Ten Ways to Make Your Cat Happy on National Cat Day!

Every year on October 29th, we celebrate National Cat Day. The real meaning behind this special date is so much more than pampering your sweet kitty and spoiling them with extra treats and toys. This day was originally celebrated in 2005 to raise awareness on how many cats are homeless and how many cats are still waiting to be adopted. This would be a perfect opportunity for you to go out and adopt a new family member. Or simply share one you see on Social media, to help their chances of finding a home. We of course encourage you to celebrate your perfect feline friend and make this their special day.

In honor of National Cat Day, the CATalyst Council, a national initiative comprised of animal health and welfare organizations working on behalf of cats, has released a list of the top 10 ways cat owners can keep their cats happy:

1.   Provide toys. One of the easiest ways to make a cat happy is with a new toy. Every cat has a preference as to what type of toy it likes best, and experimenting with different kinds will be fun for both you and your cat.

2.   Train together. Cats are smart and can be trained to do fun tricks–the mental and physical stimulation is great for felines. Teaching your cat to sit, for example, is easy, and training your cat to sit on stools instead of counters will make you and your cat much happier. An added bonus is that training will strengthen the bond between you and your feline buddy.

3.   Work for food. Feline obesity is a huge problem in this country (not to make a pun), and one way to combat it is to make cats work for their food. Food toys are available to channel a cat’s natural hunting instincts. The toy releases kibble in small amounts. Another option is to hide a cat’s food in different places so that they have to find it. Working for food makes a cat happy because it’s great physical and mental exercise. We carry Hypoallergenic Feline Treats on our online Home Delivery Store.

4.   Get your cat acclimated to the carrier. Many cat owners find that the worst part about taking their cat anywhere is getting it into the carrier. The time to work with your cat on making their carrier seem like a safe, secure and inviting place to be is prior to veterinary visits or family vacations – not when you’re ready to get into the car.

5.   Visit your veterinarian. Healthy cats are happy cats. While some owners may dread a trip to the veterinarian, our practices are cat friendly and have board-certified doctors who specialize in cats and will gladly show leery owners how pleasant a trip to the veterinarian can be. We have six locations and pet taxi service.

6.   Microchip your cat. In addition to a collar and identification tag, owners should ask their veterinarian about microchipping their feline friend. If a cat ever escapes or gets lost, having this type of permanent ID will make a reunion between you and your pet much more likely.

7.   Go outside (appropriately). Yes! There are ways owners can safely take their cats outside to allow them to broaden their horizons. Cats can be walked on a leash with a harness or confined in a special outdoor area—always under supervision, of course—so they can periodically and safely experience the world outside their window.

8.   Scratch the surface. Cats should have places they are allowed to stretch and care for their claws. Scratching is an important aspect of feline behavior. Providing a long and sturdy scratching post in a vertical, horizontal or angled position is a good way to keep your cat happy … and your sofa, too!

9.   Provide preventive medications. No one likes fleas, ticks, mites or heartworms, especially your cat. Even if your cat is kept strictly indoors, they can still be attacked by these little creepy creatures. A parasite-free cat is a happy cat—and preventive care will keep your family healthier, too. Our online store stocks just about any and every pet medication and pharmaceutical supply you might need.  Use our convenient online ordering to have your pet meds delivered right to your door! Your veterinarian is always your best source for pet medications, pet vitamins, pet supplements and pet supplies. We provide only U.S. FDA/EPA approved pet medications.

10.  Think about getting another cat. Cats are social animals, so you might want to consider visiting the shelter and adopting a best buddy for your current kitty. We also have many adorable kitties up for adoption that are looking for their forever homes. Cats love to play, and a playmate will make them happy—provided they are properly introduced and have the right places to eat, hide, play and go the bathroom. You can also drop off your kitty at our Kitty Day Care for some playtime. Visit your community animal shelter and see what feline friends they have to offer.