September is Happy Cat Month, an event created to remind cat owners of the many benefits our feline friends provide and to return the favor. Studies show cats lower blood pressure and stress and improve cardiovascular and mental health. To help cats find joy in their crucial human-support roles, their owners should consider their unique physical, mental, and emotional needs. The Memorial Animal Hospital team shares our favorite strategies for ensuring all cats are healthy and happy.

Keep up with routine feline wellness care

Physical health is the foundation for a long, happy life. Contrary to the popular belief that cats are healthier than dogs, felines need regular wellness care to maintain good health. Routine veterinary visits, quality food, and home care support feline health. Consider these physical health essentials:

  • Veterinary visits — Annual check-ups help our team catch health issues early when they are easiest to treat. Routine visits also provide an opportunity to discuss vaccination needs, parasite control strategies, behavioral problems, and cat ownership questions.
  • Dental Care — Cats can develop several painful oral conditions that must be identified and addressed through routine cleanings and examinations. With time and patience, you can also train your cat to accept toothbrushing.
  • Nutrition — The proper diet can support total health and help prevent or treat common health issues, including obesity, urinary issues, and sensitive stomachs. Our veterinary team can recommend an appropriate diet for your cat’s life stage and health history.
  • Grooming — Regular brushing reduces shedding, prevents hair matting, and spreads healthy oils through the coat. Many cats enjoy brushing, which can become a favorite reward or bonding activity. 

Create a cat-friendly home

Happy cats feel cozy and comfortable in their own homes and a safe, enriching space can help your cat feel happy and secure. Some components of a cat-friendly environment include:

  • Hiding places – Cozy, elevated beds and partly enclosed spaces provide privacy for cats to rest and retreat. Cat trees, baskets, and cardboard boxes are excellent options.
  • Vertical space — Cats prefer to survey their kingdoms from above. Install window perches or wall shelves to provide high perching spots and create spaces to explore. 
  • Resources – Cats need easy access to essential resources, including clean litter boxes, food, water, and scratching posts, with no competition or harassment from other pets. Offer cats multiple resource stations throughout the home. 

Ensure your cat is physically active

Physical activity helps your cat maintain muscle strength, reduce excess body fat, and meet their instinctual needs to stalk and hunt. You can most easily meet these needs and build a strong bond with play sessions. Experiment with various playtime activities and toys to find what your cat likes best, but ensure you rotate them to maintain your cat’s interest. Interactive toys, food puzzles, catnip, and safe outdoor exploration via a leash or “catio” are great places to start. 

Ensure your cat is mentally stimulated

Cats are intelligent and need mental stimulation to stay sharp. Bored or frustrated cats can feel stressed, leading to health and behavioral issues. In addition to daily play sessions and rotating toys, try the following happy cat tricks:

  • Training — Learn how to use a training clicker and teach your cat fun tricks.
  • Visual stimuli — Set up a comfortable window perch or play engaging videos so your cat can watch birds, squirrels, and other outdoor activities.
  • Social Interaction — Spend quality time with your cat to meet their social needs. Try cuddling, grooming, or simply sitting together to provide companionship and affection.

Happy Cat Month is the ideal time to focus on your feline friend’s happiness and health. Veterinary care, mental enrichment, and a feline-friendly environment can ensure your cat lives a fulfilling life. Contact the Memorial Animal Hospital team to schedule your cat’s next wellness visit or to learn more about feline care needs.