9 Things You Should Do More Often for Your Cat

you love your cat but are you really giving them what they need cats may seem lowmaintenance but there are key things they crave every day that most owners don't do enough in this video I'll show you nine things you should be doing way more often and trust me number four is something that could completely change your cat's behavior number one massage instead of just stroking for most cats being stroked by their favorite human is one of the best parts of the day whether it's a gentle scratch behind the ears or a long stroke down their

back this physical affection is a way to bond comfort and show love the moment you walk through the door your cat may greet you with headbutts weaving around your legs and that unmistakable demand for attention and in return you're rewarded with a deep contented purr one of the sweetest sounds a cat parent can hear while petting is a classic way to interact with your feline friend have you ever considered upgrading their experience with a gentle massage instead of just running your hand over their fur in repetitive motions you can apply a little extra pressure in

specific areas that many cats find especially enjoyable think of spots like behind the ears at the base of the tail under the chin and along the spine many cats even appreciate a light belly rub if they're the type that enjoys that kind of attention just like humans cats can carry tension in their muscles whether it's from an active day of zooming around the house jumping up and down from their favorite perches or simply from holding a tense posture due to stress a massage can help them relax deeply a good technique is to use slow circular

motions with your fingertips gently pressing into the muscles while being mindful of your cat's reaction start with light pressure and if they seem to enjoy it you can gradually increase it slightly if they stretch out blissfully need their paws in relaxation or push their head into your hand you're doing it right on the other hand if your cat starts to flick their tail shift away or twitch their skin they might be telling you that they're not in the mood or that the pressure is too much the key is to read their body language carefully and

adjust accordingly every cat is unique and some might prefer short quick strokes over deep massage techniques massaging your cat isn't just a great way to strengthen the bond between you it also has potential health benefits a good massage can improve circulation stimulate their nervous system and even help with digestion by encouraging blood flow if your cat is older or has joint stiffness gentle massaging can be especially beneficial helping to ease minor discomforts and keep their body feeling good so the next time you and your feline friend are enjoying some quality cuddle time try switching things

up instead of just stroking them absent-mindedly take a few extra moments to give them a soothing relaxing massage it's a simple way to make them feel pampered and loved and who knows they might just start requesting massages from you every day number two scratch under the chin if you've ever wanted to turn even the laziest or most reserved cat into a puddle of purring bliss this is the trick to try the area under a cat's chin is one of their most sensitive and pleasurable spots to be scratched even a cat who is usually indifferent to

petting or one who might be feeling shy or grumpy can often be won over with a gentle chin rub why is this spot so magical the skin under a cat's chin is packed with scent glands which means that when you scratch them there you're not just giving them a pleasant sensation you're also helping them spread their scent cats mark their territory with these scent glands and when they rub their chin on you or furniture it's their way of saying "This belongs to me." So when you scratch under their chin you're reinforcing a sense of comfort

and ownership making them feel safe and secure to try this technique use one or two fingers and gently rub or scratch just under their chin where the fur is usually softer if they tilt their head back or push into your hand congratulations you've hit the jackpot some cats love slow firm scratches while others prefer light ticklish movements pay attention to their reaction if they start to purr close their eyes or stretch their neck out further you're doing it right another great trick is to extend the scratching area to the space between their eyes and ears

this region has a similarly soothing effect and can almost lull a cat into a translike state a slow rhythmic scratch in this spot can be hypnotic for many cats often making them pause whatever they were doing and lean into your touch some might even flop over in contentment this technique is particularly useful for shy or anxious cats if your cat is hesitant about physical affection chin scratches can serve as a non-threatening way to build trust since this area is more accessible than say their belly or back cats are more likely to accept gentle strokes here

over time they might even start seeking out your hand for a scratch whenever they see you so next time you want to spoil your feline friend or help them feel more at ease go straight for the chin whether they're lounging on the couch or perched on their favorite window sill a well-placed scratch under the chin can turn any moment into a bonding experience filled with purr and happy whisker twitches number three give special food cats are natural gourmes with refined tastes and strong preferences when it comes to their meals once they become accustomed to a

