10 Joyful Ways to Be a Better Cat Parent

Are you a first-time cat parent trying to make sure you do everything right, especially under the judgmental eye of the new fluffy family member? Cats might seem independent, but they thrive with care, routine, and love. 

Here are 10 easy ways to stay on top of parenting your little furball without becoming an anxious first-time cat parent:

1. First-time cat Parent Vet Visit Schedule

The most important schedule to track, as a first-time cat parent, is the schedule for your cat’s vet checks. Kittens may need visits every 3–4 weeks in their early months, while adult cats should visit the vet at least once a year. It is vital never to skip a regular check-up since cats tend not to express pain or discomfort easily! Even if they’re indoor-only, they benefit from annual health exams, vaccinations, and dental screenings.

2. Flea and Tick Preventives

Fleas and ticks aren’t just itchy — they can cause serious skin problems and even diseases. Cats, especially those who venture outdoors or live in multi-pet households, need monthly flea and tick preventive treatments. If you plan to put your cat in boarding, make sure to schedule a preventive medicine so that they remain protected even when they come in contact with other cats.

Even indoor cats aren’t completely safe — fleas can hitch a ride in on your clothes or shoes.

Use vet-approved spot-ons or oral preventives. Never use dog meds for cats!

3. Cat Food they actually need

When deciding what food to buy for your cats, keep in mind that they need food that nourishes them based on their requirements. Cats have different nutritional needs based on their age.

• Kittens need energy-dense food rich in proteins and DHA for brain development.
• Adult cats need food that supports digestive health, a shiny coat, and lean muscles.
• If you’re caring for a senior cat, look for easy-to-digest meals with joint support.

Carniwel provides the appropriate nutrition for your cats, so they have the highest quality nutrition from premium ingredients. With the benefit of Fresh proteins, Antarctic Krill, and Taurine, your cat’s skin, coat, digestive health, heart health, and cognitive health are all cared for.

4. Skip the Milk

If you’re an animal lover, you’ve probably fed a street cat or two milk. Contrary to popular belief, most cats can’t digest milk as they are likely lactose intolerant. Milk can cause upset stomachs, diarrhoea, and discomfort. Only kittens are able to digest milk from their mothers as mother’s milk contains nutrients that the kitten needs in that life stage. As they wean off their mother, the nutritional needs of cats change, and they stop being able to digest milk. To read more about this, click here.

Instead, ensure your cat gets clean, fresh water at all times and stick to specially formulated kitten milk only when necessary.

5. Unbeatable Dental Care

First time cat parents may not think of something as small as teeth, but dental hygiene often goes unnoticed until it's too late. Cats are prone to plaque buildup and gum diseases if their teeth are not kept clean. These health issues can cause damage to vital organs, if left untreated.
Use cat-safe toothbrushes, water additives, or give them dental treats to keep those pearly whites clean. Another helping factor is feeding your cat dry cat food. Start with the dental regimen when your pet is still a kitten. This gives them ample time to get used to the practice!

Carniwel’s cat treats not only freshen breath but also provide your cat with nutritional benefits that you wouldn’t let them miss out on!

6. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

Cats tend to drink less water than they should, which can lead to kidney problems or urinary infections. Most pet parents don’t realise this until it’s too late. Encourage drinking by:

• Placing multiple water bowls around the house
• Using a cat water fountain
• Adding a little water or broth to dry food

 Hydration is just as important as nutrition for long-term health.

7. Cat-Proofed Home

Cats are curious explorers! First-time pet parents don’t realise how important cat-proofing their house can be. Cats tend to sneak out of open doors, sneak into tiny cupboards, or other places where they’re likely to get hurt. Make your home safe by:

• Keeping cleaning products locked away
• Securing windows and balconies
• Removing string, thread, or rubber bands
• Avoiding toxic plants like lilies and pothos

8. Master of the Litterbox

The litterbox is the most important part of your house for your cat. How clean the litterbox is kept not only affects your cat’s health, but also their behaviour. Keep it clean, accessible, and private so that your cat feels comfortable and safe while using the box. Here are 3 general rules:

• Scoop twice daily, deep clean weekly
• One litter box per cat, plus one extra
• Avoid placing near their food or water bowls
  
  

📌 If your cat is avoiding the box, it’s often a cry for help — stress, UTI, or even dislike of the litter type. Click here to know more

9. No to Hairballs

If your cat grooms often, hairballs are normal — but not too many!
Help them out by:

• Regular brushing
• High-fibre food like Carniwel or supplements
• Cat grass or anti-hairball treats

Grooming too much could be a sign of a health issue. If you find your cat doing this, make sure to contact your vet.

10. Use Positive Reinforcement

Cats respond beautifully to positive reinforcement — punishment tends to cause behavioural issues and aggression!

• Reward litter box use, socialisation, or calm behaviour with their favourite treats
• Use clicker training or verbal praise
• Treats help with recall, trick training, and even vet visits!
  
  

Being a better cat parent doesn’t mean being perfect — it means being present, observant, and loving. Whether it’s choosing the right nutrition, visiting the vet, or just spending quiet time with your cat on a windowsill, every small act of care builds trust and joy. This bond filled with joy and love is what Carniwel stands for. It stands for Celebrating Pet Parenting!