What to Feed a Kitten

Birth to Six Weeks

Like all mammals, kittens drink their mother’s milk until they’re old enough to chew and digest other foods. The mother cat will usually start weaning her kittens when they’re around four weeks old. They won’t be ready to fully transition to solid food until they’re around eight weeks old—six weeks at the earliest.

When kittens are less than six weeks old, they are too young to be fully weaned. You will need to get some kitten formula and bottle-feed them every 2-6 hours, depending on their age. 

NEVER give a kitten cow’s milk, baby formula, or anything else besides kitten formula. Kittens get most of their hydration from drinking milk. If the milk you’re feeding them causes diarrhea, they could become severely dehydrated and even die. 

Six Weeks to Six Months

You can start feeding a kitten small amounts of wet food and kitten chow once they’re old enough. Just remember: kittens are growing quickly and have different nutritional needs than adult cats. That’s why it’s important to purchase kitten-specific kibble and wet food for your cat’s first year of life. 

Kitten food contains the extra fat and protein they need to develop healthy bodies and intelligent brains. Kittens also need to eat more often than adult cats. Once they’re weaned, they’ll need to eat three or four meals a day until they’re at least six months old.

Is Milk Safe for Adult Cats?

Although milk is not exactly toxic to cats, drinking it can cause some very painful side effects. Cats cannot digest lactose, so drinking cow’s milk will give them an upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea. Cats may enjoy the taste of milk, but you shouldn’t give it to them, because it will make them feel sick later on. 

Milk and dairy products like cheese also have a lot of fat, which could be dangerous for adult cats. Obesity in cats can lead to problems like arthritis, hip dysplasia, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and chronic pain. It also shortens their lifespans considerably. Feeding your cat a healthy diet, controlling their meal portions, and avoiding fatty treats is the best way to prevent obesity.

Veterinary Care for Cats and Kittens in Gilbert, Arizona

For dietary advice and complete cat care, come to Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert. Our vets are the best of the best—they’re gentle, caring, and highly trained. Cats can live for 20 years or more, and good nutrition when they’re a kitten will start them off on the path to a long and happy life. 

If you have any questions about kitten nutrition or if you have a new kitten to care for, contact us to make an appointment today.

Photo by Jesús Boscán on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 4/2/25.

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With all that fur, brushing is very important. It keeps their coats healthy and clean, prevents matting and hairballs, and leaves less cat hair around your house. It’s also a good bonding ritual. Cats groom each other to show affection and as a sign of friendship, so when you brush your cat, it helps them feel closer to you.

Our vets explain why you need to brush your cat, how often to do it, which type of brush to use, and how to prevent hairballs.

How Often Do You Need to Brush Your Cat?

The answer to this question mostly depends on the length of your cat’s fur.

• Short-haired cats need to get brushed once or twice a week.
• Medium-haired cats should get brushed at least every other day.
• Long-haired cats need daily brushing.

How often you should brush your cat depends on their age, as well.

• Older cats often need brushing every day, as self-grooming becomes more difficult.
• It’s good to brush kittens every day, too, even if it’s just a few strokes. Brushing helps them get used to your touch and form a closer bond with you. 

It’s also important to note that some cats simply will not tolerate things like nail trimming and brushing. If you have a cat that fights the brush, attempting to groom them could lead to injuries. You will need to bring your cat to a professional groomer or a veterinarian.

Which Kind of Brush Does My Cat Need?

Again, this is going to depend mostly on the length of their fur. You need a brush or comb with tines long enough to reach through all three layers of your cat’s fur and down to their skin. For example, long-haired cats like Maine Coons will need a de-matting brush and a wide-tooth comb to keep their fur from getting tangled. 

A slicker brush (the kind with wire bristles) will work for most cats. And a silicone curry brush is gentle enough for kittens and cats that are new to brushing. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

How to Prevent Hairballs

Hairballs are normal, but they can be dangerous. That’s why cats need frequent brushing. The more loose hair you can collect on a hairbrush, the less your cat will be able to swallow. 

