Did you know that cats were domesticated at least 8,000 years ago? Farmers used cats for pest control but, no doubt, became enraptured with their beauty and charm. And, of course, everyone knows that in Ancient Egypt cats were worshiped as sacred and magical creatures.
This month is the perfect (purr-fect) time to focus on the physical and mental health of your own beloved feline friends, as well as cats everywhere! Cats don’t make many demands and are very stoic, not readily showing illness, so sometimes their daily health and needs get overlooked. National Cat Health Month is a great time to focus on their well-being. There are many ways to help.
Annual Wellness Visit
- Cats often don’t display signs of illness until it’s advanced. This is why an annual wellness visit is vital, allowing problems to be identified before they become more serious. Every beloved cat deserves preventive health care.
- Always ask your vet to check the oral and dental health of your cat.
Playtime for Your Feline!
- We all live busy lives, but all your cat has is you! Playtime, for most cats, is their happiest place.
- Some sources suggest playing with your cat for at least 15 minutes, twice a day.
- Playtime provides great exercise and taps into their instincts to chase and hunt.
Spend More Time With Them
- Some cats run to their owners when they come home, while other cats may wait quietly. If they’re not given attention, they learn not to seek it.
- Always acknowledge your cat when you return. Pet them, talk to them—this can make their day.
- Make daily treat time a special event.
Groom Your Furry Friend
- Cat grooming removes dead hair, prevents matting, and helps improve overall health. If you need help, look for cat grooming services in your area.
- Brushing your cat regularly helps prevent hairballs. Excellent grooming tools can be found at your local pet store.
- Grooming is a great bonding time.
- You may need to try different brushes to find one your kitty likes.
Feed the Best Quality Food You Can Afford
- Growing research points to the significant health benefits of canned, fresh, or frozen foods over kibble. Cats often love kibble, but the biggest concern is they seldom drink enough water, leading to kidney and urinary issues.
- Kibble is cooked at high temperatures and highly processed, which may not provide the best nutrition for your furry friend.
Attend to Your Cat’s Dental Health
- Current research suggests that 70% of cats will have some form of dental disease by age three. Dental disease can occur even in kittens. Dental care is one of the kindest things you can do for your cat.
- Learn how to brush your cat’s teeth. Start by gently rubbing their gums with your finger and try different flavored toothpastes.
- Speak with your vet regularly about your cat’s oral health. They may recommend a dental cleaning.
- The earlier you start caring for your cat’s teeth, the more likely you can prevent serious periodontal disease—which is painful and causes distress.
Adopt a Kitten or Cat
- You may already have one or two cats, but if you have room for another, consider adopting! If everyone who loved cats adopted just one, we could help end the homeless cat crisis in cities everywhere.
Volunteer
- If you’re not in a position to adopt, you can still help cats. Nearly every city has animal shelters or local rescue groups. Volunteering helps multiple cats and kittens.
- You could also help rescue stray cats or foster a rescued cat or kitten.
- Any time you can spare, short or long, will contribute to their well-being.
We hope you’ll celebrate National Cat Health Month 2025 in any way you can. If you have friends and family who are cat owners or cat lovers, spread the word that February has been designated for the health of felines! Your cats, and all cats, will thank you with purrs.
Steph Mueller
The Pet Market Press
Photo courtesy of FreePik