Cats are remarkable creatures – they are intelligent, sentient, and loyal companions. Keeping a cat will make your life joyful as they love to play with their pet parents and learn new tricks.
To keep your cat active and engaged it’s important that you play with them, teach them new tricks, and in general pay more attention to things they like. In most cases, your cat loves the same things you love – long naps, tasty food, and new activities.
Cats also love spending time with you, playing with other cats, and enjoying the morning sun in the garden. The things a cat finds interesting can change over time – your cat may love playing with a ball one day, but may find it boring the next day. It’s important that you pay attention to the things that your cat enjoys so you can keep them engaged, active, and healthy.
Different cats enjoy different things, but there are some things that all cats tend to enjoy. Keep on reading as we’ll discuss in this article the things that make your cat happy and engaged.
Cats Love Taking Naps
Cats are known to be very fond of sleeping and can sleep for extended periods of time during the day (see How Much Sleep Do Cats Need Daily ?). They are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk hours. Cats spend the majority of their waking hours grooming and resting.
Cats are known to be among the most sleep-loving animals, with some cats sleeping as much as 12-16 hours a day. Cats are able to sleep so much due to their unique physiology, as they have a small brain-to-body size ratio and a high proportion of slow-wave sleep.
If you are concerned that your cat is sleeping too much, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform a physical examination and rule out any underlying health issues that may be causing your cat to sleep excessively. Some common causes of excessive sleep in cats include:
- Anemia
- Thyroid problems
- Depression
- Chronic pain
- Neurological issues
Your veterinarian may also recommend some lifestyle changes for your cat, such as providing more interactive toys and playtime to keep them active during the day. Additionally, if your cat is older, they may recommend a diet change to support their aging process.
However, it’s important to note that cats are known to sleep a lot, and some cats can sleep as much as 16 hours a day. So before you worry too much, ensure that you are aware of the typical sleeping pattern of cats.
Cats Love Grooming
Cats are known to be very fastidious groomers and spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves. Grooming is a natural and instinctive behavior for cats and is essential for their physical and emotional well-being. Grooming helps cats to maintain their coat and skin, and it’s also a way for them to bond with other cats.
Cats groom themselves by licking their fur, which helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair. The act of grooming also releases endorphins, which can create a sense of calm and relaxation for the cat. This is why you might see your cat grooming itself after a stressful event, or when they are feeling anxious or bored.
In addition to grooming themselves, cats will also groom other cats as a sign of affection and social bonding. This behavior is known as allogrooming or social grooming. Cats will also often groom their owners as a sign of affection and trust.
All that grooming is causing hairballs to form in their stomach. Here’s how to prevent hairballs forming in your cat.
Overall, cats do love grooming and it’s an essential part of their daily routine.
Cats Love Tasty Food
Cats can be picky eaters and may not always be interested in nutritious food. Like all animals, cats have their own preferences and taste, and some may prefer certain types of food over others.
However, as a general rule, cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet that is high in protein and fat, and low in carbohydrates. Cats have specific nutritional requirements that must be met in order to maintain their overall health and well-being. Cats require certain amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that are only found in animal-based proteins.
A high-quality cat food that is formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of cats is the best option. These foods are formulated to provide the right balance of protein, fat, and other essential nutrients to keep your cat healthy.
Cats can also eat certain foods that we humans eat, and that includes some carbohydrates as well. Here are 10 human foods cats can eat.
It’s important to note that providing a balanced and nutritious diet for your cat will help them to maintain a healthy weight, strong immune system, shiny coat, and good dental health. It’s always recommended to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet.
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Cats Love Running Water
Cats can have a fondness for running water, but it varies from cat to cat. Some cats are attracted to the sound and movement of running water, while others may be indifferent or even afraid of it. Some cats may drink from the faucet or a running shower, while others may only drink from a still water source, like a bowl.
Some cats may prefer to drink from running water because it is fresher and cooler than standing water. They also may find the sound more stimulating and find it more appealing than still water. Some cats may also find running water easier to drink from because it is moving, which makes it easier to lap up.
