How do you spoil your cat? You notice that I didn’t ask if you spoil your cat. I know you do.
But are you spoiling her to death with too much of the foods she shouldn’t be eating? Or letting her play with something that could be a danger? Maybe you’re encouraging her to spend time outside when she really doesn’t have street smarts. Some people allow their cats outside without flea protection. Or they turn a white cat loose. Did you know that white cats that spend a lot of time outside can get sunburned and even cancerous ears? I imagine a hairless cat should also be kept out of the sun.
Cats are living longer these days. It’s wonderful to know that we could have as many as 
eighteen years with our cats. But that number can be greatly decreased for a cat that is obese or one that is attracted to something that’s dangerous to cats such as poisonous plants, chocolate, avocado, or other things that can make a cat sick. Some cats die from eating metallic bows, ribbon, plastic toys, wiring, cleaning supplies, antifreeze, for example.
We can still spoil or kitties without harming them. Here are some ideas:
- Keep your cat inside.
- Identify the things that your cat is attracted to that could be dangerous and find ways to protect your cat from these things.
- Set aside time each day for active play with your cat. Most cats love it when you get down on the floor with him and interact with a wand toy, a ball, or something else interesting.
- Offer your cat, especially as she ages, a comfortable, soft bed. Our cats curl up in their beds in winter, but never during the warmer months.
- Provide a hidey place for your cat and honor her privacy when she needs it.
- Make sure he has a suitable place to climb and scratch on. According to experts, a cat scratches for a variety of reasons—two are to keep claws in shape and to relieve stress.
- Cuddle with your cat. Put her favorite blanket on your lap and entice her for a snuggle.
- Build a perch at a window or move a cat tree near a window for added interest for an indoor cat.
- Bring in a kitty-safe water fountain.
- Keep litter boxes fresh.
- Make sure kitty sees her veterinarian anytime there is a problem, of course, but on a regular basis for a well checkup. Have the vet trim her claws, if need be and weigh her to make sure she’s maintaining a healthy weight.
I’m sure you can add to this list. If you think of something we should include, please leave me a comment.
