It’s true cats can be independent in nature, but they can also be as affectionate and loving as any pet out there! As many of us (and about a million other cat ladies in the world) know, there’s nothing better than receiving a playful purr or snuggly head butt from your best feline friend, especially after a long day of work. Rest assured the feeling is mutual. Your cat may not be the first to show it, but they love you and appreciate all you do for them.
In this blog, we go through some ways you can show your cat just how much you love them.
Use interactive toys to play:
Cats love to use their predatory instinct with interactive toys. Whether it’s using a wand toy, a puzzle toy, a climbable cat gym, or even flinging an elastic hair tie around the room, your cat will enjoy the physical activity while the predator-prey play helps keep them mentally stimulated as well. Interactive games can increase the bond you share with them and build confidence in shy pets.
Try some training:
Cats are very trainable! They enjoy a challenge and the opportunity to be rewarded with treats. Whether it’s teaching them useful behaviors or novelty tricks, teaching your cat to behave in certain ways can help them become more social and comfortable around humans and other animals. It will also help build the bond between you and your cat.
Give your cat a massage:
Simply stroking your cat from nose to tail gives them an all-over, feel-good massage that has been known to alleviate their anxiety and lower their blood pressure (it can act as a stress reliever for you, too!). Make sure you pay special attention to the places your cat likes best, such as the base of their tail or under their cheeks. While you’re petting them, perform a quick wellness check to check for any mats, lumps, bumps, or sores that may need to be looked at by a vet.
Get a little crazy with some catnip:
Does your cat go crazy over catnip? If so, show them some love by giving them catnip-enriched toys or use the spray as a training tool by rubbing a scratching post with catnip to make it more appealing. Sprinkle a little bit of the herb on your cat’s bed or favorite pillow and watch them lick, chew and roll head-over-tail in kitty bliss.
Don’t forget, one of the most important ways to show your cat you really love them is keeping up with their health and well-being. Cats need to go to the vet every six months to a year to stay updated on their vaccines and for wellness exams. As they age, they may even need to visit the vet more frequently depending on their health. Cats can hide pain and discomfort well, so it often takes the trained eye of a vet to see when something is wrong. Call your preferred Animal Health Center clinic to book your cat’s appointment today!
