March 28th is Respect Your Cat Day! Kitties may be small, but they certainly do have a way of commanding respect. In fact, many of these little furballs have their humans completely wrapped around their paws. If it were up to Fluffy, we’d probably honor this occasion by installing catnip gardens, stocked fishponds, and catwalks in our homes. However, truly respecting your feline buddy actually looks a bit different than that. A Kerrville, TX vet suggests some better options below.

Clean Litterbox

Cats are very clean, which is one reason they make such great pets. Fluffy also prefers a clean litterbox. Keep your kitty’s powder room clean!

Enrichment

We know, cats spend a rather ridiculous amount of time napping. However, even the drowsiest furball can’t sleep 24/7. Fluffy needs ways to amuse herself when she’s awake. Kitties can get very bored and frustrated with nothing to do but stare at the walls all day! Toys and playtime are both very important here. You can also make your home more fun for your furball by giving her things to explore, like boxes and pet tunnels. Window seats are also popular with our feline friends.

Plants

We recommend that cats be kept indoors, for their own health and safety. However, they do enjoy having some greenery to nibble on. Kitties love peeking out at their humans from behind green leaves! Set out some pet-safe plants for Fluffy. The ASPCA site has a great list here. (You get bonus purrs for including catnip or cat grass.)

Kitty Comforts

Want to keep that motor going? Offer your feline overlord kitty luxuries, such as soft beds, scratching posts, and ‘purrniture.’

Veterinary Care

Fluffy may protest (loudly) all the way to the clinic and all the way home, but coming to see us really is in her own best interest. We recommend that all kitties be microchipped, spayed or neutered, and examined regularly. You’ll also need to keep up with your pet’s vaccines and parasite control. Emergency care is important as well. If you notice anything wrong, call your vet immediately.

Attention

Last but not least, pay attention to Fluffy! Talk to her, pet her, and play with her. Cats are very loving and cuddly pets, but that special friendship we share with them needs to be nurtured. As your Kerrville TX, we’re here to help! Call us anytime!