They’re fluffy, independent, and sometimes adorably mischievous—but let’s not forget that cats are also sensitive creatures. Our feline friends have a unique set of needs, and overlooking them can have unintended consequences.
We’ve compiled the 12 things you should never do to your cat. After all, a happy cat means a happy life!
1. Ignore Regular Vet Visits
Just because your cat seems healthy doesn’t mean they are. Regular vet visits are crucial for early detection of health issues like dental disease, obesity, and kidney problems.
Cats are notorious for hiding pain, so a professional checkup can help uncover silent ailments. Dental disease alone affects over 85% of cats over the age of three. (ref) Kidney disease, one of the most common ailments in older cats, can be managed or slowed if detected early through blood and urine tests.
Take your cats to at least one vet visit a year, but older cats or those with chronic conditions might need more frequent appointments. Annual checkups also ensure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date, protecting them from diseases like feline leukemia, calicivirus, and rabies.
2. Feed an Inappropriate Diet
Not all cat foods are created equal. Your cat needs a balanced diet rich in protein and low in carbs. Grain-heavy foods can lead to obesity and health issues like diabetes. Furthermore, some human foods, including chocolate, onions, garlic, and alcohol, can be downright toxic to cats.
According to a study by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, over 60% of cats in the United States are overweight or obese, which significantly increases their risk of diabetes and arthritis. (ref)
Stick to high-quality commercial cat food that meets AAFCO standards. If you’re considering a homemade diet, consult your vet first to ensure your kitty gets the right nutrients.
Your vet can also help you determine appropriate portion sizes, which vary depending on age, weight, and activity level. Be cautious about raw diets, which can carry bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli if not properly handled.
3. Force Physical Affection
We love to cuddle our cats, but not all cats enjoy being picked up or petted excessively. Forcing physical affection on your feline can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues. Every cat has a different comfort level, and respecting that boundary is key to maintaining a healthy relationship.
Learn to recognize their body language. If your cat’s ears are flattened or their tail is swishing, it’s a sign they need space. Let them come to you on their own terms.
Cats also communicate through slow blinking, head bumps, and purring, which can signal contentment and readiness for interaction. Allow your cat to dictate the pace of petting and play.
4. Use Punishment-Based Training
Punishing your cat, whether by yelling, spraying water, or hitting, will only create fear and stress. Cats don’t understand punishment like dogs do; they’re more likely to associate the negative behavior with you rather than their action. This can lead to increased anxiety, making them avoid you altogether or hide more frequently.
Instead, use positive reinforcement like treats or affection when your cat displays good behavior. Redirect their unwanted actions with toys or scratching posts rather than reprimanding them.
For example, if your cat scratches the furniture, place scratching posts nearby and reward them when they use them. Clicker training can also be effective, as it pairs the sound of a click with a treat, encouraging your cat to repeat the desired behavior. (ref)
5. Neglect Grooming Needs
While cats are excellent self-groomers, some still need our help to stay clean and comfortable. Long-haired breeds, like Persians and Maine Coons, are prone to matting, while short-haired breeds may suffer from shedding and hairballs. Hairballs form when loose fur is ingested during grooming and can lead to digestive issues if not properly managed.
Regular brushing minimizes shedding, prevents mats, and strengthens the bond between you and your cat. Aim to brush long-haired cats daily and short-haired breeds at least once a week.
Remember to trim their nails and clean their ears occasionally to keep them in tip-top shape. Cats’ nails can grow quickly and might curl into their paw pads if left untrimmed. Brushing their teeth regularly to prevent dental disease is also important.
6. Leave Them Alone for Too Long
Cats might seem independent, but they’re social creatures who thrive on companionship. Leaving them alone for extended periods can lead to loneliness and behavioral problems like excessive meowing or destructive scratching. Cats develop strong bonds with their owners and can suffer separation anxiety, contrary to popular belief. (ref)
If you travel frequently, consider hiring a pet sitter or asking a trusted neighbor to check on your cat. Even better, if your lifestyle allows, provide a feline buddy to keep them company. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and window perches can help alleviate boredom and keep your cat mentally stimulated when you’re not around.
