Because a Happy Cat Makes a Peaceful Home
Whether you’re bringing home your first kitten or looking after a sensible old rescue, cats are affectionate, enigmatic, and intensely rewarding pets. But behind those mischievous paws and inquisitive eyes lies a demand for thoughtful, dependable care.
In this blog, we’ll discuss all you need to know to look after your cat—from meals to toilets, from mental to physical health—all with a soft, UK-centered approach.
1. Building a Cat-Safe Home
First and foremost, your cat must have a safe place to call their own to feel secure.
For indoor cats:
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Create hiding places and vertical areas (cat trees or shelves)
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Put toxic plants, small objects, and cleaning supplies out of their reach
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Fit open windows with mesh screens
For outdoor cats (UK garden roamers):
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Microchip and ID tag are non-negotiable (a legal requirement)
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Ensure they’re vaccinated and neutered/spayed
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Be aware of road traffic and fox activity if you’re in rural locations
Cats must feel masters of their territory — provide corners they can own.
2. How to Feed Your Cat Properly
Cats are obligate carnivores — they require protein and taurine to remain healthy.
Tips for feeding:
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Utilize high-quality wet or dry food with meat as the initial ingredient
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Kittens (under 12 months) need high-calorie food
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Adults (1–7 years) need balanced portions
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Seniors (7+ years) may require kidney-friendly food
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Always provide fresh water (not milk!)
Tip: Some cats prefer running water — a pet water fountain can encourage drinking.
3. Litter Box 101: Clean Cat, Happy Home
Cats are naturally clean animals — but they need the right setup.
What to do:
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Position the litter tray in a quiet, private location
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Utilize unscented, clumping litter (most cats like it)
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Daily scoop, completely clean tray weekly
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One tray per cat — plus one more if you have multiple cats
Don’t make abrupt litter changes — cats don’t appreciate surprises in their toilet habits!
4. Grooming & Hygiene: More Than Just Beauty
Cats are excellent self-groomers — but they still require your assistance.
Grooming tasks:
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Brush long-haired cats every day, short-haired cats 2–3 times a week
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Nail trims every few weeks (especially indoor cats)
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Ear checks monthly
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Dental care — dental treats or vet-approved toothpaste
Don’t bathe your cat unless absolutely necessary — most hate water!
5. Mental Stimulation & Playtime
Cats require mental and physical stimulation — even when they appear “chill.”
Best activities to engage them in:
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Wand toys (mimic hunting)
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Puzzle feeders and treat balls
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Window perches (bird watch!)
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Cardboard boxes and paper bags
Play with your cat for 10–15 minutes several times a day to prevent boredom behaviours such as scratching or over-grooming.
6. Health Care & Vet Visits (UK Specific)
Preventative health is paramount. In the UK, the majority of vets advise:
Essentials:
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Regular check-ups every year
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Vaccinations (feline flu, enteritis, FeLV)
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Flea, tick & worm control
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Microchipping (now mandatory in England for cats by law from June 2024)
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Spaying/neutering to prevent health & behaviour problems
Keep a record of your cat’s vet visits, particularly for holidays or pet insurance.
7. Emotional Needs & Building Trust
Cats are not overtly affectionate. They take time to trust.
How to establish a bond:
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Allow them to approach you
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Talk gently
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Keep some distance
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Use slow blinks to greet
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Treat with positive reinforcement
A note: All cats have different personalities. Some are cuddlers, some are quieter friends — both are okay.
Key Takeaways
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Provide a protein-based, age-suited diet
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Keep the litter box clean and private
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Create a stimulating and safe environment
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Groom regularly and schedule vet checkups
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Be patient — and let your cat lead the relationship