Cats are adorable and very different to dogs, in that they tend to do their own thing, although certain breeds adore human company. Shelters are filled with felines needing homes, yet big charities could help by offering more free and discounted spay/neuter programs, to reduce the amount of homeless cats (surely this is the point of the charities, so eventually they are not needed? )
Feral cats don’t sing on dustbins, like Top Cat. They suffer from starvation, car accidents, fights and feline HIV (not transferrable to humans). Most remain wild, so some charities simply look out for and feed them, though if you have land (and no predators) they can sometimes be rehomed as ‘farm cats’. Former 60s model Celia Hammond runs a London charity that lists those needing homes.
common safety issues for cats
- Cats don’t always ‘right themselves’ when they fall. So if they live above ground floor, keep windows closed. Or for open windows, Flat Cats & Cataire (custom) both make window guards.
- Cats like the sun, but like dogs, still suffer heatstroke. So always have shady areas (indoors and outdoors) for them to go, in warmer weather.
- Don’t let cats and kittens play with balls of wool. It’s not safe (a choking hazard) despite many cute photos posted online and in photos/paintings.
- Learn toxic plants to avoid near cats (just brushing a tail against toxic houseplants like lilies, sago palm or cheese plants can harm).
- Cats can’t break down aromatherapy oils in their livers, so never use on or near feline friends (this includes lavender oil and hop pillows used yourself, nor outdoor citronella candles to deter insects). Avoid pine/citrus cat litter, instead gradually switch over to a good unscented brand like Natusan (endorsed by vets).
other ways to help your cats
- Don’t encourage birds/bats to your garden, and keep cats indoors at dawn and dusk, when birds are likely feeding. If using ‘safe indoor plants’ near cats, avoid them facing garden foliage, to discourage birds from visiting and helps stop birds flying into windows.
- Kitty Collars (around 6 months depending on sizes/breed, only when it fits properly) snap open if cats get snagged. Details and medical info can be embroidered on, to avoid dangling hangtags. Read FAQ for choosing/fitting collars of the right type, age etc (kittens grow quickly).
- CatLoaf Luxury Cat Scratcher Bed has a unique shape for comfort and is made from premium recycled cardboard, for your cat to stretch, sleep and scratch. It’s a good shape for big cuddly gingers to chunky British shorthairs (organic catnip included, check safe with vet and don’t overfeed).
learn to understand your cats!
- Kitty Language is packed with informative illustrations by artist Lili Chin. Did you know that when kitty bumps you with the top of her head, it’s a sign of affection? With art backed by behaviourists and vets, learn what head rubs, tail twitches, eye blinks and ear flicks all mean.
- What Cats Want is an illustrated guide by Japan’s leading cat doctor. Learn how to name your cat, why it’s important where you put their water bowl, how to groom them properly, and why cats need a quiet place to sleep. Plus which plants and essential oils can harm.
- What’s My Cat Thinking? unlocks the secret code of cats! Learn body language and why cats scratch sofas, and find tips for moving house or introducing a new cat into the family. Drawing on the latest animal behaviour psychology, learn why cats sleep on your keyboard, or take charge of the dog! With stunning illustrations on a wide range of breeds and informative text. Now when your cat is sitting on your head at 4am, you’ll know why!
- Purr: The Science of Making Your Cat Happy is by a behaviour consultant. Zazie addresses all stages of your cat’s life. Train your cat (without using a spray bottle) and provide for special needs like asthma and senior moggies.