You should also make sure that your cat is drinking plenty of water. The ideal amount will depend on their size and their diet. For example, a cat that weighs ten pounds and eats only dry food should drink at least 1 cup of water in a day. Staying hydrated will help them pass any hair that accidentally gets swallowed.

Long-haired cats and devoted groomers may benefit from a special diet. If your cat is getting frequent hairballs, ask your vet about switching to a hairball-control cat food.

Ask the Cat Experts at Anasazi Animal Clinic

If you’re looking for the best veterinarians for cats in Gilbert, Arizona, you found us! Nobody else will give your cat the same loving attention and dedicated care as Anasazi Animal Clinic. If you’re still wondering how often you should brush your cat, or what type of brush to use, or have any other questions about cat care, be sure to ask us at your next visit! Give us a call to make an appointment today.

Photo by Milada Vigerova on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 11/6/24.

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New Cat Shopping Checklist

• Food
• Dishes
• Litter 
• Litterbox
• Brush
• Toys
• Scratching Post
• Perch
• Bed
• Carrier
• Collar 
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste
• Nail Trimmers
• Treats

Everything You Need to Buy When You Adopt a Cat

1: Food

The first thing you’ll need to buy is cat food. Start with some kibble that’s appropriate for your cat’s age—kittens and elderly cats have different nutritional requirements. Then, make sure you’re feeding them the right amount every day for their weight and age group. You can choose to free-feed or feed on a schedule, and you can also supplement kibble with wet food. Most cats don’t need a special diet, but try to avoid overfeeding in order to maintain a healthy weight.

2: Dishes

Start out with a couple of bowls or a basic set of food and water dishes for your cat. As you learn their habits, you can make adjustments. For example, a small platform or dish holder can be helpful for elderly cats. You might also want a mat if you have a messy eater, or a water fountain if your cat isn’t drinking enough. For cats that tend to overeat, there are timed-release feeders. And if your cat isn’t the only pet in the home, they might want to be fed on a countertop or table where their food is out of the reach of the household dogs.

3: Litter

There are a lot of different options for cat litter, but you don’t need to get anything fancy. Brands like Pretty Litter can help if you have a cat with a high risk of urinary tract infections, but to start out it’s best to choose a litter that’s appropriate for your cat’s age. Kittens have more sensitive paws, so they might need a finer grade of litter. The rest is up to you—if you want odor control or prefer an eco-friendly option, go for it. As long as you scoop every day and change out the litter at least once a month, your cat will stay healthy.

4: Litterbox

Accessibility is the main thing to consider when choosing a litterbox. Kittens will need a simple plastic bin with low sides and no top. Elderly cats will also need a litterbox that’s easy to step into. Aside from that, it’s up to you whether you want a basic plastic bin or a self-scooping litter robot. Just remember that when it comes to litterboxes, most cats don’t like to share. If you have more than one cat, make sure that there’s at least one litterbox for each of them.

5: Brush

Grooming is a very important part of cat care. Daily or weekly brushing (depending on your cat’s breed) will help prevent dangerous complications from hairballs. Grooming also helps you form a closer bond with your cat, so it’s a good idea to make it part of your daily routine. When it comes to choosing the right brush, you’ll need to consider your cat’s age as well as the length of their 1fur.

6: Toys

This is a fun one! All cats need to play—it’s part of their prey drive, and it helps to satisfy their natural curiosity. It’s also a great way for cats to get some exercise. Choose a few interactive toys as well as a few they can play with on their own. Just remember to avoid any toys with strings or small parts that could get chewed off or swallowed.

7: Scratching Post

All cats need to scratch! It’s one of the ways they show excitement, and it also helps keep their claws at a manageable length. Make sure to provide at least one scratching post that’s tall enough for your cat to get a full-body stretch. If you care about your furniture, the more scratching places you can provide, the better.

