Family life

Caring for your cat

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• We love cats at Morrisons and we know that lots of you are cat lovers too. To help you keep your cat healthy and happy throughout its life we’ve got some handy tips for all cat owners old and new.

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  Keeping a kitten safe and happy

  Looking after a kitten is a big responsibility so if you’re thinking of getting one, or have just welcomed a new furry friend into your home we have some helpful advice for you to get them settled and purring.

  • Find a reputable vet – ask other cat owning friends for a recommendation.
  • Serve your kitten fresh food and water everyday, they’ll love you for it.
  • Prepare a litter tray and you’ll avoid unfortunate mishaps. 
  • Buy a quick release collar with a bell and an ID tag in case your kitten gets lost.
  • Make up a comfy bed, but beware they may want to share yours.
  • Kittens love to play so get lots of fun toys for them.
  • Make sure you put their toys away between play sessions as kittens can get bored of them very quickly
  • Get into the habit of brushing your cat’s teeth every day to avoid any dental problems in later life.
  • Buy a scratching post; it’ll help to preserve your furniture.
  • Take loads of photos when they’re at their cutest, you’ll treasure them.

  Learn more about how your kitten will develop here.

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  Fat cats

  Cats can be prone to putting on excess pounds, especially as they get older and less active. One in three cats in the UK is classed as overweight; something that can cause a variety of health issues and even behavioural problems. Follow our simple tips and you should have no trouble helping your cat slim down and stay in trim.

  • Make sure your cat’s condition is regularly assessed by a reputable vet.
  •  Check your cat’s body condition. Simply run your hands around your cat’s flanks and abdomen - you should be able to feel its ribs, if you can’t consult your vet.  
  • If your cat is overweight stop all treats and snacks for at least two weeks, longer if necessary.
  • Consult your vet about gradually cutting down the size of your cat’s main meals for an initial two week period.
  • After a fortnight check your cat’s flanks and abdomen again for any improvement.
  • Continue the diet until your vet has decided that your cat has reached an ideal weight.
  • If your cat likes to roam, feed them before they go out. They’ll be less inclined to go scavenging for more food.
  • Never starve your cat, it isn’t safe and can be damaging to their liver.
  • Diet is only half the story - keep your cat active to burn up calories.

  Get more tips on what sort of food is best for you cat here.

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  Older cats

  On average, cats live longer than dogs. With good medical care, an active lifestyle, lots of love and a little bit of luck a cat can live for twenty years or more. Here are some tips that can help your cat stay in top condition, even at a ripe old age.

  • Keep your cat’s daily routine consistent. This will give them a comfortable, reassuring framework that helps keep them emotionally balanced.
  • Increase your cat’s grooming sessions as this will stimulate and massage any stiff joints.
  • Older cats are prone to gum disease and a build up of tartar so check their teeth regularly.
  • Burning aromatherapy oils can help a cat’s mood. Try basil for depressed or nervous cats, chamomile and lavender to encourage tranquillity, and cinnamon and peppermint to perk up lethargic cats.
  • Your cat’s dietary requirements will change with age as their metabolism slows down, so choose a good quality senior food. 
  • Feed older cats little and often, offering occasional treats if they seem to be losing interest in food.
  • As they age cats become more vocal and dependant on you, so make time for companionship and cuddles.
  • Keep your cat warm by providing a pressure-activated heat pad or a soft-covered hot water bottle. 
  • Make sure you increase the number of regular check ups at the vet so any problems can be detected as early as possible.
  • Cat’s senses diminish with age so serve their food at room temperature; this will give it more taste and smell.

  Have fun with our cat facts and trivia.

• Thanks to Purina PetCare for providing this information. More is available at www.purina.co.uk.