specific type of food they often resist changes in texture and flavor introducing new food to a cat can sometimes feel like a battle as they instinctively distrust unfamiliar tastes however there are certain foods that can excite even the most finicky feline making meal time a special occasion rather than a routine task among the irresistible treats for cats eggs and fresh fish rank at the top these protein richch foods not only appeal to their taste buds but also provide essential nutrients that support their overall health eggs when cooked properly offer a fantastic source of highquality protein

and amino acids which help with muscle development and coat health scrambled or boiled eggs served in small portions without seasoning can be a delightful surprise for your cat fresh fish on the other hand is a classic feline favorite whether it's salmon tuna or white fish the rich flavor and aroma are often too tempting to resist however it's important to serve fish in a safe manner free of bones seasoning or any harmful additives raw fish should be avoided due to potential bacteria and parasites but lightly cooked or steamed fish can be a healthy and enjoyable treat

offering special food occasionally can strengthen the bond between you and your cat a small piece of fish as a reward a bit of egg is a breakfast treat or even a new type of highquality wet food can make your cat look forward to meal time with excitement treats like these should be given in moderation ensuring they compliment a balanced diet rather than replace it cats may be creatures of habit but that doesn't mean they don't appreciate a little variety from time to time if your cat tends to be cautious about new foods introducing special treats

gradually by mixing them with their regular food can help them adjust over time they may even start looking forward to these little surprises by occasionally offering gourmet style meals you not only cater to your cat's refined palette but also add an extra layer of joy and enrichment to their daily life number four create a new cozy spot by the window cats love to observe the world around them and nothing captivates their attention more than a window with an interesting view whether it's birds flying by rustling leaves passing pedestrians or even the occasional squirrel a well-placed

window perch can provide hours of entertainment and mental stimulation for your feline friend if you have an indoor cat setting up a cozy window spot is one of the best ways to keep them engaged with the outside world while ensuring their safety to create the perfect window retreat for your cat all you need is a sturdy cat hammock a cushioned window seat or even a soft blanket placed on a stable surface like a window sill or shelf if your window doesn't already have a suitable ledge you can find specially designed cat perches that attach securely

with suction cups or brackets just make sure it's positioned in a way that supports your cat's weight comfortably for added security especially if your windows open installing a cats safe window net can prevent any potential accidents while allowing your feline to enjoy fresh air without risk a window perch isn't just about giving your cat a comfortable resting place it also enriches their environment by satisfying their natural curiosity cats are highly visual creatures and watching the world go by is an important form of mental stimulation for them they love tracking moving objects following birds with their

eyes or simply basking in a sunbeam while keeping an eye on their surroundings this helps prevent boredom which can sometimes lead to destructive behaviors in indoor cats for those with access to a balcony or terrace a secure outdoor enclosure can take this experience to the next level providing a cat-friendly space outside allows them to safely enjoy the fresh air feel the warmth of the sun on their fur and take in all the fascinating sights and sense of nature just be sure to use sturdy mesh or a protective barrier to keep them from wandering off to

keep things interesting consider switching up your cat's viewing spots from time to time moving their perch to a different window with a new perspective can provide fresh stimulation some windows may offer a better view of the street while others might have more birds or trees outside the variety will keep your cat curious and engaged ensuring they always have something new to observe by setting up a cozy and safe window spot you're not only giving your cat a comfortable resting place but also adding an element of daily excitement to their routine whether they're sunbathing bird watching

or simply enjoying the outdoor sights and sounds a well-placed window seat is a simple yet effective way to make their indoor life more fulfilling number five let your cat sleep with you in bed sharing your bed with your cat might not be for everyone but for many cat owners it's one of the greatest joys of pet companionship there's something incredibly comforting about drifting off to sleep while your furry friend curls up beside you purring softly even if it means sacrificing a bit of sleeping space the warmth and companionship they bring make it all worthwhile for

your cat sleeping in bed with you isn't just about finding a cozy spot it's a sign of deep trust cats are naturally cautious creatures and in the wild they choose their sleeping spots carefully to avoid threats so if your cat willingly hops onto your bed and snuggles up next to you it means they feel completely safe in your presence your scent body heat and steady breathing create an environment that reassures them and helps them feel secure throughout the night this nighttime bonding isn't just good for your cat it can be beneficial for you as well