8: Perch

Cats feel safer when they’re up high, which is why they’re always attempting crazy jumps onto the top of the refrigerator, or knocking your nick-nacks off the top of your bookshelves. They want to stay out of the reach of dogs and kids, and be able to leap down upon any unsuspecting mice or bugs that dare traverse their territory. Ideally, most cats prefer a cozy place to perch on a windowsill, where they can keep a close eye on the birds and squirrels outside.

9: Bed

Yes, cats will sleep anywhere…whether it’s a pile of laundry fresh out of the dryer or the back of the couch or under your bed. But they still want their own beds, too. Elderly cats especially need a soft, warm place where they can rest safely, without having to jump up. And if you have more than one pet, make sure your cat has a bed in a safe space where they can hide and be alone for a while.

10: Carrier

You’ll need a cat carrier for trips to the vet as well as car rides. If you plan to fly with your cat, you’ll need a soft carrier that you can bring on board with you—just be sure to check the airline’s size requirements. Hard carriers are best for car travel, because they will protect your pet from injuries if you make a sudden stop or get in a crash. 

11: Collar

Next you’ll need a collar, plus a leash and harness if you want to try taking your cat out for a walk. Cats that live exclusively indoors don’t necessarily need a collar. However, it’s still a good idea to give them a microchip just in case they ever dash out the door and get lost. Collars also help identify lost cats. You can attach an ID tag to your cat’s collar so that if they ever wander, it will be easy for the person who finds them to contact you.

12: Toothpaste and Toothbrush

Cats often suffer from painful dental problems like tooth resorption, so it’s important to make a habit of brushing your cat’s teeth. Daily brushing will remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Pick out a cat-specific toothbrush and a toothpaste in their favorite flavor—chicken, salmon, or beef.

13: Nail Trimmers

If you don’t trim your cat’s nails, they can become ingrown or get caught on something and tear right off. Long nails can also make jumping—and even walking—painful for your cat. Get a pair of nail trimmers at your pet store and check your cat’s claws once or twice a month for length. Just make sure to clip above the quick, the pink part that you can see inside the nail. Trimming too deep can cause pain as well as infections.

14: Treats

When it comes to treats, we recommend getting your cat a snack that’s good for their teeth. But in general, treats are a great way to show your cat some love, or to reward them for good behavior—like holding still while you brush their teeth! 

Comprehensive Cat Care in Gilbert, Arizona

There’s a lot to learn if you’re a first-time cat owner! But don’t worry—the vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic will be happy to answer all of your questions. We reserve time at each appointment to address any concerns you have about your cat, whether it’s choosing the right food or the right scratching post. If you’re planning to adopt a cat, or you just brought a new pet home, schedule a wellness exam today—contact us at 480-497-0505 or request an appointment online.

Photo by Monica Yu on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 10/6/24.

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Dental problems can cause extreme pain, and often lead to tooth loss. Unfortunately, most people simply don’t realize how important good dental health is for cats. If you’re new to cat dental care, here are a few tips to get you started.

Four Essential Cat Dental Care Tips for Beginners

1: Brush Your Cat’s Teeth Every Day

Obviously, cats can’t brush their teeth on their own. And since plaque and tartar buildup can cause serious problems, it’s important for you to learn how to brush your cat’s teeth.

First—and most importantly—you’ll need to get a cat toothbrush and a toothpaste that is designed specifically for cats. Not only will the toothpaste have a flavor that your cat will love—like salmon or chicken—all of its ingredients will be safe for cats. 

Cats don’t usually like people sticking things into their mouths, so start out by just letting your cat taste the toothpaste. Pretend like it’s a treat! Let them lick it off of your finger or off of the toothbrush, give them lots of pets and reassurance, and gradually work up to actually brushing their teeth.

2: Feed Your Cat a Healthy Diet

Feeding your cat a high-quality, low-carb diet will also promote good dental health. You don’t have to go as far as feeding them a raw food diet or anything like that—just make sure that their kibble is mainly protein. Ideally, your cat’s food should have a carbohydrate content of 15% or less.

