Care guide for your adult cat

A cat is considered an 'adult' at 12 months of age, and their needs begin to change. Now that you have made it through their kitten stage, you will want to maintain your cat's health to ensure they are as healthy as possible later in life. There are a few basic items you need to ensure your feline stays looking good and feline better!

Feeding

A healthy cat needs the right balance of six major nutrient groups; proteins, fats and oils, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates and water. All good quality cat food should provide your feline with these basic needs. Whether it be dry food, wet food, premium food or NZ made food, there is a large range of options available.

You may also choose to feed a breed specific diet, if you have a purebred cat. Having treats on hand is always a good idea for keeping your cat busy when you need, or simply to provide some bonding time between you are your furry friend.

Health

It is important to flea and worm your cat all year round. Products such as Bravecto Plus provide 3 months flea and tick protection for cats, plus a worm treatment. You may also prefer to use a flea collar for your cat. Seresto Collars last for 8 months.

Profender Topical Worm Treatment can be applied to the back of your cat’s neck and provides protection against hookworms, round worms and tapeworms. Always ensure you are getting the correct dosage for your cat’s weight class.

Cat Toys

Even as adults, cats are naturally inquisitive, and having a good selection of toys will keep them occupied (and potentially save your shoelaces, or the side of the sofa, from being destroyed). Feather toys, toys with bells, and catnip filled toys are all must haves. A laser pointer is also a fun way for you and your cat to play. Don’t forget to grab a cat scratcher as well. Scratching is normal cat behaviour, and training them to use this will hopefully save any unwanted items in the home being destroyed.

Sleeping

Whilst a cat bed may not be considered a necessity, your cat will be craving a comfortable and secure snoozing spot. Most cats love having a space of their own. There are a range of beds that your cat may love, check out covered beds which give them a safe place to hide. A bed will also help your cat develop a sleeping routine and may keep unwanted fur off your furniture.

Grooming

Whilst adult cats are generally very good at grooming themselves, they do still need a hand from time to time. The amount of grooming your cat will need will also depend on their fur. A short haired cat, for example, requires grooming once a week. Use a comb first, followed by a soft bristled brush to remove dead and loose hair. It is recommended to brush a long haired cat daily, and for this you may want to use a deshedding tool.

Cats shouldn’t usually need baths, but there are some circumstances in which you may want to bathe your cat. If they have rolled in something. Which they are unable to get off themselves or have long hair which has become matted, use a cat specific shampoo to bathe your cat.

Dental Health

Nutrition can play a significant role in maintaining optimal dental health, so choosing the purrfect food for your cat is the first step to healthy teeth and gums. There are specific dental foods that can aid your cat’s oral health. Giving your cat regular dental treats will also help to avoid any disease caused by poor dental hygiene. Teeth brushing is an important part of your cat’s ongoing dental health. Use a specifically cat dental product, and start by giving plenty of positive reinforcement with treats. Eventually, this should be an easy task that you do daily, or at least several times weekly, with your cat.

If you have any questions about keeping your adult cat happy and healthy, don't hesitate to reach out to one of Pet Direct's Customer Service Experts on 0800 200 240.

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