Cats

Everything you want to know about cat feeding, care and training. Also, find the right products for your cat, including food and treats.

Learn about cats

Have you recently added a feline friend to your family? Congratulations! We know you will be delighted to have a new cat in your home. If you’re considering adopting a cat, visit your local shelter. We encourage you to browse the category of adoptive cats in your area or use our shelter locator to start your search.

Read on for helpful tips for new cat owners and those looking to improve their pet care skills.

Feeding

We recommend buying high-quality, brand-name cat or kitten food. Your vet will be able to evaluate your new cat or kitten and determine the best diet. Factors like age, activity level and health make a difference in what and how much a cat should eat.

Cats require taurine, an essential amino acid, for heart and eye health. The food you choose should be balanced for your cat’s or kitten’s life stage. Properly balanced foods will contain taurine.
You must provide fresh, clean water at all times, and wash and refill your cat’s water bowls daily.

Treats should not be more than 5-10% of the diet.
Many people give baby food to a cat or kitten that refuses food or is not feeling well. Read labels carefully – if baby food contains onion or garlic powder, your pet could be poisoned.

Take your pet to your vet if signs of anorexia, diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy continue for more than two days.

Cleanliness

Most cats stay relatively clean and rarely need a bath, but you should brush or comb your cat regularly. Frequent brushing helps keep your cat’s coat clean, reduces the amount of shedding, and reduces the incidence of hairballs. Visit our Cat Grooming Tips page for more information.

Driving

To pick up your cat, place one hand behind the front legs and one hand under the hindquarters. lift gently. Never pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck or by the front legs.

Accommodation

Your pet should have its own clean, dry place in your home to sleep and rest. Cover your cat’s bed with a soft, warm blanket or towel. Be sure to wash the bedding often. Please keep your cat inside. Outdoor cats do not live as long as indoor cats. Outdoor cats are at risk of trauma from cars or fights with other roaming cats, raccoons, and dogs. Coyotes have been known to eat cats.

Outdoor cats are more likely to become infested with fleas or ticks, as well as contract infectious diseases.