Most people who own cats tend to make the same mistakes over and over. Usually it is from comparing cats with dogs and assuming that all feline behaviors are similar. Usually cats will hide illnesses and conditions way better than dogs. With that being said, cats will tend to be fussier about their living conditions way more than a dog. A cat will be very specific on the kind of food they eat and tend to not be as hyperactive and playful like dogs.
What makes cats different
Because cats can't produce all the nutrients they require, they are obligate carnivores. For instance, they can't produce enough taurine and therefore must get it from their prey. A cat that eats only dog food or vegetarian food will get sick because it's not getting all the nutrients it requires.
Cats are designed to mask weakness. A cat that looks weak to predators is prey. Because of this, signs of illness may not be evident until the cat is significantly unwell. Some subtle changes in a cat’s behavior can indicate illness, and should not be ignored. These can include things like a sudden change in appetite or sleeping location, as well as missing the litter box.
They are extremely territorial. A new neighboring cat, change in litter location, or even a move to a new house can result in previously friendly cats becoming aggressive.
Taking on a cat
It is often easier to start with an adult cat from a rescue. That way, the cat's personality and behavior have already developed, and the rescue can give you you information on things like the cat's affinity for being picked up, how it feels about kids, and its preferences for other cats. Also, most rescues have their cats spayed or neutered and vets give the cats basic shots and a microchip.
Charities that rehome kittens typically wait until the kittens are eight weeks old, and then some longer still. This is for good reason, as kittens that are offered for sale at an earlier age should raise a red flag for the consumer regarding the seller.
Feeding
Feed your cat several small meals a day. Most cats will eat a few small meals throughout the day if given the chance. This is how they naturally tend to eat since they are predators and hunting is what provides them their meals.
Cats generally do not have a strong instinct to drink. Therefore, many cats do not get enough fluids. Water from food has to be consumed as a separate source. In addition, many cats prefer to consume water that is not near their food. Some cats will also like drinking water from a fountain.
Milk is not essential to a cat’s diet, and in fact, many adult cats are lactose intolerant since they no longer have the enzyme to digest lactose after being weaned.
Indoor cats and grooming
Keeping a cat indoors is a way to protect them from road traffic and is often practiced in flats. Indoors cats, however, need more from their owners. They need places to climb, scratch and hide. Indoor cats get bored easily and unstimulated cats can lead to behavioral problems. Indoor cats need to be engaged in play to expend their predatory energy.
Cats with short hair usually groom themselves. Long-haired cats, especially Persians and Maine Coons, require daily brushing. Long hair becomes matted if not brushed. All cats should be given a gentle once-over. While doing this, you may discover fleas, bumps and/or sore spots.
The microchipping law
From 10 June 2024, it will be mandatory for owners of cats in England to have their cats microchipped and the owner information on a national database by the time the cats turn 20 weeks old. Owners can be given 21 days to comply to the order and face a fine of up to £500. Cats that are kept indoors are included in this regulation.
The law applies to all of England. Currently, no laws in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland require owners to get their cats chipped. However, all of the cat charities in the UK recommend getting cats chipped.
Source: The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023, legislation.gov.uk
Source: Cats Protection, "Microchipping your cat"
Neutering and vaccinations
Cats Protection advises neutering cats at four months old to prevent females from producing large numbers of kittens. One cat can have up to four litters in a year. Neutering means that males will not have the urge to roam and fight. As a result, there will be less stray cats.
core vaccinations protect against diseases such as cat flu and feline enteritis. It is also recommended that outdoor cats get vaccinations against feline leukaemia. Your vet will create a vaccination schedule for you when your cat is about 8 or 9 weeks of age.
Plants and things that poison cats
Liles are one of the most toxic flowers to cats. The entire plant is poisonous, including pollen, and water in the vase. The poison can even be found on the plant’s seeds. If eaten, the plant can cause kidney failure in cats. Play it safe, and don’t let your cats be exposed to the plant by keeping lilies out of your house.
Keep away from these: antifreeze (yum but fatal to cats), acetaminophen (other human painkillers should be ok, but better safe than sorry) and any flea treatments containing permethrin (common in dog treatments, deadly to cats).
When to call the vet
Male cats, especially, block easily and require immediate veterinary attention when this occurs. A cat that is blocking will strain to urinate but very little (or no) urine will come out. If you notice a cat blocking, take the cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
All of the above should also prompt an immediate visit. Annual check-ups on older cats help catch dental disease and weight related problems which can lead to kidney failure, problems which are common in this age group.