If you’re like us, you’re probably making a list of all the New Year’s resolutions you want to commit to in 2016. But don’t make your list just about you. How about throwing in some 2016 goals for your cat?
We’ve got plenty of ideas in the gallery below, from jazzing up your cat’s environment with enrichment toys to scheduling that long-overdue veterinary exam. When you start thinking about your cat’s physical and emotional health, you may find that these resolutions for cats sound a lot like your own!
1. Move more.
You probably have a fitness goal on your 2016 list and it is important to remember that our feline friends need to exercise as well. We bet it won't take much to get your cat moving, especially if you've got a fun feather toy or laser pointer! Make it a goal to set aside time every day for active play with your cat.
2. Spend more time with friends and family.
Having a cat who hides when family and friends come over isn't fun for anyone — especially your cat. Make a resolution to help your feline feel more comfortable and confident positively interacting with friendly humans. (Of course, that can include you.)
3. Learn a trick.
Cats can't learn tricks, your friends insist. But we know that isn't true. Impress in 2016 by teaching your cat an awesome trick — perhaps to come when called, high-five or even the simple sit. And if you really want to be an overachiever this year, see if your cat enjoys learning to walk on a leash.
4. Get (en)rich(ed).
Enriching your cat's environment is easy to do with the addition of a scratching post, food puzzle, cat tree or even a fancy catio. It may not seem like much, but all of these items help promote natural feline behaviors like climbing, hunting, scratching and more — and that can improve your cat's physical and mental well-being.
5. Eat better.
Now is a great time to evaluate your cat's nutrition and eating. Talk with your veterinarian to make sure you're feeding the correct amount of food for your cat's size and activity level. And depending on your cat's age, you may want to ask about transitioning her from kitten to adult food or from adult food to a senior formula.
6. Visit the groomer.
While you're booking your cat's next vet appointment, why not call the groomer as well? Although it's true that cats do much of their own grooming, sometimes a visit to the groomer is in order for a fresh shampooing, nail clipping and fur trimming.
7. Most importantly, go to the doctor.
Many cats don't see the veterinarian nearly as often as they should, so make a resolution to change that. Call your clinic and schedule your cat's next physical exam. Trust us, having the opportunity to potentially catch health conditions before they progress is well worth the time — and yes, there are ways to help make your next vet visit easier on both you and your cat.
