, tiredness, and reluctance to play can all be symptoms too.

In severe cases of asthma, you may find that your cat’s gums are a blueish color, due to the lack of oxygen.

Among the potential allergens to trigger asthma in your cat include pollen, grass, mold, dust, tobacco smoke, cat litter, and cleaning products. Avoiding irritants can help you support your cat if they have asthma, while there are also various treatments they can have. Oxygen therapy can be effective, as can the use of bronchodilators to widen their airways and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

If you think your cat may have asthma, a trip to the vet can help you find out – as well as rule out other potential conditions, like lungworm, heart disease, and respiratory infections.

If your cat seems to be having difficulty breathing and you can see their sides heaving in and out, however, they could be having an asthma attack, and you should seek veterinary attention immediately. Try to keep them as calm as you can, as stress can make an asthma attack worse.

Meanwhile, here are four things you can do about common allergies in cats. And, here are the important signs of pain in cats to watch out for.

For most people who adopt a cat, the process will involve getting in touch with a rescue or shelter, meeting the felines there, and eventually bringing one home. But this isn’t the case for all cat parents.

Sometimes, a cat can come into your life in a more unconventional way, and you’ll find yourself playing with the best cat toys even if you didn’t exactly plan on it. People online often joke about there being a cat distribution system that will send you a cat when the universe decides you’re ready for one, and one couple who adopted a kitten a year ago have shared an update on social media.

Courtnie and Nate, a couple who travel in a rescue van, were approached by a beach worker in Mexico with a bag of kittens found in a bag of trash. They adopted a gray kitten, who they called Friend, while other ‘van lifers’ – people who live in vans or motor homes – decided on bringing home a new kitten, too.

After a year, they returned to the beach where they first met Friend to look back on the past 12 months with the cat in their lives. Remembering the moment they first met Friend, Courtnie says, “They were luckily found just in time, because although they were very small and really, really scared, they seemed to be in pretty good health.”

She admits, “Our main concern was really just that our dog Tonkins was not gonna be having it. And at first, he was really not pleased and was doing everything he could to avoid her.”

However, cat and dog have learned how to coexist peacefully with each other. And, while Courtnie explains that she was never a cat person, she’s now “obsessed” with having a cat. “We love you Friend, and we’re so happy to have you in our family,” she finishes.

The couple’s video marking Friend’s first anniversary went viral, with over 90,000 likes and hundreds of comments across Instagram and TikTok, with viewers praising Courtnie and Nate for giving Friend a home and marveling over the cat’s cuteness.

If you’re thinking of bringing a cat into your life when you already have a dog, or vice-versa, you might be asking, ‘Should I let my dog play with my cat?’ It can take time for cats and dogs to get used to each other, so it’s a good idea to supervise them and keep track of their body language. And, when you first bring home your new furry friend, it’s best to start small – even having them ignore each other in the same room is a positive.

Feeling inspired? Here are 32 more reasons to adopt a cat

Adopting an older cat is one of the best things a pet parent can do – there’s lots of demand for kittens, but there are cats of all ages who need forever homes.

One 13-year-old cat has found a forever home of his own, giving him the chance to live out the rest of his days with plenty of love (and the best cat treats, of course) after being found as a stray and needing his ears amputated due to sun damage.

Phillip was found living on the streets in the village of Bredhurst in the south of the UK, and was taken to the charity Cats Protection. Stacey Gausten, the center’s deputy manager, previously explained that Phillip’s ears were amputated because they were “curly crispy,” a sign of sun damage that can indicate skin cancer. Pre-cancerous cells were found on his ears, so the surgery may have saved his life.

Cats with white fur – particularly on their ears or noses – are often more vulnerable to sun damage, with Cats Protection urging cat parents to keep their felines indoors during the hottest part of the day.

David, from the nearby town of Gillingham, adopted Phillip, explaining that as soon as he saw him he “wanted to give him another chance of a happy life,” per the BBC. He added, “I'm pleased to say that Phillip has settled in really well. He is still finding his feet around the house.

“He is playful and comes to us for attention and a fuss on his terms, so we're really happy with how he's accepted this as his new home so quickly.”

David said that Phillip’s amputated ears “gives him character” and that he’s still lively despite his age. He also hoped that Phillip’s story would raise awareness of sun damage in cats, with many cat parents not being aware of the risks.

Skin cancer is one of a few types of cancer cats can have, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms. If you have any concerns, it’s best to consult your vet. Take a look at our list of the most common illnesses in cats, too, so you know what to watch out for.

If you’re thinking of adopting an older feline yourself, meanwhile, here are our tips for taking care of senior cats. Rescues and shelters in your area should have plenty of information about their cats up for adoption so you can find the cat that’s perfect for you.

The cost of Phillip’s treatment amounted to nearly £1,000 ($1,263) – if you would like to contribute you can do so via JustGiving.

You may also be interested in: 32 reasons to adopt a cat or ‘I adopted two rescue cats saved from a cat hoarder’

Can cats eat strawberries safely? As pet owners, we always want to ensure that our cats are getting the best possible diet. Cats are naturally curious creatures and often show an interest in various human foods, including fruits like strawberries.

In this article, I will explain whether strawberries are suitable for cats, and discuss any health benefits or risks associated with them. We will also explore how many strawberries are safe to feed your furry friend, which fruits should be avoided, as well as discussing top tips on feeding strawberries to your cat.

As a vet with over 13 years of experience in feline nutrition, I'll provide expert insights to help you make informed choices for your cat’s diet.

Can cats eat strawberries?

Cats can eat strawberries, provided they are fed in small amounts. Strawberries are not toxic to cats, and some cats may even enjoy the scent and texture of this fruit.

However, it is important to note that cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet should be primarily meat-based. While strawberries contain some beneficial nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, they do not provide the essential proteins and amino acids that cats require for optimal health.

Benefits of feeding strawberries to cats:

• Hydration support: Strawberries have a high water content, which may help to keep cats hydrated to some extent. This may be especially helpful if they don’t drink much water at home.
• Source of fiber: The fiber in strawberries can aid with digestion and bowel movements in cats. It may also help prevent constipation.
• Rich in antioxidants: Antioxidants can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and support overall well-being.
• Vitamin C: While cats produce their own vitamin C, additional sources may offer minor health benefits.

Potential risks of feeding strawberries to cats:

• High sugar content: Strawberries contain natural sugars that, if eaten in excess, may lead to unwanted weight gain or contribute to diabetes over time.
• Digestive issues: Some cats may have a sensitive stomach and could experience diarrhea or vomiting after eating strawberries.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some cats may be allergic to strawberries, leading to symptoms like itching or swelling.
• Pesticides and chemicals: Strawberries are often coated with pesticide residues, so washing them thoroughly is essential before offering them to your cat.

Since every cat is different, it’s best to introduce strawberries gradually and to closely monitor your cat’s reaction when they eat them. You might want to read about other ways to improve your cat’s diet in our handy guide.

How many strawberries can I give my cat?

When feeding strawberries to your cat, always remember moderation is key. Start off with a small bite-sized piece. Aim for about the size of a blueberry to begin with. Cats do not need fruit in their diet, so strawberries should only be an occasional treat rather than a regular food source.

For a small cat, one little piece of strawberry once or twice a week is enough. Larger cats may tolerate one or two small pieces, but too much can cause digestive discomfort so always err on the side of caution.

What happens if my cat eats too many strawberries?

If your cat eats too many strawberries, they may experience digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. The natural sugars in strawberries can also contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly in large amounts. Additionally, filling up on strawberries may reduce your cat’s appetite for their nutritionally balanced cat food, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies.

While strawberries are generally safe in small quantities, if your cat eats a large amount and starts to show signs of discomfort, it's best to contact your vet for guidance.

How to feed your cat a strawberry

If you want to safely offer your cat a strawberry, follow these simple steps:

1. Wash the strawberry thoroughly: This removes any pesticides or harmful chemicals.
2. Remove the stem and leaves: Although not toxic, they can be difficult for cats to digest.
3. Cut into small, manageable pieces: This prevents choking hazards and makes it easier to eat.
4. Offer a small piece initially and observe: If your cat shows no signs of digestive upset, you may offer another small piece occasionally.
5. Avoid adding sugar or toppings: Sweeteners, syrups, or chocolate coatings can be harmful to cats.

Here are some alternative ways to feed strawberries to your cat:

• Mix a small amount into their regular food
• Freeze some chopped-up pieces for a cooling summer treat
• Mash with a little water to make a purée and offer as a lick-able treat

Which fruits are toxic to cats?

While strawberries are safe in moderation, some fruits should never be given to cats. Here are some common toxic fruits:

• Grapes and raisins: They can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts
• Cherries: They contain cyanogenic compounds that are harmful to cats
• Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges): The essential oils and acids can cause stomach irritation
• Avocado: They contain persin, which can be toxic to cats.
• Apple seeds and cores: Apple seeds contain cyanide, which is dangerous for cats.

If your cat ingests any of these toxic fruits, contact your vet immediately. All cat owners need to be aware of foods that cats should never eat.

Cats can eat strawberries – as long as they are given in small amounts. If your cat enjoys strawberries, they can be given as an occasional treat, but they should never replace a balanced diet. While they contain some beneficial nutrients, they do not offer the essential proteins that cats require.

To ensure your cat gets the best nutrition, focus on high-quality animal-based foods. If you're interested in upgrading your cat’s diet, you can make your own cat treats at home.

As always, if you have any concerns about your cat’s diet or health, speak to your vet, they will be more than happy to help.

Looking for alternative kitty snacks? Read our guide on the best cat treats. Or, you might want to read about surprising foods cats can eat or soup for cats

Edited by Megan Milstead.

We all love our pets, and the commitment we make to take care of them means we often need to put them first – and sometimes, ahead of our own love lives.

Indeed, our furry friends can influence our romantic relationships – and cats do so more than you might think. Have you ever had to cut a date short because your cat is at home with separation anxiety, or put a relationship on hold because of disagreements over your furry friend? What about a potential partner being allergic to cats – would that be a dealbreaker?

In a survey of 1,000 US-based cat parents, pet tech company Whisker found that just over one-third of us (34%) would even ghost a potential romantic partner if they were allergic to cats.

If you think you’re allergic to cats, be they yours or your partner’s, you should know that, often, allergies can be managed, so your burgeoning relationship might not be completely doomed!

What if your partner wasn’t allergic to your cat, but simply didn’t like them? Well, a whopping 62% of pet parents would end their relationship if that were the case, while 35% have felt embarrassed to bring a date over because of their litter box.

Almost half (44%) of respondents admitted that their cat has ‘third-wheeled’ on a date night – though if your date is a fellow cat person they surely wouldn’t mind – while 38% have actually canceled a date to stay home with their pets.

And, if you’ve caught yourself looking through your camera roll for your feline on a first date, you’re not alone. In fact, the average cat parent has over 600 photos of their cat on their phone right now.

It’s not surprising that so many of us consider our cats’ happiness so important – even at the expense of date night! Despite the reputation cats sometimes have for being aloof, there are all sorts of ways cats show affection, and they really can be the best company.

Do cats know we love them? It’s a difficult question to answer, given that cats express their feelings in a different way to humans, but it seems as though they do. Adult cats don’t meow at other adult cats, but kittens meow to their mothers, and adult cats meow to us, suggesting that there’s an almost parent-child dynamic with plenty of love and affection.

Meanwhile, Whisker is encouraging people to break up with their litter box and upgrade to its Litter-Robot with the ‘Dump Your Box’ promotion offering $80 off bundles. Check out our guide to the best automatic cat litter boxes – and see what we thought when we compared the Litter-Robot 3 vs Litter-Robot 4.

Still looking for love as a pet parent? Here are 32 ways to include your pet on a date and here’s our guide to the best automated cat toys to keep your cat occupied while you’re out

Ensuring your cat stays properly hydrated is essential for their health, but what should cats drink? While water is the best option and the safest choice, many owners are unsure if cats can have other fluids. Misinformation can lead to poor hydration habits, potentially causing health problems such as dehydration or digestive upset.

As a vet with 13 years of experience in feline health, I’ve seen many cases where cats don’t drink enough or are given inappropriate fluids. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly what cats should and shouldn’t drink, how much they need daily, and whether kittens require different hydration to adults.

If your cat doesn’t drink enough, the best pet water fountain can help by encouraging hydration. Cats often prefer running water, which mimics natural water sources and keeps them interested and engaged. Read on to find out more!

What should cats drink?

Cats have specific hydration needs, and not all liquids are safe for them. Here’s what they can drink:

1. Fresh, clean water
Water is the best and most important drink for cats. It supports kidney function, digestion, and overall health. Always provide fresh, clean water in a ceramic, stainless steel, or glass bowl, as plastic can retain odors that deter drinking.

2. Cat-safe broth
Homemade or store-bought bone broth can be given as an occasional treat. It must be unsalted and not contain any garlic or onions. Broths are a brilliant way to add flavor, encourage drinking, and provide a good source of amino acids, minerals and collagen.

3. Tuna water
Water from canned tuna in spring water (not brine or oil) can be used sparingly to entice picky drinkers. However, even in spring water, tuna contains high sodium levels, so it should only be offered in moderation to prevent excessive salt intake.

4. Cat milk
Unlike regular dairy milk, specially formulated lactose-free cat milk is safe for adult cats. Since most adult cats lack the lactase enzyme, they struggle to digest standard cow’s milk, which can cause stomach upset. Cat milk is high in calories, so it should be given as an occasional treat rather than a daily drink.

5. Cat hydration formulas
Some pet brands offer electrolyte solutions (like this one on Amazon) designed to rehydrate sick or recovering cats. These should only be used under veterinary guidance to ensure they are appropriate for your cat’s needs.

6. Wet cat food
Although not a drink, the best wet cat food contains 75–80% moisture, contributing to a cat’s hydration. Cats on a wet food diet often drink less water than those eating dry kibble. If your cat isn’t drinking enough, switching to wet food or adding water to their meals can help increase fluid intake. However, wet food alone is not enough – cats should still have access to fresh water at all times.

What cats should not drink

1. Cow’s milk
Despite the common myth, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. They lack the enzyme needed to break down lactose, leading to digestive upset, diarrhea, and bloating. If you want to offer milk, opt for lactose-free cat milk (like this one on Amazon) instead.

2. Sugary or flavored drinks
Drinks with added sugar, artificial flavors, or sweeteners can be harmful. Cats struggle to process sugar, and some sweeteners – like xylitol – are highly toxic and can cause severe health problems.

3. Caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee, energy drinks)
Caffeine is dangerous for cats, even in small amounts. It can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, tremors, and seizures. Keep all caffeinated drinks out of reach.

4. Alcohol
Even a tiny sip of alcohol can be life-threatening for a cat. It can lead to disorientation, vomiting, breathing difficulties, and organ failure. Never allow your cat to consume alcoholic drinks or foods that contain alcohol.

What should kittens drink?

Kittens have different hydration needs compared to adult cats, especially during their early growth stages. Providing the right fluids at each stage of development is essential for their health.

• 0–4 weeks old: Newborn kittens should nurse from their mother, as her milk provides the nutrients and antibodies they need for a strong immune system. If the mother is unavailable, a kitten-specific formula (like this one from Chewy) is required – never give cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive issues.
• 4–8 weeks old: At this stage, kittens begin the weaning process, transitioning from milk to solid food. They should start eating wet kitten food while still nursing or receiving kitten formula. Fresh water should also be introduced so they learn to drink on their own.
• 8+ weeks old: By eight weeks, kittens are fully weaned and should drink only water. Unlike adult cats, younger kittens should not rely solely on water for hydration until they have completely transitioned to solid food.

How much should my cat drink?

The amount of water a cat needs depends on factors such as age, diet, activity level, and environment. A rough guide for cats to follow is one fluid ounce of water for each pound of body weight. This is around 50 to 70 ml/kg using metric measurements.

Cats on wet food diets may drink less water than those on dry food as wet. This is because wet food often contains a high amount of water so they will have their thirst quenched when they eat. Cats living in hot climates or very active cats may need more water.

How much should my kitten drink?

Kittens require more hydration relative to their body weight compared to adult cats.

