by Vickie Britton

Created on: January 31, 2009

Four Ways To Keep Cats Happy

Cats can seem very complicated creatures. But their wants and needs are really pretty basic. Cats like to eat, sleep, play and they also enjoy companionship. Here are some tips on how to make your cat happy.

Food and water: Cats aren't like humans. They don't mind eating the same thing day after day (after all-feral cats live on a steady diet of mice), and may even get upset by a sudden change in diet. The best thing you can do for your cat is find a good brand of cat food and feed the correct amount every day. Cats are very particular about water. They like fresh water and one special thing you can do for your cat is provide a bowl of clean, fresh water every day.

Sleep: Cats love to sleep, and some of them can sleep up to 18 hours a day. Where should they sleep? That is the big question. Your cat will prefer to sleep in your bed. If you are not allergic to cats, there is no reason why your pet can't snuggle up. Usually, cats can be trained to be quiet sleepers, but most of them like to rise early. If you don't mind getting up at the crack of dawn, then let your cat sleep with you. (most cat owners find that cats seem to get own their way. If you don't let them in they will pound on the door most of the night.) If your bed is not an option, then provide a soft blanket or nice place for the cat to sleep. If you're lucky, the cat will sleep there. Most likely your cat will find it's own place, the place you least want it. Let it have it's way. In fact, letting a cat have its way is one way to keep you both happy.

Play: Cats, and especially kittens, love to play. Usually, they will ignore expensive toys. What cats really like are long strings or ropes with something like an old thread spool tied to the end. If you "go fishing" with such an object, you will soon attract your cat, who will be entertained for as long as you wish to play the game. Cats also like boxes. They can spend hours crawling in and out of them. One nice toy for cats are Cat Cubes a series of fold-up plastic cubes that can be purchased at the pet store, Target or Amazon. This link , Inventorspot, also has some creative and interesting toys for cats who are not content with boxes and string.

Companionship: I'll bet whoever said cats are solitary creatures never had a cat for a pet. Cats will follow you from room to room and show great interest in whatever you are doing, unless you happen to be vacuuming the floor. The best way to make a cat happy is to show it love and let it be a part of your life.

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