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How to Maximize Your Cat's Lifespan
How to Maximize Your Cat's Lifespan

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How to Maximize Your Cat's Lifespan

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It’s common sense that feeding your cat a high-quality diet has its benefits. But when it comes to maximizing your cat’s lifespan, diet is only part of the equation. Read up on everything you need to do to ensure your cat lives happily for a long time to come.

 

Proper Diet

Let’s start with something you do every day: feed your cat. There are several healthy options to choose from, so we’ll help you zero in on the formula that’s best for your cat. It’s important to note that cats are natural carnivores. Therefore, a formula with meat as the primary ingredient is a great place to start. Meat as a protein source has certain nutrients, such as taurine, that non-meat protein sources simply do not.

 

Medical Maintenance

Regular visits to the veterinarian can help nip health issues in the bud. For instance, a vet will be able to tell if your cat is gaining too much weight and can recommend a diet and fitness program to get your kitty back to a healthy size.

You may even want to bring a fresh fecal sample along to your next appointment. Your vet can use this sample to search for ringworms. This tip can save you extra trips to the vet’s office in case your cat does not cooperate, so to speak, during her appointment.
 

Also, vets provide your cat with the vaccinations she needs to fight off diseases such as feline rabies. Some vaccinations are required annually, while others should be administered every three years. Your vet’s office can help you keep track of it all, so remember to schedule that appointment!

 

Overall Health

Your cat relies on you for more than just healthy food and fresh water. She needs stimulation. Sure, cats love their independence, but let’s be honest, they love getting attention. By playing with your cat for even 10 to 15 minutes a day, you are doing wonders for her lifespan. Some great games to play don’t even require fancy toys. Get a piece of string and tie it around a clean sock, then yank the string whenever your cat comes in close to investigate. Voila! Instant fun!
 

Cats don’t go on runs like dogs do, so keeping your cat active with games and toys is the best way to help keep her fit.
 

Follow these tips and your cat will be on her way to a long and happy life with you. You’re a great owner for taking the time to read this article. It shows how much you really care about her. Now step away from the computer and show your cat some attention!

 

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    Is Your Cat Overweight, Underweight or Just Right?

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    This article is part of a series on how to spot signs of a healthy cat. You can learn more about the key signs here.


    Assessing your cat’s body condition is an important step in evaluating their overall nutritional well-being. Particularly in cases where your cat appears to be obese or thin, it is important to evaluate their total health before consulting a vet for a proper nutritional management program. Look for the following signs that your cat is overweight, underweight or just the right size.

     

    thin cat i

    underweight cat i

    ideal weight cat i

    overweight cat i

    obese cat i

     

    Thin Cat

    • Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones are easily visible
    • Thick neck and narrow waist
    • Obvious abdominal tuck
    • No fat in flank folds; folds are often absent

     Underweight Cat

    • Backbone and ribs can be easily seen or felt
    • Minimal fat covering
    • Minimal waist when viewed from above
    • Slightly tucked abdomen

    Ideal-weight Cat

    • Ribs are easily felt, but not visible
    • A slight waist can be seen behind the ribs when viewed from above
    • Abdomen is tucked up and flank folds are present

     Overweight Cat

    • Slight increase in fat over ribs, but still easily felt
    • Abdomen is slightly rounded and flanks are concave
    • Flank folds hang down with moderate amount of fat — you might notice a jiggle when your cat is walking

     Obese Cat

    • Ribs and backbone aren’t easily felt under a heavy fat covering
    • Abdomen is rounded; waist is barely visible or absent
    • Prominent flank folds sway from side to side when your cat is walking

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