• 0–4 weeks: Newborn kittens get all their hydration from their mother’s milk or a kitten formula if nursing isn’t possible. They do not need additional water.
• 4–8 weeks: As kittens begin weaning, they should be introduced to small amounts of water alongside their milk and solid food.
• Over 8 weeks: Fully weaned kittens should drink approximately four to five ounces (120–150 ml) of water per five pounds (2.3 kg) of body weight daily. This is more or less the same as the requirements for adult cats.

If your kitten is drinking a lot of water, we have another guide that can help.

Can cats drink milk if they’re orphaned?

Can kittens drink milk? A common myth is that orphaned kittens can drink cow’s or goat’s milk, but this is not safe for them. Regular milk lacks essential nutrients for kitten growth and can cause digestive issues like diarrhea in kittens due to its high lactose content. The safest option is a vet-approved kitten milk replacer (KMR), specially formulated to mimic a mother cat’s milk (like this one available from Chewy).

Make sure to use a kitten nursing bottle for feeding. For very young kittens, a syringe may be necessary, but feeding must be done carefully to avoid aspiration pneumonia (milk inhalation into the lungs), which can be life-threatening. Always consult a vet for guidance on the proper way to bottle-feed kittens.

Proper hydration is vital for your cat’s health, with fresh water being the best choice. Some cats may also enjoy unsalted broth, tuna water, or hydration supplements in moderation. Kittens, however, require mother’s milk or a kitten milk replacer until fully weaned. By knowing what’s safe and what to avoid, you can help your cat stay healthy, happy and well hydrated.

Read next: How long can cats go without drinking? and Why is my cat drinking a lot of water? Or, why cats like running water and do kittens drink water

Edited by Megan Milstead

How long can cats go without water? This is a common question asked by concerned cat owners. Water is essential for a cat’s health, yet many pet owners underestimate how crucial proper hydration is. While some adult cats may survive up to three or four days without drinking, dehydration in cats can cause serious health issues in as little as 24 hours.

Cats naturally have a low thirst drive, a trait inherited from their desert-dwelling ancestors, which makes it easy for them to become dehydrated – especially if they are fed primarily dry food. Dehydration can lead to kidney problems, digestive issues, and even life-threatening conditions if left untreated.

As a vet with over 13 years of experience in feline health, I’ve seen many cases where cats refused to drink, sometimes due to illness and other times due to behavioral preferences. In this guide, I’ll explain how long cats and kittens can safely go without water, what happens if they don’t drink for a few days, and practical ways to encourage good drinking habits.

If your cat is reluctant to drink, the best pet water fountains may help, as many cats prefer running water.

How long can cats go without water?

Adult cats and kittens require daily hydration to stay healthy. Cats will have different requirements depending on their size and weight.

Adult cats: A healthy adult cat should be able to survive without water for about three days. It is very important to note they should never intentionally be put in this situation. Within 24 hours of no water, your cat will start experiencing dehydration. Beyond 72 hours, vital organs become damaged and may begin to fail, making it a medical emergency.

Kittens: Kittens are far more vulnerable. Due to their size, they have a high surface area to volume ratio compared to adult cats. Their small bodies lose moisture very quickly, and they have higher hydration needs. Without water, a kitten may show signs of dehydration in as little as 8 hours and could become critically ill within 24 hours.

Why is water important for cats?

Cats, just like humans and other animals, need to stay well-hydrated for several vital functions:

• Digestion: Water plays a crucial role in breaking down food and aiding the absorption of nutrients. Proper hydration also helps prevent constipation by keeping stool soft and ensuring smooth movement through the intestines.
• Blood circulation: Water is a key component of blood, which transports oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells while also carrying away waste products. Proper hydration ensures efficient circulation and overall health.
• Temperature regulation: While cats tolerate heat better than some animals, they still rely on water to help regulate their body temperature, particularly during hot weather. Unlike humans, cats do not sweat much, so hydration is crucial to prevent overheating. Here are some pointers on how to cool down a cat in hot weather.
• Kidney function and toxin removal: Water is essential for kidney function, helping filter out waste and toxins through urine. Adequate hydration supports kidney health and reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney disease, which are common in cats.
• Joint and tissue health: Water keeps joints and surrounding tissues lubricated, promoting flexibility and reducing the risk of stiffness or discomfort, especially in older cats or those with arthritis.
• Cellular and biochemical processes: Water is involved in numerous biochemical reactions within the body, supporting metabolism, energy production, and overall organ function.

What happens if my cat doesn't drink water for three days?

If a cat stops drinking water for three days, severe dehydration can lead to life-threatening complications. Here is how their condition may deteriorate over time...

After 24 hours without water:

Early signs of dehydration will become noticeable. These include dry gums, lethargy, and reduced skin elasticity. You can check for dehydration at home by gently lifting the skin at the back of your cat’s neck between your fingers. If the skin remains "tented" and does not quickly return to its normal position, your cat is dehydrated.

Other symptoms may include:

• Decreased energy levels and reduced interest in movement or interaction
• A decline in appetite

After 48 hours without water:

By this stage, symptoms will worsen, and your cat will become significantly weaker.

Symptoms may include:

• Sunken eyes and a dull coat due to dehydration
• Extreme sluggishness, reluctance to move, and a lack of grooming
• An increased heart rate and possibly labored breathing
• Constipation due to a lack of moisture in the digestive system

After 72 hours without water:

At this point, your cat will be critically dehydrated, and the risk of permanent organ damage or failure is extremely high. There is a dangerously low chance of survival without emergency vet treatment at this point.

Symptoms may include:

• Seizures, disorientation, or collapse
• Shock, where the body can no longer circulate blood effectively

If your cat hasn’t drank water for 24 hours, try encouraging them to drink (see the next section for tips). If they refuse water for 48 hours or more, seek immediate veterinary care – this is a life-threatening emergency.

How to give a cat water that won't drink

1. Use a water fountain
Many cats prefer running water because it mimics natural streams and appears fresher than still water. A pet water fountain can encourage drinking by keeping the water constantly circulating. Some cats are also drawn to the gentle sound of trickling water, which may make them more likely to drink.

2. Try different water bowls
Cats can be quite picky about their water bowl, from its shape and material to its location in the home. If your cat seems reluctant to drink, try:

• Using ceramic or stainless steel bowls, as plastic can retain odors that may deter them
• Opting for wide, shallow bowls to prevent their whiskers from touching the sides (some cats find this uncomfortable). You might want to read our feature on whisker fatigue in cats
• Placing bowls in quiet areas away from food and litter trays
• Avoiding spots where shadows fall over the bowl, as this may discourage drinking

3. Provide fresh water regularly
Cats dislike stale or warm water, so it’s essential to refresh their water at least once a day – or more often if possible. Clean the bowl regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. A dirty water bowl may deter your cat from drinking.

4. Add water to their food
If your cat eats dry cat food, try mixing in a little water or switching to wet food, which contains around 75% moisture. You can also mix extra water into wet food to create a gravy-like consistency.

5. Offer flavored water
Some cats may drink more if their water has a mild taste. Try adding a small amount of tuna juice (in water, not oil) or low-sodium chicken or bone broth – just be sure it doesn’t contain onions, garlic, or added seasoning.

6. Place multiple water sources around the house
If your cat moves between rooms, providing several water bowls in different locations makes drinking more convenient. This is especially important in multi-cat households, where competition over resources can discourage some cats from drinking enough.

7. Use ice cubes
Dropping ice cubes (made from water or broth) into the bowl can make drinking more appealing and engaging for some cats.

8. Syringe water if necessary
If your cat is mildly dehydrated, you can use a needle-free syringe to gently squirt small amounts of water into their mouth. However, if your cat shows signs of severe dehydration, seek veterinary care immediately, as this method is not a substitute for professional treatment.

9. Use a water filter
Some cats are sensitive to the taste of chlorine or other chemicals in tap water. Using a water filter can help improve the taste, making it more appealing.

Hydration is essential for your cat’s health. While they may survive up to three days without water, dehydration can start causing harm within 24 hours. If your cat isn’t drinking, act quickly by encouraging water intake or seeking veterinary care if needed.

By understanding your cat’s hydration needs and taking steps to encourage drinking, you can keep them safe and well-hydrated for years to come.

If your cat's not eating or your cat is drinking a lot of water, our vet's guides can help. You might also want to find out what cats should drink, why cats like running water and do kittens drink water?

Looking for some beautiful cat-safe houseplants to brighten up your living space? Well, you're in luck because there are plenty of stunning options to choose from.

You may provide your feline friend with the best cat food but there are some things you only know if you're a cat owner – like how irresistible most cats find plants!

Whether your kitty likes to nibble on the leaves or paw at them and bat them about, you can rest assured that all of the plants on this list are non-toxic and completely safe for your beloved bundle of fluff.

So, without further ado, here are our favorite cat-friendly houseplants to bring a touch of nature into your home...

32 cat-safe houseplants

1. Boston Fern

The Boston Fern, also sometimes referred to as the sword fern, is a stunning plant that will look beautiful in any room in your home. A classic houseplant that's easy to care for, it requires little sunlight and will live for years. Boston Ferns typically grow to around four feet in length and roughly six feet wide, and if your cat fancies a nibble, rest assured that consuming it will do them absolutely no harm.

2. Chinese Money Plant

With leaves and stems that are free from hazardous compounds, the Chinese Money Plant is non-toxic to cats. An eye-catching green beauty that's become popular the world over, the Chinese Money Plant is a member of the stinging nettle family but thankfully, it won't actually sting you. Believed to bring good luck to its owner, this pretty and easy-to-care-for plant adores bright, indirect sunlight and likes to be watered once a week.

3. Staghorn fern

When it comes to funny things cats do, chewing on plants with irresistibly long leaves is definitely on the list. The good news is that if you catch them nibbling on your prized staghorn fern, you won't have to worry because they're completely non-toxic. A hardy plant that suits gardeners of all skill levels, the staghorn fern got its name because its leaves resemble deer antlers. It does best in humid conditions with bright, indirect, or dappled sunlight.

4. African Violet

One of those sweet-looking plants that adds a pop of cheerfulness to any room it's placed in, the African Violet is cat-friendly and with the proper care, it will flower almost all year round. One of the world's most popular houseplants, the African Violets like bright, warm, and humid conditions as moist environments prevent them from drying out.

5. Parlor palm

A tall and elegant plant that thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, the parlor palm is a great choice for beginners. Brilliant for purifying the air, parlor palms will grow to around six feet tall with a two to three feet spread. Non-toxic, their palm fronds grow upwards and are very resilient — even when being batted about and used as an interactive cat toy by your mischievous feline friend!

6. Purple waffle plant

When it comes to how to stop a cat from eating plants, placing them out of reach is your best bet. Thankfully, the purple waffle plant is small and compact which makes keeping it high up easy to do. Easy to grow and very low maintenance, this plant enjoys bright, indirect light, frequent watering, and regular misting.

7. Bromeliad

If you're looking for a unique and eye-catching plant that will add a pop of color to any room in your home, the bromeliad is well worth considering. Because they hail from tropical rainforests, this plant thrives in warm spaces and likes fast-draining potting soil that holds moisture. Bromeliads are very sensitive to the chemicals found in tap water, so watering them with collected rainwater is recommended.

8. Orchid

Gorgeous plants with colorful blooms, and orchids are safe plants to have around the home if you have cats. While orchids can occasionally cause vomiting or diarrhea in cats if the leaves or petals are ingested, they're not considered to cause more serious symptoms. There are over 25,000 species of orchid and most will prefer warm, humid climates. Regardless of which type you choose, make sure the root system gets plenty of air and doesn't stay wet.

9. Mosaic plant

The mosaic plant, also known as fittonia or the nerve plant has strikingly patterned foliage that resembles a mosaic or network of nerves. They come in a variety of different color options including green and white, green and pink, and orange and pink. A lovely showstopper plant that looks equally good on its own or surrounded by other houseplants, it likes humid locations like the bathroom as its natural habitat is the forest floors of South America.

10. Banana plant

Looking for a dramatic feature for your living room? The banana plant certainly ticks that box. Now, just to avoid any disappointment a few months from now – bananas grow on bushes, not trees, so don't expect this plant to produce any fruit. Still, if you don't mind that, this evergreen perennial will bring you plenty of joy with its stunning tropical foliage. Easy to care for and an excellent air purifier, the banana plant loves bright light and prefers to be kept away from drafts.

11. Prayer plant

A distinctive plant with green leaves that have red veins and pink undersides, the prayer plant gets its name from its leaves which are flat during the day but fold up like hands in prayer at night. It's slow and low growing and likes tropical conditions with plenty of warm and humid air. It's important to ensure your prayer plant is in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil as it's sensitive to root rot.

12. Haworthia

The haworthia is a pretty succulent native to southern parts of Africa that you may hear being referred to as the zebra cactus thanks to its distinctive white stripes. If you're looking for a low-maintenance house plant, the haworthia is a fantastic choice as it requires little in the way of watering and is very hardy. They do well in warm spaces, so they're an excellent choice for a sunny conservatory or living room.

13. Polka dot plant

If you love polka dots, you're absolutely going to adore the stunning polka dot plant. One of the most striking of all house plants, its bright leaves typically come flecked with pink, but you can also get the polka dot pattern in purple, white, or red. Warm and humid conditions with indirect light will suit this plant perfectly and they remain relatively small even once mature, which makes them ideal for apartments and other compact spaces.

14. Calathea

A great, non-toxic choice if you have cats, the calathea are highly decorative foliage plants that have a reputation for being wonderful air purifiers as well. There are a wide range of species available and all of them require a moderate level of care to keep their leaves looking their best. They have superb markings, so if you're looking for an eye-catching house plant that puts on a spectacular display, the calathea is well worth considering.

15. Venus fly trap

Looking for a fascinating plant that will get people talking? Look no further than the Venus fly trap. One of the world's most unique plants, it has a jaw-like trap made up of two hinged lobes at the end of each leaf which it uses to capture and eat unsuspecting insects. In order for it to thrive, the Venus fly trap has very specific care instructions. Tap water will kill them, so you can only water them with rainwater and fertiliser is also a no-go as anything with nitrogen will also cause them to die. It's also important not to poke them, as this uses up their vital energy supply and causes them to decline.

16. Spider plant

Named because it has long leaves that resemble the legs of a spider, the spider plant has always been a popular choice amongst those looking for an easy-to-grow and low-maintenance house plant. The leaves can grow to around 18 inches in length and mature plants send out stems that contain white flowers. They're a great choice for apartments as spider plants can be grown in hanging baskets, so you don't have to have them taking up space on a table or other surface. They also produce lots of new plants and are easy to propagate, so you can pot the babies and give them away as gifts.

17. Echeveria

A beautiful rosette-shaped succulent, the echeveria is native to central and southern America and so it does well in hot and sunny spots. If you're one of those people who forget to feed or water plants or just feel they lack the gardening gene, the echeveria is the house plant for you.

While it may sound funny, it thrives on neglect and won't mind one bit if you forget to moisten its soil for months at a time. As long as you pop it on a windowsill or other area of your home where it will get lots of warmth and light, it'll be quite content. Completely feline-friendly, the echeveria is considered one of the safest succulents to have in the home if you have cats around.

18. Money tree

Does your feline friend like to scale plants like they would one of the best cat scratching posts or play with the leaves like they're an automated cat toy? If so, the money plant is the plant for you! It's almost indestructible and can grow to be a real statement piece, with most money trees reaching around six to eight feet in height. Incredibly hardy, they like bright, indirect sunlight and moist but well-drained soil.

19. Rattlesnake plant

While it has a name that might cause you to think twice about purchasing it, we promise this plant will not start spitting out live snakes! The rattlesnake plant is a tropical evergreen perennial that's native to Brazil and you'll probably want to be a more advanced gardener if you plan to take this one on. It has very particular light and moisture requirements, so it can be a bit fussy, but if you're prepared to nurture it, you'll love the eye-catching foliage display that it puts on.

