International Cat Day

Today is International Cat Day, making it the perfect moment to celebrate our feline friends and think about what helps them live happy, healthy lives.

Cats are often seen as independent, but they still rely on us for care, comfort and protection. They are also very good at hiding pain or illness, so small changes in behaviour can sometimes be the first sign that something is not quite right.

Whether your cat is playful and confident, shy and sensitive, young, elderly, indoor-only or an outdoor explorer, International Cat Day is a good reminder to check in on their wellbeing.

Keep an eye on subtle changes

Cats do not always make it obvious when they feel unwell. Instead, they may show small changes in their routine or behaviour. Things to watch for include:

• Eating less or more than usual

• Drinking more than usual

• Hiding away

• Being less playful

• Sleeping more

• Toileting outside the litter tray

• Struggling to jump or climb stairs

• Grooming less, or overgrooming one area

• Becoming more vocal, withdrawn or irritable

These changes can be easy to dismiss, especially in older cats, but they are worth paying attention to. If something feels different, it is sensible to ask your vet for advice.

Make home feel safe and cat-friendly

Cats feel happiest when they have choice and control over their space. This is especially important in busy homes, multi-pet households or homes with visiting children or dogs.

Your cat should have somewhere quiet to retreat to, raised resting spots, hiding places, scratching posts, and easy access to food, water and litter trays.

As a general guide, cats prefer their food, water and litter tray to be kept in separate areas. If you have more than one cat, having more than one set of key resources can help reduce stress.

Encourage natural behaviour

Good cat care is not just about food and vet visits. Cats also need opportunities to play, scratch, climb, hide, explore and rest.

Short play sessions with wand toys, puzzle feeders or treat games can help keep indoor cats active and mentally stimulated. Older cats may still enjoy gentle play, but they may prefer shorter sessions and easier access to favourite resting places.

Scratching is also a normal and important behaviour. Providing suitable scratching posts or pads can help protect furniture and keep your cat’s claws in good condition.

Think about preventive care

Routine care can help spot health concerns before they become more serious. This may include vaccinations, parasite protection, dental checks, weight monitoring, microchip checks and regular health reviews.

Cats in England must be microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age, and it is just as important to keep your contact details up to date on the microchip database.

Even indoor cats benefit from preventive care. They can still develop dental disease, weight problems, arthritis, skin issues and other health concerns that may not be obvious at first.

Support older cats

As cats get older, they may slow down gradually. This can be easy to mistake for “just ageing”, but changes in mobility, appetite, weight, drinking, grooming or toileting can sometimes be linked to treatable health conditions.

Older cats may benefit from lower-sided litter trays, softer bedding, ramps or steps to favourite resting places, and more frequent health checks.

If your cat is hesitating before jumping, missing jumps, sleeping in different places or seeming stiff after rest, it is worth having a chat with your vet.

Need help?

If you have noticed a change in your cat’s behaviour, appetite, drinking, weight, mobility, grooming or toileting, we are happy to help.

International Cat Day is a lovely reminder to celebrate cats — but it is also a good opportunity to make sure they are feeling their best.

Get in touch with Ollie & Florrie Vets today, or book an appointment online.

Quick tips

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• Watch for small changes in behaviour or routine.

• Keep food, water and litter trays in separate areas.

• Provide hiding places, scratching posts and raised resting spots.

• Encourage play and gentle activity.

• Keep parasite protection and vaccinations up to date.

• Check your cat’s microchip details are current.

• Speak to your vet if something feels different.