🐾 Basic Cat Care Guide for New Owners

Everything You Need to Know to Keep Your Cat Happy and Healthy

🏠 1. Safe & Comfortable Home Environment

• No extreme temperatures: Never leave your cat in a hot car or a home without ventilation or AC. Cats can die from heatstroke.
• No open windows: Cats can fall even from high floors. Always secure windows with sturdy screens.
• Block off dangerous spaces: Cats can crawl into holes behind furniture or appliances and get stuck or lost.
• Safe spaces: Provide cozy, quiet spots like beds or boxes away from noise.
• No toxic plants or chemicals: Lilies, essential oils, and some cleaners are deadly — always check first.
• Be careful with doors, sofas, heavy furniture and wires — kittens can get hurt or killed.

🍽️ 2. Food & Nutrition

• Feed high-quality cat food appropriate for age: kittens, adults, or seniors.
• Feeding guide:
  • Kittens: 3–4 small meals/day
  • Adults: 2 meals/day (follow label instructions)
• Avoid toxic foods: onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, bones, dairy, dog food.
• Treats should be <10% of daily calories.

💧 3. Water Is Life

• Always provide fresh, clean water.
• Try a pet fountain — some cats prefer running water.
• Dehydration is dangerous, especially in hot weather or for older cats.

4. Hygiene & Litter Box

• Scoop litter box daily, clean weekly. Use unscented clumping litter.
• One litter box per cat + one extra is ideal.
• Place in quiet, low-traffic areas — not near food or water.

🐈‍⬛ 5. Health & Vet Care

• Vaccinate starting as kittens and maintain annual boosters.
• Regular deworming — especially for outdoor cats.
• Spay/neuter to prevent litters and improve health.
• Vet visits at least once a year or if you notice:
  • Change in appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Hiding or aggression
  • Labored breathing

🚫 6. Never Do This

• ❌ Never declaw — it’s cruel and painful.
• ❌ Never use physical punishment — it causes fear and aggression.
• ❌ Never feed raw meat without vet guidance.
• ❌ Never give human medications — many are toxic.
• ❌ Never let your cat outside unsupervised in unsafe areas.
• ❌ Never leave windows open — cats can fall trying to chase birds.
• ❌ Never give chicken bones — they can splinter and kill.
• ❌ Never leave your cat alone in a car.

⚠️ 7. Stress & Behavior

• Stress can make cats sick.
• Avoid:
  • Loud noises
  • Sudden changes in routine
  • Rough handling
• Provide:
  • Vertical space: shelves, cat trees
  • Play: wand toys, lasers
  • Scratching posts

8. Enrichment & Love

• Play with your cat daily to prevent boredom and build a bond.
• Respect their space — let them come to you.
• Talk to your cat — they learn your voice and tone.

📋 Summary Checklist

• ✅ Fresh water always
• ✅ High-quality food in proper portions
• ✅ Clean litter box
• ✅ Regular vet visits (vaccines, deworming)
• ✅ Spay or neuter
• ✅ Safe, indoor environment
• ✅ Toys and enrichment
• ✅ Lots of love, patience, and respect 💗