20. Baby rubber plant

If you're looking for something compact, the baby rubber plant is a great option. Featuring thick and glossy water-filled leaves, this is a chic-looking plant that will look right at home in any living space. It does really well in low light, so if you don't have a super sunny house, rest assured that this plant will still thrive. Growing to just a foot in height, the baby rubber plant may be small but it still manages to look adorable. It's also completely non-toxic where pets and humans are concerned, so it's a lovely, safe choice to have in your home.

21. Watermelon peperomia

Named because its leaves look just like the pattern on a watermelon, this plant is native to South America and has a compact footprint. As well as its striking pattern, the leaves of the watermelon peperomia are attached to pink stems and shimmer when the light catches them making them a beautiful addition to any living space. Easy to care for, just make sure to water it regularly as this plant likes moisture – not too much though, just enough so the soil doesn't dry out and go hard.

22. Baby tears

A sweet, attractive, and utterly low-maintenance plant, baby tears come from the nettle family and produce lots of tiny leaves. Managing to be both dense and delicate at the same time, it looks truly lovely in a hanging basket and while incredibly easy to grow, it does require regular attention in the form of watering to ensure it thrives and doesn't dry out.

23. Pineapple plant

There are few plants in the world as unique as the pineapple plant! This complete limelight-stealer has a funky appearance thanks to its rosette of spiky leaves and of course, some very exotic-looking pineapples adorning the top. You can get two types of pineapple plants – one is large with edible fruit and one is smaller with fruit that is technically edible but very bitter.

The latter is the option you'll want to go for if you're going to be keeping it in the house. Pineapple plants love bright light but keep them out of direct sunlight as this will scorch their leaves.

24. String of hearts

A super sweet plant with trailing vines that sport heart-shaped leaves, the string of hearts looks wonderful in a hanging basket or a pot. For the best growth, place it in an area of your home that receives dappled light and water regularly in the spring and summer, ensuring you allow the soil to fully dry out before adding more – this will prevent root rot, which this plant is susceptible to. While completely non-toxic to cats, the way this plant drapes can make it an appealing plaything, so you may want to place it in an area that's tricky for your kitty to access.

25. Christmas cactus

Looking to add a pop of color to your living space? The Christmas cactus will do the job nicely. A bright plant with petals that come in a variety of different shades from purple and pink to red and orange, this winter-flowering plant is easy to care for and has a long lifespan if cared for correctly – up to 20 years in fact! Just make sure you have it in a well-draining pot as the roots of the Christmas cactus don't like sitting in water.

26. Maidenhair fern

The pretty and delicate maidenhair fern has fan-shaped leaf segments that cluster together on wiry black stems and an elegant shape. This leafy house plant can be tricky to grow – the leaves will easily turn brown if the conditions aren't right – but as long as you keep it in a humid environment, like the bathroom, and ensure the soil stays moist, this plant will stay happy and healthy.

27. Zebra plant

With a leaf pattern that looks like the coat a zebra sports, this unique plant is a popular choice due to its striking appearance. Native to central and South America, the tropical zebra plant has delicate leaves so bright, indirect sunlight is best to prevent them from browning. They prefer humid conditions and well-draining soil.

28. Golden polypody

With its beautiful wavy blue-green fronds, the golden polypody is an evergreen houseplant that's native to North and South America and the Caribbean. It loves humid conditions, so a steamy bathroom is ideal, but if you'd rather place it elsewhere in your home, just make sure to mist it regularly.

29. Stromanthe triostar

Growing to around two to three feet in height, the stromanthe triostar isn't the easiest plant in the world to care for but it will reward you with striking foliage if you get it right. A member of the prayer plant family, it has large, colorful leaves and grows best in warm, humid conditions. It can be a temperamental plant as it likes precise conditions, so just be mindful that it does require a lot of nurturing, including regular turning to ensure the leaves get an even distribution of light.

30. Mistletoe cactus

With funky pencil-like foliage, the mistletoe cactus is a wonderfully low-maintenance hanging house plant. Even though it is a cactus, it doesn't have any prickles, so if you have a curious kitty in your life, rest assured they won't get any prickles in their paws if they decide to investigate. Tiny, white flowers appear along the stems in winter and spring, which is likely how the mistletoe cactus got its name.

31. Cat palm

You know a plant is safe for your feline friend when it has the word 'cat' baked right on into the name! Growing up to 10 feet tall, the cat palm is known for its slender stems and elegant fronds which give it serious tropical vacation vibes. Bright, indirect light is best for this plant and you'll want to rotate the pot by a 1/4 turn every month to ensure even growth.

32. Kangaroo fern

Native to Australia and New Zealand, the kangaroo fern grows to around 12 inches in height and has a spread of around four feet. It has a wild, untamed appearance that gives it a distinctive charm that's all part of its appeal. It likes humid conditions, acidic and moist soil, and regular feeding during the spring and summer months.

Got your cat-safe houseplants sorted? Here are all the other ways to cat-proof your home!

If you want to give your feline friend some TLC, then learning how to give a cat a spa day is a great way to do it. While they probably won't enjoy a sauna or a swim like we might, there are plenty of other ways to help them relax and unwind!

Whether you treat them to a restorative head massage or a grooming session with the best cat brushes, they're sure to appreciate your care. As well as being relaxing for your cat, these activities are a great way to bond – and it's always nice to see them having a good time!

Before you get started, it's worth bearing in mind that not all cats like lots of fuss and attention. You should monitor your cat's body language along the way to see how they're feeling. If they're not keen on physical touch, they might prefer a playtime session or a self-grooming toy instead.

Here are our top tips for giving your cat the ultimate spa day at home:

How to give a cat a spa day

1. Create a relaxing environment

First, set the scene with a calm environment that's relaxing for your cat. Choose a location that’s quiet, safe, and free from lots of foot traffic, and provide them with the best cat bed to snuggle into. You'll also want to give them a scratching post and a cat tree and dot their favorite toys around the room.

Unfortunately, essential oils are toxic to cats, so make sure you avoid using these when setting up your spa day. Instead, try plugging in a pheromone diffuser, like this one from Amazon, which can help them to destress.

Cat behaviorist Amanda Campion says: "Creating a calm and stress-free environment is key to helping your cat unwind. Avoid dusk and dawn, when they are most likely to be most active. Dim the lights, play white noise or music, and use calming cat attractant sprays to set a peaceful atmosphere. Ensure your cat has a familiar, safe space to relax undisturbed away from other pets and young children."

2. Give them a massage

Yep, that's right – cats can enjoy massages too! Not only does this feel great and potentially relieve stress, but it can also help with muscle soreness and circulation.

Amanda says: "If your cat is open to it, a gentle massage can be an excellent way to help them relax. Focus on areas they enjoy, such as behind the ears, under the chin, or along their back, using slow, circular motions. Always watch their body language; any tail flicking, ear flattening, or skin twitching are signs they have had enough. Everything must be done with your cat's consent."

4. Brush them

It wouldn't be a pamper day without a grooming session – and we have a complete guide on brushing cats if you're not sure where to start. Not only is this relaxing for your feline, but it also promotes good skin and coat health, helping to remove dirt, grease, skin flakes, and dandruff. There are various types of cat brushes to choose from, with slicker brushes and soft bristle brushes being the most popular choice for most cats.

Amanda says: "Brushing can also be incredibly soothing, especially for cats who enjoy being groomed. Use a soft-bristle brush and move slowly, gently along their coat. If they lean in or purr, they are enjoying the attention; if they move away, stiffen, or show irritation, give them space and stop immediately."

5. Catnip or valerian toys

The best catnip toys can help your feline relax, so you might want to incorporate them into your spa day. If your cat is one of the few who don't react to it, you can try alternatives like silvervine and valerian, which have a similar effect.

Amanda says: "For extra relaxation, try valerian-infused toys or bedding. Valerian has a calming effect on cats, helping them feel at ease."

6. Feed them

After all that relaxing, your cat will probably have worked up an appetite for a spa day snack! If their dietary requirements allow, treat them to something special – like the best cat treats or a tasty topper on their favorite food. If you want to take things to the next level, you could even learn how to make cat treats for a homemade touch.

7. Heated bed for snooze

There's no better way to end a spa day than curling up in one of the best heated pet beds – especially for cats who love to snooze!

Amanda says: "Providing a heated bed or a warm, fleecy blanket can also encourage your cat to fully relax."

Amanda adds: "Always let your cat be in control of their pampering session. If they show any signs of discomfort or overstimulation, stop and give them space. A kitty spa day should always be on their terms!"

You might also want to read about how to be a good cat owner and ways to destress your cat.

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

Knowing what to do in case of an emergency like a house fire is important, but when you’re a pet parent you have other beings to think about, too.

After all, you’ll want to protect your pet yourself or get the emergency services to rescue them, even if you don’t have time to grab any of their favorite toys as you leave.

The Dublin Fire Brigade in Ireland has been praised online for rescuing a cat, Biscuit, from the city’s suburb of Ballyfermot, and giving him a mini oxygen mask to help save his life after he was unconscious.

On January 29, the fire brigade explained on X (formerly Twitter) that a firefighter-paramedic was responsible for applying the mask, and that just 10 minutes later Biscuit was “snuggling” into his owner. The crew also rescued a dog and a budgie, but neither required additional oxygen.

“We are trialling pet oxygen masks, which are on nine fire appliances, in two districts,” the brigade added in the post, which has since gone viral online. “We are working with Village Vets to introduce them across the city.”

In an Instagram post, Village Vets added: “We’re so proud to be working with Dublin Fire Brigade to roll out these pet oxygen masks – pets, like people, can suffer from smoke inhalation, and immediate oxygen therapy can mean the difference between life and death.

“Standard human masks don’t fit properly on animals, so having the right equipment on hand is critical in those first few minutes.”

Hopefully, you’ll never have to be in a situation where you need to protect your pets in the event of a fire, but it’s best to be aware of what you can do to help keep them safe. There are lots of simple things we can do, from ensuring our pets are wearing collars so they’re identifiable to providing them with escape routes if we can – a pet door is ideal.

It’s also important to ensure you have working smoke detectors, for the safety of humans and animals alike, and monitored detectors (like this one on Amazon) are even better, so if your pets are home alone you’ll be alerted. Meanwhile, window stickers (like these ones) alerting firefighters to the type and number of pets at home can be helpful, too, so they’ll know to look for pets as well as humans.

Another option may be to sign up for a pet first-aid class. These classes can teach you how to give your pet mouth-to-mouth resuscitation safely, plus other skills such as what to do if a dog is choking. Again, it’s ideally something we’d never need to put into practice, but it’s best to know, just in case.

It’s no secret that a lot of pets, as well as wild animals, have been affected by the devastating California wildfires in recent weeks, too. If you’d like to get involved in some way, be it donating, buying food from a wishlist, or even fostering or adopting if you’re local, here’s how you can help animals affected by the LA fires.

Free feeding cats is a popular method of providing food for our feline friends, but is it the best option? As a vet with over 13 years of experience working with cats and their owners, I frequently get asked about the pros and cons of different feeding methods.

In this article, I’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of both scheduled feeding and free feeding, offering guidance on which method might better suit your cat’s needs.

I will also share tips for transitioning from one approach to the other and reveal what most vets recommend. If you’re curious about the top food options for your cat, check out our comprehensive guide on the best dry cat food. Now without further ado, let’s dive into the debate: scheduled vs free feeding.

What is free feeding a cat?

Free feeding involves leaving food out for your cat at all times, allowing them to eat whenever they want. This method typically uses dry kibble, which stays fresh longer and doesn’t spoil as quickly as wet food. However, if your cat won't eat dry food, you'll want to read our helpful guide.

Pros of free feeding cats

• Convenience: Owners don’t have to worry about maintaining a feeding schedule.
• Self-regulation: Some cats are natural grazers and can regulate their food intake.
• Availability: Food is always accessible, making it a good option for multi-cat households with minimal resource competition.

Cons of free feeding cats

• Overeating and obesity in cats: Cats may eat more than they need, leading to weight gain.
• Spoiled food: While dry kibble stays fresh longer than wet food, it can still become stale or contaminated if left out for extended periods. If this is a concern, be sure to read our guide on how to keep cat food fresh.
• Lack of portion control: It can be challenging to monitor exactly how much your cat eats.
• Feeding dominance: In multi-cat households, dominant cats may monopolize the food or bully other cats away from it.

Free feeding works well for some cats – particularly those who maintain a healthy weight and don’t overeat – but it’s not without its challenges.

What is scheduled feeding?

Scheduled feeding involves providing meals at specific times during the day. Owners can achieve this manually by serving portions throughout the day at regular intervals.

Owners can also use an best automatic pet feeder for convenience if they aren’t going to be around at feeding times.

Pros of scheduled feeding cats

• Portion control: You can monitor and manage your cat’s food intake, reducing the risk of overeating and obesity.
• Routine establishment: Cats thrive on routine, and scheduled feeding can help create a predictable daily pattern.
• Medical monitoring: Changes in appetite are easier to spot, which can help detect health issues early.
• Reduces food waste: Scheduled feeding minimizes the risk of food going stale or being left uneaten.

Cons of scheduled feeding cats

• Time commitment: Owners need to adhere to a consistent feeding schedule.
• Hunger management: Cats accustomed to free feeding may initially struggle to wait for their meals.
• Requires adaptation: Transitioning from free feeding to scheduled feeding takes time and patience.

Scheduled feeding is especially beneficial for cats prone to overeating or those with medical conditions requiring controlled diets.

How to switch cats from free feeding to scheduled feeding

Switching from free feeding to scheduled feeding requires patience and a gradual approach to avoid stressing your cat. Follow these steps:

1. Choose fixed meal times
Decide on two to three meal times per day, spaced evenly.

2. Determine the daily food amount
Calculate the total daily food your cat needs based on their weight and activity level, then divide it into meals by splitting the daily food into the number of meals you want to feed.

3. Gradual reduction
Start by removing the free-feeding bowl for short periods, gradually increasing the time it’s unavailable.

4. Be consistent
Stick to your new routine and remove any remaining food after a set timeframe, even if the cat hasn't finished eating.

5. Introduce meal portions
Serve small meals at the chosen times while gradually decreasing the amount left out for free feeding.

6. Use an automatic feeder
Automating mealtimes ensures consistency, even when you’re away.

7. Positive reinforcement
Pair mealtimes with positive cues, such as specific sounds or phrases, to help your cat associate them with food.

8. Provide distractions
Use toys or playtime to keep your cat occupied between meals.

9. Monitor progress
Observe your cat’s behavior and adjust portions or timing as needed.

10. Consider your cat's age
Older or younger cats may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals and may not be able to last as long between meals.

Patience is key during this transition. Gradually adapting to a scheduled feeding routine ensures your cat’s comfort and reduces stress.

Scheduled feeding vs free feeding cats: What do vets recommend?

Most vets recommend scheduled feeding over free feeding for several reasons:

• Weight management: Scheduled feeding allows precise portion control, reducing the risk of obesity—a common issue in cats.
• Routine benefits: Cats are creatures of habit and feel more secure with a consistent daily routine.
• Easier medical care: Tracking your cat’s appetite becomes simpler, helping you detect changes that might indicate health problems.
• Behavioral improvements: Scheduled feeding can reduce food-related dominance issues in multi-cat households.

While free feeding can work for some cats, particularly those with high energy levels or specific medical conditions, it often leads to overeating and related health problems. Scheduled feeding provides more control and fosters healthier eating habits, aligning with the lifestyle of most domestic cats.

When it comes to deciding between free feeding and scheduled feeding, consider your cat’s unique needs and personality. While free feeding offers convenience, scheduled feeding provides greater control over your cat’s diet, supports weight management, and promotes a healthy routine. If you’re ready to make the switch, follow the steps outlined above for a smooth transition. A well-thought-out feeding routine is one of the best ways to ensure your cat’s happiness and well-being.

If you're wondering, 'Is my cat overweight?' and 'How much should I feed my cat?' Our vet guides are here to help! Or, our vet has revealed the reasons why your cat won't eat wet food.

Can cats eat dry food only? This is a common question amongst concerned cat owners who want to ensure their pets are receiving the best nutrition.

As a vet with over 13 years of experience working with cats and their owners, I’m here to guide you through this topic and provide a professional perspective. Below, I've discussed the benefits and drawbacks of feeding cats a dry food-only diet and offered insights into why some cats and owners may prefer it.