However, not all cats are attracted to running water and may prefer to drink from a still water source. If your cat is not drinking enough water, it’s important to make sure that they have access to fresh water at all times. It’s also important to have multiple water sources available to your cat, such as a bowl and a water fountain.
It’s worth experimenting with different water sources to see what your cat prefers and make sure they are getting enough hydration. But keep in mind that drinking habits vary from cat to cat and some may like running water more than others.
Cats Love Stretching
Cats love stretching as it is an innate behavior that they engage in multiple times a day. Stretching is a way for cats to flex and exercise their muscles, as well as to release tension and stress. Cats are known to stretch after waking up from a nap, after a grooming session, and after a long period of inactivity.
Cats will stretch their entire body, including their legs, spine, and neck, which helps to increase blood flow, improve flexibility, and maintain muscle tone. Cats have a unique skeletal structure that allows them to stretch in a way that other animals can’t. They have a flexible spine and a large number of joints in their legs, which enables them to stretch in a wide range of directions.
Cats also have a specific stretch called a “kneading stretch” which is when a cat pushes its paws alternately against a soft surface such as a blanket or a person’s lap. This stretch is often accompanied by purring, and it’s considered as a sign of affection and relaxation.
Overall, stretching is a natural and healthy behavior for cats, and it’s important for their physical and emotional well-being. So, cats do love stretching, and they do it frequently.
Cats Love Daily Playtime
Cats can enjoy daily playtime, but it’s important to note that cats are independent animals, and their play preferences may vary. Some cats may be more active and enjoy interactive play sessions, while others may prefer to spend more time resting and grooming.
Cats are natural hunters, and interactive play can mimic hunting behaviors, such as chasing and pouncing, which can be satisfying for them. Playing with your cat can also help to keep them mentally and physically stimulated, which can prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
It’s important to provide your cat with a variety of toys that they can play with, such as balls, wand toys, and interactive toys as well as some homemade toys. It’s also important to adjust the playtime to your cat’s preference and energy level. Some cats may prefer shorter play sessions multiple times a day, while others may prefer longer play sessions less frequently.
It’s important to observe your cat’s behavior and energy levels to find the right balance and frequency of playtime. And also, to keep in mind that not all cats are the same and some may enjoy daily playtime more than others.
Cats Love Watching Birds
Cats can enjoy watching birds, as they are natural predators and have a strong instinct to chase and hunt small prey. Many cats find the movement and behavior of birds to be very stimulating, and they may enjoy watching them through a window or while they are outside.
Many cats will stare intently at birds, and even try to stalk or chase them if given the opportunity. Some cats may also enjoy watching birds through a bird feeder or birdhouse, as it can provide them with an opportunity to observe the birds’ behavior and movements.
However, it’s important to remember that cats are also independent animals, and their interests may vary. Some cats may not be as interested in birds, and may prefer to spend their time resting or grooming. It’s also important to be mindful of your cat’s safety when they are observing birds, as some birds can be aggressive or carry diseases that can be transmitted to cats.
Cats Love Their Pet Owners
Cats can develop strong bonds with their pet owners, but the way they show affection can be different than dogs. Cats are independent animals and they don’t have the same social needs as dogs. Some cats may be more aloof and independent, while others may be more affectionate and seek out attention from their owners.
Cats have their own unique way of showing affection, such as rubbing against their owners, bringing them “gifts” (small objects they find interesting), purring, and even kneading. These behaviors are signs that a cat is comfortable and content in their environment and with their owner.
Cats may also show their affection through grooming their owners, which is a sign of trust and affection. Cats also may develop a strong bond with their owners through playing, cuddling, and spending time together.
However, it’s important to note that cats are individuals, and their personalities and behaviors may vary. Not all cats will have the same level of attachment to their owners, and some may be more independent than others. But overall, cats can develop strong bonds with their pet owners, and they can show affection in their own unique way.
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