7. Declaw or Debark
Declawing a cat involves removing the last bone of each toe, akin to amputating a human finger at the last joint. It’s painful and unnecessary, often leading to lifelong behavioral issues and complications. Declawed cats are more likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as biting or avoiding the litter box due to pain or discomfort. (ref)
Alternatives like regular nail trims, scratching posts, and claw caps are more humane solutions. In fact, many regions have banned declawing, recognizing it as a form of cruelty.
If scratching is a concern, invest in multiple scratching posts and surfaces. Cats prefer different textures, so provide sisal, cardboard, and carpeted options to meet their needs.
8. Expose Them to Toxic Substances
Many household items, like cleaning products and certain plants, can be harmful to your cat. Lilies, for example, are extremely toxic and can cause kidney failure.
Even essential oils, often touted for their health benefits, can be dangerous. Tea tree oil, peppermint, and eucalyptus are among those that can cause symptoms ranging from vomiting to central nervous system depression.
Store chemicals and plants out of reach, and ensure any new plants you bring into your home are cat-friendly. If you’re unsure, consult the ASPCA’s list of toxic plants and household items.
Additionally, avoid using pesticides or rodenticides around the house, as ingesting them can lead to severe poisoning. Symptoms like drooling, vomiting, or seizures should prompt an immediate call to your vet or animal poison control.
9. Ignore Signs of Stress
Cats can get stressed just like humans, whether it’s due to a new pet, a house move, or changes in routine. Common stress indicators include excessive grooming, hiding, loss of appetite, and aggression. Chronic stress can lead to health problems like urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal issues.
Provide your cat with a safe space and stick to a consistent feeding schedule. Playtime, interactive toys, and calming pheromone diffusers can help alleviate anxiety.
Consider using a feline pheromone spray or diffuser to help calm your cat. Gradually introduce changes like new pets or furniture and ensure your cat has vertical spaces to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed.
10. Overfeed Them Treats
Treats are great for positive reinforcement, but too many can lead to obesity and nutritional imbalances. Some cat treats are high in calories and contain fillers that don’t contribute to your cat’s health. Obesity can significantly shorten a cat’s lifespan and lead to chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
Keep treats to a minimum—about 10% of their daily caloric intake—and opt for healthier alternatives like plain, cooked chicken or freeze-dried meat treats. If your cat enjoys hunting, consider using interactive toys that dispense food, providing both mental stimulation and exercise. Consult your vet for appropriate treat options based on your cat’s dietary needs.
11. Forget Mental Stimulation
Boredom can lead to destructive behavior and weight gain in cats. Without adequate mental stimulation, they might become lethargic or start exhibiting neurotic behaviors like excessive grooming or chewing. A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior linked environmental enrichment to reduced stress levels and improved overall well-being in indoor cats. (ref)
Interactive toys, food puzzles, and vertical spaces like cat trees or shelves can provide the mental stimulation your feline craves. Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting.
Window perches allow cats to watch birds and other wildlife outside, satisfying their natural hunting instincts. Consider dedicating time each day to interactive play sessions using feather wands, laser pointers, or motorized toys.
12. Fail to Provide Litter Box Options
Cats are particular about their litter boxes. An unclean or poorly located box might make them avoid it altogether. A general rule is to have one box per cat, plus an extra, placed in quiet, easily accessible locations. The type of litter matters, too; many cats prefer unscented, clumping litter, but each cat has individual preferences.
Choose a litter your cat likes and clean the box daily. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, consult a vet to rule out any medical issues.
Additionally, avoid using covered litter boxes if your cat prefers open ones. The litter box should be large enough for your cat to turn around comfortably, especially for larger breeds like Maine Coons.
Cats are wonderful companions with unique needs and sensitivities. By understanding what to avoid, you can ensure your feline friend leads a happy, healthy life. Remember, a content cat means a harmonious home.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.