Signs of a Healthy Cat (And When to Call the Vet)

Cats are mysterious, independent creatures—but they’re also experts at hiding when something’s wrong. In the wild, showing weakness could make them vulnerable, so even our pampered house cats often mask pain or illness until problems are advanced. For cat owners, this means learning to recognize the signs of a healthy cat is just as important as knowing when to seek veterinary help.

In this post, we’ll walk through the hallmarks of good feline health, from physical indicators to behavioral clues, and cover the red flags that mean it’s time to call the vet.

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Physical Signs of a Healthy Cat

Bright Eyes

A healthy cat’s eyes should be clear, bright, and free of discharge. The whites of the eyes should look normal, not yellowed (a sign of jaundice) or bloodshot. Pupils should react to light and appear equal in size. Occasional tearing is fine, but persistent discharge or squinting is a reason to schedule a vet visit.

Clean Ears

Healthy ears are pink inside with minimal wax and no foul odor. Cats should not be scratching or shaking their heads excessively. Brown buildup, redness, or a yeasty smell can indicate ear mites or infection.

Glossy Coat and Healthy Skin

A shiny, smooth coat is a classic indicator of good health. Skin should be free from scabs, bald patches, or sores. If your cat is grooming excessively, losing fur, or has flaky, dull fur, it could signal allergies, parasites, or nutritional deficiencies.

Strong Teeth and Gums

Healthy feline gums are pink (or appropriate for the cat’s natural pigmentation), and teeth should be clean without excessive tartar. Bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating may point to dental disease—one of the most common but overlooked feline health issues.

Normal Weight

A healthy cat has a sleek but not bony body, with a waist you can see from above and ribs you can feel but not see. Obesity is common in house cats and leads to serious issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. On the flip side, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of illness.

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Behavioral Signs of a Healthy Cat

Regular Appetite

Healthy cats generally have a consistent appetite. While some may graze throughout the day, others prefer set meal times. A sudden change—either refusing food or ravenously overeating—deserves attention.

Steady Energy Levels

Every cat has its own personality, but a healthy cat should have predictable activity levels. Kittens and young adults often have bursts of energy followed by naps, while seniors may be more mellow. A drastic decrease in playfulness or activity could mean your cat isn’t feeling well.

Grooming Habits

Cats are fastidious groomers. A healthy cat keeps its coat clean and free of debris. If your cat suddenly stops grooming, appears unkempt, or spends an excessive amount of time licking one area, it’s often a sign something is wrong.

Normal Litter Box Behavior

One of the clearest indicators of health is what you find in the litter box. Healthy cats urinate and defecate regularly with no straining, blood, or drastic changes in frequency. Accidents outside the box, especially in cats who are usually well-trained, often point to urinary tract issues or stress.

Social and Emotional Cues

Healthy cats show interest in their surroundings, interact with their humans (in their own way), and may seek affection or play. A sudden withdrawal from social interaction or hiding more than usual can indicate stress or illness.

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Preventative Care That Supports Health

Nutrition

A balanced diet is the foundation of good health. Quality cat food with the right balance of protein, fat, and nutrients is essential. Avoid sudden diet changes, and make sure your cat always has access to fresh water.

Veterinary Checkups

Annual vet visits (or biannual for senior cats) help catch issues before they become serious. Regular vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care are vital parts of keeping your cat in top shape.

Environment

Healthy cats need mental and physical stimulation. Provide scratching posts, climbing spaces, toys, and safe outdoor experiences (like catios or supervised harness walks) to keep their bodies and minds active.

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When to Call the Vet

Even if your cat seems mostly fine, there are certain symptoms that should never be ignored. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Straining to urinate or no urine output (this can be life-threatening in males)
• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing
• Limping, weakness, or difficulty moving
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Swelling, lumps, or unexplained wounds
• Behavioral changes such as aggression, confusion, or withdrawal

Cats may be skilled at hiding illness, but their bodies and habits always reveal clues. Trust your instincts—if your cat doesn’t seem right, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

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Final Thoughts

A healthy cat is a happy cat, and small daily observations can help you keep track of your feline friend’s well-being. By paying attention to physical signs like coat quality, appetite, and litter box habits, as well as behavioral shifts, you’ll be more likely to catch problems early.

