Recognizing your cat as a unique individual with their own preferences, habits, and quirks is one of the first lessons I like emphasize for every cat parent. This becomes even more crucial when you’re sifting through all of the advice on the World Wide Web, or even when you’re receiving direct guidance from a cat professional like myself!
Some advice may resonate perfectly with you and your kitty, while other advice might leave you thinking, “I’m not so sure about that for Mittens.” For instance, tips that work wonders for outgoing, fearless cats might not be as effective for the more timid and shy ones. It could be as simple as a highly recommended open bed that others rave about, but you know your cat prefers their hideaway bed or snuggling under a blanket.
Even when it comes to advice I offer to my clients, I’m always proud and impressed when they share how they’ve come up with another way to achieve the same goal, tailored perfectly to their cat’s unique needs. For example, I might suggest a play session with a wand toy before a meal, but if you know your cat gets an energy boost after eating and loves to play with a ball, you might switch it up and play a game of fetch after supper.
Our goal as cat parents is to nurture and celebrate the beautiful individuality of our cats. So get creative, always consider what your kitty loves, and you’ll see them shine with pure joy every day.