Clarendon Street Vets’ top tips for a happy cat at Christmas
November 14, 2021
Most of us enjoy Christmas, but it can be a busy time and sometimes stressful for our feline friends. Clarendon Street Vets’ team of cat-loving Vets have pulled together some helpful advice on how to keep your cat happy, healthy and safe this Christmas.
Download our cat happiness guide
Your cat’s happiness is directly linked to their well-being. When cats become unhappy or stressed, they can develop abnormal behaviours such as toileting in the wrong places (which is no fun for you or them) over-grooming and overeating, all of which can affect their health. Try these tips below and don’t forget to download our festive guide to making your cat happy.
Five ways to make your cat happy this Christmas:
- Cat toys – Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive when it comes to your cat. Like small children, cats often get the most joy out of the packaging a present comes in. Why not make some DIY cat toys? Attach a piece of string to a toilet roll tube and encourage your cat to chase it, or start saving cardboard boxes to make your cat a series of fun hidey holes and tunnels.
- Cat nip – Our 28 Clarendon Street team hasn’t met a cat yet who didn’t go nuts over catnip – a member of the mint plant family that releases a chemical called nepetalactone. Cats respond to this chemical in different ways … some become super-excited, others thoroughly relaxed. You can buy catnip in edible treats, toys, and sprays to give your cat some extra festive fun.
- The right diet – It might be tempting to give your cat human food as a treat ‘because it’s Christmas’. However, too much can cause weight gain, and some common festive foods such as onion gravy, chocolate, and mince pies can be harmful for your cat.
- Coat care – Winter can play havoc with your cat’s coat. Extreme temperature changes between outside and inside your home can cause static electricity, itchiness, and dandruff. Brush your cat more regularly to help prevent their thicker coat from becoming matted & tangled, and to remove dirt and debris. Some cat foods contain omega-3, which is good for coat condition. Feel free to get in touch if you need any advice regarding your cats diet.
- Avoid cat troubles – Being in overwhelming situations at home and getting injured are common occurrences for cats at Christmas time; both will affect your pet’s happiness and wellbeing. We’ve included our handy guide, which includes advice on dealing with visitors and celebrations, and avoiding decorative hazards.
Wishing all the very best to you and your fabulous felines this Christmas!