studies have shown that sleeping with pets can reduce stress and anxiety leading to a more restful night's sleep the rhythmic sound of a cat's purring has even been linked to lower blood pressure and a calming effect on the nervous system in colder months your cat doubles as a natural foot warmer making those chilly nights a little cozier of course some people worry about potential downsides like disrupted sleep or allergens if your cat tends to be overly active at night it might take some time for them to adjust to a bedtime routine providing plenty of playtime

and mental stimulation during the day can help ensure they're ready to settle down when you do if allergies are a concern regular grooming and washing your bedding frequently can help minimize any issues ultimately allowing your cat to sleep in your bed is a personal choice but for those who embrace it the experience is often one of pure comfort and companionship your cat sees you as their trusted protector and by welcoming them into your sleeping space you strengthen the bond you share so whether they curl up at your feet snuggle next to your pillow or drape

themselves across your legs having your feline friend by your side at night is one of the simplest yet most heartwarming joys of being a cat parent number six give your cat the opportunity to play with water while cats have a reputation for being water averse the reality is more nuanced most cats dislike being submerged in water but many enjoy interacting with it in their own way if you've ever caught your cat curiously batting at a dripping faucet or dipping their paw into their water bowl you've already witnessed their fascination with moving water cats are naturally

drawn to running water in the wild still water sources can become stagnant and unsafe to drink so their instincts tell them that moving water is fresher and cleaner this is why so many cats prefer drinking from a faucet rather than a still bowl some will even lounge under a lightly running tap licking up the cool flowing water straight from the source others take a more playful approach pawing at the stream and watching the droplets splash around if your cat enjoys this kind of interaction consider introducing a cat drinking fountain into their environment these fountains continuously

cycle water mimicking the appeal of a running tap while also encouraging your cat to drink more hydration is essential for maintaining kidney health especially for cats who eat a primarily dry food diet the added stimulation of moving water can make drinking a fun and engaging activity rather than just a necessity for particularly playful cats a shallow bowl of water can serve as an unexpected source of entertainment some cats love dipping their paws in and flicking water around while others enjoy chasing floating objects such as small toys or ice cubes this can provide both physical and

mental stimulation especially for indoor cats who need creative ways to stay engaged of course every cat is different and not all will be enthusiastic about water play if your cat seems hesitant try introducing water-based activities gradually let them observe the movement of water without forcing interaction and always make sure they have a clean accessible water source available by giving your cat a way to safely explore their curiosity about water you provide them with an enriching experience while also promoting better hydration whether they choose to drink splash or simply watch the ripples move a little water

play can add a refreshing twist to their daily routine number seven learn their body language one of the most important ways to make your cat happy is to understand how they communicate cats may not speak our language but they constantly express themselves through body language vocalizations and subtle behaviors the better you understand these signals the stronger your bond with your cat will become many people recognize the obvious signs like a wagging tail in a dog meaning excitement or happiness however a wagging tail in a cat often means something entirely different agitation or overstimulation this is

just one example of how feline communication can be misunderstood cats use their entire body to convey their emotions from the flick of an ear to the position of their whiskers and even the dilation of their pupils for instance a slow blink from your cat is a sign of trust and affection often referred to as a kitty kiss if you return the slow blink you're telling your cat that you feel safe and relaxed around them two on the other hand a cat with wide eyes dilated pupils and flattened ears may be feeling frightened or defensive a

relaxed cat will hold their tail upright with a slight curve at the tip while a tail tucked close to the body can indicate insecurity or stress learning these subtle cues can transform your relationship with your cat if you pay attention you'll start to notice when they want to play when they need space or when they are feeling extra affectionate cats appreciate when their humans understand them and when you respect their boundaries and preferences they'll be more likely to trust you another key element of feline communication is vocalization some cats are naturally talkative while others are

more reserved but every meow has meaning a short high-pitched meow is usually a friendly greeting while a series of urgent loud meows might indicate hunger or frustration purring is generally a sign of contentment but it can also be a self soothing behavior when a cat is in pain or stressed the more time you spend observing your cat the more you'll start to recognize their unique ways of expressing themselves over time you'll develop a deeper understanding of their personality preferences and moods this ability to speak cat won't just make your feline friend happier it will also