Combine this watchfulness with regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and an enriched environment, and you’ll give your cat the best chance at a long, comfortable, and joyful life.

Remember: your cat may not be able to tell you when something’s wrong—but with a keen eye, you’ll be able to speak their silent language of health.

Cat-Proofing Your Home – Safety Tips for New (and Experienced) Owners

Bringing a cat into your home is an exciting and joyful experience, but it also comes with responsibilities you might not have considered at first. Cats are naturally curious, agile, and often mischievous creatures who can leap to high shelves, squeeze into tight spaces, and bat around anything that catches their eye. What seems harmless to us can sometimes pose serious risks to them.

That’s why cat-proofing your home is one of the most important steps in providing a safe and happy environment for your feline friend. Whether you’re welcoming a playful kitten for the first time or you’ve had cats for years, these tips will help you identify potential hazards and create a space that balances safety with your cat’s instinct to explore.

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Why Cat-Proofing Matters

Cats are masters of curiosity. A dangling cord, a shiny plant leaf, or an unattended cup on the counter is an irresistible invitation to investigate. But this curiosity can lead to:

• Accidental injuries from falls, burns, or sharp objects.
• Poisoning from common household plants, foods, or cleaning products.
• Choking hazards from small items like hair ties or string.
• Escape risks if windows, screens, or doors aren’t secure.

The good news is that with some planning and awareness, you can dramatically reduce these risks while still allowing your cat to enjoy their natural sense of adventure.

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Step 1: Start With the Basics – Cords, Wires, and Small Objects

Cats love to chew, bat, and tug at anything that dangles or rolls. Electrical cords, charging cables, and headphone wires can be especially dangerous if chewed through.

What to do:

• Use cord protectors or plastic tubing to cover exposed wires.
• Bundle cords neatly and tuck them behind furniture where paws can’t reach.
• Store hair ties, rubber bands, paperclips, and other small objects in drawers. (These are classic choking hazards.)

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Step 2: Check Plants and Flowers

Many cat owners are surprised to learn how many common plants are toxic to cats. Lilies, for example, can cause kidney failure—even from small exposures like licking pollen off their fur.

Safer alternatives include cat grass, spider plants, or catnip.

What to do:

• Remove or relocate toxic plants to areas your cat cannot access.
• Double-check bouquets before bringing them home.
• Consider building a dedicated “cat-safe plant corner” with approved greenery for enrichment.

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Step 3: Secure Food and Kitchen Hazards

Cats are curious about what’s on the counter or in the trash, but many human foods are dangerous for them. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine are just a few that can cause serious illness.

What to do:

• Store food securely in sealed containers or cabinets.
• Keep trash bins covered or inside a closed cupboard.
• Never leave hot stovetops or open flames unattended around cats.

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Step 4: Windows, Screens, and Escape Risks

Cats love to perch at windows, but unsecured screens or open windows can be a recipe for disaster. Even indoor-only cats can dart through an open door before you realize what’s happening.

What to do:

• Make sure all windows have sturdy, secure screens.
• Install baby gates or barriers near doors if your cat tends to make escape attempts.
• Microchip and collar your cat with ID, just in case curiosity gets the best of them.

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Step 5: Laundry Rooms, Closets, and Hidden Spaces

Cats often hide in cozy, dark spaces—sometimes where it’s least safe. Washing machines, dryers, and closets are favorite hideouts.

What to do:

• Always check your washer and dryer before running a cycle.
• Keep appliances closed when not in use.
• Close closet doors if they contain cleaning supplies, chemicals, or small hazards.

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Step 6: Bathrooms and Toiletries

Toilets, shampoos, and medications all present risks in the bathroom. Cats may try to drink toilet water or play with pill bottles left on the counter.

What to do:

• Keep toilet lids closed.
• Store medications and cleaning products in cabinets.
• Tidy up small items like floss, cotton swabs, and hairpins.

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Step 7: Furniture and Climbing Hazards

Cats love to climb, but unsecured shelves or top-heavy furniture can topple under their weight.

What to do:

• Anchor bookshelves, dressers, and televisions to the wall.
• Avoid displaying fragile items on shelves your cat can reach.
• Provide safe climbing alternatives like cat trees or wall-mounted perches.

