Feeding & Nutrition

Dental disease in cats is one of the most common conditions seen by vets today. It can also be very painful, especially if left untreated. However, the good news is that – unlike many health problems – it is usually preventable through proper dental care for cats.

Find out how to encourage your cat to be active, even if they live indoors. Getting your beautiful cat to exercise can sometimes be a challenge. As any cat lover knows, cats have strong and independent personalities; they need alone time and are unlikely to do anything they don’t want to do. This can be especially worrying for a house cat, who has no outdoor exercise to help keep her healthy, or a kitten who has to be kept in the house for the first six months of their life. So how do you make your cat exercise? Enticement is the way forward: cats need to be engaged with their task or they can rapidly lose interest. Luckily, they all have a few personality traits that you can tickle to ensure they are having the time of their lives-and are being active in the process. 1. Laser pointers Different cats have different preferences for the toys they like. Some are in love with the fishing pole, where you dangle a string above their heads and they bat at it. Others adore paper bags and boxes. But if your cat seems disinclined to play, then it is best to appeal to her feral nature-pouncing. Cats love to chase, especially items that move quickly. The laser point is an absolute favourite: point a laser at the wall and watch your cat try and catch that elusive red dot. 2. Battery-operated toys These are another great way to make your cat exercise, and are ideal solutions for busy owners. Just turn on a battery-operated toy, available from most pet shops or online, and your cat will be entertained for hours! 3. Outdoors While it may seem unusual, house cats can be encouraged to go outdoors and be walked. It is, of course, necessary to see if your cat is happy with this-don't do anything that might stress or upset her. If you plan on this form of cat exercise, try and introduce it when they are kittens (after the first six months!) when they seem more inclined to try new things. Older cats may be set in their ways and may take more convincing. Remember to use a leash when walking them, and make sure it fits comfortably.

The countdown to your little kitten’s birthday has begun! And while the term ‘adult’ might not be a completely accurate term to describe your mischievous little mate’s level of maturity, the fact is your best friend isn't so ‘little’ anymore! Yes, she has grown up and is about to dive into adulthood. And while that cheekiness is unlikely to change in a hurry, notching up your first birthday does make for some significant milestones that are worth celebrating!

When it comes to feeding our beloved feline companions, many cat owners rely on commercial cat food as a convenient and nutritionally balanced option. But have you ever wondered what exactly goes into those kibbles or cans? Understanding the ingredients in commercial cat food is essential for making informed choices about your cat's diet. Let's explore the common ingredients found in commercial cat food and shed light on their purpose and nutritional value.

Fussy eaters are common in the cat world. Unlike dogs, who devour everything edible and some non-edible items too, cats are far more discerning in their tastes. This can be a source of frustration for their owners.

While it is not a necessity to feed your cat a combination of wet and dry foods, there are many benefits to feeding both. Dry food provides the added benefit of dental health – helping to reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar as your cat crunches. Wet food works as an additional moisture source for your cat – particularly if they are not big drinkers. Aside from the obvious health benefits, unlike humans, who have 10,000 taste buds, our cat friends only have 470 on average, which means the texture of the food helps to play a pivotal role in a cat’s enjoyment. Combining wet food and kibble enhances the texture and variety for your cat. In addition, feeding your cat two different sources of food makes it easier for you to keep an eye on your cat’s eating habits and make any changes that might be required.

Weaning kittens is a gradual and important process in their development. It involves transitioning them from their mother's milk to solid food, providing them with the necessary nutrients for growth and development. Whether you choose to feed them canned or dry food, adding moisture to their diet will help them adjust and ensure a smooth transition.

When it comes to caring for kittens, there are numerous questions that arise, especially regarding their nutrition. One common misconception is the belief that kittens should be given milk as a primary source of nourishment. However, it's important to understand that not all milk is suitable for kittens, and in fact, it can lead to digestive issues and nutritional imbalances.

It’s essential to provide a nurturing environment for your 9 week old kitten, that supports their growth and development. At this stage, kittens are curious, energetic, and growing at a remarkable pace. Their tiny bodies are developing rapidly, which makes proper nutrition one of the most important aspects of their care. The food you choose now will lay the foundation for their long‑term health, vitality, and happiness.

Whether your cat keeps cool by air conditioning inside your home or finds comfort in the shade outside, it still can be challenging for them to feel comfortable on scorching hot days. Why not indulge them in a special summer treat?

As cat owners, we want our feline companions to be healthy and happy. However, just like humans, cats can struggle with weight issues. If you've noticed your cat is carrying a few extra pounds, it's important to help them achieve a healthy weight.

Every cat owner has questions about the best way to feed their beloved pet. The short answer is, every cat is different. From the fussiest nibbler to guzzlers who lick the bowl clean, every cat has unique instincts that determine their eating behavior. Through the time you spend with your cat, you will become the best expert on your cat’s desires and preferences. The good news is, however, there are feeding best practices that can help almost any cat. Here are some great tips to make feeding your cat easy and enjoyable.