Cat Care Guides: Behaviour, Health & Feeding

The cat, up close

Cats have lived in our homes for thousands of years, yet they remain gloriously independent creatures — part affectionate companion, part wild hunter, part mystery. That mix is exactly why cats fascinate us, and why they sometimes confuse us. This hub is your starting point for decoding cat behavior, keeping cats healthy and safe, and feeding them the way nature intended.

Decoding cat behavior

Cats communicate constantly — just not in words. The tail is the headline act: upright with a slight quiver means happy to see you, a puffed-up bottle-brush tail means frightened, and a low, twitching tail often means overstimulated. Ears swiveled sideways signal irritation; slow blinks are the closest thing to a feline hug.

Vocalizations add another layer. Purring usually means contentment (though cats also purr when stressed or in pain), trilling is a friendly greeting, and a hiss is a clear “back off.” Kneading paws is a leftover nursing behavior that means comfort, and head-bunting marks you with scent as part of the family.

So-called misbehavior almost always has a reason. Scratching is natural claw maintenance and stretching — the answer is a good scratching post, not punishment. Litter box problems often point to stress, a dirty box, or a medical issue rather than spite. When a cat’s behavior changes suddenly, assume it is telling you something and investigate.

Care and safety

Indoor cats live longer, safer lives, but they need an enriched home to thrive: tall scratching posts, window perches, hiding spots, and daily interactive play that mimics hunting. The litter box rule is simple — one box per cat, plus one extra, scooped daily.

Grooming needs vary by coat, but even short-haired cats benefit from regular brushing. Keep nails trimmed, check ears, and watch dental health — dental disease is painfully common in cats. Spaying or neutering, routine vet checkups, and keeping cats current on vaccinations round out responsible care.

If your cat craves the outdoors, consider safe options like a catio, a secure balcony enclosure, or harness training. Fresh air without the traffic, predators, and disease risks.

Please note: our guides are for information only and are not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

Nutrition

Cats are obligate carnivores — they must eat meat to get nutrients like taurine that their bodies cannot make. Look for high-quality wet or dry food labeled complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage. Wet food has the bonus of extra moisture, which helps urinary tract health; many cats are poor drinkers, so a water fountain can encourage hydration.

Measure portions to prevent obesity, one of the most common health issues in pet cats. And know the dangers: onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes are toxic to cats, and lilies are so poisonous that even pollen on the fur can be fatal — keep lilies out of any home with a cat.

Common cat questions

Why does my cat knock things off tables? Mostly curiosity and play — moving objects trigger a cat’s prey drive, and a big reaction from you is a bonus reward. Provide puzzle toys and redirect the behavior instead of scolding.

Why does my cat stare at me? Usually attention, or anticipation of food. A relaxed stare with slow blinks is affection. If the stare comes with a tense body, give the cat some space.

Can cats be trained? Absolutely — with the same reward-based methods used for dogs. Short sessions with high-value treats can teach sit, come, and even harness walking. Patience is the main ingredient.

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