Cats are creatures of habit, but even the most loving owners can overlook the little things that make their day complete. Beyond food, water, and a cosy spot to nap, your cat’s happiness depends on daily routines that nurture both their body and mind.
Small actions, from playtime to gentle grooming, help strengthen your bond and keep your feline friend healthy, confident, and content. Many cats crave interaction and mental stimulation more than we realise.
A few minutes of play or quiet attention can make a world of difference, turning an ordinary day into one filled with trust and joy. Here are some of the simple yet important things cats adore that owners often forget to do, and how adding them back into your routine can make your cat’s world a happier one.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources and feline behaviour research.
1. Daily Sunbathing Spots
Sunshine is a feline’s delight. Cats instinctively gravitate toward the warm embrace of a sunbeam, soaking up the gentle rays with pure contentment.
Providing a cozy spot for your cat to sunbathe can significantly boost their mood. Whether it’s a windowsill or a comfy chair, ensure they have access to this natural pleasure. A little sun can go a long way in enhancing their well-being.
2. Gentle Music Sessions
Music isn’t just for humans. Many cats enjoy the soothing sounds of gentle music, which can create a calming atmosphere.
Play soft classical pieces or specially composed cat music to ease anxiety and promote relaxation. This auditory treat can be particularly beneficial in multi-pet households.
Fun fact: A study found that cats prefer music with tempos and pitches that mimic their natural vocalizations. Try a music session today!
3. Daily Brushing Sessions
Your feline’s coat deserves regular attention, even for short-haired varieties. Beyond preventing hairballs and reducing shedding around your home, brushing creates a special bonding moment.
Most cats develop a deep appreciation for this grooming ritual when introduced properly. The sensation mimics maternal grooming from kittenhood, triggering feel-good hormones and strengthening your relationship.
4. Fresh Water Throughout The Day
Cats instinctively avoid stagnant water in nature, as it might harbor bacteria. Many household cats secretly dislike their water bowls when they’ve been sitting untouched for hours.
Refreshing your cat’s water several times daily encourages proper hydration. Some felines prefer drinking from running sources. Consider a pet fountain as an alternative to constantly refilling bowls.
5. Interactive Play Sessions
Even the laziest feline needs mental and physical stimulation. Wild cats spend hours hunting; domestic cats still possess these instincts but lack proper outlets.
Just 5-10 minutes of play with wand toys or laser pointers satisfies their predatory drive. Morning and evening sessions work best, aligning with cats’ natural hunting times. The exercise prevents obesity while reducing destructive behaviors born from boredom.
6. Vertical Territory Access
Cats are natural climbers who feel safest when surveying their domain from above. In the wild, height equals security, which is a principle that remains hardwired in domestic cats.
Providing shelves, cat trees, or cleared bookcase tops satisfies this fundamental need. When cats lack vertical options, they often become anxious or territorial. The simple act of creating pathways upward dramatically increases your cat’s confidence and comfort.
7. Access To Cat-Safe Greenery
Mysterious as it seems, cats crave occasional plant matter. This behavior likely helps with digestion and hairball management in the wild.
Growing cat grass (typically wheat, oat, or barley) provides a safe outlet for this natural urge. Many owners notice their cats seem more relaxed after nibbling some greens. This simple addition prevents dangerous munching on toxic houseplants while satisfying an often-overlooked feline need.
8. Slow Blinking Communication
Cat behaviorists call it the “cat kiss”, a.k.a. that slow, deliberate blink cats offer to those they trust. This subtle communication often goes unnoticed by humans focused on louder expressions of affection.
When your cat slowly closes their eyes at you, they’re expressing comfort and trust. Returning this gesture strengthens your bond without invading their personal space. It’s perfect for independent cats who prefer affection on their terms.
9. Food Puzzle Challenges
Free-feeding from bowls ignores cats’ natural foraging instincts. In the wild, cats work for their meals through stalking and hunting, which are mental and physical processes they crave.
Puzzle feeders transform mealtime into an engaging activity that prevents boredom and overeating. These toys dispense kibble as rewards for problem-solving, providing crucial mental stimulation. Even senior cats benefit from the gentle activity and brain exercise these puzzles provide.