You can also give your cat dental treats to help reduce plaque formation. Even though cats don’t do as much chewing as dogs, the shape and texture of cat dental treats are specifically designed to clean a cat’s teeth. Cat grass (wheatgrass) is also good for your cat’s teeth, and it has other health benefits as well.

3: Check in on Your Cat’s Gum Health

Did you know that your cat’s gums are a good indicator of how healthy their teeth are? Healthy gums should be light pink, firm, and slightly moist. If they are red, dry, swollen, or pulling away from the teeth, bring your cat to see a veterinary dentist. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in cats, so the sooner you seek treatment, the better.

Symptoms of gum disease in cats include:

• Bleeding (when brushing teeth, or blood on food)
• Reduced appetite, or only eating soft food
• Dark spots on the gums
• Red and swollen gums
• Uneven gum line (receding gums)
• Drooling
• Bad breath

4: Take Your Cat to the Vet for a Dental Exam Every Year

Good dental health is one of the reasons your cat needs a checkup every year. Oftentimes, people think that there’s no reason to take an indoor cat to the vet as long as they seem healthy. 

However, because dental problems can be difficult to detect, checkups are essential, even if your cat isn’t displaying symptoms. 

Also, it can be hard to tell when your cat is in pain. Not only will your vet be able to examine your cat’s mouth for signs of dental disease, they’ll also be able to provide treatments and cleanings that will keep your cat’s teeth healthy. 

Older cats especially need regular checkups, and yearly dental cleanings will help prevent tooth loss and dental pain. Because infections of the teeth and gums can spread to other parts of the body, you’ll also be reducing your cat’s risk of serious illnesses like kidney disease and heart disease by keeping their teeth clean.

Dental Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

Even if you’re already brushing your cat’s teeth every day, they still need annual dental checkups. A veterinary dentist can get rid of plaque and tartar buildup that a toothbrush can’t reach, and dental checkups are also important for detecting the early signs of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings will help prevent pain, tooth loss, and the need for expensive surgical procedures later on. 

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we can provide expert dental care for cats, and we can also advise you on the best ways to take care of your cat’s teeth at home. So if you want to learn how to brush your cat’s teeth, or need a few more cat dental care tips, make an appointment today! We’re always happy to answer any questions about what you can do to make sure your cat lives a long and happy life.

Photo by Manki Kim on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 7/22/2024.

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Ten Things Every Indoor Cat Needs

1: Interactive Play

Cats are hard-wired hunters, and even indoor cats need to engage in hunting behaviors like stalking, pouncing, and biting. When your kitty pounces your ankles, it’s because they want to play. Cats love to test their athletic skills on unpredictable targets, so when you wriggle a toy erratically, or toss it in a random direction, your cat gets excited about the new challenge. Plus, interactive play helps you build a closer bond.

2: Entertainment 

Cats are pretty good at finding their own entertainment. Whether it’s batting a piece of trash around the house, bird-watching, or testing out cardboard boxes, cats can usually find the mental stimulation they need to keep from getting bored. However, if your cat is acting out by destroying your furniture or chomping on your houseplants, they might need more stimulation and time spent playing. Try adding some new toys into their rotation and get a plant just for your cat, like wheatgrass, to help prevent boredom.

3: Comfortable Beds

Even if their favorite place to sleep is on your bed, every cat needs a comfortable bed of their own. When they’re young, they’ll sleep most anywhere—on a pile of freshly folded laundry, on your bath mat, or curled up on a couch pillow. But when cats get older, it’s not so easy for them to jump up onto your bed or the couch. Make sure your cat has a clean, safe, comfortable place to sleep that’s also easy for them to access. 

4: A Place to Perch

Every cat needs a place to perch up high, for several reasons. Cats feel safe when they’re up where no one can reach them. A high perch also gives them an opportunity to survey their territory and keep an eye on the activity of the household. If there are other pets around, a high perch will let cats assert their dominance, or simply take a nap undisturbed. Add a weight-bearing shelf or a cat-tree. 

