Cat Parenting: Becoming a Responsible Cat Owner (Part 1)

Taking care of a cat can be quite a responsibility. Even if you’re doing it out of love and passion, you still have to note that cats are not things but life forms with their own characters, too. You’re not just taking them into your home but are choosing them to become part of the family, just like a brother, sister, son, or daughter.

If it is your first time to have a cat for a pet, then you might want to keep tabs on what you’re heading to. It’s because it is easy to lose the passion of caring for a cat, and you wouldn’t want to bring it to a shelter once you find it inconvenient to continue caring for it. Thus, it’s always a great idea to do some research first before taking on the responsibility of being a cat owner.

Be aware that cats have natural behaviours that you will find hard to control.

Cats are independent creatures. Yes, they can be trained to follow your orders and tricks, but you have to keep in mind that these animals like being on their own and doing things at their own pace.

For example, if a cat doesn’t want to be touched and cuddled for a moment, then it is best to respect its space instead of forcing yourself onto it.

They also have habits that can be difficult to break since these have been part of their natural instincts. These include scratching on surfaces, jumping from one level to another, and even squeezing into small spaces.  Be prepared for these behaviours and try to redirect them to more appropriate activities.

You should then accommodate these behaviours and learn to manage them one by one to avoid frustrations over broken drapes, damaged furniture, or having your cat stuck in narrow openings.

Cats need a lot of physical activity.

Cats always easily get bored, and this is why they keep on playing with just about everything. You may find them playing with a ball of yarn, a piece of crumpled paper, pens, any kind of moving object, or just about everything they see that’s lying around the house. While this can be annoying on your end in the long run, you should realize that once they start doing this, it means that your cats are getting bored with life.

What you should do then is to shower them with physical activity by giving them toys, allowing them to go out, and spending time with them for playtime.

Teach your kids how to deal with pet cats.

If you bring in a cat in your family and have kids, expect them to bond with your pet a lot. However, this is also the opportunity for you to teach your children responsible ownership, by telling them the do’s and don’ts when taking care of your pet.

You must teach your kids how to handle cats in various situations, including feeding time, playing with them, and even grooming them. By teaching them the lessons, your kids become at lesser risk of getting hurt while at the same time increasing their bond with your feline friend.

Always keep a water fountain at bay.

Cats are known to be picky drinkers and they prefer running water over still ones. This is why it is important to always have a clean water fountain or bowl available for your cat to drink from. You should then keep a water fountain present at a specific part of the house so they can drink whenever they feel thirsty. A water fountain keeping them hydrated is also essential, as water allows them to maintain the right weight and prevent themselves from becoming obese.

Keeping them hydrated is crucial for their health and well-being, especially since cats have a low thirst drive. Additionally, having a water fountain can also help in keeping your cat’s water clean and fresh, preventing any potential health hazards.

Separate feeding areas for cats and dogs.

If you have both cats and dogs at home, it is important to separate their feeding areas. This is because cats and dogs have different dietary requirements and eating habits. Cats are obligate carnivores and need a high protein diet while dogs are omnivores and can eat a variety of foods. 

Feeding them together may lead to your cat not getting the proper nutrition they need and may cause health issues in the long run. It is also important to keep an eye on your cat’s food intake as they tend to overeat if given the chance.

Establishing separate feeding areas can ensure that each pet gets their own specific diet and avoid any potential conflicts or health problems. This also helps in creating a sense of ownership for your cats when it comes to their food.

Invest in cat health insurance.

Just like humans, cats can also get sick or encounter accidents. Having  cat health insurance can provide you with financial assistance in case your cat needs medical attention.

Ensuring your cat’s health can lead to costly veterinary bills, especially when unexpected illnesses or injuries occur. Cat health insurance can help mitigate these costs and provide peace of mind.

Choose a plan that covers a range of medical issues to ensure that your pet receives the best care possible without the additional financial burden. Cat health insurance can be a practical step towards responsible cat ownership.