If you’re looking for recommendations on top-quality options, don’t miss our guide on the best dry cat food. Let’s dive in to determine if this feeding method is right for your feline friend.

Can cats eat dry food only?

Yes, cats can be fed exclusively on dry food, but it’s vital to ensure that the chosen food is nutritionally complete and balanced to meet their dietary needs. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies require certain nutrients, such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A. These are primarily derived from animal products. High-quality dry cat foods are specially formulated to include these essential nutrients, making them a suitable option for sustaining your cat's overall health and wellbeing.

That said, there are important considerations when feeding cats a diet consisting solely of dry food. One significant factor is hydration. Unlike wet or canned cat food, dry kibble contains little moisture, which can lead to lower overall water intake in cats.

Since most cats naturally have a low thirst drive, this can increase the risk of dehydration and urinary tract issues, such as urinary crystals or infections. To help mitigate this, you can encourage your cat to drink more water by providing fresh water in multiple locations, using the best pet water fountain, or even offering wet food as an occasional supplement to their dry food diet.

Additionally, monitoring your cat’s health, including their weight, coat condition, and energy levels, is essential when relying on a dry food-only regimen. Regular check-ups with a vet can help ensure that your feline friend is thriving on this type of diet.

Pros of of dry cat food

Dry cat food offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among cat owners. Below are some key advantages:

1. Convenience
Dry cat food is easy to store, measure, and serve, requiring minimal preparation compared to wet food. It’s also less messy, which is especially helpful for busy cat owners who may not have time for frequent clean-ups after every meal. It is easily portable which makes it ideal for travel or for keeping food accessible during the day.

2. Long shelf life
Does cat food expire? Yes! However, unlike wet food, which must be consumed quickly once opened, dry kibble has a significantly longer shelf life. This reduces waste and allows owners to buy in bulk, making it both economical and practical for households with multiple cats or for those who like to plan ahead. Proper storage in an airtight container can further extend its freshness once the packet is opened.

3. Cost-effective
Dry food is often more affordable than wet food on a per-serving basis, making it a budget-friendly option for people on a lower income or those feeding multiple cats, including outdoor or stray cats. This affordability ensures that high-quality nutrition is still accessible without straining people’s finances.

4. Dental benefits
Some types of dry food are specially designed to promote dental health. These formulas are crafted with kibble shapes and textures that can help mechanically debride plaque and tartar from your cat's teeth during chewing. While this can be beneficial, it should complement – rather than replace – regular dental care, such as regular brushing and veterinary check-ups. If you want to learn how to brush cat teeth, we have a vet's guide that can help!

5. Free feeding
Dry food is highly suitable for free feeding cats, which is when food is left out for them to graze on throughout the day. This method is particularly helpful for cats with irregular eating habits or those who prefer small, frequent meals. However, portion control and monitoring are essential to avoid overfeeding.

6. Puzzle toys
Dry food works exceptionally well in the best cat puzzle feeders, providing an excellent feeding option and an opportunity for mental stimulation. These interactive feeders can help prevent boredom, encourage natural hunting instincts, and even slow down cats that tend to eat too quickly.

Cons of dry cat food

1. Low moisture content
Dry cat food generally contains only about 10 to 12% moisture, which is significantly less than what cats would naturally consume from prey in the wild, which consists of around 70 to 80% water.

This low moisture content means that cats relying solely on dry food may not get adequate hydration, especially if they don't drink enough water on their own. Over time, this lack of hydration can cause problems for our cat's urinary system, increasing the likelihood of urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney disease, which are common health concerns in cats.

2. Risk of overeating and obesity
Dry cat food is often served in bowls that are left out for free feeding, allowing cats to nibble throughout the day. While this might seem convenient, it can lead to overeating, particularly in less active cats or indoor cats that don't burn many calories.

The high calorie density of dry kibble means that even small amounts can contribute to weight gain. Obesity in cats is associated with numerous health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis in cats, and heart disease, making portion control critical when feeding dry food. If you are not sure how much your furry friend should eat, read our handy guide on how much should you feed a cat.

3. Palatability issues for some cats
Worried that your cat’s not eating? Cats can be picky eaters, and some may find the texture and taste of dry kibble less appealing compared to wet food. Wet food, with its soft texture and strong aroma, often mimics the natural diet of cats more closely, making it more enticing. Cats that refuse to eat dry food exclusively may not get the balanced diet they need unless other food options are provided.

4. Concerns about quality
Not all dry cat foods are made to the same standards. Lower-quality brands may use fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, which provide little nutritional value and can even trigger allergies or digestive issues in some cats.

Additionally, these products might lack sufficient levels of high-quality proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals that cats need to thrive. On the other hand, premium dry foods often prioritize better ingredients but can be more expensive, making it important for pet owners to carefully read ingredient labels and choose products that meet their cat's nutritional needs.

Why does my cat suddenly prefer dry food?

There are several reasons why your cat might suddenly prefer dry food or reject wet food:

• Texture preference: Cats are known for their finicky eating habits, and some may develop a preference for the crunchiness of dry kibble.
• Dental issues: Surprisingly, some cats with dental problems might find dry food easier to eat than wet food. It’s essential to have your cat’s teeth checked if you notice changes in their eating habits.
• Change in appetite: Stress, illness, or environmental changes can influence a cat’s eating preferences. Observing your cat’s behavior and consulting with a vet can help identify the underlying cause.
• Flavor fatigue: Cats can get bored with the same type of food. Switching up flavors or brands might rekindle their interest in wet food.

If you decide to feed your cat dry food exclusively, choose a high-quality option and monitor their water intake closely. For more tips on ensuring your cat is being fed the best nutrition possible, check out our guide on how to improve your cat’s diet. Your cat’s health and happiness start with a well-balanced diet – and you’re their best advocate.

If your cat won't eat dry food, be sure to check out our helpful vet's guide.

Fish is a great addition to a healthy human diet, but can your cat eat fish? In this feature, we’ll share the health benefits and risks of feeding fish to your cat, let you know which fish are the best choice for cats, and make sure you’re aware of how to offer it as safely as possible.

Since graduating as a vet in 2011, a large portion of the patients that I’ve treated have been cats. As a cat owner of two myself, cats hold a special place in my heart. I love helping owners care for their feline family members, and the right nutrition is a really important part of that.

If you're trying to choose the right food for your own kitty, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed – there’s so much information out there. Thankfully, we’ve come up with a handy guide to the best dry cat food, to help you choose the best option for you and your purr-fect pal.

Is it OK for cats to eat fish?

Many fish are safe for cats to eat, but not all, so it’s important to make sure that you’re feeding a cat-safe fish first! Be aware that how the fish is cooked and served will also affect whether it’s suitable for your cat.

However, fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and it also contains vitamins and minerals like potassium and magnesium. That means it’s great for giving your cat the protein that they need to maintain their muscles and other soft tissues, without the extra fat that some other meat sources contain.

Omega-3 is essential for overall health, but especially good for joints, skin, and coat health, while magnesium and potassium are needed by muscles throughout the body, including the heart.

One of the risks of feeding your cat fish is the bones—these can become lodged in the mouth, esophagus, or intestine, and sometimes cause damage. Therefore, it’s best to make sure that you remove all bones from the fish before you offer it. Whether it’s shop-bought or freshly caught, it’s important to cook the fish thoroughly, to kill any parasites or bacteria.

Another simple rule when it comes to serving your cat fish, is to avoid seasonings, cooking fats, and other ingredients. Onions, garlic, and large amounts of salt are toxic to cats, while too much fat can also make them unwell. If you're feeling unsure about which human foods are poisonous to cats, check out our helpful guide.

What fish can cats eat?

As well as preparing fish safely, it’s also important to choose a fish that’s safe for cats. Cats can eat most white fish and salmon, but it’s important to be wary of the risk of high mercury levels.

Fish that are predatory, i.e., eat other fish, are more likely to have higher mercury levels. This includes tuna, mackerel, and swordfish, however, feeding small amounts of these fish infrequently is unlikely to be a concern.

What fish can't cats eat?

There are a few considerations that make certain fish unsafe for cats. The first is high mercury, as previously mentioned. This can cause neurological problems as well as kidney damage, and can sadly be fatal. Thankfully, as long as you stick to cod and salmon for the most part, and limit the amount of other seafood, the risk of mercury poisoning is low.

The second consideration is storage and preservation because many preservation methods involve high salt levels or sunflower oil. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid any fish stored in brine or oil or coated in salt.

Finally, too much oily fish can cause low vitamin E in cats, which is why commercial cat foods that contain fish are supplemented with additional vitamin E. If you want your cat to have the health benefits of oily fish, it’s safest to choose a nutritionally balanced cat food that’s fish based, to make sure they’re getting everything they need.

Can I feed my cat canned tuna?

Is tuna good for cats? Canned tuna can be safe for cats in small amounts if it’s tuna in spring water rather than brine or oil. However, tuna should only be given as an occasional treat, because it can contain high levels of mercury, which is toxic in large quantities.

If you're wondering how to make cat treats, we've created a tasty tuna recipe for you to follow at home.

Should I feed fish oil to my cat?

It’s best to speak to your vet before supplementing your cat with anything extra. Fish oil is very beneficial for your cat’s health – both omega-3 and omega-6 are helpful at reducing inflammation, supporting the immune system, and maintaining joint and skin health.

However, if these essential fatty acids are not given in a balanced way, they can be detrimental to your cat’s health. Remember, your cat’s nutritionally balanced and complete cat food will contain all of the nutrients they need, but if you’re concerned they need more, speak to your vet about a supplement.

Fish is a fantastic, healthy source of protein for cats, but it’s not without risks. Thankfully, feeding cod or salmon, ensuring all bones are removed, and avoiding products high in salt or oils can help to reduce the risks to make sure that your cat gets all of the benefits safely.

Want more vet advice? Read: Can cats eat strawberries?, foods that cats should never eat and can cats eat corn?

If you’ve been looking for something new to feed your cat, you might be wondering ‘Can cats eat corn?’ After all, as humans, we like variety in our diet because it’s easy to get bored of eating the same things all the time. So, it’s only natural to imagine your cat could get bored eating their cat food daily too.

However, it’s also possible that you’ve noticed ‘corn’ listed as an ingredient in your cat’s food. But is that okay? Or is corn bad for cats? In this article, we’ll cover whether it’s safe for cats to eat corn, what the risks are, and why some cat foods contain corn as an ingredient.

I’ve been a qualified small animal vet for nearly 14 years, and I’ve spent a lot of my career so far treating cats and helping their owners keep them as healthy as possible. If you want some help choosing the best cat food for your feline family member, check out our guide on the best dry cat food.

Can cats eat corn?

The short answer is that cats can eat corn, in fact, it’s very high in fiber which is beneficial for your cat’s gut health. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few risks to be aware of and precautions to take.

In general, small amounts of sweetcorn shouldn’t cause any problems, as long as it’s not given with any other ingredients or seasoning. However, just like sweetcorn is hard for humans to digest, the same is true for cats, so it’s best to stick to small amounts.

Popcorn: It might seem like popcorn is relatively harmless, especially if it’s only a little bit, but since popcorn is usually coated in sugary toppings or seasoned with salt and other savory flavorings, it’s not a good idea to feed your cat popcorn.

Canned corn: Canned corn is safe for cats to eat, as long as it’s sweetcorn in water. Check the label, and as long as there are no extra ingredients or seasonings you can offer a little to your cat.

Sweetcorn from the cob: It’s really important not to feed your cat corn on the cob because it could cause a gut blockage if they swallow some of the corn cob. Therefore, any corn that you offer your cat should be removed from the cob or husk.

Cornbread: If you’re going to offer human food to your cat, it’s best to keep things simple by offering single ingredients rather than complex recipes containing multiple ingredients. Cornbread often contains dairy products and sugar, so it could cause your cat a stomach upset or make them gain weight. Therefore, it’s best to avoid feeding cornbread to your cat. If you're concerned about your cat's weight, read our helpful guide on healthy weight loss for cats.

Corn chips: Although these are a tasty snack for humans, corn chips are usually cooked in fat and coated in seasonings, which means they have the potential to make your cat unwell or give them an upset stomach.

Corndogs: Corndogs are usually deep fried in oil, which isn’t good for cats. A fatty meal could cause your cat a stomach upset or pancreatitis, and in the longer term they could become obese.

Field corn: While humans don’t like the taste of field corn, it’s safe to eat, and this also applies to your cat. However, it would need to be served without the husk/cob and your cat might not be interested in eating it!

Corn husks: Corn husks are not very digestible and should always be removed before you offer your cat corn in case they cause a gut blockage.

Is corn digestible for cats?

Corn is really fibrous, and although fiber is great for gut health, it can also make foods hard to digest, and that’s the case with sweetcorn. Corn can be made easier to digest by grinding it into cornmeal, which is the form that is used in many cat food recipes, however, canned corn and corn that’s been cooked and removed from the cob are fine to give in small amounts.

How much corn can cats have?

Whenever you feed your cat something new, it’s best to start with a tiny amount to check it’s not going to upset their stomach or make them ill. Once you know that they can tolerate eating it, you could offer a teaspoon full no more than twice a week. As sweetcorn is quite high in sugar, too much could cause your cat to gain weight.

Is corn in cat food okay?

There’s no need to be concerned about the safety of the corn in cat food – it’s very often used as a filler because it’s so readily available, and it’s safe for your cat to eat. It’s also an important source of fiber. However, it’s best to choose a cat food brand that uses less fillers, favoring more nutritious ingredients.

How to feed corn to cats

If you choose to feed corn to your cat, start with a tiny amount to see that it doesn’t make them unwell. Make sure that the corn that you offer is plain, with no seasonings, cooking fats, or other ingredients that could be toxic. You can cook the corn in the oven if it’s on the cob, but make sure it’s cooled fully before removing the corn and feeding it to your cat.

Corn is safe for cats to eat, but it can be hard to digest. If your cat enjoys corn, you can offer a small amount a couple of times a week, as long as it’s free from seasonings or other ingredients. However, especially if your cat is fussy, there might be other cat-safe human foods that suit them better as an occasional treat.

You might also want to read: Can cats eat strawberries?, is it healthy for cats to eat fish, and surprising foods cats can eat. Or, learn how to make soup for cats

If you've recently adopted a new feline friend, you're likely wondering how to be a good cat owner.

It might go without saying, but you'll need to invest in essential supplies, such as the best cat bed for them to snooze in, high-quality food that's suitable for their age and lifestyle, and a variety of toys for playtime. It's also crucial that they have access to fresh water, get enough exercise, and have regular checkups with the vet.

There’s a lot to consider before bringing home a new kitten, so to help you prepare and feel confident, we’ve called in Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, a qualified vet with over 15 years of experience. Below, she explains five key ways you can become the best cat owner possible.

How to be a good cat owner

Being a good cat owner is all about making sure their care and health needs are met, according to Dr. MacMillan. While your furry friend will appreciate cuddles and the best cat toys, you'll need to practice the 'Five Freedoms' every day to ensure they're receiving the basic standards of care:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

Dr. MacMillan says: "It is important to feed your cat the correct daily amount of a complete diet, which is appropriate for their age and lifestyle."

Kitten food has a higher calorie, fat, and protein content compared to adult and senior cat food. In fact, kittens need up to three times as many calories! Since they are in a rapid development stage, they require extra energy to fuel their growth, so feeding them the best kitten food tailored to their needs is essential.

Protein is vital for cats of all ages, but it’s especially important for senior cats to help maintain their muscle mass. The best cat food for senior cats may also include omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

If your cat doesn’t drink much water, you might consider feeding them the best wet cat food, which has a higher moisture content. However, some evidence suggests that the best dry cat food can help keep their teeth looking cleaner. Specially formulated diets approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council may even help reduce plaque and tartar build-up.

Dr. MacMillan says: "This also means ensuring that your cat always has access to fresh drinking water."

One way to encourage your cat to drink more is by investing in one of the best pet water fountains. In the wild, cats tend to drink from free-flowing streams, and these devices mimic that natural flow while keeping the water bowl clean and free from impurities. Just keep in mind that it might take your cat a little while to get used to it.

