It’s no wonder that cats are some of America’s most treasured pets. Between their sweet charms and smart personalities, they have everything going for them. But what if there were some things your cat wanted to tell you? Here are 7 things we think your cat would want to be sure you knew, straight from the cat’s mouth!
1. I love the outdoors, but I will live longer if you let me inside.
The great outdoors seems more like my natural habitat, with all kinds of wonders to explore and stalk. However, it is not the best place to live. Did you know that I only have between 2 and 5 years to live while living outdoors? That is awfully short! However, if you keep me home in the warmth and friendliness of your home, I can live to be 17! Which means 15 more years of sweet hugs and kisses from me just for you.
2. Maúo only for you, not for other cats.
Cats don’t need to meow at other cats, aside from the occasional hissing attacks we have when we feel threatened. We just meow at you humans! When we are kittens, we meow to tell our mom when we need food or a little extra comfort. As adult cats, we don’t need to meow except to talk to you to tell you when we’re hungry, want to say hello, or if something is wrong. And the more you talk to us, the more we talk to you!
3. I need more than dry cat food, please.
Not only do I look like a tiger … I also need to eat like one! As a cat, I am a true carnivore, which means I need a meat-based diet. Of course, I like to eat dry food to chew during the day, but it is not the healthiest diet if I only eat dry food. I am more prone to obesity and diabetes than my furry friends who live on a wet food diet.
4. I need you to spend time interacting with me from time to time; I’m getting bored.
When you go to work, I get sad! I love companionship. If I don’t have a sister or brother to play with, I need even more company. When you get home, don’t just play games on your phone or watch TV. Spend some time with me and activate my senses! Play with me with some cat toys and give me some exercise while you also give us a chance to bond, just humans and cats. Not only will I love you for it, but it will tire me out a bit too, so I’m ready for bedtime.
5. Sitting with me can help reduce your stress and your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Did you know that owning me reduces the risk of having a stroke by a third? It’s true! My sweet little furry spirit can help reduce your stress and anxiety and can also help you heal with the vibrations from my purrs.
6. Don’t be mad at me for scratching me, I HAVE to scratch myself!
When you see me scratching your furniture, it’s not because I want to destroy your sofa. I really just need a good place where I can stretch my feet and claws! I also need to get rid of some of the outer layers of my claws when they get old and brittle. Sometimes I scratch things to mark my territory leaving claw marks and a scent. Please don’t be mad at me, it’s my instinct! A good way to remedy this is to scrape some trees or poles. This way I know that there is a safe place where I can stretch and scratch on a daily basis.
7. Just because you say my name does not mean that I will go.
No matter how cute my cat’s name is, you can call him a million times and he could still look out the window. Believe me, I know my name. I’ve learned it from all the times you’ve told me. Since I am a cat, I have no obligation to obey him like Fido the neighbor does. If you call a dog, it will come running immediately because you are higher up in the hierarchy. None of that matters to me. I remember everything from the last time you made me take that disgusting medicine to the other time you took me to the vet. It doesn’t mean I don’t love you, I just choose to do things my way.
Hopefully, these cat care tips will help you get closer to your little feline and will also help your kitty live the healthiest life possible so she can spend more time being your companion.