Scheduled veterinary check-ups.

Regular veterinary visits are essential for maintaining your cat’s health and catching any problems early. Schedule check-ups at least once a year for healthy adult cats and more frequently for kittens and senior cats. These check-ups often include vaccinations, dental care, and screenings for common feline diseases.

A consistent relationship with a veterinarian can make all the difference in your cat’s long-term well-being. They can provide proper medical advice and treatment for your cat’s specific needs. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or voice any concerns during these check-ups, as it is important to have open communication with your veterinarian.

Proper identification and microchipping.

In the unfortunate event that your cat gets lost, it is important to have proper identification and microchipping to increase their chances of being found.

A lost cat can be a traumatic experience for both the pet and the owner. To increase the chances of a safe return, make sure your cat wears a collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information.  Additionally, consider getting your cat microchipped as a permanent form of identification.

Microchipping is a simple and safe procedure that involves injecting a small chip under your cat’s skin, containing a unique identification number linked to your contact information. In case your cat gets lost or stolen, any animal shelter or veterinarian can scan the chip and reunite you with your beloved pet.

Nutritional balance is key.

Feeding your cat the right type and amount of food is critical for their health. Choose high-quality cat food that is specifically formulated for their age, size, and any underlying health conditions.

Consult with your vet to understand your cat’s specific dietary needs and ensure you’re providing a balanced diet. This includes the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, as well as access to fresh water at all times.

Additionally, avoid giving your cat table scraps or foods that are toxic to them, such as chocolate, onions, or grapes. These can cause digestive issues or even poisoning.

Create a safe and comfortable environment.

Cats are naturally curious and can get themselves into dangerous situations if not properly supervised. Create a safe and comfortable environment for your cat by removing any potential hazards such as toxic plants, small objects they could choke on, or open windows without screens.  Cats also need their own space to retreat when feeling overwhelmed, so provide them with hiding spots like cardboard boxes or cat trees.

Regular playtime and exercise are also important for keeping your cat physically and mentally stimulated, reducing the risk of behavioural issues. Provide them with interactive toys, scratching posts, and perches to keep them entertained and active.

Spaying or neutering your cat.

Spaying or neutering your cat not only prevents unwanted litters but also has several health benefits for your furry friend.

The procedure helps control the cat population and has numerous health benefits for your feline friend. It reduces the risk of certain types of cancer, aggressive behaviour, and roaming in search of a mate, which can lead to accidents or getting lost.

In addition, spaying female cats can prevent uterine infections and breast tumours, while neutering male cats can reduce their risk of testicular cancer and prostate problems.

Spaying and neutering also make sure that your cat doesn’t contribute to the overpopulation of stray cats, which can lead to overcrowded shelters and unfortunate outcomes for these animals. Additionally, there are often low-cost spay/neuter clinics available in many communities, making it an affordable option for pet owners.

Establish a routine.

Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Establishing a consistent daily schedule for feeding, playtime, grooming, and litter box cleaning can help reduce stress and anxiety in your cat. This also makes it easier to spot any changes in their behaviour or health, as you will know what is normal for your furry companion.

As cats age, it may become more important to follow a routine and monitor their health closely. Senior cats may require more frequent veterinary visits, specialised diets, or medication to maintain their health and quality of life. Establishing a routine early on in your cat’s life can help ensure they age gracefully and with the best care possible.

Adding these elements to your routine strengthens the bond between you and your cat and lays a foundation for a healthy, happy pet. Each point underscores the importance of intentional, attentive care, reflecting the multifaceted nature of being a responsible cat parent. With love, patience, and commitment, you can provide the best life possible for your feline friend.  So go ahead and add these tips to your parenting toolbox today!

You cannot keep a cat as a pet if you are not prepared to care for it properly. You’ve read this article in full as you want to be a more responsible pet owner. With proper care and attention, you will rear a loving and healthy cat.