5: Somewhere to Scratch

Cats use scratching to keep their claws healthy, to express excitement, and to mark their territory with the scent glands in their paws. They’re not usually trying to be destructive when they sink their claws into the back of the couch—it’s a normal, instinctual behavior. However, sometimes cats do get destructive when they’re feeling stressed out. It’s their way of letting you know they need attention.

6: Grooming 

Although they’re known to be meticulous self-groomers, combing and brushing is good for your cat’s health and happiness. When cats form a bond they groom each other, so when you brush your cat’s fur, you’re demonstrating how much you love them. Plus, the more loose fur you can collect on a brush or comb means the less fur your cat might end up swallowing. To help prevent hairballs, regular grooming is a must.

7: A Nutritious Diet

Whether it’s wet food or dry, your cat’s food should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Most commercial cat foods are formulated to provide the high-protein, high-fat diets cats need. As long as you’re feeding your cat the right amount of food, and making sure they get enough exercise, they should be able to maintain a healthy weight.

8: Daily Exercise

Even if it seems like they spend most of the day sleeping, cats do need exercise. Daily exercise keeps their joints and muscles healthy, and helps prevent obesity. It also provides some of the entertainment and interactive play that cats need to satisfy their hunting instincts. 

9: A Clean Litter Box

Try to get into the habit of scooping your cat’s litter box every day—this will make your cat both happier and healthier. Cats like to be clean, and none of them want to have to step on clumps of their own waste. Litter boxes can also harbor parasites, bacteria, and viruses if they don’t get cleaned. Daily scooping will help prevent urinary tract infections and keep germs from getting tracked around your house. 

10: Veterinary Care

Every cat needs a yearly checkup to make sure they’re in good health and up to date on all their vaccinations. Cats also need yearly dental exams to check for signs of gum disease and tooth decay. A healthy cat is a happy cat, so it’s important to keep up with your pet’s veterinary care. 

Dedicated Cat Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Anasazi Animal Clinic is a full-service veterinary center, and we’re here to provide the care your cat needs to be happy and healthy. Whether it’s a dental checkup, vaccinations, or a special diet, we can help. Give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message to schedule an appointment today. 

Photo by Michael Sum on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/16/2024.

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Can Cats Eat Wheatgrass?

Yes—wheatgrass can be a healthy addition to your cat’s daily diet. It has fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. It also has lots of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as nutrients like chlorophyll that aren’t typically found in cat food.  

If your cat has a gluten allergy or sensitivity, don’t worry. Wheatgrass does not contain any gluten, so it’s safe for all cats. The gluten is only in the grains of the wheat—eating the grass shoots won’t hurt them.

How Much Wheatgrass Is Good for Cats?

A small amount is best—a few blades of wheatgrass each day ought to be enough. Eating too much can cause stomach upset, so keep an eye on how much they’re consuming if you leave a tray of wheatgrass out for them to nibble on. If your cat tends to overdo their wheatgrass, you may need to start rationing it for them.

Besides its nutritional benefits, wheatgrass also provides sensory stimulation for cats. It smells good and it feels nice on their whiskers. If your cat is overeating their wheatgrass, it could be a sign of boredom and a need for more stimulating play. Make sure your cat has a nice window perch with a view, interactive toys to play with, and some dedicated one-on-one playtime with you every day. 

Wheatgrass for Healthier Teeth

Chewing on wheatgrass can help remove plaque and massage the gums, so it’s good for your cat’s dental health. Just remember that on its own, wheatgrass isn’t enough to keep your cat’s teeth clean. You’ll still want to try to brush your cat’s teeth on a regular basis, and take them to the vet for a dental exam at least once a year to prevent problems like tooth loss and tooth resorption.

How Do I Get My Cat to Eat Wheatgrass?