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Step 8: Provide Safe Alternatives

Cat-proofing isn’t just about taking things away—it’s about giving your cat safe and enriching alternatives to satisfy their instincts.

Ideas:

• Scratching posts and pads to deter them from furniture.
• Cat trees, tunnels, and shelves for climbing and hiding.
• Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to keep them engaged.
• Window perches so they can safely bird-watch.

By redirecting their energy, you’ll save your belongings and keep your cat mentally stimulated.

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Step 9: Think About Guests and Holidays

Parties, visitors, and seasonal decorations can bring new risks. Tinsel, ribbon, candles, and string lights are especially tempting for cats and can cause choking or digestive issues.

What to do:

• Supervise your cat around holiday décor.
• Secure or skip decorations that involve string, ribbon, or dangling objects.
• Remind guests not to leave doors open.

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Step 10: Ongoing Vigilance

Cats change as they age, and their habits evolve. A kitten may need different protections than a calm senior cat. Regularly reassess your home as your cat grows, and stay alert for new hazards.

Pro tip: Get down on your hands and knees and look at your home from a cat’s perspective—you might be surprised what you find!

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The Bottom Line

Cat-proofing your home isn’t about restricting your feline’s fun—it’s about creating a safe environment that lets them play, explore, and thrive without unnecessary risks. By paying attention to plants, cords, small objects, escape routes, and household hazards, you’ll prevent accidents before they happen and enjoy peace of mind knowing your cat is secure.

At the end of the day, a little preparation goes a long way. With a safe space, your cat can focus on what they do best: being curious, playful, and a beloved member of your family.

Scratching Behavior Explained – Why Cats Scratch and How to Redirect It

If you’ve ever come home to find your couch clawed, your rug shredded, or your favorite chair sporting fresh scratch marks, you’re not alone. Scratching is one of the most common feline behaviors that puzzles and frustrates cat owners. But here’s the truth: scratching isn’t misbehavior—it’s a deeply natural, healthy, and necessary activity for your cat.

Understanding why cats scratch is the first step toward protecting your furniture and giving your cat what they need. With the right tools, redirection, and a little patience, you can live in harmony with your cat’s claws without feeling like you’re losing the battle against destruction.

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Why Do Cats Scratch?

Scratching serves several important functions for cats. It’s not just about keeping their claws sharp—it’s about their physical and emotional health, too.

1. Claw Maintenance
   Cats’ claws naturally grow in layers. Scratching helps shed the outer layers, keeping the claws sharp, clean, and healthy. Without scratching, cats’ claws could become overgrown or split.

2. Muscle Stretching
   When cats dig in with their claws and pull down or back, they stretch the muscles in their shoulders, back, and legs. It’s their version of a yoga session!

3. Territory Marking
   Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch, they leave both a visual mark and a scent mark behind, telling other cats: “This space is mine.”

4. Stress Relief
   Scratching is also emotional. Cats scratch more when they’re excited, stressed, or seeking comfort. You might notice your cat scratch after you come home from work—it’s their way of releasing pent-up energy and emotion.

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Why Cats Scratch Furniture (Instead of Scratchers)

If scratching is so natural, why does it always seem to happen on couches, door frames, and rugs instead of those scratching posts you so carefully bought? The answer usually comes down to three things: location, texture, and size.

• Location: Cats want to scratch where they spend their time. A lonely scratching post tucked in the basement won’t get much use.
• Texture: Cats prefer sturdy, shreddable materials. Upholstery, sisal rope, and cardboard are favorites. If the scratching post doesn’t feel good under their claws, they won’t use it.
• Size and Stability: Cats like to stretch full length when they scratch. If a post is too short or wobbly, they’ll head for a solid couch instead.

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How to Redirect Scratching Behavior

The good news is that you can teach your cat to scratch acceptable surfaces instead of your furniture. It takes a mix of providing alternatives, discouraging bad habits, and rewarding good ones.

1. Provide the Right Scratchers

Not all scratching posts are created equal. To keep your cat satisfied, offer:

• Tall posts (at least 30 inches) so your cat can stretch fully.
• Sturdy bases that won’t tip over.
• Variety in textures like sisal rope, carpet, and corrugated cardboard.
• Horizontal options like flat cardboard scratchers for cats who prefer scratching rugs or floors.

