According to the most recent survey by the Canadian Animal Health Institute, there are approximately 8.5 million cats in the country and that number is growing. But how many pet owners know what their cats need to thrive?
Experts say they need care that goes beyond the basics of food and water and many owners are unaware of their feline friend’s basic needs.
Domestic cats have been pets for humans for 10,000 to 12,000 years according to Alley Cat Allies, and they haven’t changed much in appearance, diet and maintenance. Considered a more independent household cat that can adapt to different environments while still being very social.
Cats are nocturnal animals that spend most of the day sleeping and especially younger cats, that run around most of the night. Like any other pet, they need mental stimulation while also needing environmental enrichment to ensure they are happy and active.
Cat scratchers, cat trees, small toys, wands and time with cats are just some of the things that keep cats mentally happy while also keeping them in physical shape. A cat needs a mix of wet food while also being fed kibble and a water fountain to increase water consumption, which helps urinary health.
“Cats need environmental enrichment, they need playtime with their owners and they need companionship,” said Kelsey Watkiss, the manager at Pisces Pet Emporium.
Cats are low-maintenance pets that enjoy a variety of activities to keep them stimulated and mentally happy. Improving a cat’s environment not only reduces the chances of behavioral problems but also increases their activity levels. To create a relaxing indoor experience for cats, it’s important to provide them with activities, spacious areas and plenty of food.
Basics of cat care
Watkiss has worked with Pisces for over 20 years and has learned the ins and outs of cat care. Through meeting cat owners and the Cats Home Foundation, she learned about the basics of cats and the behaviors that cause more harm than good.
The foundation is determined to educate cat owners and the public on the importance of proper care and maintenance of cats, reducing the number of cats on the streets while uncovering myths. A widespread myth is that cats need to be declawed.
“Through the Cats Home Foundation, they don’t condone debunking,” Watkiss said. “But surprisingly enough, many people are still unaware of the damage that declawing can do.”
Declawing is the cutting of a cat’s toe bones, says The Humane Society of The United States. When a cat is declawed, it can lead to foot pain, back pain, infection, tissue loss and loss of movement, due to the removal of the last toe joint.
The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association banned the practice in 2019. Other provinces, including Saskatchewan and BC, have followed suit.
A healthy cat is a safe cat
According to All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, vaccinations, spayed and neutering are also beneficial to a cat’s health to increase their chances of survival. This will help ensure that the cat is healthy which can reduce the spread of disease and cancer.
Promoting cat welfare and reducing cat overpopulation is beneficial to all cats as there will be fewer deaths related to starvation, diseases and winter conditions. Watkiss believes that every cat deserves a happy life, and the Cats Home Foundation provides all the necessary care to make this happen.
“We all love cats and everyone should know how great cats are!”
