24 Awesome Cat Hacks to Make Your Life Easier
We know how important it is to give your cat the best life possible, but it takes a lot to maintain and care for them. In this article, we’ll explore 24 awesome cat hacks to give your kitty a better life and make things easier for you.
1. More Water
Cats don't naturally drink a lot of water, but they need hydration to prevent bladder and kidney problems. Instead of a water bowl, try a pet water fountain. Cats may instinctively be suspicious of stagnant water, but they are attracted to the sound of running water. Also, place the fountain away from the food bowl to encourage more drinking, as in the wild, cats avoid eating near water.
2. Get Rid of Litter Box Odor
To combat the dreaded litter box smell, add green tea leaves to suppress bacterial growth and absorb odors. You can also sprinkle a bit of baking soda at the bottom of the litter box to help absorb unpleasant smells.
3. Keep Your Cat Off Surfaces
If you don't want your cat on your kitchen table or counters, cover the surface with aluminum foil or double-sided tape. Cats dislike the rustling sound of foil and the stickiness of tape, which will discourage them from jumping onto these areas.
4. Prevent Hairballs
While hairballs can't be completely avoided, you can reduce their frequency by adding fiber to your cat’s diet, which promotes a healthy coat and minimizes shedding. Regular grooming is also essential to prevent hair from ending up in their stomachs.
5. Foods Cats Shouldn’t Eat
Print a list of foods that are toxic to cats as a handy reminder for yourself or your cat sitter. This can help prevent accidental poisoning.
6. Favorite Game
Cats love climbing and observing their surroundings from high spots. Install shelves on your walls to create climbing steps for your cat. These are great for exercise and mental stimulation.
7. Protect Furniture from Scratches
If you don't have space for a scratching post, wrap your furniture legs with sisal rope. This gives your cat a place to scratch and saves your furniture from damage.
8. Get Rid of Allergens and Odors
Using an air filter or purifier in your home can reduce allergens, odors, and dander. This is especially helpful if you have guests with allergies.
9. Pet Insurance is Important
Many people overlook pet insurance until it’s too late. Getting your cat insured early can save you from unexpected high vet bills in the future.
10. Catnip Fun
Cats love catnip! Grow your own or use catnip spray to rejuvenate old toys or encourage your cat to use scratching posts. Be careful, though, as neighborhood cats may also be attracted to your catnip.
11. Protect Your Plants
Cats may dig or chew your plants. Prevent this by placing popsicle sticks, pine cones, or small branches in the soil. You can also spray plants with citrus scents, as cats dislike the smell of citrus.
12. Leave the Cat Carrier Out
If your cat associates the carrier with vet visits, leave it open in the house for them to explore. Over time, your cat will become more comfortable with it.
13. Eliminate Urine Stains and Odors
Baking soda is excellent for neutralizing odors. For accidents on carpets, sprinkle baking soda on the spot, let it sit, and vacuum it up. Vinegar can also help eliminate bacteria.
14. Food Puzzle
Engage your cat’s hunting instincts by creating a food puzzle with a water bottle. Fill it with treats and let your cat bat it around to free the food.
15. Train Your Cat with Treats
Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained. Use treats to reward desired behaviors, like staying off the furniture. You can also use a clicker to reinforce training.
16. Best Toys for Cats
Often, simple household items like toilet paper rolls, boxes, and crumpled papers make the best cat toys. These inexpensive items can provide hours of entertainment for your feline friend.
17. Remove Cat Hair from Furniture
To remove cat hair from furniture, wear rubber gloves, dampen them slightly, and rub over the upholstery. The hair will ball up, making it easy to pick up. Duct tape also works well to remove fur.
18. Bath Time Life Hack
Cats rarely need baths, but if you must bathe them, use a sink instead of a large tub. The smaller space helps keep them calm and makes it easier to manage.
19. Stop Toilet Paper Unrolling
If your cat loves to unroll toilet paper, tuck the loose end into the roll or use a clip to secure it. Citrus spray around the area can also deter them.
20. Keep Ants Away from Cat Food
To keep ants out of your cat’s food, draw a chalk circle around the dish or place the dish in a tray of water. Ants won’t cross over the chalk or water.
21. Flat Plates for Eating
To prevent your cat from eating too fast and throwing up, serve their food on a flat plate. This also reduces whisker stress, as their whiskers won’t brush against the sides of a bowl.
22. Provide a Box on Your Desk
If your cat interrupts your work by sitting on your laptop, offer them an open box nearby. Cats love boxes and will be happy to settle into one instead of on your keyboard.
23. Pheromone Diffuser
If your cat is stressed due to changes like moving to a new home, a pheromone diffuser can help. It mimics feline facial pheromones, calming your cat and easing the transition.
24. Litter Box Barrier
If you have both a cat and a dog, you might find that dogs are attracted to the litter box. Elevate the litter box so your dog can’t reach it, but your cat can still jump in.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can create a happier and healthier environment for your cat while making your own life easier!