2. Location, Location, Location

Place scratchers where your cat already scratches. If they target the arm of the couch, put a post right next to it. Over time, you can gradually move the scratcher a little further away if desired.

3. Make Scratchers Irresistible

Encourage use by:

• Sprinkling catnip or silvervine on the post.
• Using interactive play near the scratcher with wand toys to get your cat climbing and scratching.
• Rewarding your cat with treats, praise, or petting when they use the scratcher.

4. Discourage Furniture Scratching (Gently)

Cats don’t respond well to punishment, but you can make furniture less appealing by:

• Covering areas with double-sided tape or furniture protectors—cats dislike sticky surfaces.
• Using deterrent sprays that are safe for fabric but unappealing to cats.
• Blocking access temporarily with throws, slipcovers, or moving furniture around.

5. Regular Nail Trimming

Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed helps reduce the damage from scratching. Aim to trim every 2–3 weeks, or ask your vet or groomer for help if you’re unsure how.

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What Not to Do

Some methods may seem like quick fixes but can actually harm your cat’s health or well-being:

• Declawing – This is not a nail trim; it’s a painful amputation of the last bone in each toe. Declawed cats often develop behavioral problems and chronic pain. It’s banned in many countries and considered inhumane.
• Yelling or Punishing – Cats don’t connect punishment with their scratching. It will only cause fear and stress.
• Removing All Scratch Surfaces – Scratching is instinctive. If cats don’t have acceptable outlets, they’ll always find a substitute (usually your furniture).

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Special Cases – When Scratching Becomes Excessive

Most cats scratch moderately, but if your cat is scratching excessively or obsessively, it could be a sign of:

• Stress or Anxiety – Changes in the home, new pets, or lack of stimulation can cause stress scratching.
• Territorial Disputes – Multi-cat households may see more scratching as cats mark territory.
• Medical Issues – Arthritis or paw pain can change how and where a cat scratches.

If you suspect stress or medical problems, consult your veterinarian or a feline behaviorist.

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Living in Harmony With Your Cat’s Claws

Scratching is a normal, healthy behavior, and it’s not something to “fix” but to manage and redirect. By providing attractive alternatives, trimming nails, and gently discouraging damage to your furniture, you’ll protect your home and give your cat what they need.

Think of it this way: when your cat scratches, they’re not trying to misbehave—they’re just being a cat. With the right tools and training, you can channel that natural instinct into acceptable outlets and strengthen the bond you share.

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Final Thoughts

Cats will always scratch—it’s part of who they are. Instead of fighting it, work with it. Provide good scratching posts, reward the right behavior, and protect your furniture in smart ways. With a little patience, you’ll discover that scratching doesn’t have to be a source of frustration—it can even become a source of joy when you see your cat happily stretching and scratching on the post you picked just for them.

Because at the end of the day, a scratched-up scratching post is a badge of success—it means your cat is healthy, happy, and thriving.

Feeding Your Cat Right: Wet Food, Dry Food, and What Actually Matters

Feeding your cat seems simple — you put food in a bowl, your cat eats it, and you’re done. But ask any vet, pet nutritionist, or experienced cat owner, and you’ll hear the same thing: what you feed your cat matters just as much as how much you feed. The wrong diet can lead to obesity, diabetes, urinary tract issues, or nutritional deficiencies. The right diet, on the other hand, can help your cat live a longer, healthier, more comfortable life.

One of the biggest debates in feline nutrition is wet food vs. dry food. Some owners swear by the convenience of kibble, while others insist that wet food is the only healthy choice. The truth is, both have pros and cons — and the right choice depends on your cat’s age, health, preferences, and your ability to provide a balanced diet.

Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your feline friend.

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Understanding a Cat’s Nutritional Needs

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to get most of their nutrients from animal protein, not plants. Unlike omnivores (like dogs or humans), cats have unique dietary requirements:

• High protein from animal sources for muscle maintenance and energy.
• Taurine, an essential amino acid only found in animal tissue.
• Arachidonic acid, a fatty acid also found in animal fat.
• Vitamin A in its preformed version (retinol), since cats can’t convert beta-carotene from plants into usable vitamin A.
• Water — lots of it. Cats naturally have a low thirst drive because their ancestors got most of their hydration from prey.

