How to Keep Your Cat Happy & Healthy

World Health Day is the perfect time to focus on your cat’s well-being. With so much advice available, it can be hard to know what’s best. That’s why we’ve put together this handy FAQ to answer your most common questions about feline health.

What’s the Best Diet for a Healthy Cat? 

A cat’s diet is the foundation of its health. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet high in animal protein to thrive. 

• Choose high-quality, natural cat food with real meat as the main ingredient.
• Avoid artificial additives, grains, and fillers, which can upset digestion.
• Ensure a balanced diet with essential nutrients like taurine, omega fatty acids, and vitamins.

Top Tip: Fresh water is important! Cats can be prone to dehydration, so always provide clean, fresh water, especially if they eat dry food. 

How Can I Keep My Cat at a Healthy Weight? 

Obesity is one of the most common health issues in cats, leading to diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. 

How to prevent weight gain: 

• Portion control – Follow feeding guidelines based on your cat’s size, age, and activity level.
• Limit treats – Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily intake.
• Encourage exercise – Play with your cat daily using toys or, laser pointers.

Top tip: If your cat is overweight, consult your vet for a suitable weight loss plan. 

How Often Should I Take My Cat to the Vet? 

Routine check-ups are essential to catch health issues early. 

Vet Check-Up Guide: 

• Kittens – Every few weeks until vaccinations are complete and they’ve been neutered.
• Adult cats – At least once a year for a general health check, ideally every 6 months.
• Senior cats (7+ years) – Every 6 months, as older cats are more prone to health issues.

Top tip: Don’t wait for obvious signs of illness. Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness, so regular vet visits are crucial. 

What Vaccinations Does My Cat Need? 

Vaccinations are a series of injections that protect your cat from serious and potentially fatal infectious diseases. Kittens can be vaccinated from 8-9 weeks old. 

In the UK, vaccines usually include protection against: 

• Feline herpesvirus & feline calicivirus (cat flu)
• Feline panleukopenia virus (feline infectious enteritis)
• Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) – recommended for outdoor cats

Top tip: Ask your vet during your cat’s annual check-up about the best booster schedule for maintaining their immunity. 

How Do I Keep My Cat’s Teeth Healthy? 

Dental disease affects over 70% of cats by age three, leading to pain, infections, and difficulty eating. 

Dental Care Tips: 

• Schedule vet dental check-ups to detect problems early.
• Ask about dental-friendly prescription dry food or chews to help reduce plaque.
• Use a cat-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste!).

Top tip: Some of the signs of dental problems include bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating. If you notice these, see a vet. 

How Can I Keep My Cat Mentally Stimulated? 

Cats need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress, which can lead to behavioural issues. 

Ways to Keep Your Cat’s Mind Active: 

• Interactive toys – Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and catnip toys.
• Climbing spaces – Cat trees, shelves, or window perches.
• Playtime – Daily play sessions help keep cats engaged.

Top tip: If your cat seems bored, try introducing new toys, introducing them to new spaces in the house, or rotating their playthings.

How Do I Keep My Cat Safe Outdoors? 

The outdoor vs. indoor debate is common among cat owners. If your cat goes outside, take precautions to keep them safe: 

Outdoor Cat Safety: 

• Ensure they are microchipped (now mandatory in England) with up-to-date contact details.
• Use a quick-release collar with an ID tag.
• Keep vaccinations up to date.
• Bring them indoors between dusk and dawn – this is when most accidents happen.

Indoor Cat Enrichment: 

• Provide a window perch or catio for fresh air.
• Rotate toys and climbing structures.
• Offer regular interactive play.

Top tip: If you live in a busy area, consider a secure outdoor cat enclosure for safe exploration.