Happy Cat Month

As September and Happy Cat Month draws to an end, I am hoping that a few of you discovered new ways to promote the happiness of your own cat.  In case you didn't, you still have a few more days left to celebrate the cat in your life.

A happy cat is parasite free.  I am still seeing lots of fleas on our furry friends.  There are a good many topical flea control products available to help you keep your cat happy.  When making decisions about which product is best for your cat, consult your veterinarian or their staff.  Not all products are the same.  Remember, these products are insecticides and their use and application should be respected.  Always read the label before applying.

Interact with your cat by teaching it new skills. Cats are smart and can be trained to do fun tricks just like dogs, and the mental and physical stimulation is great for felines. Teaching your cat to sit, for example, is easy, and training your cat to sit on stools instead of counters will make you and your cat much happier. An added bonus is that training will strengthen the relationship between owner and cat, which will certainly make a cat happy. This video from Dr. Sophia Yin, veterinary animal behavioralist, can help.  How to Train a Cat to Sit

Cats are hunters by nature.  Indoor cats often do not get the opportunity to practice or use their hunting skills.  One way to enrich their environment and decrease the incidence of obesity is to have your cat work for food. Food toys are available to channel a cat’s natural hunting drive and release kibble in small amounts. Petsafe's Slimcat interactive feeder is a popular food releasing toy, or simply make your own by purchasing a package of Gladware mini-round 4 oz. container, place food in the container, screw on the lid, and puncture a few holes in the bottom and sides of the container large enough to allow a few kibble fall out when shaken or rolled around on the floor.  Another option is to hide a cat’s food in different places so that they have to find it. (This doesn't work well if you have dogs!!) Working for food makes a cat happy because it’s great physical and mental exercise.

My final word of advise, visit your veterinarian annually for a physical examination with your cat.  Healthy cats are happy cats and happy cats live longer.  Your veterinarian can help you and your cats enjoy a long life together.