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Cognitive Decline in Cats: Signs, Causes and How to Support Your Cat

Cognitive Decline in Cats: Signs, Causes and How to Support Your Cat

Cognitive decline in cats, often called feline cognitive dysfunction, is a brain condition seen in ageing cats. Signs of cognitive decline include confusion, getting lost in familiar places, staring, changes in sleep, increased night-time vocalisation, altered social behaviour and litter tray accidents. A vet will check behaviour and rule out other medical causes before diagnosing. You can help manage cognitive decline by keeping a steady routine, making the home easier to navigate, offering gentle mental stimulation and keeping up with health checks and diet. Seek veterinary advice for sudden or severe changes, frequent accidents or distress so you can protect your cat’s comfort and quality of life.

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  • What Should You Do With Your Cat When You Go on Holiday?

    What Should You Do With Your Cat When You Go on Holiday?

    A simple, SEO friendly guide to cat care while on holiday. Choose the right option for your cat: boarding cattery, home visits, a live-in pet sitter or help from friends and family. Boarding catteries give regular feeding, cleaning and trained staff but can stress some cats because of a new place. Home visits let your cat stay in a familiar environment while a sitter feeds, cleans the litter and plays with them. A live-in sitter keeps routine and company for cats that do not cope well alone. To prepare your cat for holiday, make sure vaccinations are up to date, give flea and worm treatments, leave enough food and clear written care instructions, and update your microchip and contact details. Make the home comfortable with clean litter trays, fresh water, favourite sleeping spots, toys and items with your scent. Keep feeding times and daily routines the same to reduce cat stress and avoid long, dramatic goodbyes. Leave an emergency contact, your vet details and written permission for treatment. When you return, be patient while your cat readjusts; you may see extra affection or a short change in behaviour. Careful planning helps you enjoy your holiday while your cat stays safe and calm.

  • Boarding Facilities vs Home Visits: What Is Best for Your Cat?

    Boarding Facilities vs Home Visits: What Is Best for Your Cat?

    Cat boarding vs home visits: a simple guide to cat care while you are away. Boarding catteries offer individual pens, set feeding and cleaning, on-site staff and fast medical help, but new surroundings and other animals can stress some cats. Home visits by a pet sitter let your cat stay in its own home, keep its usual routine, lower infection risk and get personal attention during visits, but the cat is alone between visits and problems may go unnoticed. Choose based on your cat’s personality, health, age and routine, plus cost and home security. For longer trips you can mix options, such as cattery stays or live-in sitters, so your cat stays calm, healthy and safe.

  • Long Distance Car Travel With Cats

    Long Distance Car Travel With Cats

    Long-distance car travel with a cat is easier with simple planning. Key cat travel tips include choosing a sturdy, well ventilated carrier and securing it in the car, keeping the cabin cool to prevent overheating, managing feeding and water, and planning safe rest stops. Use familiar bedding and toys to reduce travel anxiety, keep music low and drive smoothly, and never let cats roam free in the vehicle. Pack food, litter, bowls, cleaning supplies, medicines and vet records, and use separate carriers for multiple cats. For travelling abroad with cats check microchipping, rabies rules and health certificates well in advance.

  • Obesity in Cats: Causes, Risks and How to Help Your Cat Stay Healthy

    Obesity in Cats: Causes, Risks and How to Help Your Cat Stay Healthy

    Cat obesity is common, especially in indoor cats. It happens when cats eat more calories than they burn. Common causes of cat obesity are overfeeding, too many treats, lack of play, neutering and age. Signs of an overweight cat include ribs that are hard to feel, no waist from above, a sagging belly, less interest in play and poor grooming. Weight management for cats focuses on measured portions, a vet-recommended diet, fewer treats, set feeding times and more play with toys and food puzzles. For weight loss for cats, work with your vet to rule out medical causes and set slow, safe targets while tracking weight. Prevent obesity by feeding a balanced diet, playing daily and keeping indoor cats mentally and physically active.

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