2. Freedom from discomfort

Dr. MacMillan says: "Being a good cat owner means housing your cat in an appropriate environment, with a suitable temperature and noise level, natural light, and a comfortable resting space."

Once you've bought the best cat hammock or bed, be sure to place it in a quiet, undisturbed area of your home. Many cats prefer elevated resting spots, as being off the ground provides them with a sense of security and protection.

3. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease

Dr. MacMillan says: "It is crucial that your cat has access to regular and prompt veterinary care. You must take your pet to routine checkups and vaccinations, as well as seek help for them as soon as you detect a health issue."

To avoid racking up a hefty medical bill, it’s worth considering the best pet insurance as a safety net. Cats are prone to getting in fights with neighborhood moggies, which can sometimes result in wounds and infections, and treatment can cost anywhere up to $2,500. Picking the right policy can be a lengthy (and tedious) process, so be sure to read our top tips on how to choose pet insurance.

4. Freedom to express normal behavior

Dr. MacMillan says: "As a good cat owner, you should encourage normal behavior. This means making sure your pet has enough space to run, play, and jump. It also means providing things like scratch posts and cat trees, to allow your cat to do normal feline things like climbing and sharpening their claws."

There are lots of reasons why you should buy one of the best cat scratching posts. Not only do they encourage exercise and help relieve stress, but they also aid in removing the outer sheath of your cat’s claws, keeping them in good condition. It will also save your furniture from being destroyed too, which is always a bonus!

5. Freedom from fear and distress

Dr. MacMillan says: "The way you interact with your cat, and the conditions in which you keep them, shouldn’t cause your pet any mental suffering. This also includes not overcrowding your home.

"Too many cats or other pets can lead to stress for some of our feline companions, resulting in physical symptoms like overgrooming or inappropriate toileting. Providing mental enrichment and places to safely hide are also important for our cat’s mental health."

If you live in a multi-cat household, make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots positioned up high. According to cat behaviorist Amanda Campion, these elevated spaces allow cats to observe their surroundings and feel safe when threatened.

It’s also important to give enough resources for each cat, such as the best cat litter boxes, water stations, and food, to prevent jealousy and reduce competition. The best cat puzzle feeders are a great way to provide mental stimulation, preventing boredom and stress.

Being a good cat owner means meeting your cat’s essential needs and providing them with proper care. Understanding cat body language and recognizing the signs a cat is happy will go a long way in the process.

To learn more, check out our guide on ways to be the best cat owner you can and our new kitten checklist. You might also want to learn how to give a cat a spa day and signs your cat loves you.

Are you having trouble with your cat’s behavior? Sometimes, it can seem as though cats simply do what they want. But, while cats can certainly be quite independent and enjoy doing their own thing, we can get to the point where our cats are showing behavioral issues that need to be addressed for the safety of everyone in the home.

So, what can you do? Well, a solution might just involve using some of the best cat food, and plenty of physical and mental enrichment thanks to one of the best cat puzzle feeders. That’s what certified cat behaviorist Saba Sayyed, known as A Cat Behaviorist on Instagram, says in a recent post.

First – what is cat enrichment? Well, it’s the practice of consciously giving animals ways to express their natural behaviors, as Sayyed recommends doing with our cats.

She explains, ”In the wild, cats work for their food, exhausting both physical and mental energy while hunting. This gives them a sense of ownership, confidence, and happiness. Indoor cats, on the other hand, often lack these natural activities, leading to obesity, stress, and anxiety.”

So, something she promotes is making indoor cats work for their food to allow them to tap into their natural instincts and prevent behavioral issues – giving three benefits. (And check out these nine reasons to use a cat puzzle feeder toy, too!)

1. Improves physical health: When your cat works for their food, they’re keeping physically active. This can help stave off conditions like obesity, heart disease, and kidney issues.

2. Reduces stress and anxiety: This physical activity can have a knock-on effect mentally, too. Physical activity helps calm a cat’s mind, and lowers stress and anxiety.

3. Boosts confidence and happiness: “Working for their food gives cats a sense of accomplishment,” explains Sayyed, “Making them feel more confident and happy.”

She continues, “Always engage your cat in play, puzzle feeders, or leash walking before feeding. Don’t just put food in front of them – make it an opportunity to enrich their body and mind!”

So, why not take some time out to allow your cats to showcase those impressive natural instincts when it comes to feeding? It could just make your life a little easier.

If you’d like some inspiration to get started, why not take a look at these seven fun cat enrichment ideas to stimulate your kitty’s mind and body? And check out these deals on the best cat puzzle feeders that we’ve put to the test and loved.

Nobody wants to see their pets in pain, no matter the reason. And like humans, our four-legged friends can live with chronic pain – and this can have a number of different causes. However, it’s not always easy to work out whether a condition a cat has causes them chronic pain; there are plenty of things we don’t yet know about chronic pain in cats.

Scientists at Université de Montréal have worked out how to scan the brains of cats while they’re awake, something that could help us investigate chronic pain in cats in further detail – it’s quite common in adult cats, particularly as they get older.

When cats are tested for chronic pain from conditions like osteoarthritis, cats often shake off and chew the wired electrodes placed on their heads to produce electroencephalograms, or EEGs. As a result, cat sedatives are often needed.

However, researchers led by Éric Troncy and Aude Castel of UdeM's Groupe de recherche en pharmacologie animale du Québec have published a study in the Journal of Neuroscience Methods in which they report a new technique to keep the electrodes in place – simply concealing them under crocheted caps.

They tested the technique with 11 adult cats who all have osteoarthritis. They assessed their stress and pain through stimuli passed through the electrodes, before exposing the cats to soothing stimuli like colored lights and comforting smells.

The authors conclude that the study “opens new avenues for investigating feline chronic pain and its potential modulation through sensory interventions,” while co-author Aliénor Delsart, a PhD student, has presented preliminary results of the team’s work to the Royal Society of Medicine in London.

Troncy said, “We now plan to obtain NSERC – Alliance funding, in partnership with private companies, to enable us to establish a genuine EEG signature for chronic pain, and many other applications that will enable us to automate chronic pain detection in the future.”

So, while it’s still early days, this research could help us help our cats and give them the treatment and care they need to help manage their chronic pain.

If you’d like to know more about osteoarthritis, you might find a vet's guide to osteoarthritis in cats useful. And, as arthritis can develop and get worse over time, these 32 tips for taking care of senior cats may be worth taking note of, too.

How often do you treat cats for fleas? It's a question you may well be asking if you've just welcomed a new feline friend into your family. While it's easy to get sidetracked buying the best food, toys, and bedding, protecting your kitty from pesky parasites is one of the most important things you can do for their health and wellbeing.

While they may be small, fleas have the potential to create big problems. Carriers of all sorts of diseases, these little critters love setting up camp in our cat's coats and cause them all sorts of issues, including anemia and tapeworm. Thankfully, regularly using one of the best flea treatments for cats can stop these biting beasts in their tracks.

How often you treat your cat for fleas will depend on the type of product you use. A topical, for example, will need to be applied every 30 days, whereas one of the best flea collars for cats could last seven to eight months.

To help you figure out the best course of action for your cat, we spoke to expert vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey. Below, she explains the options when it comes to protecting your feline friend from fleas, the signs to be on the lookout for that suggest your cat may have an infestation, and why flea prevention is so critical for your cat's health.

How often do you treat cats for fleas?

If you have a feline fur baby, you may be wondering how often you need to treat them to prevent pesky parasites from setting up camp in their fur. According to Dr. Godfrey, the frequency with which you treat your cat for fleas will depend on whether you opt for a flea medicine vs flea collars.

"Certain flea collars will be effective for seven or eight months, while typical spot-on treatments are only effective for one month," she explains. "While you might think your cat doesn’t need flea treatment all year round, in this age of centrally heated homes, it’s common for fleas to be a year-round problem."

How to tell if your cat has fleas

Not all cats with fleas will have symptoms, but as Dr. Godfrey explains below, there are some signs you can be on the lookout for.

"If your cat has fleas, you might see them crawling quickly through their fur," she says. "It’s easiest to spot them in sparse fur, white fur, or on their back end just above the base of their tail.

If you don’t see live fleas, that doesn’t mean they’re not there, so keep an eye out for flea dirt. Flea dirt is digested blood (or essentially flea poop) and looks like small black specks within the fur, and if dampened with wet cotton wool it looks dark red.

Finally, if your cat has fleas you might notice them scratching or overgrooming and they might develop scabs, rashes, or wounds."

If you've been wondering why is my cat overgrooming or scratching, it can be worth checking them over for fleas.

How to get rid of fleas

When it comes to the flea life cycle and how you can break it, treating your kitty on a regular basis is one of the best ways to protect them from fleas and ticks. But alongside regular treatments, there are other things you can do to.

"To get rid of your cat’s fleas, it’s important to treat them and all other in-contact pets with an effective and species-appropriate flea treatment," confirms Dr. Godfrey.

"Make sure you treat all pets at the same time, otherwise, you might find they jump from your treated pet to the safe haven of your untreated pet!"

However, as Dr. Godfrey points out, you'll also want to look beyond the flea collar, topicals, and tablets and also consider your home.

"Alongside treating your pets, you’ll also need to hot wash all removable soft furnishings and use a household flea spray to kill any fleas in the environment."

What is the best treatment for cat fleas?

From collars and tablets to shampoos and topicals, there are so many different products on the market claiming to be effective at killing fleas and preventing their return. But are some better than others? We asked Dr. Godfrey to share her thoughts.

"While it’s important to choose a vet-approved and effective product, it’s also important to choose a product that you can administer easily and regularly without too much fuss," she explains.

"Therefore, if you can’t tablet your cat, it’s not a good idea to commit to giving a flea tablet regularly, whereas if you’re likely to forget to give treatments, choosing a long-lasting flea collar may be better. The majority of my feline patients receive flea treatment as a spot-on every month."

Most pet parents choose spot-on treatments because they're easy to apply, but how do topical flea treatments work exactly? Topicals are applied monthly to the skin at the base of your cat's neck and the treatment spreads quickly across your fur friend's body, killing fleas on contact.

Topical flea treatments are convenient to apply and highly effective, but they only last 30 days and tend to be the most expensive option. If you're on a budget, a flea collar can be a great alternative.

Why is flea prevention important for cats?

Fleas can carry and transmit a whole host of diseases, which is why it's so important to keep your kitty protected.

"Fleas don’t just cause a bit of itching. If your cat has lots of fleas all feeding from them they can become severely anemic," Dr. Godfrey explains. "Even if your cat only has one or two fleas, if they have flea allergic dermatitis they can lose hair and end up with sore, scabby, and infected skin.

Another flea-related risk to be aware of is tapeworm. Fleas can often carry tapeworm larvae, which means that if cats ingest an infected flea while grooming, they can end up infected."

Applying a topical treatment or another effective option, like a flea collar, will help ensure your kitty stays happy and healthy.

Flea treatment not working? We recommend speaking with your vet who will be able to advise you on what to try next.

Read next: How do cats get fleas?

We often think of cats as being creatures who do their own thing, and aren’t bound by the rules and routines of their humans. 

However, cats can benefit from routines, as they often like to do the same things at the same time each day. A bedtime routine in particular can be really beneficial for your kitty, teaching them when it’s time to sleep and increasing the chances of them staying asleep until the morning, at which point they’ll no doubt want some of the best cat food!

Registered cat behavioral consultant Molly Kelsey, known as The Cat Counsellor, has explained on Instagram how you can create a bedtime routine for an adult cat, and we think it’s well worth taking note!

1) Prioritize play: “Play with them using a novel toy that looks and moves as prey would for 10-15 minutes,” says Kelsey. “Slowly wind this down at least 30 minutes before bed.” 

2) Offer a bedtime snack: Kelsey suggests offering your kitty a portion of their daily food, either in an activity feeder or scattered across the floor for them to hunt. If your cat has wet food, you could use a textured mat. She explains in the caption that cats often have a quick nap after they catch and eat their prey, so it’s the same sort of thing.

3) Encourage sleep mode: “Dim the lighting and opt for sleep bulbs (block blue light) in sleep areas,” recommends Kelsey. “Provide a calm environment with a Feliway plug-in diffuser and cat music or brown noise on a low volume.”

Cats spend a lot of their time asleep, but just why do cats sleep so much? Our kitties sleep an average of 15 hours a day, though this can vary depending on factors like age and health, and are crepuscular, which means they’re most active at dawn and dusk. 

They’re genetically programmed to hunt at these times, to give them an advantage over other predators who hunt at different times. However, domestic cats do break up their daytime sleep schedule in order to spend time with us, so they don’t sleep all day.

Cats might sleep to cool down when it’s hot, to get through cold and wet weather, and simply to recharge their batteries. Take a look at these six cat sleep positions to learn more about your cat’s sleep, and, if you’re concerned that your cat is sleeping too much, it’s a good idea to consult your vet just in case.

Have you ever considered camping with your cat? If you love an outdoor adventure but hate leaving your fur friend at home, then you might think about taking them along with you.

Traveling with your pet can be lots of fun, but there are a few things you need to consider before setting off, like whether your cat will actually enjoy the trip.

You might love camping in the great outdoors, but it doesn't mean your kitty will feel the same. Whilst some cats love exploring new places, others prefer the safety of their own territory, so it's a good idea to be prepared.

If you think they'll run off or stray too far, you should invest in one of the best GPS trackers for pets to give you peace of mind.

Here's everything you need to know about camping with your cat:

What you need to go camping with your cat

Collar and harness

Remember to pack a secure, light-up collar with an ID tag attached, as well as the best cat harness. To avoid any stress and escape attempts, make sure they're used to wearing these in advance.

Litter tray and litter

Ensure your cat has access the the best cat litter box at all times, and don't forget to pack fresh litter and a scoop!

Food and water supplies

It goes without saying, but you'll want to pack a substantial amount of cat food for your travels. You never know if there will be stores in the area, so make sure you bring enough for the time you're spending there. You'll probably want to opt for the best dried cat food or wet pouches as they're less messy than tins.

It's also a good idea to pack bottled water in case the campsite doesn't have fresh water facilities. Cats shouldn't drink from streams, ponds, or rivers, as they might contain parasites that make them unwell.

It's easy to forget bowls, so make sure you pack one for their food and one for their water — collapsible ones are great for camping.

Pop-up catio or outdoor run

Vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey says: "If you’re staying in a caravan or an RV, you might be able to keep them safely inside (although you’ll have to take care when opening the doors). However, if you’re staying in a tent or they’re a bit of an escape artist, you’re better off bringing a pop-up catio or other secure outdoor run for them to spend time in."

Long line leash

You'll need a long line leash for walking, or for when you're chilling out at camp. Remember: never leave your cat tied up alone, it can easily get tangled and become a safety hazard.

Tent

If you're camping in a tent, make sure it's double-lined and has double zippers that clip together to prevent any escapes. Avoid models that have mesh at the bottom as these are easy for your cat to claw their way out of.

Toys

Don't forget to play with your cat regularly while you're away; they need 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a day. To ensure they're getting enough exercise and mental stimulation, pack the best cat toys or best automated cat toys.

First aid kit

Dr. Godfrey says: "Whenever you travel with your cat, it’s a good idea to bring a first aid kit containing the essentials that you would need to care for your cat quickly while you’re heading to the nearest vet clinic. Include some dressings, micropore tape, a blanket, and some saline flush so that you can clean and cover any wounds and keep your cat warm and comfortable during the journey to the vet."

Cat carrier

If you're driving to your destination, you'll need to pack one of the best cat carriers for the car journey. This will keep them safe and secure while you travel, and might help to keep them calm. Make sure your cat is used to using it before you set off on any long travels.

Feline behaviorist, Amanda Campion recommends lining it with a soft blanket and using some Pet Remedy spray inside if needed.

How to go camping with your cat

1. Decide if it's right for your cat: If your cat hates the outdoors, isn't harness trained, spooks easily, and gets anxious in new places, then they're probably not going to enjoy themselves. That being said, you can get them used to these things over time, but you shouldn't rush your cat into anything before they're ready.

