Humans have always wanted cats to live forever, and we would do so if we could. But no one has found out (yet) how that happens, so here are some tips to help your kitten live longer and healthier. And surprise! These tips are also useful for humans.
Yes, everything that doctors and health magazines tell you about diet and exercise applies to your cat. What I’m trying to say here is to compare humans and cats.
Minimize processing and feed species-appropriate diets
It doesn’t matter what kind of diet a person follows, whether it’s low-carb, Mediterranean, vegan, or something in between. Most importantly, the food they eat is fresh and minimally processed. The closer you can get to the source, the better.
The same is true for cats, with the big exception that cats are obligate carnivores. This means that animal protein must be your main food source. And the best animal protein for cats is as fresh and unprocessed as possible.
Cat food budgets vary from person to person, but it’s important to do your research and stay within your means. Not all cat food is created equal, and there are healthier and less healthy options in each price range.
The basic rule is that canned, pouched, fresh, and fresh frozen foods are always better than dry foods if you use them wisely. (The exception is freeze-dried raw cat food, which is much less processed than other dry foods.) Most dry cat foods are highly processed and contain more than your cat should have in their diet. Contains many carbohydrates and chemicals. When it comes to canned foods, check the macros for high protein content and check the ingredient list to see what else is added.
Fresh and frozen are best, but are expensive options. If you can afford it, please go! Raw food is best for many cats, and some people buy meat from a butcher and make their own, or at least supplement their cat’s regular diet with raw food. If you want to go in that direction, do your research to ensure your cat gets all the nutrients it needs.
People who eat fast food every day experience worse health conditions over time. The same goes for cats who eat highly processed diets. Therefore, keep it as clean as possible.
Let’s do daily exercise
Even moderate exercise, such as walking, can add years to a person’s lifespan. Add strength training to the mix and you can stay independent and active for even more years.
Cats also need exercise, but their body structure is slightly different from that of humans. Humans are built for marathon running, but cats are built for sprinting. Therefore, most people benefit from 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, while humans benefit most from short bursts of exercise.
So, pull out some cat toys and let your cat chase them wildly for 10 minutes. If you can tire them out, even better. This may be more difficult with young adult cats and nearly impossible with kittens, but do your best. It’s even more important to get your adult cat up and exercise so they can be active and participate in life in general.
If you have stairs or a cat tree, running up the stairs or cat tree can help relieve muscle tension. My human throws treats up and down the spiral staircase for my exercise. It really helps keep me conditioned.
provide mental stimulation
Mental health and physical health go hand in hand (or foot and foot). Older people who are physically active are also more mentally alert. And the same can be said for cats. Take things a step further by creating new ways to attract your cat’s attention.
Of course, your cat can’t read books, learn new languages, or do crossword puzzles. But puzzles and treat toys can help keep their minds active. And teaching your cat tricks is another way to keep him mentally engaged. Make these part of your cat’s daily routine.
manage stress
Stress can have a huge impact on human health, and it can also negatively impact your cat’s health. In fact, things can be even worse for your cat. Cats that are stressed get sick much more easily than cats that lead a calm lifestyle.
Of course, your cat can’t meditate or learn to take deep breaths. But it’s possible. And surprise! This can actually help reduce your cat’s stress levels. Cats are emotional sponges, sensing and absorbing people’s moods. If you are stressed, it will affect them negatively. Therefore, teaching yourself how to relieve stress is a good step to take, for both you and your cat.
Also keep in mind that your cat (like most cats) will spend most of its life indoors. I never leave it, except to go to the vet or to the backyard. Therefore, the more your home is a haven, and the more you can create a sense of peace there, the better it will be for your cat. A stressful home is not good for either of you.
Another thing you can do to manage your cat’s stress is to create a routine. Cats thrive on predictability, so if your cat has a daily routine or ritual that they can relate to, they will feel safe.
It can also handle situations that can be stressful for your cat, such as vet visits and car trips. If possible, see your home vet. Get your cat used to the carrier. Take your cat on short car trips and reward him with treats, praise, and affection. Anything you can do to reduce their stress will help.
Regular health checkup
Both humans and cats should be tested regularly to check for any significant changes in their numbers. Tracking all your stats will give you a baseline of how things are going over time. Both you and your cat need these.
It’s true that vet visits are expensive these days. That’s why pet insurance is more important than ever. If possible, figure out how to work your budget into them. I’m healthy, but I have a few seemingly harmless oddities (like freckles on my eyes) that I would like to keep an eye on.
There are a few other things to keep in mind.
- maintain a healthy weight
All the diseases that develop in overweight people, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure, can also occur in overweight cats. Keeping your cat’s weight within a healthy range will help your cat live a longer life and improve their overall health.
- dental health is really important
Inflammation caused by periodontal disease can lead to many other problems in both humans and cats, including heart disease, respiratory disease, and gastrointestinal problems. In cats, periodontal disease is thought to be associated with kidney disease. So, if your cat allows it, learn how to brush its teeth. what my humans use Ryercat toothbrush (affiliate link) And I swear to them. It’s expensive, but it’s worth it because it’s designed for your cat’s small mouth and keeps your hands from getting too close to their teeth.
Learning how to brush your cat’s teeth will help keep your cat healthy in the long run. You’ll also save a lot of money because you won’t need dental treatment as often, if ever. Your cat will also be very happy.
Taking steps to keep your cat happy and healthy has many long-term benefits. And the same goes for you!
We hope you find these tips helpful. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