make your bond stronger turning you into their favorite human and trusted companion number eight talk to your cat more often even though humans and cats don't speak the same language communication between you and your feline companion is very real and incredibly meaningful cats recognize their human's voice and can even pick up on emotional cues understanding when you are happy sad or stressed by talking to your cat more often you not only strengthen your bond but also create a sense of security and familiarity that makes them feel safe and loved you may have already notice that

your cat responds differently to various tones in your voice a soft soothing tone can have a calming effect reassuring them that everything is okay this is especially useful when they seem nervous or anxious on the other hand an excited cheerful tone might encourage them to come closer play or engage in some affectionate headbutts your cat learns to associate your voice with positive experiences whether it's meal time playtime or just a cozy cuddle session on the couch interestingly cats also use their own vocalizations to communicate with humans unlike wild cats who primarily communicate with body language

domestic cats have developed meows specifically for interacting with people they adjust their meows based on what they want whether it's attention food or simply a way to say hello some cats even learn to mimic the pitch and rhythm of their human voice if you start engaging in more conversations with your cat you may notice that they begin talking back some cats respond with a series of chirps or meows while others prefer subtle responses like blinking or flicking their tail the more you talk to them the better they'll understand your rhythms your emotions and your expectations

over time your conversations will develop into a unique language only the two of you understand speaking to your cat regularly also helps reinforce routines if you consistently use certain phrases for feeding bedtime or playtime your cat will learn what to expect for example if you always say "Are you hungry?" before meal time your cat will soon recognize the phrase and react accordingly ultimately talking to your cat isn't just about filling the silence it's about deepening your relationship whether you're giving them words of reassurance telling them about your day or simply responding to their meows your

voice is a source of comfort and familiarity so go ahead have a conversation with your cat you might be surprised by how much they understand and how much they appreciate hearing from you number nine spend more time with your cat there's a common misconception that cats are solitary creatures who prefer to be left alone while they may be more independent than dogs cats actually form strong emotional bonds with their favorite humans and crave companionship your cat isn't just content with knowing you exist they actively want to spend time with you and if they don't see

you around they'll likely search the house until they find you if you're someone who works outside the home for most of the day you've probably noticed how your cat greets you when you return whether it's rubbing against your legs meowing excitedly or even flopping onto their back for belly rubs this greeting isn't just about wanting food it's a genuine expression of happiness and relief that their favorite person is back they've missed you and now they want your attention beyond the initial welcome home cats have their own unique routines when it comes to social interaction some

prefer early morning cuddle sessions while others want to snuggle up in the evening after a long day if your cat tends to initiate affection at specific times take note of this pattern and try to be available for them during those moments engaging in their routine even if it's just sitting together while watching TV or offering gentle pets before bedtime reinforces their trust in you and deepens your bond but spending time with your cat isn't just about physical affection it's also about active engagement playing together is one of the best ways to strengthen your relationship whether

it's using a feather wand tossing a toy mouse or simply letting them chase a crumpled piece of paper interactive play satisfies their natural hunting instincts and provides much needed mental and physical stimulation plus it's a great way to release pentup energy especially for indoor cats even just talking to your cat while you go about your day can make a difference cats enjoy hearing your voice and will often respond in their own way whether it's a soft meow slow blinks or simply curling up nearby as they listen these small interactions help them feel more connected to

you even if you're busy with other tasks ultimately your cat's happiness is tied to the quality time you share they don't need constant attention but they do need to feel like they're an important part of your life so whether it's extra snuggles a few more minutes of playtime or simply sitting together in quiet companionship make the effort to spend more time with your feline friend your cat will appreciate it and you'll likely find that their presence brings just as much joy and comfort to your life as you do to theirs taking a little extra time

for your feline friend can make all the difference from more playtime to extra cuddles your cat will thank you for it if you found these tips helpful don't forget to give your cat an extra treat and hit that like button for more tips on how to keep your kitty happy and healthy be sure to subscribe for more perfect advice and share this with fellow cat lovers thanks for watching and remember happy cat happy life see you next time