You can purchase a flat of wheatgrass shoots at your local health food market, or try growing it yourself from seed. You can let your cat graze at will (as long as they don’t eat too much) or pick a few shoots for them every day. Much like catnip, not all cats respond to wheatgrass. If your cat doesn’t go for wheatgrass, but you still want them to get all its nutritional benefits, you can chop it up and add it to their wet food.

Veterinary Dental Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

Unless you’re a veterinarian, dental problems are difficult to detect in cats. They often suffer in silence, gradually losing their appetites because it hurts too much to chew. Cats need veterinary exams every year, even if they seem healthy. It gives their vet a chance to boost their vaccinations and make sure that their teeth and gums are in good shape. 

The doctors at Anasazi Animal Clinic will give your cat a thorough examination, and let you know if a teeth cleaning could improve their dental health. We can also answer all your questions about wheatgrass for cats in person. To make an appointment, give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message online today.

Photo by Emma Elisabeth Gouskova Poey used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/27/2024. 

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How Much Should a Cat Eat in a Day?

Weight

How much food you should feed your cat depends mostly on their weight. Cats are not all the same size—some little guys weigh only 7 pounds, while big guys like Maine Coons can weigh up to 25 pounds. 

Most cat foods include instructions on how much to feed your cat according to their weight. If your cat is at a healthy weight, then the best course of action is to feed them the amount specified on the package. But if your cat is overweight, they might need smaller portions.

Type of Food

How much a cat should eat in a day also depends on the type of food you feed them. The amount of wet food a cat needs to eat is going to be different from the amount of dry food they need. If you feed them both wet and dry food, then you may need to start “counting calories” to determine the appropriate amount. 

Indoor vs. Outdoor

It also depends whether your cat is an indoor cat or an outdoor cat. Since outdoor cats are generally more active than indoor cats, they need to consume more calories to stay healthy. Indoor cats need to eat about 20 calories per pound of body weight, while outdoor cats need to eat about 35 calories per pound.

Age

Kittens and elderly cats have different dietary requirements than adult cats. Kittens are growing rapidly and playing all the time, so they need more frequent feedings and a lot more food than adult cats. Elderly cats, on the other hand, are not as active and need smaller portions to maintain a healthy weight. If they gain too much weight, it could harm their joints and make movement difficult. 

How Often Should You Feed Your Cat?

There are many options for feeding times—finding the right schedule will depend on your habits as well as your cat’s. 

• Once a day: Most adult cats can get by with one feeding in the morning, especially if you supplement with a treat or two at night.
• Morning and evening: This is probably the most ideal feeding schedule for adult cats. And, knowing that they will get fed on a regular schedule might even keep them from waking you up at 4am with hungry yowls.
• Free feeding: For outdoor cats, kittens, and active indoor cats, it’s okay to free-feed dry food. Just keep track of how often you refill their bowl to make sure they aren’t eating too much.
• Timed food dispenser: This option is great for people who are away from home most of the day, or for cats that tend to overeat.

Expert Veterinary Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Still not sure how much to feed your cat? Why not ask a vet? Bring your cat in for a checkup and we can advise you on the right type of food and the right amount of food for your pet. Give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message to schedule an appointment today.

Photo by Daniel Dan on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 2/28/2024.

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How Much Exercise Do Cats Need?

Cats are naturally athletic—their little bodies are built for sprinting, jumping, and climbing. In the wild, their athletic ability is what keeps them alive and fed. For domestic cats, exercise is necessary to prevent excessive weight gain and to satisfy their innate hunting instincts.

On average, a cat needs about 30 minutes of exercise every day. But since cats tend to conserve their energy so they can use it in bursts, it’s best to break up that 30 minutes into two or three sessions. Give your cat a little exercise at least twice a day, and try to do it at the times when they are most active, like early in the morning and just after sunset. 

