Hey cat lovers! Welcome back to our channel, where we discuss everything you need to know to keep your feline friend happy and healthy. Today, we’re diving into an essential topic: 21 things you should NEVER do to your cat. These tips will help you provide the best care for your kitty, ensuring they live a long, contented life. If you enjoy this kind of content, don’t forget to subscribe for more cat videos!
1. Bathe Your Cat
Let’s kick things off with a common misconception: cats need regular baths. In reality, bathing can be highly traumatizing for cats. Our feline friends are meticulous groomers and generally do a fantastic job of keeping themselves clean. Unless your cat is unable to groom due to illness or they’ve gotten into something extremely dirty, it’s best to avoid bathing them. Instead, use cat-safe wipes or regular brushing to maintain their coat’s cleanliness.
2. Bring Toxic Plants into Your House
Houseplants can brighten up your home, but many common plants are toxic to cats. Lilies, for example, can cause severe kidney damage if ingested. Cats are naturally curious and excellent climbers, so simply placing plants out of reach isn’t always enough. Before bringing any plant into your house, ensure it’s safe for cats by checking verified sources like the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
3. Declaw Your Cat
Declawing might seem like a harmless way to protect your furniture, but it’s actually a severe procedure. Declawing involves amputating the last bone of each toe, which can cause intense pain, behavioral changes, and long-term physical issues. Many countries and U.S. states have banned this inhumane practice. Instead, provide scratching posts and regularly trim your cat’s nails to manage their natural scratching behavior.
4. Fail to Provide Vertical Space
Cats love to climb and explore vertical spaces. Providing cat trees, shelves, or other vertical structures can make your home a feline paradise. This vertical territory helps satisfy their natural instincts, provides exercise, and reduces boredom. It also offers a safe space for cats to retreat and observe their surroundings from a height.
5. Feed Your Cat Only Dry Food
While dry food is convenient, it doesn’t provide the necessary hydration cats need. Cats often don’t drink enough water on their own, leading to dehydration. Incorporating wet food into their diet ensures they get the moisture they need, promoting better kidney health and preventing urinary tract issues. A balanced diet of wet and dry food is the best approach for your cat’s overall well-being.
6. Force Your Cat to Snuggle
We all love cuddling with our pets, but it’s crucial to respect your cat’s boundaries. Forcing your cat to snuggle when they don’t want to can lead to stress and anxiety. Cats appreciate their alone time and will come to you when they’re ready for affection. Pay attention to their body language and let them initiate cuddles.
7. Free Feed Your Cat
Free feeding, or leaving food out all day, can lead to overeating and obesity. Instead, establish regular feeding times and portion control to maintain a healthy weight for your cat. If you have a busy lifestyle, consider using an automatic feeder to dispense measured amounts of food at scheduled times.
8. Give Your Cat Bones
Unlike dogs, cats should not be given bones to chew on. Bones can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. Always ensure that any meat you feed your cat is free of bones to avoid a potentially devastating trip to the veterinarian.
9. Give Your Cat Dairy
Despite popular belief, most cats are lactose intolerant. While they might enjoy the taste of milk or cheese, dairy can lead to digestive issues like upset stomachs and diarrhea. Stick to lactose-free treats or specially formulated cat milk to avoid these problems.
10. Give Your Cat Non-Cat Medications
Never administer medications to your cat that aren’t specifically designed for them. Many human and dog medications contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always consult your veterinarian before giving your cat any medication to ensure their safety.
11. Ignore Changes in Behavior
Cats often show pain or illness in subtle ways. If you notice changes in your cat’s behavior, such as excessive hiding, lethargy, or anxiety, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. These changes can indicate underlying health issues that need professional attention.
12. Leave Windows and Doors Open
Cats are natural escape artists, and open windows or doors are invitations for adventure. Ensure all windows and doors are securely closed or have screens that your cat cannot push out. This will keep your feline friend safe inside your home.
13. Leave Your Cat Alone for Long Periods
While cats are independent, they still need companionship. Leaving your cat alone for more than 8-10 hours can lead to loneliness and anxiety. If you’re going to be away for an extended period, arrange for someone to check on your cat or consider hiring a pet sitter.
14. Let the Litter Box Get Dirty
A dirty litter box is not only unpleasant for you but also for your cat. Cats are very particular about their bathroom habits, and a filthy litter box can lead to litter box aversion. Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter regularly to maintain a clean environment for your cat.
15. Let Your Cat Get Bored
Cats need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Boredom can lead to destructive behaviors and stress. Invest in interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular playtime to keep your cat engaged. Even simple activities like playing with a laser pointer or hiding treats around the house can provide much-needed enrichment.
16. Let Your Cat Play with Yarn or String
While it might look adorable, playing with yarn or string can be dangerous for cats. They can easily swallow pieces, which can cause serious digestive issues. Instead, opt for cat-safe toys that won’t pose a risk to their health.
17. Not Brush Your Cat
Regular brushing is essential for your cat’s fur health. It helps prevent knots, reduces shedding, and stimulates their skin’s sebaceous glands, keeping their coat shiny and healthy. Brushing also minimizes hairballs and allows you to check for fleas or other skin issues.
18. Punish Your Cat
Punishing your cat for bad behavior is ineffective and harmful. Cats do not understand punishment and may become fearful or anxious. Instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Reward your cat with treats and praise when they exhibit behaviors you want to see more of.
19. Put Off Trips to the Vet
Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for your cat’s health. Many health issues are not visible to the untrained eye, and only a professional can catch early signs of illness. Ensure your cat visits the vet at least once a year for a comprehensive health check.
20. Remove Meat from Your Cat’s Diet
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a meat-based diet to thrive. Removing meat from their diet can lead to severe health issues and even death. Ensure your cat’s diet includes high-quality animal proteins to meet their nutritional needs.
21. Shave Your Cat
Cats need their fur to regulate their body temperature and protect their skin. Shaving your cat, unless medically necessary, can be harmful. In cases where shaving is required, always seek advice from your veterinarian on how to do it safely.
22. Skip Heartworm and Flea Treatments
Even indoor cats need protection from heartworms, fleas, and other parasites. These pests can easily enter your home on clothes, shoes, or through windows. Regular preventative treatments are essential to keep your cat healthy and parasite-free.
Conclusion
There you have it—21 things you should never do to your cat to ensure they lead a happy, healthy life. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll foster a loving and trusting relationship with your feline companion. If you found this video helpful, please give it a thumbs up and share it with other cat lovers. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more tips and advice on caring for your cat. Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you next cat day for another video!
