As a veteran cat mum, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeves, or a series of life hacks, if you will. Trust me; these will make your life as a cat parent a whole lot easier, not to mention earn you some affectionate purrs from your furry friend!
1. Keep Your Furniture Scratch-Free
Here’s a trick that has saved my favorite armchair countless times – provide your cat with an alternative scratching option. A cat scratching post works just perfectly! Make it more inviting with a sprinkle of catnip or honeysuckle, and voila, your furniture has been saved!
2. DIY Litter Odor Solutions
Litter box odors are the bane of any cat owners’ life. However, baking soda can be your knight in shining armor! Mix it into the litter. It’s safe and helps to control the odor, making your home smell fresh.
3. Hairball Reduction
Brush your cats regularly to reduce the number of hairballs. This not only prevents your furbaby from swallowing an excessive amount of hair but also keeps your home fur-free.
4. Easy-Peasy Pill Administration
Having a tough time giving your cat their medicine? Try hiding it in their favorite treat or use a specially designed pill dispenser. The treat distracts them, and they swallow the pill without realizing it.
5. The Magic of Aluminum Foil
Does your cat have a habit of jumping onto counters and tables? Try placing sheets of aluminum foil on the surfaces; the noise and sensation of foil are often sufficient deterrents.
6. Repurposing a Mat as a Feeding Station
If you’re tired of cleaning up your cat’s dining area after every meal, try placing a silicone mat under their food and water bowls. They are easy to clean and can contain any spillage.
7. Creating a Safe Space
An anxious cat can create a whirlwind of distress for the owner. Creating a safe space like a cuddle cave or a designated quiet spot in your home can help soothe their nerves.
These are just some life hacks that I’ve gleaned from my years of being a cat parent. Each cat is uniquely purr-recious, but thankfully, their quirks are what make being a cat owner so interesting! Here’s to making our life—and theirs—a little less “hiss-terical” and a lot more fun.