2. Choose a cat-friendly campsite: Some campsites don't allow pets, so it's worth checking this before you book.

3. Buy the equipment: Make sure you've got all the essentials you need, from cat bowls to litter boxes.

4. Ensure your cat is trained: Before you book, make sure you've trained your cat to wear a harness, use a leash, and go on walks. You might want to practice camping in your yard to get them used to it.

5. Learn about cat safety: Get familiar with poisonous plants and dangerous animals in the area where you're camping - plus what to do if you encounter them.

6. Vaccinate your cat: Ensure your cat's vaccinations are all up to date, and check with your vet if they'll need any new ones for traveling.

7. Make sure your cat is microchipped and has an ID tag: This will make things easier if they go missing.

Want to learn more about traveling with a cat? You might find this guide helpful. Or, if you're planning on venturing a bit further, you might be interested in reading our top tips for flying with a cat.

Once your beloved cat reaches 10 years or older, they are typically considered to be a senior. As our kitties enter their golden years, they may need adjustments in how they are cared for by their guardians to ensure their well-being and happiness. These adjustments can include senior cat-oriented accommodations for accessibility, diet, comfort, health, mobility, enrichment, grooming, hydration, and companionship.

Investing in some of the best cat food for senior cats and best wet cat food, making sure they have easy access to comfortable spaces, and monitoring for any changes in their mental, emotional, and physical health are just some of the ways you can help ensure your senior kitty is living their best life. 

Of course, every senior cat is an individual, and becoming attuned to their baseline behaviors, health, and mobility changes can help you adjust to your feline friend's specific needs as they enter their senior years.

Below, our guide will cover practical advice and crucial tips for taking care of senior cats to ensure your buddy lives a long, healthy, and happy life. 

32 tips for taking care of senior cats

1. Invest in pet insurance 

Investing in the best pet insurance can help ensure your senior cat gets the medical care it needs. While most plans won't cover an already existing condition, you can still get coverage for a range of unexpected illnesses and injuries that may occur. Since taking care of senior cats can require additional vet visits, selecting a broad-coverage pet insurance plan is a great idea. 

2. Brush them regularly 

It's important to brush your senior kitty regularly to keep their coat and skin healthy. Brushing removes loose hair, dirt, and grime, preventing tangles, matting, and the formation of hairballs. Regular brushing with one of the best cat brushes also improves blood circulation and distributes oil, promoting a shiny coat. During brushing sessions, you can also check for signs of skin conditions which senior cats can be more prone to developing. 

3. Watch for signs of aging-related discomfort

As your kitty becomes a senior, they can begin to show signs of aging-related discomfort. Signs can include difficulty standing or sitting, slowed movements, and reduces fluidity of their movements. You may also notice that your senior cat is reluctant to play or jump onto perches. If you are noticing these signs, make sure to set up an appointment with your vet to help your kitty get on track to feeling better. 

4. Use a senior-formulated diet

Once your cat is over 10 years old, it's a good idea to switch them to a senior-formulated diet. Older cats need increased protein to maintain their body mass. The source of this protein needs to be high quality and easy to digest to ensure proper absorption. For seniors who have trouble maintaining their weight, look for formulas with moderate to high levels of quality fat. 

5. Practice dental care

Dental disease can cause significant and life-threatening conditions in cats. Senior cats can be especially prone to developing dental disease, so it's important to maintain their dental hygiene as they age. It's best to brush three times per week to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. You can use high-value treats to help your cat become comfortable and accepting of having their teeth brushed. 

6. Regular vet check ups

Since senior cats face a higher risk of disease development, it's important to routinely have them examined and screened by your vet. Early detection and treatment of health conditions can greatly increase your cat's quality of life and longevity. Cats over ten years old should have a vet visit every six months while seniors over 15 should be examined every four months. 

7. Provide a plush bed

Providing one of the best cat beds for your senior kitty is crucial in helping them feel as comfortable as possible. Orthopedic cat beds can provide additional support for kitties struggling with arthritis. These beds are typically made out of memory foam and can help relieve aching joints. If your senior cat still enjoys climbing, you may want to invest in one bed for ground level and one super plush bed for their favorite perch. 

8. Use a easy-to-enter litter box

As your cat reaches their golden years, they may have difficulty stepping over obstacles, like a high-sided litter box. To help your senior kitty navigate their space more comfortably, we recommend purchasing one of the best cat litter boxes with low sides for easy access. Supporting their ability to comfortably use the litter box can increase your senior kitty's comfort. 

9. Consider joint supplements

If your cat is showing signs of age-related discomfort or you want to generally support their health as they get older, consider talking to your vet about starting them on supplements. There are a range of supplements to choose from that may be able to support digestive health, promote a shiny coat and healthy skin, prevent hairballs, ease anxiety, and support mobility. 

10. Make areas accessible

Since your senior cat may have decreased mobility, it's important to ensure they can easily access areas. If they have a favorite perch or love curling up on the window sill, adding in steps, a pet-friendly staircase, or ramps may help them to continue enjoying their spaces. These adjustments can make getting to these spaces easier, and also increases your senior cat's safety when on the descent. 

11. Monitor their weight

Maintaining a healthy weight can become increasingly difficult as your senior cat ages. They may easily become overweight while others can struggle to keep weight on. Once your cat is above ten years old, it's important to routinely monitor their weight to ensure they stay within a healthy range. Ideally, you should be able to feel but not see their ribs, identify a visible waist, and see their abdomen slightly taper towards their hips. 

If you're having a hard time keeping your senior cat's weight within a healthy range, speak to your vet about developing an individualized dietary plan. 

12. Supervise them when outside

Senior kitties can be more at risk of becoming lost or injured when outside. If your cat loves to be outside, make sure to supervise them to ensure they stay safe as they enjoy the great outdoors. If they like to go on walks, you can invest in one of the best cat harnesses to help them explore in safety and without roaming too far. If they're a lower-energy senior, they may enjoy basking in the sun with you in the yard or snoozing under the shade of a tree. 

13. Become familiar with illnesses that affect senior cats

Senior cats can face a higher risk of certain diseases and health conditions. It's important to familiarize yourself with some of the most common illnesses in cats so you can potentially identify early signs. Hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, dental disease, cancer, hearing and vision loss, and osteoarthritis can especially affect senior cats. 

14. Keep them hydrated

While it's important to always have fresh water available for cats of all ages, it's especially important to make sure your senior cat is drinking enough water. They need a lot of moisture in their diet to maintain their health and prevent chronic illnesses from becoming exacerbated. Make sure to keep track of how much your senior kitty is drinking and have several water bowls placed throughout the home in easy-to-access areas. 

15. Continue to provide enrichment

Your senior cat may be slowing down, but you'll still want to provide them with consistent enrichment. While they might not be as interested in or able to leap in the air to catch a toy or dash around the house, your aging kitty will likely enjoy lower energy enrichment. 

This can include cat tunnels and boxes for them to explore, cat-safe plants to smell and chew on, and small toys to bat around. You can also hide treats in easy-to-access places to keep them cognitively engaged. Visual enrichment, such as cat-friendly shows and window-gazing can also keep your older cat happy. 

16. Minimize stress in their environment

Stress can worsen pain, anxiety, and chronic health conditions in your senior cat. To ensure they happily live out their golden years, it's important to keep their environment low-stress. What may not have caused them much concern when they were younger might now be a trigger at their advanced age, such as dogs trying to play with them. 

If your older cat is struggling to feel safe and relaxed in their environment, try to assess what changes you can make, such as creating a space in your home free of rowdy pets or making sure your kitty has plenty of accessible and comfortable places to retreat to if they are feeling overwhelmed. You may also want to speak to your vet about treatment options for lowering their anxiety. 

17. Monitor for sudden behavioral changes

Sudden behavioral changes in your senior cat can be a sign of an underlying health issue. If your normally sweet and snuggly kitty suddenly begins acting defensive and averse to touch, it's important to set up an appointment with your vet. Conversely, if your normally mellow and low-energy senior cat begins acting hyperactive and has difficulty relaxing you'll also want to check in with your vet to assess for possible health conditions like hyperthyroidism. 

18. Give them lots of love

A crucial tip for taking care of senior cats is to give them lots of love. Bonding with your aging kitty increases their emotional well-being, provides companionship and comfort, helps them feel safe, and ensures they feel loved and joyful during their golden years. Bonding can also encourage gentle play and activities to keep your senior cat as mobile as possible. 

19. Add water or use wet food 

Some senior cats have difficulty chewing and swallowing dry food, so you may want to add water or wet food into their diet or switch to entirely wet food-only meals. Adding moisture to their diet can also help to ensure they get adequate water intake throughout the day. In advanced age, some cats may have lower appetites. Using wet food can also increase the flavor and aroma of their meals and encourage them to eat. 

20. Introduce changes slowly

Sudden changes can be hard for any cat to adjust to, but this can be especially true for senior cats, especially ones who may be dealing with cognitive decline. It's important to introduce changes into their life slowly and as low-stress as possible.

If you're introducing a new pet into the home, for example, it can help to spend the first couple of weeks doing scent-only intros with rags and bedding before allowing the pets to meet face-to-face. This can support your senior cat in taking their time to process the change comfortably through scent first. 

21. Reduce slippery flooring

Aging cats with mobility issues or arthritic changes can have trouble walking and standing up on slippery flooring. They can also be more likely to fall or move uncomfortably on slick surfaces. Adding rugs, mats, and carpeting can greatly improve a senior cat's quality of life and mobility. This can be especially important on stairs and near their favorite resting places. 

22. Keep them warm

Some senior cats can struggle to stay warm enough, especially those who have difficulty keeping weight on. It's important to have lots of comfortable options to help your aging cat stay warm and comfortable. You may want to line their preferred hiding spots with blankets and move perches closer to windows for more sun access. Cat beds with thick insulation can also protect your cat from the cool temperature of floors.

23. Provide companionship

If you work away from the house and want to ensure your senior kitty isn't lonely, consider adopting a compatible cat into your home to provide companionship. Of course, this is only a good idea if your kitty is cat-friendly and not territorial. The best match may be another cat-friendly senior or lower-energy kitty who won't try to push your aging feline pal into being more active or mobile than they are able to. 

24. Provided sunny hang out spots

Having comfortable and sunny spaces for your senior cat can increase their quality of life in several ways. Having perches or comfy beds next to a sunny window can give them access to visual enrichment, warmth, and relaxation from the calming effects of sunbathing. Exposure to natural light may also boost their mood and encourage healthy sleep patterns. 

25. Maintain routine

For many senior cats, an established routine can help them feel safe and secure. You can accomplish this by sticking to a consistent feeding, play, grooming, enrichment, medication, treat, and nighttime schedule. By incorporating a routine into your aging cat's life you can provide them with a sense of predictability and stability. Establishing a routine also allows you to quickly notice changes in your cat's behavior and health status. 

26. Gentle, daily exercise

While their energy levels may decrease, it's still important to try to maintain a schedule of gentle, light exercise for your senior cat. Light exercise and movement can help maintain muscle mass, improve joint flexibility, improve circulation, provide enrichment, aid in digestion, maintain or improve balance and coordination, and increase their quality of life. 

27. Handle them gently

As your cat ages, it becomes increasingly important to handle them with extra care. Senior cats can have aches and pains and be more fragile, so it's crucial to handle them as gently as possible. A consistently gentle approach will also make them more likely to accept routine checkups, dental care, nail trimmings, and brushing. Additionally, by always handling them with the utmost care, you can quickly identify if they suddenly appear to be painful in response to light touch. 

28. Keep their coat healthy

Keeping your senior cat's coat healthy promotes their overall well-being and prevents the development of skin infections and painful matting for long-haired kitties. Maintaining a healthy coat also includes the prevention of parasites that affect the skin such as ticks and fleas. Regular brushing, ensuring your cat is well-hydrated, and giving them supplements that contain essential fatty acids all contribute to a healthier, shinier coat. 

29. Keep their claws trimmed

As some cats age, they can become less able to keep up with their own nail maintenance. It's important to check the condition of their nails every couple of weeks, and especially so if you notice your cat no longer using or reducing the use of their scratching post. If your senior kitty has nails with a circular, hook-like curve to them then it's time to for a trim with one of the best cat nail clippers. 

30. Set up comfortable hiding spots

To ensure your senior cat doesn't feel overwhelmed by their environment, it's a good idea to set up plenty of comfortable and safe hiding spaces for them to retreat to. These spaces should be easily accessible for your aging kitty to reach and comfortable for them to hang out in. You can set up hiding places with domed cat beds, cardboard boxes lined with blankets, and little cat forts under a bed or table. 

31. Monitor for signs of cognitive decline

Sadly, some senior cats will experience cognitive dysfunction syndrome. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, cognitive dysfunction syndrome is an age-related, progressively debilitating disorder that occurs in cats and is similar to Alzheimer's disease. If your cat is above 10 years old, it's important to monitor for signs of cognitive decline, such as spatial disorientation, staring at walls, altered sleep patterns, suddenly not using their litter box, and loud vocalizing at night. 

Early detection can help your cat receive the best supportive care to help keep them as comfortable as possible. 

32. Feed small, frequent meals

For some senior cats, eating two large meals a day can result in digestive upset or constipation. Feeding smaller meals multiple times per day can benefit your aging kitty in several ways. For some cats, frequent, small meals may improve digestion and nutrient absorption, maintain blood sugar levels, increase water intake (if fed wet food), boost their mood, and be easier on their kidneys and liver.  

While cats can often seem quite independent and aloof, they still rely on us to provide some semblance of routine.

This might involve them knowing when they’re going to get their food or some of the best cat treats, or having things like their bed and their little box in the same place – it all helps them avoid stress and upset.

And, this is particularly true where indoor cats are concerned. In a new post, Saya Sayyed – known as A Cat Behaviorist on Instagram – has explained why indoor cats need routines to be happy.

Something a routine does is provide our cats with a sense of security and this reduces anxiety. “Knowing when they will be fed, played with, and have quiet time helps them feel more in control of their environment,” says Sayyed.

She adds that routines can help prevent undesired behaviors, too. “Feeding and playtimes at consistent intervals can reduce excessive meowing, [and] scratching due to uncertainty,” she explains. Here’s how to entertain indoor cats to keep them happy during these periods of play.

Indoor cats can get stressed without routines – as well as scratching, cats may hide or spray urine when they’re stressed through a lack of routine. Of course, these are both things you’ll probably want to avoid.

When it comes to food, something many cat parents don’t realize is that cats in the wild would eat multiple smaller meals throughout the day. So, you might like to try dividing their food into rations you offer them throughout the day, as well as using puzzle feeders. As well as mimicking the feeding pattern that’s instinctive to cats, the best cat puzzle feeders offer plenty of mental enrichment, too. And, it’s a sort of modern-day, indoor cat equivalent to hunting.

Not only that, but if there are any big changes in your cat’s life, a stable routine will help them adapt better. If you’re moving house, or there’s a new family member, a consistent routine provides a stable foundation during times that could be more uncertain.

Routines can help you keep an eye on your indoor cat’s health – it’s easier to notice changes in eating, sleeping, or using the bathroom when your cat has a regular routine. And, they can make it easy for us to care for our cats too! As Sayyed explains, “Knowing exactly when to feed, clean the litter box, and play with their cat helps in organizing their day efficiently.”

If you can’t decide whether being indoors or outdoors is a better fit for your kitty, you might like to read Indoor vs outdoor cats: Do cats need to go outside?

I'm not going to lie — our four-year-old Burmese/British Shorthair cross, Roxy, is very much the center of our family. And boy oh boy does she know it! Spirited, affectionate, chatty and full of mischief she is definitely spoiled rotten, which is why I was so surprised when one day her fur started rather mysteriously falling out.

Fed a diet of the best cat food, Roxy had been gobbling up Royal Canin kibble since the day she was old enough to chew but all of a sudden her behavior changed. Instead of diving head first into her food bowl each morning with an appetite that would put Garfield to shame, she'd listlessly chew on a few biscuits before wandering off.

Thankfully, our cat not eating wasn't caused by any underlying health issue, which got me wondering if perhaps she was just bored with her food. Certain that was the case, I decided to mix things up a bit and change her diet. And that's when things quite literally started to fall apart.

