By: Megan Plevniak

What is the key ingredient for a happy cat in your home? Is it their diet, the amount of playtime they obtain, or their environment? To put it simply—all of the above. To make the most joyful home for your feline friend, it all begins with you and a generous amount of affection.

Cats have been around for over 10 million years and have only been domesticated—living alongside humans—for 10,000 years. An essential factor that significantly contributes to the joy of your cat is

their surroundings. While felines thrive in a stimulating environment for hunting and play,

they oppose overstimulation. 

If there is an abundance of stress at your residence such as arguing with your significant other, or screaming children, then your cat will not be content. Feline’s sense of hearing is so keen that according to a study—they are “the best sound localizers of any mammal”. Cats are also energy soakers. They serve as remarkable support animals due to their ability to sense one’s sadness or anxiety, however if the atmosphere in your home contains negativity and stress — it will impact your feline friend.

 Indicators that your cat might be experiencing stress are engaging in abnormal behavior. They may start destroying items in your abode, scratching your valuable furniture, urinating outside of their litter box, or simply hiding. Another key thing to consider is that cats have a strong aversion to change. If you’re planning a big move or want to rearrange your home, consider providing anti-anxiety remedies.

An additional expert recommendation in creating an optimal environment for our feline friends is something called "catification.” “Catification,” also known as setting up your home to provide satisfaction for your cat can be done in many ways. One way to show them devotion is by distributing cat beds throughout the home, positioning cat trees by windows, and arranging a litter box in a shared space.

Cats crave ownership and prefer to share the space with their human companions by blending their scent with yours. A feline’s scent marks their territory which then provides comfort in the home. Cat parents should refrain from purchasing scented litter and spraying air fresheners on their kitty’s beds.

Alongside “catifying” and de-stressing your home, a key element to sustained satisfaction for your precious feline is diet. Nutrition plays an important role to animals and their overall health, much like humans. Cats are classified as obligatory carnivores, indicating that their diet requires only meat and moisture for nourishment. Dry food contains poor ingredients and unnecessary carbs which contribute to weight gain and kidney problems. 

Research indicates that felines can’t get enough moisture from water alone which is why it’s essential to provide wet food in lieu of dry food. It is vital to read nutrition labels because certain cat food brands contain a harmful ingredient known as Carrageenan, which is linked to cancer in felines.

The next principal component that cats thrive on is routine. They wake up knowing exactly what they’re going to go each day. If you want your cat to be genuinely content, it is advisable to set up regular feeding and play times. If you have a busy schedule—don’t fret! There are several interactive toys that keep your feline friends busy, some that come at no cost. Cat “TV” is a prime example because they take pleasure in observing the outdoors through windows to bird watch. Engaging in playtime with your cat is the most effective method to express your affection for them. Not only do you build a bond, you also expend their energy.

In conclusion the key ingredients that ensure a joyful and healthy life for your cat include establishing a positive living environment, adhering to consistent feeding schedules, engaging in playtime, and allowing them to share your living space.