How to Care for Your Cat - Feeding and Housing Your Cat

1. Create a nurturing space for your cat. Make sure your cat has some space of her own. She should have a soft, comfortable space that offers her a bit of privacy. This way, your cat can retreat when feeling overwhelmed, or have a relaxing place to sleep. Offer soft blankets or pillows so that your cat can have a warm place to snuggle.[9]
- Wash your cats pillows or bedding on a regular basis.

2.Set up a litter box. Make sure to clean it every day, since cats prefer a clean bathroom. A clean litter box will attract a cat. But, a dirty one might repel her and make her look elsewhere to relieve herself. If you have more than one cat it is a good idea to have one more litter box than cat (placed in different areas of the house) in order to prevent any “turf” guarding of the box by one cat.[10]
- For example, if you have 2 cats, you should have three litter boxes available.
- Avoid placing the litter box in a busy area or near noisy appliances, which may scare your cat. Your cat should be able to easily access the litter box.[11]

3. Learn what your cat needs to eat. Ask your veterinarian to suggest a quality cat food specific for your cat. Follow the feeding instructions on the package of cat food you select. Cats are usually fed according to age, weight, and activity levels. They generally like to eat small meals throughout the day.[12] Don't feed your cat human food, unless you've discussed it with your vet. Some human foods can make a cat very sick or are toxic.
- Cats need animal derived food since they're carnivores. This means they need animal derived food to get essential amino acids, components of protein. If they don't get them, they'll develop severe health consequences.[13]
- Always offer fresh water, not milk which cats have a hard time digesting.[14]

4. Feed your cat regularly. If your cat does not have access to ad lib feeding of dry food, consider feeding 2 - 3 small meals spaced over the day. If you feed specific canned meals, throw any uneaten food away after 30 minutes. You can also choose to feed your cat dry food, which can be left out. Offer your cat treats every once in a while. Give her fresh fruit or vegetables, like cooked broccoli, corn, or cantaloupe. Avoid packaged treats which don't offer many nutrients.[15]
- If you have young kittens (6 to 12 weeks old), feed them 4 times a day. Older kittens (3 months to 6 months) should be feed 3 times a day.

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