Cat, Signs You Are a Good Cat Owner, and What I Added

@celticeagle (185009)
Boise, Idaho
February 4, 2026 8:50pm CST
I love cats. I enjoy their addition to my home existence. I think that they are such opposites from dogs in that dogs seem so dependent on their owners where a cat could take us or leave us. If we aren't feeding them (we do) then they just go out and catch a bird or a mouse. They are proud animals and I like that. Independent and playful. So, veterinarians say that cats show us in subtle ways that we are doing a good job. Subtle, "a relationship built on trust, safety and mutual understanding" no flamboyant displays of affection like a slobbering dog might find necessary Here are a few ways to tell if we're doing a good job: * A cat chooses to be near you, even follows you from room to room. This is because they feel safe. * They have reduced anxiety because they are fed regularly and food is offered consistently. I have added brewer's yeast which I sprinkle on their food. They seem to like it, and vets say it's full of nutrition. * The cat litter box is a big deal. If they use it consistently, they know you are consistent and is a clear sign of well-being which I think is a Biggy. A litter box that is kept clean makes them and you happy, right? * When the cat's boundaries and our boundaries are being met it reflects a stable environment. We all want that, right? * We have one cat that has the zoomies regularly. I think that cats that play regularly and sleep a lot are happy cats. We have 4. We lost Mittens a couple of months ago. * According to vets a regular self-grooming means they have good physical and mental health. It means there is usually proper nutrition, emotional stability, and a low-stress home environment. It's all pretty basic isn't it?
8 people like this
7 responses
@sallypup (67878)
• Centralia, Washington
14h
Maybe its just me but I have never had aloof cats. At one time or other in a typical day all the cats come and visit with me. I find that the Siamese breed of cat is the most touchy feely- the one who reaches out to touch and insist on holding on to me.
1 person likes this
@snowy22315 (202432)
• United States
1h
I think my cat and I have a rocky relationship, but there is love there.
@toniganzon (73047)
• Philippines
11h
Really pretty basic for cat lovers. I once had two cats and I loved them. One I gave to my vet and the other was stolen from me. Why don't I have cats anymore? Coz I realized that I'm not really a cat person. I'm a dog person.
@Tampa_girl7 (54167)
• United States
4h
I have always been a big cat lover. We only have one now.
@JudyEv (370845)
• Rockingham, Australia
3h
It is pretty basic and some of the points would apply to any pet; and to domestic livestock like horses and cows. They like consistency and routine too.
@LindaOHio (212895)
• United States
4h
We always had dogs; but this is very interesting.
@leiilaoc (11)
• Indonesia
12h
I read somewhere if a cat has garlic clove fur, it means they're well nourished. My cats gradually developed that kind of fur when I started upgrading their food 3 months ago.