We may have ordered a Burmese/British Shorthair cross, but as she got balder and balder by the day, I began to wonder if Roxy might actually be a sphynx in furry clothing. So I turned to expert vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan to see if changing Roxy's food could be behind her hair loss or whether our beloved feline was, in fact, an imposter. And what she had to say really surprised me...

Can changing cat food cause hair loss?

After several years of dining on the best dry cat food from Royal Canin, I decided to swap Roxy over to a kibble in the Wellness Core range. I'd always been a fan of research-backed Royal Canin but I was equally impressed when I scanned the ingredient list on the back of the Wellness Core kibble and decided to give it a go.

Opening the bag at 6am the next morning, I have to admit I felt a bit queasy as I was hit by an overwhelming smell of fish — but then that's what you get when you choose a product with real salmon as the first ingredient and dehydrated herring and tuna following not to far behind!

That was soon forgotten though when Roxy attacked her food bowl with the sort of enthusiastic gusto she was known for. Breathing a sigh of relief, it appeared a change in food was just what the doctor ordered. That is, until two months later when I noticed her sporting a serious bald patch in the fold of one of her back legs. Not long after that, a less severe patch appeared in the fold of one of her front legs.

Could changing cat food be to blame?

"In my experience, it is not typical for a cat to lose hair when there has been a change in diet," says Dr. MacMillan. The only time that this might happen is if the cat has an underlying food allergy. Moving to a diet that contains a trigger for that cat could possibly cause issues like increased scratching or overgrooming, resulting in hair loss.

Food allergies are not as common in cats as flea allergies or environmental allergies, however (grass pollens, house dust mites etc). A strict dietary trial under veterinary supervision would be required to confirm if a dietary allergy is present."

After hearing this, I was puzzled — if switching Roxy's diet wasn't to blame for her newfound nakedness, what was?

Why is my cat losing so much fur?

Concerned there might be something wrong with Roxy, I asked Dr. MacMillan to share her thoughts on what might be causing her to shed fur.

"In many cases, fur loss is due to overgrooming. Cats may overgroom if they are feeling itchy from underlying skin allergies or parasites. Skin inflammation and secondary skin infections are common in both scenarios," she told me.

"There are also a variety of health complaints that can cause cats to overgroom. Pain from arthritis could cause a cat to lick at their legs and joints, or cystitis may cause a cat to groom their abdomen and genitals.

“Hair loss can sometimes be seen for other reasons such as hormonal conditions, cancer or following on from other illnesses."

What happens if you change a cat’s food too quickly?

Given that we're vigilant in treating Roxy with the best flea treatments for cats, I felt confident ruling out fleas and parasites as the cause of her fur loss. Allergies also felt unlikely since Roxy seems to have an iron stomach that will allow her to eat anything and everything she can get her paws on.

I have to admit that while I may be a so-called 'pet expert', I made a big mistake when it came to switching Roxy from one diet to another — I didn't transition her properly. I was so worried about her being off her food that I ordered a new kibble of her to try without slowly phasing out the old one.

So I asked Dr. MacMillan to share her thoughts on whether my haste was behind Roxy's hair loss.

"Changing a cat's diet too quickly is most likely to result in stomach upsets," she told me. "This may include vomiting, loose stools and an increase in gas. A gradual introduction to any new diet is important to allow the cat’s microbiome (gut flora) to adapt to the new product. Also, some cats may struggle with the palatability of a new food, so it is usually best to mix some of the new diet in with some of the old, gradually changing the ratio over time."

Roxy's only sign from the change in diet was a loss of fur in two particular areas, so having ruled out all of the likely candidates I turned to something I hadn't considered before — was our feline friend feeling stressed out?

Anxiety in cats

While we often think of things like stress and anxiety as being states that affect just us humans, anxiety in cats is more common than you might think.

"Cats frequently overgroom for behavioral reasons, such as stress and anxiety. Triggers for this could include a house move, new pets or family members, or building work," says Dr. MacMillan.

I started to wonder if the change in diet and Roxy's hair loss weren't actually related at all. Could stress be causing her to overgroom? Although the answer to 'why is my cat overgrooming?' can be complex, vet's agree that stress is one of the leading causes.

"Excessive grooming is usually caused by stress and this is a very common cause of hair loss in cats. When a cat has become stressed, anxious, fearful, or worried, they might groom themselves to feel better and safer as it releases happy endorphins," explains vet nurse Annalisa Morgan.

I started to look back over the past six months and I realised that Roxy's routine hadn't been as stable and calm as it usually was. My mother-in-law was terminally ill, which meant my husband and I were away a lot at the weekends. On one long, two-week trip, we had no choice but to take her with us but, scared she might run away, we kept her indoors the whole time. Given Roxy can normally come and go as she pleases, this was not a trip she enjoyed.

Things have slowly got back to normal in the last three months and as Roxy's predictable routine has returned, so too has her fur — but the whole experience has taught us a two very valuable lessons.

Firstly, separation anxiety in cats is a very real issue, especially for people-oriented breeds like Roxy's. While she may have appeared fine with our absence to begin with, it's clear that the days when we weren't around were stressful for her.

Secondly, although she was with us for our longest stint away from home and is a brilliant car traveler, not being able to get outside was also very anxiety-inducing for her. As a cat that has a high need for stimulation and enrichment, being stuck in a house where people were very occupied with navigating their grief was a lot harder on her than we initially realized.

How to switch a cat to new food

Even though Roxy's new diet wasn't the cause of her fur falling out, changing cat's food quickly like I did is not recommended and can result in issues such as vomiting and loose stools. To avoid this, Dr. MacMillan advises introducing a new diet gradually as this will increase the chances of your cat accepting it and reduce the likelihood of stomach upsets.

"Start by mixing approximately 25% new food to 75% old food for the first couple of days, then go to 50% new to 50% old for a couple of days, followed by 75% new to 25% old food. If your cat tolerates this ratio well then you can go to 100% new food after a couple of days.

This regime should be fine for the majority of cats. However, some may require an even more gradual introduction. If your cat develops problems at any point, go back a step or two and give them a little longer.

If you are unsure about your cat’s diet at any point, then speak to your vet for advice or call the pet food manufacturer for support."

Looking for more great health and wellbeing content? We've got you covered in our vet's guide to how long can cats go without food? Plus, win some serious brownie points with your feline friend with these 32 ways to be the best cat owner and our favorite ways to bond with your cat.

Are you looking for ways to build more fun into your cat’s routine but aren’t sure where to begin? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve done all the hard work for you and compiled our favorite engaging activities and ideas in one place — so all you need to do is implement them!

While the best interactive cat toys are a good place to start when thinking about adding more fun and variety into your feline friend’s days, there are so many other exciting things you can do that you may not have thought about before.

In fact, we have a confession to make. Until we started really delving into ways we could spice up our own kittie’s lives, we had no clue that there were so many activities out there that would be viewed by our cats as being fun. And now that we do, we’re delighted we get to share them with you.

So, without further ado, here are a bunch of brilliant ways to build more fun into your cat’s routine — and your feline friend is sure to give them an enthusiastic paws up.

32 ways to build more fun into your cat's routine

1. Schedule twice-daily play sessions

Do you know how to play with a cat? If not, it’s a skill well worth learning. Play is super important for a cat’s mental and physical wellbeing — not to mention that it’s super fun and is a great way of strengthening the bond the two of you share. Aim for two 15-minute sessions a day using a mix of the best cat toys.

2. Teach them a new trick

While it’s often something we associate with our canine companions as opposed to our feline friends, learning how to teach a cat a trick is well worth doing if you’re looking for ways to inject more fun into their daily routine. Cats are incredibly intelligent and many breeds love learning new things. So teaching your kitty to do some basic tricks, like rolling over or giving you a high five, provides them with that all-important enrichment — it will impress any guests you have over, too!

3. Play hide-and-seek

There are so many great games to play with cats and hide-and-seek is one of our favorites. Now, we’re not suggesting you ask them to hide while you count to 10 (that may be asking a bit too much!) but hiding a portion of the best dry cat food or a few treats in different locations around the house and then getting your kitty to find them can be super fun.

4. Use a snuffle mat

While snuffle mats are a popular item to use with dogs, they’re also brilliant for cats as well. Simply hide treats or kibble in the various compartments and let your kitty use their nose to sniff them out.

5. Rearrange the furniture

A really simple way to add more fun into your cat’s routine is to rearrange the furniture. If you lay out your furniture strategically, your kitty will be able to reach new heights. For example, placing a cat tree next to a couch that’s near to a bookcase will enable your cat to seek out different views of the same room.

This works really well for curious and active breeds, like the Abyssinian and Bengal, however if you have a shy breed and notice they seem anxious about the changes, move your furniture back to its original position.

6. Take them on a walk

Is walking a cat on a leash cruel? Not if your cat enjoys it. Outgoing and active breeds who thrive on human companionship often love accompanying their owners on outdoor adventures. If you notice your cat is anxious or stressed, don’t continue with this activity, but if they enjoy it, the world’s your oyster!

7. Leave out boxes

Why do cats like to be in boxes? Well, alongside the fact that concealed spaces make our fur friends feel safe, playing in boxes is also something that cats find super fun. A cardboard box satisfies a number of instincts our cats have, including the desire to scratch, hide and chew. So next time you get a delivery, try leaving the empty box out for your kitty to play with.

8. Create an agility course

Looking for new ways to bond with your cat? Why not set up an agility course. Not only is it a wonderful way to deepen the connection you share, it’s also brilliant for improving their physical and mental health and wellbeing. You can create an obstacle course by purchasing tunnels and poles or save money by using household items.

9. Grow some cat-friendly plants

Have you ever considered creating a cat-friendly garden? Cats love to nibble on plants, so having some safe, non-toxic ones that you grow indoors or outdoors is a wonderful way to provide your kitty with an enriching space. Our favorites include cat grass, catmint, catnip and valerian.

10. Brush them

If you’re looking for ways to be the best cat owner, brushing your kitty each day is sure to earn you some serious brownie points! While not all of our feline friends enjoy being groomed, most enjoy the sensation of being brushed and on top of helping to prevent mats and tangles and remove debris, it’s a lovely way to strengthen your bond.

11. Provide plenty of places to scratch

Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. Not only does it allow them to sharpen their claws, but it also provides them with a lovely stretch. Be sure to pop a few of the best cat scratching posts around the house for your cat to use when they get the urge to scratch. Trust us, your couch will thank you for it!

12. Set up a window perch

There are some things you only know if you’re a cat owner, and how much our feline friends love watching the world go by is one of them! For free entertainment that will keep your kitty occupied for hours, we highly recommend investing in a window perch or placing a cat tree near a window where your fur friend can get a clear view of what’s going on outside.

13. Consider a catio

There are a lot of cat breeds that prefer being outdoors, but if that’s not an option for your kitty, why not consider a catio or outdoor cat enclosure? The best outdoor cat enclosures or catios will provide your feline friend with a safe and secure way to access nature’s backyard, granting them hours of fun entertainment without you having to worry.

14. Use food puzzles

There are so many reasons to use a cat puzzle feeder toy and fun is definitely one of them. But aside from that, they’re also a brilliant way to provide your cat’s brain with a good workout, and they can help reduce stress and anxiety, too. The best cat puzzle feeders are available in varying levels of difficulty, so you’re sure to find the right one for your beloved bundle of fluff.

15. Put your cat’s nose to the test 

Nosework is a form of scent detection where your kitty’s tasked with finding something using their sense of smell. This is a hugely fun enrichment activity for cats and all you need is a few cat treats or your kitty’s favorite food. To do scentwork with your kitty, simply pop them in another room while you set up an obstacle course then hide a piece of food in a particular location (such as underneath a box, behind a couch cushion or behind a piece of furniture) and then release them to find it.

16. Blow some bubbles

Who doesn’t love bubbles?! Cats, just like children (and let’s face it, us adults too), are enthralled by bubbles and most adore chasing and popping them. So next time the sun is shining, why not unleash your inner kid and go have some fun blowing bubbles with your kitty?

17. Try a lickmat

If you’ve never tried a lickmat with your cat, we highly recommend it. Lickmats are flat silicone or rubber mats that have ridges designed to slow down the pace at which your cat eats. While they’re great for preventing the digestive issues that can come from eating too quickly and making mealtimes more fun, the act of slowly licking the mat is also wonderfully calming for cats. If you have one of the cat breeds most likely to suffer from separation anxiety in your family, leaving them with a lickmat when you pop out can be a great way of soothing their stress, too. So it's a win-win.

18. Buy some catnip toys

While not all cats respond to the active compound found in catnip, around 60% of them do. So if your kitty is one of those who gets the catnip crazies, why not invest in a few of the best catnip toys? Catnip is harmless and the behaviors associated with smelling it tend to start wearing off after 10 minutes.

19. Set up an outdoor bird feeder by the window

If you have an indoor cat who doesn’t have access to the great outdoors, why not bring nature’s backyard to them? Setting up a bird feeder by a window that your cat has good access to can be a great way of providing them with some fun enrichment.

20. Do some clicker training

Is clicker training for cats recommended? Absolutely! Clicker training is a wonderful way to boost your cat’s confidence by encouraging them to try new things and rewarding them for desirable behaviors also increases the chances that they’ll continue to repeat these. Plus, engaging in a shared activity like clicker training isn’t just fun for your cat, it’s also a brilliant way to strengthen the connection you share.

21. Put food in a kitty Kong

You may be familiar with dog owners using Kongs to make mealtimes more interesting for their pups, but did you know you can buy kitty Kongs too? It’s true! Whether you choose a Kong or a slow feeder ball, finding new ways to feed your cat doesn’t just make eating more fun for them, it gives their brain a good workout too.

22. Teach your cat to play fetch

Can cats play fetch? Some of them most definitely can! While not all felines enjoy this sort of activity, certain breeds behave in almost dog-like ways and will be more than happy to learn this fun game. Every cat is different but breeds like the Siamese and the Bengal are particularly well known for their love of fetch.

23. Take them on a magic carpet ride

Magic carpet rides are one of our favorite ways to build more fun into your cat’s routine — and it couldn’t be simpler. Just grab an old towel or blanket, let your kitty jump on and pull it around the house. Your cat will soon let you know if they don’t enjoy this one, but many cats get a real thrill out of being taken on this sort of adventure.

24. Make foil balls

Have you ever purchased expensive cat toys only to find that your kitty prefers playing with a crumpled-up piece of paper? If so, you’re not alone! Sometimes less really is more, so why not save yourself some money and roll aluminum foil into balls that you can toss around the house for your cat to run after? Trust us when we say: it's guaranteed to provide hours of fun!

25. Create a cat tower

Whether you choose to invest in one of the best cat trees or build your own DIY creation using a wooden chest or boxes, we highly recommend having at least one cat tower in your home which your feline friend can sit atop to survey their kingdom. You might also want to include enclosed areas that your cat can hide away in when they’re in need of some peace and quiet.

26. Make a cat fort or tent

Our fur friends love having warm and cozy spaces that they can snuggle up in, so why not make your kitty a fort or tent? This is a particularly great idea for shy cats who may require more solo time than their outgoing brothers and sisters. But social and extroverted breeds will love hiding in their new fort and pouncing on you when you least expect it!

27. Give your cat a massage

While we often associate massage as something we humans seek out to help ease our aches and pains and relieve stress, it turns out massage can be wonderfully soothing and beneficial for our feline friends, too. From improving circulation and mobility to lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety, flexing your fingers is sure to have your kitty purring with joy.

28. Play a nature video

If you’ve ever found yourself asking the question, ‘why does my cat watch TV?’, it’s likely because they find it fun and stimulating. Now and again, it can be great to find a nature video featuring birds, squirrels, mice or other wildlife and playing it for your cat to provide them with that all-important mental enrichment.

29. Have a party for your cat

We know, it might sound a bit out there. But why not mix things up and throw your cat a party? You can do this any time of year but it’s particularly great when it’s their birthday. Grab a feline-friendly cake, some of their favorite treats and maybe splurge on one of the best automated cat toys. A party in their honor is sure to win you some serious brownie points!

