10 Common Mistakes Made By Cat Owners

As cat owners, we all want to keep our four-legged friends healthy and happy. And, of course, we want to do everything we can to make sure that happens. Still, the average cat owner often overlooks some important aspects of their pet’s health care. Here are ten common mistakes made by cat owners:

1. Not seeking regular veterinary care

All cats need regular medical care. Yet, on average, cats see their veterinarians less often than their canine counterparts — despite the fact that the number of cats kept as pets outnumbers the number of dogs.

Why do cat owners not seek regular veterinary care for their cats? In many cases, it may be because they simply don’t understand the importance of these visits for their feline friend. Cats are masters of disguise when it comes to hiding the signs of illness. The early symptoms of disease are often subtle and difficult to notice. Especially for older cats, these signs may even be mistaken for “old age”. Your veterinarian is trained to look for signs of disease that may not be readily identifiable by the average pet owner. Early intervention of any disease or health condition that your cat may develop can lead to a more successful treatment outcome. In some cases, this may even prolong your cat’s life.

Other times, the hassle of getting the cat to the veterinarian may be the reason for not visiting. Conditioning your cat to his carrier before the trip to the veterinarian can help. Take a look at this video featuring five simple tips for making a carrier cat-friendly.

2. Assuming indoor cats can’t get fleas and other parasites

This is a common misconception. Cat owners frequently (and mistakenly) believe that because their cat lives indoors fleas and other parasites cannot become a problem. Too often, cat owners believe that parasite prevention is unnecessary for their indoor cat. Unfortunately, this is far from the truth. Fleas can find their way indoors very easily, hitch-hiking on your clothing or on a dog that does go outdoors, or finding their way through tiny openings in screens and doors. In addition, intestinal parasites like tapeworms and roundworms can be a problem as well. Mosquitoes can find their way indoors also, potentially exposing your cat to heartworms. Make sure your cat is on an appropriate parasite prevention program.

3. Overfeeding your cat

Obesity is one of the most common problems veterinarians diagnose in cats. It is estimated that over 50% of pet cats are either overweight or obese. These cats are at risk for numerous health issues. Weight issues can effectively shorten your cat’s lifespan, sometimes by as much as 2 years or more. Feed your cat to keep him lean and in good body condition.

4. Assuming hairballs are normal

An occasional hairball is not unusual. However, frequent vomiting (with or without hairballs in the vomit), coughing, or gagging is not normal and may indicate that there are health problems other than hairballs. Cats with these symptoms may be suffering from gastrointestinal disease, skin disease or a variety of other health issues. If your cat is displaying these types of symptoms, your cat should be examined by a veterinarian.

5. Not caring for your cat’s teeth

Your cat’s oral health should not be overlooked. The majority of cats over 3 years of age already have evidence of some degree of dental disease. Brushing your cat’s teeth is the gold standard for in home oral health care and most cats will tolerate brushing with a little patience and conditioning. However, if brushing is impossible, your veterinarian can offer other options to help your cat’s mouth healthy and pain free.

6. Litter box mistakes. “My cat’s not using the litter box!” is one of the most common complaints I hear from cat owners. Too often, this behavior ends with the owner surrendering the cat to their local shelter. But many times, cats stop using the litter box because of their owners' mistakes. These mistakes may include not cleaning the box often enough, not providing a box big enough for the cat, choosing a litter the cat doesn't like, not providing enough litter boxes (in a multicat household), not placing the litter box in the right location, and allowing the cat to be startled or harassed while in the litter box.  

7. Getting mad at your cat for scratching. If your cat is scratching your furniture or other belongings, it’s likely because you haven’t provided your cat with a proper place where he is allowed to scratch. Scratching is a normal behavior for a cat. Your cat is only doing what comes naturally to him when he scratches. He’s not doing it because he’s mad at you and trying to “get even,” nor is he doing it because he doesn’t like your taste in furniture. Provide your cat with an acceptable scratching surface and take steps to encourage him to use it. Your cat’s scratching post should have both vertical and horizontal scratching surfaces. Encourage your cat to use the surface by placing catnip or a small amount of food on it. A favorite toy can also be used to tempt your cat to explore the scratching post. Place the post in a desirable location, such as near your cat’s favorite sleeping area or near a window.

8. Letting your cat go outdoors untended. Letting your cat go outdoors untended puts your cat at risk for trauma, illnesses, and more. It also endangers the local wildlife. Cats are efficient predators. You also run the risk of annoying your neighbors if your cat decides to use their garden as a litter box or destroys their flower beds. If your cat enjoys being outdoors, consider supervised walks on a leash using a harness or collar. Alternatively, you can purchase or build a "catio" for your cat. This way, your cat can still enjoy the outdoors without being in danger.

9. Handling your cat inappropriately. Many cats will roll over, exposing their belly as though they wish to have a belly rub. Very few cats actually do want that though. Most cats do not enjoy having their belly handled or rubbed. Similarly, some cats can become overstimulated with too much petting/stroking and may strike out suddenly. Learn to read your cat’s body language and cease the petting before your cat gets to the stage where he is ready to strike. Another mistake often made by cat owners involves using your hands to play with your cat. You should never encourage your cat to bite or scratch you, even in play. Substitute a suitable toy instead.

10. Going to the Internet when you should be going to your veterinarian. The Internet is a good place to go to research a specific condition or illness, assuming you choose the correct sources to trust. However, if your cat is in distress or is injured, don’t waste precious time on the Internet. Get your cat to the veterinarian instead.