If your cat has a tendency to get the zoomies in the middle of the night, they’re definitely getting some exercise in. But it’s still a good idea to build up a habit of playing with your cat every morning and evening. That way when they get older, they’ll be accustomed to regular exercise. Plus, interactive play also strengthens your emotional bond with your pet.

How to Prevent Obesity in Cats

Chonky cats may be adorable, but obesity can actually cause all kinds of medical problems. 

It contributes to chronic diseases like diabetes and arthritis that can be very painful for your cat. However, with daily exercise and portion control, you can prevent obesity and keep your cat healthy.

Here are some tips for managing your cat’s weight:

• If your cat is not the only pet, make sure that they can’t get access to the other pets’ food. Then set a strict feeding schedule and monitor your pets to make sure they are only eating their own portions. 
• Is your cat the type to devour their entire dish of food as soon as it’s served, and then beg for more? It might be better to schedule multiple small meals instead of one or two. With an automatic cat feeder, you can set a timer that will release small portions when you’re away at work or at night when you’re sleeping.
• When it comes to exercise, try to stick to a schedule as well. If you consistently play with your cat every morning and evening, they’ll grow to expect the attention and look forward to it. But anytime is a good time for a quick burst of play—if your cat is acting feisty (and it’s not 4 a.m.) take a few minutes to wiggle their favorite string toy around.
• Do you have a food-motivated cat? Try enticing them to play with a treat toy, or reward them with a small treat after their daily exercise.
• If your cat is already overweight, talk to a vet about how much food and exercise are appropriate. They can advise you on the best type of food and portion size for your cat, and on the best times to schedule their feedings. They can also give you some tips on exercising your cat to prevent weight gain.

Dedicated Veterinary Care in Gilbert

Playing with your cat every day strengthens your bond with your pet, keeps them from getting bored, and helps them stay healthy. The team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to help your cat maintain the best of health. If you have questions about feeding or exercising your cat, please ask us at your next visit. To make an appointment, just send us a message or give us a call at 480-497-0505 today.

Photo by Piotr Musioł on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 12/27/2023.

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Does your cat seem to be obsessed with high places? Do they like to jump up on top of the refrigerator? Is their favorite pastime knocking your things off of the highest shelf in the room? Do they try to climb up your macrame plant hangers?

Cats are instinctual creatures, and climbing is one of those things that just comes naturally. Picture a panther lounging on a tree branch…your cat has the same urge to perch up high. Being up off the ground makes them feel safe and fulfills several very basic needs. Here’s why cats need perches.

Understanding Cat Behavior: Five Reasons Why Cats Need Perches

1. Curiosity

Have you ever noticed that your cat immediately sniffs your shoes or your bag after you come home? Cats need to know what is going on around them, even when they live indoors. The more they can see, hear, and smell, the happier they will be. 

Observing their surroundings from an elevated perch provides cats with mental stimulation and helps satisfy their natural curiosity. If your cat has a favorite window, that’s the perfect place for a perch. They’ll be able to keep an eye on the squirrels and then take a nap in the sunshine.

2. Hunting

Climbing is an instinctual cat behavior that serves multiple purposes. In the wild, cats use trees to survey the area and observe any small animals they want to hunt. They also climb trees to pursue prey like squirrels and birds. Indoor cats engage in the same type of hunting behavior when they play. 

But most importantly for house cats, climbing gives them an opportunity to exercise their claws. Scratching and climbing help cats keep their nails from getting too long. Tall cat trees give them a place to dig in their claws and get a full-body stretch, as well as a place to hide so they can pounce on their favorite toy mouse.

3. Security

Cats are expert hunters, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be preyed upon themselves. Their ancestors learned how to avoid larger predators by climbing up into trees, and they passed that instinct on.

Cats need a secure space to retreat to, where they know they can sleep undisturbed. Since they feel safe when they’re up high, a partially enclosed perch is the perfect place for a deep, refreshing catnap. 

Your cat might even like to eat up high—especially if there are dogs in the house. They might feel safer if their food and water are up on a table or countertop. Giving your cat safe perches where they can eat and sleep will help prevent stress and anxiety.

