Every cat needs love and proper care. But that’s not the only thing.
Cats are stubborn, enterprising and sensitive. They are complex critters. But once you know what they need, you will make your cat the happiest in the world. Of course, good grooming, medical care, a clean environment and lots of love and attention are super important. But your cat needs more. And we’ll tell you what that is here.
Cats and their instincts
Like any animal, cats have innate instincts. For example, they are real hunters and they like to mark their territory. Therefore, give your cat the opportunity every day to do something with those instincts. This is because it will make him happy and prevent him from becoming bored and stressed. Does that seem difficult to you? Fortunately, it is not – in fact, it is much easier than you think. Here we tell you about your cat’s 4 most important instincts and how you can support them.
Climbing
Cats like to keep an eye on everything and see in time when danger threatens. That’s why they feel most comfortable in high places. Does your cat often climb the curtains or up against the back of your armchair? Then do not punish him, because it only means that he is looking for a safe place in the house. Don’t have any high spots in your house? Then fortunately you can easily solve that by placing a high scratching furniture with sleeping and viewing areas. And place it preferably near a window, because then your tiger can look outside. And when it comes to scratching furniture, the higher the better!
Withdraw
Even cats living in a group need some time to themselves every now and then. Therefore, always keep this rule: for every cat living with you, you need at least one room. Then they can retreat when they feel the need. Do you have two or more cats, but they are only allowed in the living room, for example? Then provide cat furniture with multiple tiers and hiding places. Then they always have a place to quietly recover from all they have experienced that day.
Hunting
Does your cat often look out the window? If so, your cat is not curious about who all is walking by. No, he’s busy observing what’s moving outside, such as leaves, mice, birds and insects – all potential prey. And even if your cat gets enough to eat and hunting is no longer necessary, his hunting instinct will remain. Therefore, make sure he can look outside. And more importantly, play with him regularly. Cats love to stalk and pounce on feathers and toy mice.
Crabs
Every cat needs to scratch something daily. They scratch first of all to groom their nails. But also to mark their territory, because by scratching they leave their own scent and say to intruders: this is mine! Another important scratching reason: cats scratch to stay relaxed, because by scratching very enthusiastically for a moment they lower their stress level.
Does your cat ever scratch your furniture? Then that means you don’t have enough scratching facilities. All indoor and outdoor cats need somewhere to scratch. Therefore, make sure you have enough cat trees in the house. Because then you will make your cat very happy and you will keep your furniture beautiful!
Read more about cat allergies and how to manage them
Disclaimer: Petrebels does not consist of veterinarians or behavioral experts: all content, information and tips on this blog are intended to inspire and inform you. Does your cat have complaints or problems and do you have doubts about your cat’s health? Then always go to the vet or a behavioral expert.