Keeping these needs in mind is the key to deciding between wet and dry food.

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The Case for Wet Food

Wet food (also called canned food) has a high moisture content — usually around 70–80%. This makes it much closer to a cat’s natural diet in terms of hydration. Here’s why many experts recommend wet food:

1. Better hydration
Because cats often don’t drink enough water, wet food helps prevent dehydration. This is particularly important for cats prone to urinary tract problems, kidney disease, or constipation.

2. High protein, low carbs
Many wet foods contain fewer carbohydrates than kibble, which is better for weight management and blood sugar control.

3. Easier to chew
For kittens, seniors, or cats with dental problems, wet food is easier to eat and digest.

4. Palatability
Wet food is often more appealing to picky eaters due to its smell, texture, and taste.

Drawbacks:

• More expensive per serving than dry food.
• Shorter shelf life once opened.
• Can be messier to serve and store.

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The Case for Dry Food

Dry food (kibble) is popular for its convenience. It’s easy to measure, store, and leave out for free-feeding cats. Here’s why some owners prefer dry food:

1. Convenience
You can leave it out without worrying about it spoiling quickly — great for cats who graze throughout the day.

2. Cost-effective
Dry food tends to be less expensive than wet food, making it more budget-friendly for multi-cat households.

3. Dental benefits — with a catch
Some people believe kibble helps clean teeth, but this is only partially true. While chewing can help scrape off some tartar, many cats swallow kibble whole, so it’s not a substitute for proper dental care.

Drawbacks:

• Low moisture content (around 10%), which can contribute to dehydration.
• Often higher in carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain.
• Less palatable for some cats.

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Can You Feed Both?

Absolutely. Many cat owners choose a mixed feeding approach — offering wet food for hydration and taste, and dry food for convenience and snacking. This method can provide the best of both worlds, as long as you monitor calorie intake to avoid overfeeding.

A common strategy is:

• Morning and evening meals: Wet food
• Small measured portion of dry food: For between meals or overnight

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How Much Should You Feed?

Every cat’s calorie needs are different. Factors like age, weight, activity level, and health conditions matter. Your vet can give you the most accurate guidance, but here’s a general rule of thumb:

• Indoor adult cat: About 20 calories per pound of body weight per day.
• Kittens: Need more calories for growth.
• Seniors: May need fewer calories, unless underweight.

Always use a measuring cup for dry food and follow the serving recommendations on the packaging for wet food — adjusting as needed based on your cat’s weight and body condition.

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Common Feeding Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, cat owners can make some nutritional missteps. Here are the most common:

1. Free-feeding without portion control – Leads to obesity.
2. Switching foods too quickly – Causes digestive upset. Always transition over 7–10 days.
3. Feeding only one type of protein forever – Cats benefit from variety, as long as changes are gradual.
4. Giving dog food – Not nutritionally adequate for cats.
5. Relying on homemade diets without expert guidance – Risk of nutrient deficiencies.

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Special Diet Considerations

Some cats need specialized diets:

• Urinary health diets for cats prone to bladder crystals or stones.
• Renal diets for cats with kidney disease — lower in phosphorus and protein.
• Weight management diets for overweight cats.
• Hypoallergenic diets for cats with food sensitivities.

Always consult your vet before making a big dietary change.

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Transitioning to a New Food

If you’re changing your cat’s diet — whether from dry to wet, wet to dry, or just switching brands — go slow. Mix the new food with the old food, gradually increasing the new food ratio over a week or more. This helps your cat adjust to new flavors and textures while avoiding stomach upset.

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Final Thoughts

Feeding your cat right isn’t about choosing the “perfect” food — it’s about finding what works best for your cat’s health, lifestyle, and preferences. For some, that’s high-quality wet food twice a day. For others, it’s a balanced combination of wet and dry. And for cats with special health needs, it might be a prescription diet.

The most important thing is to prioritize high-quality ingredients, adequate hydration, and portion control. When you do that, you’re setting your cat up for a healthier, happier life — and that’s something every cat owner wants.