4. Dominance

If there are other pets in the family, perches are even more important. Some cats can get quite territorial. By climbing up high, they’re asserting their dominance and reminding the other pets not to mess with them.

Alpha cats like to have a perch where they can take in all the action—a wall perch where they can see the most trafficked areas of the house would be ideal. Then they can hover high above everyone else like the adorable little gargoyles they are.

5. Exercise

Climbing is a workout, and it helps keep your cat healthy. Cats need daily exercise to keep their joints and muscles in good shape. And when they can get exercise by doing something that comes naturally, like climbing up to a high perch, they’re more likely to stay fit.

When cats don’t get enough exercise, they can suffer from obesity, which leads to health problems. Overweight cats are more likely to develop chronic diseases like diabetes and arthritis. But giving your cat something to climb will help them maintain a healthy weight.

“Top-Shelf” Cat Care in Gilbert, Arizona

At Anasazi Animal Clinic we love cats, and we treat our patients like our own pets—only the best will do! If you have questions about your cat’s behavior, please ask us at your next visit. We love talking about cats as much as we love caring for them. 

To make an appointment for a wellness exam, just call 480-497-0505 or send us a message online today.

Photo by Dmitriy Zub on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 8/16/2023.

The post The Floor Is Lava! Why Your Cat Needs to Perch Up High appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.

When was the last time your kitty had a checkup? We know how much most cats hate making a trip to the vet, but keeping up with their vaccinations and wellness exams is one of the best ways to keep your cat healthy.

August 22nd is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day, so we’re sharing the top five reasons why all cats need regular veterinary care.

How Often Should You Take Your Cat to the Vet?

According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, 83% of cats see a vet within 1 year of adoption. However, more than half of them never return for a follow-up visit. 

A lot of people think that as long as their cat stays indoors and seems healthy, there’s no need to go to the vet. But all cats need to see a vet at least once every year. 

Annual wellness exams keep your cat up-to-date on their vaccinations and allow your vet to spot any signs of dental or health problems. Here are the top three reasons why cats need regular veterinary care. 

Three Reasons Why You Should Take Your Cat to the Vet Every Year

1: Rabies Booster

All cats—indoor cats included—need a rabies booster at least once every three years. Because rabies is so deadly, and because it can be passed from animals to people, rabies vaccines for pets are essential. 

According to Arizona’s Manual for Rabies Control, kittens should get their first rabies vaccine when they are three months old. Then they need a booster shot one year later. After that, they need to get a rabies vaccine once every three years. 

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we give cats a 1-year rabies booster, because we want to see them sooner and make sure they are staying healthy.

2: Dental Checkups

If your cat has been turning their cute little nose up at their favorite food, they might be in too much pain to eat. Loss of appetite, bad breath, and brown or yellow teeth are all signs of dental diseases in cats.

During your cat’s annual wellness exam, we’ll also check for signs of dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Your cat might need a dental cleaning to prevent tooth loss and tooth resorption.

3: Early Detection

Yearly exams are even more important for cats that are past their prime. Older cats could be suffering from chronic conditions like arthritis or urinary tract infections, but hiding their pain. Your vet will be able to recognize the symptoms and provide the treatment your cat needs.

Older cats are also more vulnerable to diseases like cancer and diabetes, but fortunately, treatment is available. Getting a diagnosis from your vet will help you extend your cat’s lifetime and relieve their pain.

Make an Appointment at Anasazi Animal Clinic Today

If you live in Gilbert, Arizona, you can celebrate National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day by making an appointment for a wellness exam. We would love to meet you and your cat! We can answer all of your questions about cat care and how to keep your cat healthy and happy. Just call 480-497-0505 or request an appointment online today.

Photo by Kari Shea on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 7/8/2023.

The post It’s Take Your Cat to the Vet Day—Have You Scheduled Your Cat’s Next Checkup? appeared first on Anasazi Animal Clinic.