30. Watch a movie together

Curling up on the couch and watching a movie with your feline friend isn’t just a great way to have fun — spending quality time together is also a wonderful bonding activity and can help strengthen the relationship the two of you share.

31. Hire a pet sitter to keep them company when you’re away

While we often think of things like stress and anxiety as being something that affects just us humans, separation anxiety in cats is very real. Although cats can seem very independent, they bond deeply with their humans and can feel bored and lonely when we’re away. If you plan on taking a trip and you can’t take your kitty with you, consider hiring a pet sitter or having a friend pop in once or twice a day to feed and play with them.

32. Use music therapy

Did you know that classical music has a calming effect on cats? It’s true! Soothing piano sonatas have been shown to calm cats down — but that’s not where the story ends. Researchers have also found that lively classical pieces, like Bach’s flute sonata encourage cats to play. So next time you’re looking for a fun activity to do with your cat, why not pop the radio on and get dancing?

If you have a homeless feline paying you frequent visits, you may be wondering what to feed a stray cat. 

While leaving out a bowl of the best cat food seems like the obvious choice, there are plenty of other nutritious items that will nourish your new fur friend if you don't have any kibble in your cupboards.

To find out which foods are safe to feed stray cats, we turned to expert vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan. Below, she shares some of her favorite foods to give homeless cats, which ones you need to steer clear of, and where to take a stray cat if one turns up on your doorstep. Here's what she had to say...

What to feed a stray cat

1. Tuna: Is tuna good for cats? A lot of us wonder if this fishy dish makes for a safe snack for felines and the good news is that Dr. MacMillan says tuna in certain forms is suitable for stray cats.

"It is fine to offer a stray cat some tuna if it is canned with spring water, not brine or oil," she explains. "Too much salt and fatty oil is not good for a cat’s digestive system so it should be avoided. Pieces of fresh, cooked tuna are also fine to give if it is plain and unseasoned."

2. Chicken or beef: "Chicken is perfect to offer a stray cat. It is low in fat and highly digestible, so it shouldn’t cause them any tummy troubles. Lean beef, which is unseasoned, should also be ok in small amounts," Dr. MacMillan says.

3. Plain rice: If you have any plain rice in your cupboard that you can cook up for your feline friend, Dr. MacMillan says that's another nutritious meal that you can offer them — although whether they'll eat it is another matter!

"You can offer plain, cooked rice to a stray cat as it is highly digestible. However not all cats will want to eat it, so don’t be offended if your stray cat is not keen."

4. Eggs: Can cats eat eggs? The answer is yes, as long as they been cooked. "Cats can eat eggs if they have been thoroughly cooked," confirms Dr. MacMillan. "You could try some pieces of hard-boiled or some scrambled egg, as long as it doesn’t contain any seasoning or too much fat."

What do stray cats eat to stay alive?

If you have a stray cat hanging around your home, it's only natural that you'd be feeling concerned about whether or not they have enough food to survive. So aside from the food they may be getting from you, what sorts of things do stray cats eat in order to stay alive?

"Stray cats will usually survive by hunting mice, rats, and birds," explains Dr. MacMillan. "However, they will often supplement this by eating human scraps, taking what they can find in the trash or discarded on the streets. Some stray cats will also venture towards people’s homes, eating from other pets’ food bowls or getting scraps that have been left out for them."

If you're worried about your stray fur friend not getting the nutrition they need, leaving out a bowl of cat food will ensure they're getting all the vitamins and minerals they need to survive. 

Foods to avoid feeding a stray cat

When you think about feeding a stray cat, it can be tempting to consider putting out a saucer of warm milk but one of the little known facts about cats is that most of our feline friends are lactose intolerant. No matter how much your stray fur friend may enjoy the creamy stuff, Dr. MacMillan says it's best avoided.

"While it can be tempting to leave a bowl of milk out for a cat, you must resist," she stresses. "Milk can cause tummy upset in cats, particularly if they are not used to having something so rich and creamy. Many cats cannot digest milk properly so this could lead to issues like diarrhoea. 

You should also avoid leaving fatty scraps out like bacon or meat rinds, which could again cause digestive upsets. Any food that has been heavily seasoned, processed, or cooked in large amounts of oil should be avoided. Also be aware that onions, garlic, raisins, and chocolate are potentially toxic to cats so avoid giving them any foods that contain these items."

We've often wondered if cooked vegetables could be offered to stray cats in a pinch, but Dr. MacMillan advises against it. "I wouldn’t advise offering a stray cat cooked vegetables," she says. "While technically fine, cats are obligate carnivores so most will be unlikely to eat vegetables keenly. It would be much better to purchase some commercial cat food and offer this to them instead."

Should you feed a stray cat?

Stray cats really tug at our heart strings and we find it impossible not to pop out a bowl of the best dry cat food or the best wet cat food for them to nibble on. Thankfully, Dr. MacMillan says that feeding stray cats is not only okay, it's also the humane thing to do. 

"If you are genuinely certain that the cat is a stray, then yes, it is always a kind act to offer a hungry animal some food," she says.

However, just be sure that the kitty in question is actually a stray and not a well-loved cat that's just very clever at charming food out of everyone in your neighborhood!

"Issues arise when the cat actually does have a home. Some cats may look thin or in poor condition due to medical complaints (such as hyperthyroidism or inflammatory bowel disease). In this case, feeding them could cause more harm than good, especially if they are on a special diet at home. If you are confident the cat is homeless and you choose to feed them, then be prepared that they might keep coming back!," Dr. MacMillan says. 

How often to feed a stray cat

When it comes to how long can cats go without food, there's isn't a definitive answer, which is why Dr. MacMillan recommends feeding your stray kitty once or twice a day.

"Feeding a stray cat once or twice a day is usually sufficient for adult cats, but some people choose to leave down a portion of dry kibble all the time for them to graze as they please," she explains. 

"You should try not to overfeed a stray cat. While it is tempting to give a hungry cat a big portion, it is much better to start with just a few small spoonfuls and increase this amount gradually. Some cats are not used to receiving large portions of food in one sitting, and their digestive system may not be able to handle it. Also leaving large portions of wet cat food or meat down can attract flies, especially in warm weather, and may go rancid."

Where to take a stray cat

"The best thing you can do for a stray cat is to try and get them to a veterinary hospital or animal charity," Dr. MacMillan advises. "They can be scanned to see if they have a microchip present, which could lead to them being reunited with an owner if they are lost. They will also be checked over for any injuries and be able to receive necessary treatment." 

If your new fur friend receives the all clear and they're without a microchip, you can have a think about whether or not you'd like to provide them with a permanent home.

There are so many reasons to adopt a cat (not least the immense amount of joy they bring to our lives) but we understand that it's also a big decision. Before welcoming a feline into your family you'll want to consider whether you have the financial means and lifestyle to be able to care for a kitty.

Looking for more great kitty content? We find out the answer to can cats taste sugar? Plus, have you ever found yourself curious as to what colors can cats see? We spoke to a vet to find out!

If your cat’s not drinking, you’re bound to be worried. I’ve been working with pet parents for eight years as a vet, including some time in a cat-only practice, which means I’ve seen my fair share of cats with drinking problems. I know just how worrying our fur family can be when they aren’t behaving normally.

In this guide, I’m going to explain the reasons a cat might stop drinking. We’ll also cover cat hydration, and I’ll give you my top tips to help you keep your cats hydrated. (Hint: Using a pet water fountain can help!)

Why is my cat not drinking?

So, let’s first take a look at the reasons your cat is not drinking. The first thing to consider is whether this is a change for them. Cats don’t tend to drink much due to a low thirst drive, and they live fairly private lives – if you’re just not seeing your new cat drink much, this is probably normal for them. 

On the whole, we vets worry more about cats drinking a lot than cats not drinking. But if you’ve spotted a sudden decrease in how much your cat is drinking, it can be concerning. Let’s take a look at the reasons your cat might not be drinking below.

1. They’re getting enough water in their diet

If you’ve changed your cat’s food recently, they might be getting enough water from their food, meaning they don’t need to drink as much. This is especially obvious if you’ve changed from the best dry cat food to the best wet cat food, but you might also notice this if the moisture content of their food has increased.

2. They’re getting water elsewhere

Cats are secretive creatures. If your cat goes out and about and/or has free run of the house, it might be that they aren’t drinking less, they’re just drinking from different places. For example, they might have decided they prefer a water glass by the side of the bed, or drinking from a drip tray under a plant pot. Equally, if they go out, next door’s pond or birdfeeder are likely candidates. 

3. They feel threatened at their bowl

Sometimes, cats won’t drink if they feel threatened at their water bowl. For example, some cat-cat conflict in a multi-cat house might prevent one cat from being allowed to drink. Alternatively, a cat from outside might be bullying your cat while they drink if the bowl is in view of the window. Try moving the bowl out of sight.

4. Their water bowl is dirty

Cats are known for being fussy about their coat, but they’re also pretty careful about eating and drinking cleanly. This means if their water bowl is getting dirty, they may refuse to drink the water. It’s best to give it a quick clean daily when you replenish the water. 

5. Their bowls are too close together

This sounds silly, but cats don’t like their food and water close together. That’s because, in the wild, they wouldn’t want to contaminate their clean water with their kill. If you are placing the food and water bowl together on a mat or in a double bowl, try moving them further apart, or even into different rooms. On that note, they won’t want their water bowl near the best cat litter box either, so try to spread everything around.

6. The water doesn’t taste right

Cats are picky – we know and love them for it. But sometimes it seems like they’re just out to annoy us! If your local water company has changed their cleaning chemicals, your cat might pick up on it. Similarly, if you used to use a water filter or even give them bottled water, they might turn their nose up at a change.

7. The wrong bowl

Yes, if you’ve changed the bowl, you might have to change it back. Cats don’t like change! The type of bowl can make a difference, too - metal bowls can taint the water, making it taste strange and causing cats to stop drinking. Plastic bowls can harbour bacteria, and cause smells that cause cats to stop drinking. Offer several bowls, including glass and ceramic, to try to find something they like.

8. Whisker fatigue

Experts are still undecided whether whisker fatigue is real. But it stands to reason that cats can get fed up of all the information coming from their whiskers, just as humans can get ‘touched out’. If your cat seems face-shy, it might be that their whiskers are causing them problems. Try a shallower, larger bowl that doesn’t cause their whiskers to touch the sides.

How can I encourage my cat to drink water?

Aside from some of the tips given above, there are some other ways you can get your cat to drink water if you think they’re not drinking enough. 

The first is to make sure you’ve got enough water bowls out, of various materials and sizes. As you’ll know, cats can be picky. Try to spread the bowls out evenly so cats don’t have to go far to drink. A water fountain is also an excellent addition here, as many cats prefer running water. 

Another thing you can do if your cat is not drinking enough is to increase the moisture in their diet. You can do this by adding water to their dry food, switching to a wet diet, or even adding additional water to their wet food.

While flavored waters and water supplements aren’t necessary for most cats, they can be useful if your cat has a health problem that would be improved by increasing their drinking.

How long is it safe for a cat not to drink water?

How long cats can go without water? As explained above, cats naturally get most of their water needs from their food, especially if they’re on a wet diet. As long as they continue to eat a wet diet, they may not even need to drink water at all. But cats who are urinating a lot due to kidney failure or hyperthyroidism, cats who are on a dry diet, or cats who have urinary problems should drink at least some water each day. 

If your cat isn’t eating anything or drinking anything, and is therefore taking in no water at all, you should take them to the vet within 24 hours to avoid them getting dehydrated. Dehydration in cats can cause kidney problems and can quickly become fatal.

It’s not always abnormal to see a cat not drinking – they’re private animals with a low thirst drive, so sometimes you won’t see a healthy adult cat drink at all. But if you notice a sudden change in your cat’s drinking, that’s more of a concern. Hopefully, with the reasons above and our tips for encouraging drinking, you can get your cat drinking again, but don’t forget to make an appointment with your vet if you are concerned.

If you liked this article, you might also be interested in the opposite – what to do when a cat is drinking a lot of water. Alternatively, we also have an article about cats not eating.

If your cat plays with yarn, then you'll want to keep it out of paw's reach from now on. We're not surprised that our feline friends love it so much — it's dangly, colorful, and moves unpredictably, making it irresistible to chase after.

Whilst it looks like the perfect teaser toy on paper, our vet warns that it can be very dangerous and lead to fatal illnesses. If you suspect your cat has ingested it, you should call a vet immediately. When it comes to playtime, you're better off giving them one of the best cat toys instead.

Yarn might be cheap and entertaining for your cat, but it will result in an unwanted vet visit in the long run. The best interactive cat toys don't need to cost the earth; you can find great quality options for under $10.

If you've let your cat play with yarn, don't be too hard on yourself — it's a common mistake that lots of pet parents make, so we've called in expert vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan to answer some of your questions and concerns:

Is it safe to let my cat play with yarn?

Is it safe for my cat to play with yarn? Sadly, the answer is no, according to Dr. MacMillan. While it might be fun to play with, it can cause a variety of health problems — and some can be fatal.

She explains: "If the yarn becomes unraveled during play, your cat could chew and swallow it which may lead to serious problems. Choking is one possible outcome, as is the chance of a linear foreign body developing.

"This occurs when a string or thread is consumed and becomes anchored at one end – either around the base of the tongue, in the stomach, or somewhere in the intestines. The free end continues to pass through the digestive tract by the rhythmic movements of the intestines.

"These same movements cause the intestines to bunch up around the long, stationary thread. The thread then starts to slowly slice through the wall of the intestines leading to [holes] and the leaking of partially digested food."

She warns that if it's left untreated, it can cause peritonitis (a fatal infection in the abdomen), as well as severe intestine damage.

How do I know if my cat has eaten yarn?

If you suspect that your cat has eaten yarn, these are the signs to look out for. However, it's important to call your vet immediately, regardless of their symptoms.

1. Choking

Choking, gagging, retching, excessive drooling, and pawing at the mouth are all signs that your cat has eaten yarn. This happens when the textured thread gets caught in the barbs on their tongue or is wrapped around the base of their tongue.

2. Vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and abdominal pain

Your cat might experience vomiting, diarrhea, a reduced appetite, and abdominal pain if the yarn is causing issues further down in the digestive system.

3. Fever, lethargy, collapsing

If your cat has a fever, lethargy, or has collapsed, it could be a sign that they have an infected abdomen (peritonitis). This might happen if the yarn has caused a linear foreign body and the intestines are getting severely damaged.

What should I do if my cat has eaten yarn?

If your cat has eaten yarn (or you're suspicious that they have), talk to your vet as soon as possible as they might be able to intervene before any damage is done.

Dr. MacMillan says: "In some cases, vomiting may be induced to bring the string back up, but in other cases, it might need to be retrieved through endoscopy (passing a small camera with forceps into your cat’s stomach).

"Either of these is a better outcome for your cat than emergency surgery for a well-established linear foreign body, which may involve the removal of damaged intestines."

Why do cats like to play with yarn?

According to Dr. MacMillan, cats love the way that yarn moves when they play with it. The unpredictable ball and the dangling string is an exciting combination that grabs their attention and activates their natural hunting instincts. She also adds that they love the texture, which is perfect for scratching and digging their claws into.

Cat play is super important for their health and happiness, which is why experts recommend two to three sessions a day lasting 15 to 20 minutes. Once you've stocked up on the best catnip toys, they'll forget all about their old yarn ball!

What other household items are dangerous for cats to play with?

Whilst we can't protect our fur babies from everything, it's important that we're aware of the potential dangers. Dr. MacMillan says that cats are often fascinated by elastic bands and hair bands too, which can make them unwell if they're ingested.

She also warns that some household plants and flowers can cause them health problems. However, this doesn't mean you need to avoid them altogether because there are some cat-friendly house plants you could swap over to instead.

She adds: "You should take care to keep any open flames away from your cat too. Burning candles can be attractive to inquisitive pets, leading to burns and hot wax becoming stuck in their fur – I have definitely seen a case or two of this during my time in practice!"

If you want to learn how to play with a cat, this expert's guide is a good place to start. Are you wondering, 'Can cats play fetch?' or why do cats eat hair? The answers will probably surprise you.